Dubai attracts millions of tourists every year and if you are planning to visit for the first time there are lots of things to be aware of before arriving.
Common questions for first time visits to Dubai include: How should you dress? Can you buy/drink alcohol? What is illegal in Dubai? Should you tip?
Researching the UAE and Dubai and do’s and don’t’s, will really make your stay here special and also trouble free.
Check out our guide with everything you need to know before departing and also top tips for visiting Dubai.
1. Getting to Dubai
Dubai International Airport is one of the busiest in the world with millions of travellers passing through here every year, either to visit the UAE or to catch a connection flight.
Getting to Dubai is very easy, there are direct flights from major cities all around the world with airlines including Emirates, Qantas, Garuda Indonesia, Aer Lingus, Iberia, British Airways, American Airlines and Malaysia Airlines.
To get the best prices use a website like Skyscanner and book as far in advance as possible, wait for special offers, or book last minute.
2. Best Time to Visit Dubai
Dubai is a popular destination all year round and there really is no best month to visit.
October to April is generally the most popular and expensive time of year to visit. To get the best deals on flights and accommodation book well in-advance of your preferred departure date. Flights are usually much cheaper if book at least a few months early.
Christmas and New Year are some of the most expensive times of year to visit with Europeans and Americans seeking winter sun, prices during this period can be sky high. To search flights we recommend Skyscanner to get the best prices.
3. Weather
Generally every month is warm, and even when it occasionally does rain, it typically doesn’t last very long. Sometimes the heat can be intense, making it difficult to stay outside for long periods. There are lots of places you can go to escape the heat though like the huge Dubai Mall which has so many shops, cafes and entertainment options like ice skating and cinema.
4. Entry Requirements
Dubai is a country where real research is needed before entering the country. There are very strict laws and entry requirements especially when it comes to what you can bring into the country. Something perfectly legal and innocuous in your home country, for example, medicines or poppy seeds, could land you a big prison sentence if you take it into Dubai.
Some illegal items not to bring into Dubai include:
• Controlled/recreational drugs and narcotic substances
• Pirated content
• Counterfeit currency
• Items used in black magic, witchcraft or sorcery
• Publications and artwork that contradict or challenge Islamic teachings and values
• Gambling tools and machines
If you take medication, do not forget your prescription and also only take as much as you will use for the duration of your trip. Make sure the medication is also legal in Dubai. If you have any concerns around certain things do a quick Google search before to make sure you stay on the right side of the law.
5. Accommodation
Dubai is a luxury destination, but it can also be done quite cheaply if you don’t have a huge budget. To get the best prices on hotels aim to book months in advance. If money isn’t an issue, there are lots of luxury hotels in Dubai – some are rated as the best places to stay in the world. Booking.com is one of the best hotel booking websites to compare prices at the cheapest prices.
6. Currency
The United Arab Emirates dirham, known locally as simply the Emirati dirham, is the currency of the United Arab Emirates. With the current exchange rate 1 USD is around 3.67 AED. US dollars and some other currencies are widely accepted in Dubai, although it depends on the place and asking before hand is important. You can withdraw money throughout the city, and also international cards are widely accepted.
7. What to Pack
Some of the most essential things not to forget when visiting Dubai include light clothing, sunscreen with the highest SPF formula, deodorant, sunglasses, hats, a reusable water bottle and a universal adapter and travel charger.
Be sure to buy travel insurance before arriving just so you are covered for any health/safety issues that might occur. Also this might sound obvious, but make sure your passport has at least 6 months validity before arriving.
8. Getting from Dubai Airport & Around
The best way from Dubai airport to city center is by metro. The metro trains are running from Dubai airport to city every 5-10 minutes from 5 am until midnight. The total travel time from Dubai airport to downtown is around 25 minutes. Other options include, taxi or renting a car. The cheapest way to get from Dubai airport is local bus. Metro and taxi are the two easiest ways to navigate the city and visit all the major tourist locations.
9. Tourist Attractions
There are lots of amazing things to do in Dubai from waterparks, beaches, shopping centres, souks, desert adventures and skyscrapers. A visit to the world tallest building the Burj Khalifa is one of the most essential things to do in Dubai. If you have an interest in learning more about the local culture and religion you could book a tour of the Jumeirah Mosque, guided tours take place daily. If you have never been to the Middle East before, a trip to the desert is something you should do before leaving Dubai.
10. Sightseeing Tours
There is the option to explore Dubai independently, or you could book sightseeing trips and excursions with local travel operators or online either before departing or once in Dubai. Sometimes organised tours are the best way to see more places in Dubai as you will get a guide and taken to the best locations in the city. You can view sightseeing tours and attractions in Dubai on GetYourGuide and book before departing to get the cheapest prices.
11. Never Photo People Without Permission
Always ask permission before taking pictures of people. For example, you might see a photo perfect opportunity but always ask for permission, especially if you want to take a photo of a woman. This goes even in the tourist areas. Also think twice before taking any photographs of government buildings, military, etc. You don’t want to create any problems for yourself.
12. Show Extra Respect During Ramadan
Ramadan is the muslim holy month which takes place during the ninth month of the 12-month Islamic calendar. During this period Muslims will be following their religious beliefs by fasting between sunrise and sunset. You will need to show a lot of respect during this period which can include not eat, drink or smoking in public.
13. Alcohol
Unlike some countries in the Middle East, alcohol is legal in Dubai and available to buy from an establishment that has a license like hotels, bars and restaurants. You can’t though buy it at a supermarket for example. Also don’t overdo it, Dubai isn’t Ibiza, and getting blind drunk is a very bad idea. You also can’t drink in public, or be shown to be too inebriated.
14. Tipping
A common question asked online is ‘should I tip in Dubai’. Tipping is common practise with tourists, but it isn’t a necessity or expected. Places you can tip include restaurants, taxi drivers, supermarket packers and hotel luggage handlers.
15. Drugs
Taking drugs in Dubai is illegal and if caught you can land a huge prison sentence. It really isn’t worth it. Lots of foreigners are currently in jail in Dubai for drug offences, some serving long sentences for being caught with things like medicinal cannabis which are legal in other countries.
16. Romance
Be very cautious with public displays of affection in Dubai. What is totally normal in places like Europe, North America and Oceania could land you in jail in Dubai. Steer clear of any overly romantic gestures in public, what might seem fun at the time, could cause a lot of grief and hassle with the police and authorities.
Like most countries in the Middle East, the UAE follows a strict form of Sharia Law, and any relationship other than one of heterosexual marriage can result in punishment or deportation for a non-citizen. If you are travelling with a partner it is not advisable to show any form of public relationship or affection.
17. Safety
Dubai is one of the safest countries to visit in the world and any crimes like theft and assault are very rare. Just be sure to stay on the right side of the laws and you shouldn’t have any problems. Its recommended not to talk to local people about politics or the Dubai royal family, and avoid any political demonstrations.
18. Internet
There is high speed free fast internet available throughout Dubai. You might find some websites are blocked, and for your own privacy we recommend using a VPN service when in the country.
19. Dress Appropriately
Dubai is a muslim country and you will need to pack in consideration of the local people and culture. Aim to dress conservatively/modestly, nothing too revealing or flashy, to avoid unwanted eyes. Men shouldn’t walk around with their tops off and women need to be extra cautious when using swimwear or extra skimpy outfits which are small, tight or see through.
20. Learn Basic Arabic
Even though in hotels and the main touristy areas most local people speak English, it is really polite to learn at least some basic words and phrases. Even if you just learn hello, please and thank you, this is better than nothing and local people will appreciate it. You could use an online language learning app, or check out our essential Arabic phrases for tourists and get started today.
Dubai is a very unique destination, and one of the best places to see in the Middle East. We didn’t want to write this guide to put you off visiting Dubai, far from it, this city is an amazing place to experience as a tourist, you just need to be aware of the local laws and cultural sensitivities to make sure you enjoy a trouble free trip.
