dubai travel wiki

• 1 Districts
• 2.1 History
• 2.2 Destination
• 2.3 Climate
• 2.4 Visitor information
• 3.1 By plane
• 3.4 By boat
• 4.1 By metro
• 4.2 By monorail
• 4.3 By tram
• 4.5 By taxi
• 4.7 By boat
• 4.8 By bicycle
• 9.2 Mid-range
• 9.3 Splurge
• 12.1 Traffic
• 12.2 Islamic laws
• 12.3 Petty crime
• 13.1 Post service
• 13.2 Newspapers and radio
• 14.1 Religious services
• 14.2 Consulates
• 15.1 Other countries

Dubai (Arabic: دبي‎‎ Dubayy ) is a cosmopolitan metropolis and global city on the Arabian Peninsula . The city is one of the ten most popular tourist destinations in the world. The city is also considered one of the most modern and progressive cities in the Middle East – certainly in the Arab world – and is also sometimes nicknamed as "City of Gold" due to historically being a hub for gold trade as well as the rapid transformation from a desert into a luxurious city.

Dubai is characterized by a vast landscape of desert which transforms into a futuristic style of skyscrapers along the coastline. The city offers both insights into the old merchant and pearl diving history of the Arabs in Deira and Bur Dubai and the new modern skyscraper business and bustling life in Jumeirah and Jebel Ali. Dubai is sometimes mistakenly thought of as a country, but it is actually one of the emirates that make up the United Arab Emirates . It is the financial centre of the United Arab Emirates.

Dubai is also considered a commercial and cultural hub of the Middle East, it's a global transport hub, and has attracted world attention through many large innovative construction projects and sports events. The city is symbolised by its skyscrapers, including the world's tallest building, Burj Khalifa, in addition to ambitious development projects including man-made islands, world-class luxury hotels, and some of the largest and extraordinarily modern shopping malls in the world.

Districts [ edit ]

Understand [ edit ]

History [ edit ].

Dubai began as a small fishing village on the coast of the eastern Arabian Peninsula. At the beginning, the town made its income as a small pearl diving town. However, as expanding trade boomed across the gulf, it became a trading hub between Iran and India and gained a lot of notoriety for its imported goods from the East. In fact, the currency of Dubai used to be the Indian rupee historically. It was also used as a smuggling town to smuggle gold from Africa and elsewhere and import it to India, this made Dubai a well-known point in the map for various traders. When oil companies looked for oil around the Trucial States, Dubai was shown to not have any significant oil reserves compared to Abu Dhabi . Sheikh Rashid Al Maktoum, then the leader and Sheikh of Dubai, continued on the booming expansion of trade in Dubai instead of relying on any oil income. He welcomed Indian traders, Iranian traders, and even Western officials and travelers to his hometown. The open policy of commerce and tolerance of foreigners made Dubai a willing destination for any non-Arab or non-Muslim, in stark contrast to other cities in the Arabian peninsula which viewed non-Muslims with suspicion. Sheikh Rashid's son, Sheikh Mohammed, had a vision of establishing Dubai as a Middle Eastern tourist destination. In his memoir, when he met with other GCC heads of state after the British withdrawal from the gulf and proposed on making Dubai a tourist destination, the rest of the Sheikhs laughed at him. They told him nobody would like to come and visit a barren desert. Nevertheless, Sheikh Mohammed made the effort to hire experts and change the entire infrastructure of the city to welcome tourists, established free-zones with no taxes, invested in major tourism projects and opened the city for everyone regardless of race or religion. Multiple Western companies and institutions, wanting to expand their influence in the Middle East, welcomed Dubai's tax-free open-arm invitation. Dubai was seen as the only city in the Arabian peninsula that would allow non-Muslims to live, drink, and enjoy their lives by their own laws and Western or non-Islamic standards, though it is now rivalled by nearby Doha and Abu Dhabi in this regard.

Destination [ edit ]

Just a five-hour flight from Europe and three hours from most parts of the Middle East, the Near East, and the Indian subcontinent, Dubai makes a great short break for shopping, partying, sunbathing, fine dining, sporting events, and even a few sinful pleasures. It's situated right in the middle of the Middle East and was considered a great spot to stop for someone traveling from east to west or west to east. This brought the city into the influence of the rest of the world. Western and Eastern traders all established outposts and communities in the city. Despite the fact that Arabic is the official language, due to the fact that foreigners outnumber Emiratis by almost 4 to 1 in Dubai, English serves as the lingua franca . All signs are bilingual in Arabic and English and speaking Urdu , Hindi , or Tagalog will get you further than Arabic given that most retail and service staff are expatriates from Pakistan, India, and the Philippines. The weekly day off is Friday as it is considered the end of the week and a blessed day in Islam. Since September 2006, a harmonized weekend of Friday and Saturday has been adopted for the public sector and schools. Government departments, multinational companies, and most schools and universities take Friday and Saturday off.

Climate [ edit ]

The city of Dubai is situated on a coastal strip bordered by desert and gets very hot in the summer. It is dry on the hottest days and humid during the cooler days in the summer. Cooler, more pleasant weather lasts from the end of September to the beginning of May (although pleasant is relative, with daily temperatures from October to January and March to May still being 20–25 °C (68–77 °F), but be prepared for cold night temperatures. In winter the temperature at night is usually from 10 to 16 °C (50 to 61 °F). From May to September, the sun is intense and in August temperatures can touch 54 °C (129 °F) in the city and even higher in the desert. The heat, coupled with a humidity of 60%–70% near the coast, effectively precludes most activity outdoors for the daylight hours during summer. Summer and winter are effectively the only two noticeable seasons the city experiences.

December to April generally produces the highest precipitation, though little of it, at 100 mm (3.9 in) total per year. Some years yield no more than a few minutes of shower. Rain is celebrated in the UAE and most people take days off and some schools give rain days off to enjoy the little amount of precipitation the city experiences.

Visitor information [ edit ]

• Visit Dubai website

Get in [ edit ]

See the Get in section for the United Arab Emirates for visa and customs regulations.

By plane [ edit ]

Dubai's main airport is the Dubai International Airport ( DXB  IATA ). Its eventual replacement, Al Maktoum International Airport ( DWC  IATA ), is open to passenger flights but is only serving a few flights. You can also enter Dubai by using Sharjah International Airport ( SHJ  IATA ) in the nearby emirate of Sharjah .

To the 24.42701 54.64606 1 Abu Dhabi International Airport ( AUH  IATA ) there are intercontinental flights from US$30 – more details below.

Airlines often have price wars to glamorous destinations like Dubai and this can work to your advantage by careful planning and comparison of the various airlines serving Dubai. Emirates is the flag carrier of the emirate of Dubai, and connects Dubai to over 100 destinations while FlyDubai is Dubai's low-cost carrier. Etihad has shuttle services from their exclusive check-in facility in Sheikh Zayed Rd or Central Business District of Dubai to and from Abu Dhabi Int'l Airport, you can also fly with Sharjah's low-cost carrier; Air Arabia which flies to over 46 destinations within the Middle East. Low fares from North America are most often found on Qatar Airways.

To Abu Dhabi, there are ultra-low-cost flights from Europe, Africa and Asia. The airline is called WizzAir Abu Dhabi. If you are somewhat flexible in your travel, you can get an intercontinental flight for US$30–40. The airline flies (as of September 2021) from Italy , Greece , Poland , Egypt , Hungary , Oman , Georgia , Kazakhstan , Israel , Armenia , Eastern Europe , Bahrain , Azerbaijan and Cyprus . The carrier has high growth ambitions so further destinations will be added soon. There is an E102 bus service connecting Dubai (Ibn Battuta Bus Station) directly with Abu Dhabi Airport. It will cost 25 AED if you are using a nol card (cannot be purchased at Abu Dhabi Airport as of September 2022) or 35 AED if you buy a ticket at a counter at the Abu Dhabi Airport.

By car [ edit ]

Dubai's only international road border is with Oman at Al Wajajah. Expatriate residents of Oman will require an official permit to exit Oman by road. Visitors do not require a permit. There is a charge per vehicle to exit Oman and, if returning, retain the charge receipt as it will be required to re-enter. Ensure that insurance is valid for the UAE (preferably before commencing the journey). Temporary UAE insurance can be purchased at the border for a premium price.

There are also road borders between the neighbouring Emirate of Abu Dhabi and Oman at the Al Burami Oasis which divides the sister cities of Al Ain and Al Burami, Oman.

Dubai is a very car-oriented city and most visitors will choose to take taxis instead of the public transportation system. You can easily find them in the taxi queue or you just simply wave at one on the road, but this could be just difficult during rush hours. Also, some of them even refuse short rides in jammed areas.

Signage is terrible in Dubai, and taxis often get lost. The best thing to do is navigate from well-known landmarks, such as hotels. GPS devices are often outdated. Street and road names can be very confusing, because the different transliterations from Arabic, you will notice that the slight variance in the spelling is very important.

You can find a lot of car rental agencies that will give you a vehicle with very cheap rates and only an International Driving Permit, if you don't have an UAE one. Some agencies also offer a car hire service with drivers, an option much more comfortable for visitors, especially if the driver speaks English and knows the way around the city better than most taxi drivers.

Some of the best car rental companies are: Careem Car Services, which offers an easy booking system with a real-time tracking app and, if you need it, you can hire a car with a child seat. Ahdab International Luxury Transport is a highly experienced team of professionals but their rates tend to be quite expensive.

By bus [ edit ]

The Government of Dubai operates a network of buses linking Dubai city with the capitals of the other six emirates of the UAE. The buses run under the name Emirates Express and operate from various bus terminals in Dubai, for timetables see the website .

• From Abu Dhabi: Buses operate every 40 minutes starting at 06:20 from Abu Dhabi's main bus station to Dubai's Al Ghubaibah or Ibinu Bathutha bus station. The two-hour journey costs 25 dirham.
• From Sharjah: Frequent buses run between Dubai and Sharjah. There are several different routes and buses depart from various bus stations in Dubai including Al Karama, Gold Souq, Baniyas Square, Jebel Ali and Al Ittihad Square.
• From Al Ain: Buses operate every hour from Dubai's Al Ghubaibah bus station. It's a two-hour journey.
• To/from Fujairah: The bus to Fujairah leaves from the Rashidiya Metro station and takes about 3 to 4 hours.

For bus travel from Saudi Arabia , SAPTCO offers daily bus services from cities such as Dammam and Riyadh .

By boat [ edit ]

Dubai is a trading hub for dhows from around the Indian Ocean. Travellers wanting to arrive in the city this way will probably need to make their own arrangements with the captain of the vessel. Most of the dhows sail to Iran ; some also head to Yemen and Somalia . Emulating Michael Palin and heading to India on a dhow is difficult-to-impossible.

Dubai has an international cruise terminal [dead link] at Port Rashid. During wintertime, Costa Cruises has bases at least two of its cruise ships (Costa Luminosa & Costa Fortuna) in Dubai.

Valfajr Shipping Company [dead link] runs a boat service that leaves Bandar Lengeh and Bandar Abbas in Iran supposedly every second day and docks in Port Rashid in Dubai, returning the following day. Crossing the Persian Gulf takes roughly 6 hours. The ticket includes Iranian-style lunch.

Get around [ edit ]

Dubai's public transport system is probably the best in the Middle East, especially after the launch of the metro, but it's still a very car-oriented city and most visitors end up taking taxis quite often. The Wojhati journey planner can suggest the best way to travel.

There is a day pass valid for unlimited rides on the metro, tram and buses, while the Nol Silver stored-value card gives a 10% discount on both metro and bus fares. Both are available at metro stations and major bus stations. The Silver card is useful for public transport users who stay in Dubai for more than a day. Check out at the end of your trip (this includes buses).

By metro [ edit ]

Dubai Metro has two lines which are open as of 2024:

The Red Line is 52 km (32 mi) long and opened in September 2009. It's the second metro in the Arab world after Cairo . While the line does not serve the old city centre, it's handy for zipping along Dubai's long coastline and includes stops at the airport, Burj Khalifa and the Mall of the Emirates.

The Green Line , which burrows through the city core, opened in September 2011. You can transfer between the two lines at Union Square and Khalid Bin Al Waleed (BurJuman).

There are also Blue and Purple lines under construction with opening dates in the next few years. The track 2020 expo was completed in 2020.

A single non-rechargeable ticket cost starts at 6 dirhams for a trip within one zone, 8 dirham for two zones, etc. Tickets can be purchased in automated machines, ticket offices or at the gate information clerk. Cash and payment cards are accepted (Visa and MasterCard). Trains run every 3–5 minutes from 05:50 to midnight every day except Thursday and Friday, when services are extended to 05:50–01:00 limited to 13:00–23:59, respectively. All stations are air-conditioned and there's a large network of feeder buses. If you plan to travel late in the evening, check station working hours as the last train may depart earlier than the official system operating hours.

By monorail [ edit ]

A 5 km (3.1 mi) monorail system shuttles passengers across the Palm Jumeirah to the Atlantis hotel. It connects with the Dubai Tram. This is not a part of the rest of Transport, and therefore, you will need to buy a separate ticket (15 dirham one-way and 25 dirham return).

By tram [ edit ]

The latest of Dubai's modern transportation system is the Dubai Tram, which opened on November 12, 2014. It provides commuters with a comfortable transit service around the prime business and leisure districts of Dubai. The Dubai Tram operates for 19 hours daily running for 14.5 km along Al Sufouh Road. It passes around the vibrant Dubai Marina where passengers are treated to breathtaking sights of towering skyscrapers and luxury yachts, and then travels down Jumeirah passing by the iconic Burj Al Arab.

The Dubai Tram connects with the Dubai Metro at the Jumeirah Lakes Towers and DAMAC stations, and links with the monorail of Palm Jumeirah. Outside of Europe, the Dubai Tram is the first tram system that uses the state-of-the-art ground-level power supply cable system which eliminates the unsightly and overhead cables.

Dubai Public transport [dead link] is a cheaper means of travelling within the several districts of Dubai. A map of the bus system can be found online [dead link] , as well as detailed route maps and timetables [dead link] . Public buses are clean and cheap, but unfortunately not very comprehensive and (on some routes) quite infrequent. The bus system is most useful for getting between different areas of central Dubai, or between the various suburbs, rather than general transport. Taxis or a fair amount of walking will also be required if you visit Dubai without a car of your own.

You will require a Nol card or ticket for fare payment. Cards can be purchased from most bus stations, metro stations, and sometimes from the bus driver.

The main bus stations are Gold Souq Market (in Deira) and Al Ghubaiba bus station (in Bur Dubai). Clear route maps and timetables are placed inside a few bus stands. Ramadan timings differ. The front seats are reserved for women.

Probably the single most useful service for the casual tourist is Line 8 , which starts at the Gold Souq, takes the tunnel under the Creek to Heritage Village, and then sets off down Jumeirah Rd (just behind the beach) and all its hotels and malls, up to Burj al-Arab and Wild Wadi. It terminates near the Internet City, while its 8A variant goes down a little further and also serves the Mall of the Emirates.

By taxi [ edit ]

Taxis ply the streets of Dubai and are relatively easy to spot with their cream bodies and coloured roofs. The easiest place to find them is at the taxi queue at one of the malls or outside a hotel. Taxis can also be booked on the Careem mobile app which is similar to Uber. Waving down a taxi on the road is possible, but can be difficult during rush hours. At peak times (07:00-09:00 & 16:00-19:00 workdays, and Friday evenings) demand exceeds supply, and not only are taxis hard to find, but those who deign to pick you up may demand crazy off-meter fares or refuse short rides in congested areas entirely. If you accept an off-meter quote, ensure that the driver clearly says 'Dirhams' as occasionally the word metamorphoses into 'Dollars' when you reach your destination. Also, the drivers of Dubai Taxi Corporation go through their shift change between 16:00-18:00 daily and it can be more difficult to find taxis during this time. The standard of driving in Dubai ranges from poor to wild - taxis are some of the worst on the roads. Taxi drivers are pretty good at knowing where the main shopping malls and hotels are, however less well known places will mean the driver calling his brother-in-law to get directions, whilst he drives around in circles on your time - hence it is a good idea to have a rough idea of where you are heading or what a nearby landmark is.

Taxis are metered at 2.19 dirham/km day and night, so no haggling is necessary. The rates of all taxi companies — Dubai Transport, National, Cars, Metro, and Arabian — are identical, so just take the first one that comes along. Street pickups attract a standing charge of 5 dirham during the day and 5.50 dirham at night (22:00-06:00). From the airport, there is a standing charge of 25 dirham; there is a surcharge for going to Sharjah . A minimum total fare of 12 dirham applies. Taxis are exempt from the Salik road toll charges.

Beware of unmarked hotel taxis and limousines though: while some of these are metered, they are not tied to the official rates, and can be much more expensive. One way to spot whether a taxi is official or not is to look for a meter: no meter, don't get in.

If you can't find one otherwise, you can attempt to call Dubai Taxi on 04-2080808 (each franchise has its own booking number but one central system), there's a surcharge to book. The booking system was notorious for its unreliability but with a significantly increased taxi fleet, many taxis now deliberately wait in unofficial holding areas waiting for bookings. As a result, on a good day it can be possible to book a taxi and have it arrive within less than five minutes. If you absolutely have to get somewhere at a certain time (say, the airport or a meeting), it's still best to book a hotel taxi in advance, and get their estimate of how bad the traffic will be.

Women should travel in the back of the taxi as some drivers see it as a sexual invitation if you get in the front.

Taxi drivers are usually friendly, but may have a different ideas on hygiene.

You can also use Careem or Uber services for moving in Dubai.

There are countless rent-a-cars that will provide a mode of transportation for very cheap rates and very little paperwork. An International Driving Permit is not necessarily required, but hire companies may not rent a car without one.

Some agencies will hire out cars complete with drivers. Visitors taking advantage of this option will need to make certain that their driver knows his way around as many do not.

When driving on the main roads, such as Sheikh Zayed Road, the junction numbers are not in logical order. Junction 13 is just after Junction 18 and is rarely shown on the maps. Road names can also be very confusing with slight differences in spelling (due to different transliterations from Arabic) being very important. The construction work that is taking place throughout and around Dubai can make finding your destination a challenge. Temporary road layouts change with alarming regularity and temporary signs can be misleading or non-existent. As GPS maps are not up to date (and usually not anyway available to rent with hire cars), you will be very well off with a printed map (you can get an excellent one in Virgin stores, for example. There is a Virgin Megastore on the top floor of City Center).

Driving during morning and afternoon peak hours is not recommended, as traffic slows to a standstill and even a simple trip across a bridge can take up to 45 minutes. There is also a scarcity of parking spaces in many parts of the city.

With such a mixture of nationalities residing in the city, driving styles are mixed, to say the least. Both dangerous and experienced driving will be witnessed or experienced frequently. Dubai has one of the highest per capita road death rates in the world. There is zero tolerance for alcohol and driving with stiff penalties meted out including jail and deportation.

See Salik [dead link] for information about tolls on certain routes in Dubai. If you rent a car, usually a Salik tag will be provided by the car hire company and you will be charged separately when returning the car.

An easy way of crossing Dubai Creek is by abra , a small ferry. Abra stations are located along the Creek on both the Bur Dubai and Deira sides, and the system of filling the boats is remarkably efficient. The cross-river trip is payable to the driver after the boat has left the station, and affords a very picturesque view of the city . Abras set off very regularly, and the service is available round-the-clock.

Air-conditioned water buses are a way to avoid the abra crowd and the heat. They are part of the public transport system, so a Red Nol ticket or a Nol card is required. Tickets can be purchased at the water bus station. The water bus also features a 'tourist route' round trip – while it is convenient, it can get quite expensive.

The Creek is also the home of many boats offering more comfortable (and correspondingly more expensive) tours, often in boats designed to resemble dhows. Prices tend to be higher, particularly for dinner cruises with on-board entertainment.

By bicycle [ edit ]

While not at all a bicycle -friendly city, there is a growing network of cycle lanes. Careem [dead link] offers a bike sharing system with stations in Dubai Marina, Jumeirah Beach, downtown, Palm Jumeirah, Deira and a number of other districts. It costs 20 AED per 24 hours with as many 45-minute rides as you want. A phone with a data plan and a credit card is needed though.

See [ edit ]

Dubai is a mixture of old and new, traditional and modern. From old traditional souks and historical buildings (now being preserved for cultural reasons or already part of the national heritage) to modern Dubai's overwhelming shopping malls, incredible artificial islands and giant modern skyscrapers that include the world's tallest building, Dubai is a world in itself and offers plenty of wonderful attractions.

The city has numerous museums and historical buildings, but Dubai Museum is a must see for a first-time travellers to the Emirates. It provides a glimpse of the old life of Dubai, its people and their culture and heritage. A number of other museums are located in nearby Sharjah .

Dubai has a justified reputation as a concrete jungle, but there are nice pockets of greenery within the city, such as Safa Park. The city parks are modern and very well-maintained, with the most popular located in Jumeirah.

Do [ edit ]

• Abra ride . A boat ride is best done at night in the cool weather and to enjoy the city lights. Abras can be hired for a private tour (for a price negotiable with the driver, but usually very cheap). This is quite a popular activity at sunset on a clear day, particularly if the driver is able to enliven the tour with stories about the structures on either side of the Creek. Just make sure that the purpose of one's abra hire is made clear at the outset, otherwise, you will be in for a very expensive cross-river trip or a crowded private tour.
• Beaches and sea . There are endless water sports opportunities as Dubai has some of the whitest and sandiest beaches in the world. Ocean temperatures range from 22 °C (72 °F) in winter up to 35 °C (95 °F) in summer, there are few wave breaks and the strong winds can make swimming difficult. The water is also very salty so many prefer to use their hotel swimming pool. Diving activities have been severely affected by offshore construction work for the Palms and The World; consequently, long boat trips are necessary to reach wreck sites. Alternatively, one can make the 90-minute road journey to the East coast Emirate of Fujairah or the Sharjah enclave, Khor Fakkan, for top-class diving on coral reefs supporting extensive marine life.
• Camel race track . One of the more unusual attractions, with races being held on Thursday and Friday in the winter. You can watch the races, and you'll have the opportunity to visit the paddocks. Vendors sell everything from beads to rugs and blankets, so you can purchase souvenirs.
• Horse racing has a long tradition in the Arab world, and Dubai's Meydan Racecourse is one of the most famous horse racing venues in the world, holding races for both Thoroughbred and purebred Arabian horses. Gambling is illegal, so there are no on-site betting facilities, but the grandstand is a marvel of modern architecture, and particularly spectacular when lit up at night.
• Desert safari or dune bashing . Head out to the desert in an SUV with specialist desert drivers. The drivers will take you for a thrilling roller-coaster ride over sand dunes, show you the sunset from a strategic vantage point and then take you to a traditional Arabic Bedouin campsite where you'll be offered lavish barbecue buffet dinner with music and belly dance to complete the atmosphere. The duration of the tour is usually around five hours. You may want to stay clear of the dune bashing if you get carsick easily. A desert safari is one of the best things to do while in Dubai. Another option would be renting/buying a 4x4 and joining the many growing 4x4 clubs in the UAE, but only if you're an extremely experienced driver and hold an international driving license. Neighboring cities including Abu Dhabi also have their own, such as AD4x4. For all of the Dubai-based clubs, membership is free of charge and they conduct trips for beginners into the desert on a regular basis.
• Natural outdoors . Although at first glance the outdoors may seem dull and uninteresting, and even dangerous due to the desert conditions, there are actually amazing natural destinations in the Emirate of Dubai, which extends into Hatta. There are pristine waterfalls, cliffs lined with fossils, and even freshwater lakes.
• Yacht charter is an easy way to explore the man-made Palm Islands and coastal skyscrapers. Fleets are available for hire from Dubai Marina from many of the yacht charter agencies.
• Dubai Creek cruise . Dubai Creek is the foundation from which Dubai grew. It was built as a port for trading vessels plying to and from India, Africa and the Middle East. Today a bit of the old shipping culture still remains. In and around the Creek one can see some of the original buildings that have served as customs houses and defence structures. You can book a ride (usually four hours) on the Dubai Marina cruise or rent a private boat to take you on an hour-long ride up and down the Creek.
• Burj Khalifa : Visit the tallest building in the world with the magnificent centrepiece of Dubai, Burj Khalifa is surrounded by hotels, must-visit shopping destinations and a world of entertainment options.
• Golf . It may be a desert, but a lot of money and water is spent on irrigating opulent golf courses. Alternatively, for a more local flavour, try sand golf .
• The Dubai International Film Festival is the city's not-for-profit cultural event. As a major festival for Arab cinema, it showcases a selection of films from the Middle East, Africa and Asia.

Work [ edit ]

While Dubai tries to promote itself as the business and entertainment capital of the world, the government has a complex and at times frustrating work permit procedure that the inexperienced should not attempt on their own. It is best to go through official channels when looking for work in Dubai as spot inspections are frequent and if found working illegally, both the employee and the employer will be subject to fines and even deportation.

All the necessary forms and documents are written and processed in Arabic and is best left to a professional intermediary agency. These go by the name of "Government liaison officer" / "Public relations officer" (nothing like a PR in the general context) and offer so-called "PRO services".

With the price of rentals soaring in Dubai and neighbouring Emirates, it is a good idea to discuss a housing allowance when negotiating remuneration.

Despite all of this, there are a few upsides, Dubai companies are generous with holidays averaging almost 39 paid vacation days a year (including public holidays), a round trip ticket home once a year (depending on your contract) and the UAE government does not impose income taxes on foreign workers. Instead it imposes fees and charges on almost everything, so the cost of living in the UAE, and especially Dubai, is quite high.

Recruitment fraud is quite pervasive in this part of the world. Read your employment contract carefully before signing and do not pay any fees to recruitment agencies, as they are usually paid by the companies. Your passport is your personal property and cannot be withheld by the employer unless you are in a position of trust or are handling large sums of money.

Dubai-based companies have been accused by numerous organizations of effectively enslaving poor migrant workers from Southeast Asia by taking their passports and not paying them the promised salaries. Foreign workers, Western and otherwise, have no rights that will be upheld by the courts, and so they have no recourse should they feel their rights violated. Potential workers should be aware of this when considering work in Dubai.

Buy [ edit ]

Dubai is practically synonymous with shopping and could be called "Do buy". Low tariffs and a huge amount of cargo passing through its port ensure that practically anything is available at fairly competitive rates, although the appreciation of the Dirham and the plentiful supply of shoppers means that Dubai is no longer a bargain basement shopping city. You'll also find products in Western chain stores, still with the original tags quoting euro or sterling prices, being sold with a 20–30% mark-up once converted to dirhams. The best things to buy are textiles, electronics and gold; electronics are believed to be much cheaper, while there is a wide selection of textiles and gold.

Dubai shops suffer from the standard developing world shopping phenomenon of having no storeroom and no stocks in reserve, even in the mega-malls – and for clothes shopping this may mean that you struggle to find the style you want in the size you want. Shops open as early as 09:00 and stay open until 22:00, and on weekends to midnight or 01:00.

Remember to haggle in the souks, as discounts are almost always available and even in situations where the item will not become much cheaper, the customer is always expected to "play the game" of haggling. A simple question of "What's your best price?" will often result in a shopkeeper going to extraordinary lengths to sell his stock. Prices in the malls and other Western shops tend not to be negotiable. Far from being a bad thing, this allows the canny visitor to work out comparative prices for common souvenirs – an invaluable aid when a shopkeeper in a souk is asking for a higher price.

Dubai Shopping Festival has been the biggest shopping event in the Middle East since 1996. Almost every shop has a sale, starting in January and ending in February. The DSF is not limited to Shopping but also produces some mind-blowing stages shows and performances performed by international celebrities. [dead link] There's also a very similar Dubai Summer Surprises trying to pull in punters during the summer low season.

Malls [ edit ]

Dubai is known for its gigantic malls and is a magnet for shoppers. Among the dozens of malls, two stand out due to their size and quality. See the district articles for more details on malls. Several malls have a large supermarket where you'll find the lowest cost electronics, and groceries for self-catering. There are many supermarkets, and international brands such as Carrefour, Géant and Waitrose have multiple locations as do 'home-grown' brands Choithrams, Spinney's, Union Co-Operative and Lulu, amongst others.

Eat [ edit ]

Shawarma is the most available food item on almost all streets (and cheap) in Dubai. It is the Arabic equivalent of the burger. It is meat that has been cooked on a skewer and then cut into thin strips and placed into a kuhbus ( pita ) bread with vegetables and dressing. There is the plain-jane variety and the more exotic Lebanese and Iranian varieties. The shawarma sold by Indian restaurants are arguably the cheapest.

Another local snack is fala-fil (felafel, falafel), which is as cheap as shawarma.

Traditional Emirati food normally involves rice and meat/chicken cooked with different spices. As such, mandi is a very popular meal and generally affordable, except when served in high end restaurants. Emirati restaurants can be mostly found in areas with local residents, such as Deira, Bur Dubai and Jumeirah. Traditional desserts are also worth trying. Search for luqaimat , deep fried dough balls tossed with date syrup on top. You'll find it at any Emirati restaurant as well as some small cafeterias or street markets.

Most of the American fast food chains have set up shop, including KFC, Chillis, TGI Fridays, Starbucks, and McDonalds. The beauty of the food in Dubai is that you will probably find cuisine for every taste. All food is halal.

Dubai has a big selection of budget Indian food. Dosa, vada, idlee, samosa, chapaati/roti, with generous servings of sabji (cooked vegetable stew) are available for cheap. Bur Dubai (particularly Meena Bazaar area) and Karama are the places that abound in these restaurants. Most of them are open from 07:00 to 22:00 or 23:00 throughout the week.

Pork is eaten here mostly by non-Muslim Filipinos and Europeans. Pork sections exclusive for non-Muslims are found in Spinneys (numerous branches, including ones in Jumeirah and Dubai Marina), Al Maya Lal's (generally caters to Filipinos; there's a branch in Satwa) New Westzone Supermarket (has a branch in Satwa that's bigger than nearby rival Al Maya Lal's), Choithrams and Waitrose .

During Ramadan, while it is not illegal for non-Muslims to eat and drink in public spaces during daylight hours, it's better to avoid doing so out of respect for those fasting. Most restaurants remain open as normal. Once the sun sets though, many locals will gather for iftar , or the breaking of the fast, and many hotels will serve elaborate iftar meals catering to this market. As a tourist, you are welcome to partake too, but be sure to reserve in advance as these are very popular.

Dubai hosts several food festivals in the spring (March - May). The largest is the Dubai Food Festival which lasts for two weeks. Across the city, there are discounts at restaurants and home / kitchen stores (such as Crate & Barrel, Williams Sonoma, etc.) World-class chefs offer master classes, special collaborations, and tasting menus.

Budget [ edit ]

Most malls have food courts, which offer good value menus and are a fast and reliable option for visitors and locals. There are also several food chains of many different types (Pakistani, Indian, Western) scattered all over the city. See the district articles for individual recommendations.

Mid-range [ edit ]

• Automatic , this is a chain of popular Lebanese restaurants found all over Dubai. Famous for its lamb chops & Friday lunch buffet. No alcohol served.

Splurge [ edit ]

The top hotels all have at least one restaurant serving (most commonly) some form of international cuisine - Italian, Japanese, Indian and so on. Quality tends to be high, along with price, but non-guests are able to reserve tables as well, thus allowing the rest of us to experience a bit of these hotels. Floating restaurants for dinner come sight seeing in Dubai Marina are also popular among both non-travelers and travelers. And agencies have licensed floating restaurants and hence charge a high price for the quality of food and service.

Drink [ edit ]

Dubai has supercharged the nightlife in the last decade and most international known brands have a sister location in town. Most 3-5 star hotels have bars and nightclubs for those interested in the nightlife. World-class DJs frequent Dubai's nightclubs, and many A-list musical celebrities are adding Dubai to their list of tour dates. There is nothing missing and during the high tides of the party time, the impression of being in Ibiza is not misleading. Most of the night life is geared at the beaches of Jumeirah or the Dubai Marina. Bur Dubai is more family-oriented (e.g. Dubai Fountain), while Deira was able in parts to maintain its more Arabic focussed style. Dubai is very popular with Arabic travellers, so an Arabic blend is added quite often.

Dubai has several laws regarding alcohol which travelers should be aware of:

• Alcohol is available only at licensed premises, usually attached to hotels (most nightclubs and bars are in or attached to hotels, though they may have separate entrances). As of 2023 there is one public cinema that serves alcohol (Cinema City's Azul Lounge & Theatre ), as well as a few private cinemas that can be booked for groups.
• Alcohol is not sold on religious holidays. From 2016, it can be sold during Ramadan.
• It is illegal to drink alcohol in public places , and there is a zero-tolerance policy on drunk driving. Anyone involved in a collision found with alcohol in their blood will usually get a month's jail sentence and fine.
• Alcohol can be bought only for home consumption at certain outlets in Dubai, and an alcohol license is required. Supermarkets only stock non-alcoholic beers. Even food items containing alcohol are not sold in supermarkets.
• Remember to carry some sort of identification when visiting a bar if you are young, as you will not be let in otherwise. The law prohibits anyone below 21 to enter.
• The authorities take disruptive behavior while intoxicated very seriously, which will lead to jail time or deportation.
• Prostitution is illegal but can be seen in bars. Both parties act illegally, but in rather (in-)famous clubs it can be rather obvious. Keep in mind that most hotels have a strict guest policy .

Sleep [ edit ]

Due to substantial increase in hotel rooms, only during Islamic holidays do prices rise substantially. The cheapest places, mainly catering to small-scale businessmen, can be found in near the souks of Deira . In Dubai you find a youth hostel and several backpacker hostels.

See the individual listings in the districts for hotel recommendations. In general tourists tend to stay at the beach hotels in Jumeirah or Jebel Ali, while city dwellers have ample choice in Deira or Bur Dubai. Dubai is a stretch along the coastline and taxis are cheap and the metro reliable, so there are always alternative options. The only hassles are ever-new construction sites and the rush hour. During the summer heat a hotel with access to a mall or shopping complex is beneficial to have a greater area for air conditioned walking.

There are luxury glamping resorts in the desert far from the city. The most well known is Terra Solis. Reservations need to be made more than a month in advance, even in summer. As of 2023, the cheapest type of accommodation (tents) cost 950 dirham per night on weeknights and 1400 dirham per night on weekends.

For long trips (a month or more), the Rove hotel collection offers summer rates from 4000 dirham per month with significant discounts on F&B, laundry, and Lets work membership (co-working space). This is cheaper than the monthly rent for an unfurnished 1-bedroom apartment in a popular neighborhood, and Dubai residents will take advantage of this if they happen to be between leases or to help a friend who has newly moved to the city.

Stay safe [ edit ]

Dubai is a safe city. Call 999 if facing any trouble or altercations.

Traffic [ edit ]

Driving and pedestrian safety has also been an issue given the different nationalities that share the road. Do not jaywalk or cross where there are no clear pedestrian markings. Speeding is common here, and the odds of you being hit by a car are quite high unless you follow the rules. Avoid driving on the extreme left lane of highways to avoid being "flashed" and being forced to move a lane over. Road rage is also starting to become an issue given the increase in traffic jams and poor driving courtesy.

Rude hand gestures (the "finger", etc.) and profanity can lead to fines and jail times if reported, so keep your cool if you are cut off or are behind an erratic driver. In general, you will find those gestures and actions that some may find only slightly offensive in your home country, or perhaps not offensive at all, can at times be extremely offensive to the Dubai locals. Therefore, err on the side of caution and keep your cool.

Islamic laws [ edit ]

The United Arab Emirates might seem to have more relaxed laws than their other Arab counterparts, but the laws are still very different from most Western countries, and their laws are strictly enforced. Having an alcoholic drink in the wrong place or even losing your temper could land you a month or more in prison. Exercise caution and common sense when visiting, and make sure you are aware of all their laws or expect severe consequences that could seriously ruin your visit.

Dubai strictly follows Islamic laws which should be respected by all visitors. Islam is the official religion, therefore do not publicly criticize or distribute material against it.

In conversations about politics and world affairs, avoid criticizing the ruling family of any of the seven Emirates or prominent business families. The United Arab Emirates has formal relations with Israel but publicly supports causes that involve the Palestinian people and Palestinian statehood.

Public displays of affection are frowned upon and public sexual acts can lead to prison sentences followed by deportation. In 2008, a British couple were arrested and faced prison sentences because they had sexual contact on a beach in Dubai. If all tourists remain respectful, decent and ensure that they do not upset the local people, there should be no problems.

Homosexuality is a criminal offence with possible deportation or months of prison. Egregious public displays of affection or cross-dressing may lead to prison sentences and/or deportation. In 2013 a Norwegian woman reported she had been raped but then, following bad advice, rescinded it. She was then sentenced to 16 months in prison for extramarital sex and filing a false police report. After public pressure she was pardoned and deported. As of January 2022, extramarital sex has been decriminalized.

Women should dress sensibly and avoid wearing revealing outfits when travelling to districts like Karama, Deira and Bur Dubai, where the streets are packed with men, especially on evenings and weekends. While swimsuits and bikinis are a common sight on Dubai beaches, avoid sunbathing topless —even in the private beach of a hotel.

Prostitution is illegal in Dubai but still it is visible at nightclubs, bars and other places. Law enforcement ignores solicitation to a degree, but penalties are high if it is made too obvious or if the police are called. Human trafficking and forced prostitution are real issues in Dubai.

Petty crime [ edit ]

While petty crime is hardly reported or mentioned in the news, keep an eye on your wallet or purse when in crowded areas like Naser Square or Deira in general. If withdrawing large amounts of cash from ATMs, either conceal the notes or ask the bank's security to escort you to your vehicle. Cases have occurred where people have been robbed of large amounts of cash in crowded areas because they were not careful.

Conmen are ever present in Dubai, especially the "Nigeria 419" scammers. Do not arrange meetings or entertain their requests or give any personal details. Should they not comply, individuals who will be happy to listen to their business propositions are the police.

Thanks to Dubai's new property boom and bust, real estate fraudsters are also popping up, so exercise extreme caution if you are interested in buying or renting.

Drug use and distribution are serious criminal offences, even when in the company of the person consuming the material, and can lead to a prison sentence of several years or even the death penalty. Passenger baggage is screened quite thoroughly when entering Dubai. Even prescription drugs (without original prescription note and sometimes even with one) or ones that you bought over the counter in your country can lead to a prison sentence.

You need to be careful when you are a tourist in Dubai, like many places around the world, people have a keen eye for tourists and can cheat you. For example, taxi drivers can drive a longer way to the destination given that you pay by meter or try to charge you US$20 when you are sure you heard them say 20 dirham (they do sound rather similar).

Connect [ edit ]

GSM – Those with GSM smartphones or feature phones can expect auto roaming from their home countries. As roaming fees are quite high and incoming calls are also charged, consider buying a local prepaid GSM SIM card, designed especially for tourists, from one of the two cellular providers of the UAE:

• Etisalat - product Ahlan - available at the Duty Free Shop (arrival hall) of Dubai Airport
• Du - product Visitor Mobile Line - available at the Telefonika kiosk in the arrival hall of Dubai Airport. Incoming calls are free of charge.

Phone booths – Phone booths are located on most streets. Phone cards can be purchased from hotels and tourist shops.

Internet – Internet cafés can be hard to find. There are a number of cafés on Al Musalla Rd/Al Mankhool Rd in Bur Dubai, including one at 38 Al Musalla Rd and one at Computer Plaza next to the Ramada Hotel. A number of Internet cafes are found in Satwa too. In Satwa there is the French Connection in the Al Wafa Tower on Sheikh Zayed Rd (opposite side of road from the Dusit Hotel), which has wi-fi access and nice cakes and pastries. In Al Qusais, there is an internet café a 5-minute walk northwest of the Dubai Youth Hostel. Turn right out of the gates and walk to LuLu's Hypermarket. The café is located inside the food court.

Gaming cafes aimed at teenagers are dotted around, notable examples including Escape gaming zone (opposite Lulu Hypermarket hypermarket in al Barsha), Que Club in al Barsha and behind Lamcy Plaza.

Surprisingly, the malls do not have internet cafés. Dubai Mall offers free Wi-Fi throughout. Mall of the Emirates offers free Wi-Fi, but you must have a local phone number. Many coffee-shops, restaurants and attractions also have free Wi-Fi, and you'll usually have to ask for the password. Most hotel business centers are equipped with internet cafés but are expensive.

Etisalat , UAE's telecom operator, offers a roaming, postpaid Wi-Fi internet connection known as iZone . Most coffee shops and malls across Dubai provide this service. Prices are available on the website. For those still using dial-up internet Etisalat provide a service when you can plug into any phone line.

Dubai International Airport (DXB) has free Wi-Fi in the terminal. Bring your laptop to use free Wi-Fi at some hotels. There are many free public Wi-Fi spots in Dubai.

Post service [ edit ]

Emirates Post [dead link] service is pretty efficient. You will need to rent a post office box as postal service to the door is not the standard.

Newspapers and radio [ edit ]

Thanks to the large influx of expatriates, Dubai has a wide selection of English-language newspapers and radio channels.

• The Gulf News .
• Time Out Dubai - Things to do .
• The Khaleej Times .
• The Gulf Today [dead link] .
• The National .
• Emirates Business 24/7 .
• Channel 4 - Plays current songs from the UK and US. 104.8FM
• Dubai Eye - Western-oriented talk with focus on business, sport, lifestyle, and entertainment. Owned by Arabian Radio Network. 103.8FM
• Dubai 92 - Mainly 1990s music. Popular with British ex-pats. Owned by Arabian Radio Network. 92.0FM
• Virgin Radio 104.4 - Chart music. Operates under franchise from Virgin Radio International. Owned by Arabian Radio Network.
• City 101.6 - Broadcasts Indian music.
• Abu Dhabi Classic FM - Despite its name, this station broadcasts classical and jazz music across the UAE. In Dubai it is on 87.9FM.
• Talk 100.3 - Tune in to Talk 100.3, Dubai's best radio station, and experience the best of news, sports, and conversation from around the world.
• LUV 107.1 - LUV 107.1 plays a mix of music from the 90's through today.

International newspapers are also available in most hotels and airport terminals. Carrefour and Borders bookstores sell British and American newspapers. Todaily , a local printing house, can furnish newspapers and periodicals from around the world daily.

Cope [ edit ]

Religious services [ edit ].

Dubai gives freedom of religion to its residents and citizens.

• St Mary's Catholic Church is a Roman Catholic church located in Oud Metha opposite the Indian High School. Masses are celebrated in Tagalog (Filipino), some Indian dialects as well as in Arabic and English. There is also a Catholic school near it.
• Holy Trinity Church , a Protestant church, is also in Oud Metha.

Consulates [ edit ]

Many countries have established full service consulates (Consulates General) in Dubai to provide consular services for their nationals living in the UAE or certain areas like Dubai and the northern Emirates, as well as visa services for others seeking to visit their respective countries. Most of the consulates are located in/around Al Karama and Um Hurair (consulate district) in the Burr Dubai District, south of Dubai Creek. They can also be located in other parts of town too. If corresponding by mail/post use their PO box address as mail is only delivered to a PO Box with no post codes. If delivering to a street address with DHL, FedEx, UPS or another private courier be sure to include a recipient phone number so that the delivery driver can call for directions or clarification on the address. Some countries may have no consulate in Dubai but rather handle everything from their embassy in Abu Dhabi , while others may assign their consular duties solely to the Dubai consulate. Check their website links or call before going to or sending any correspondence:

Go next [ edit ]

Within the United Arab Emirates :

• Neighbouring Sharjah . While dry (no alcohol) and mostly suburban, has a few beaches and museums of interest. ( updated Aug 2015 )
• Abu Dhabi . Capital of the Emirates, is an entirely different city and worth the 1½-hour ride to see the contrast. ( updated Aug 2015 )
• The city of Al Ain ( near the border with Oman ). It is surprisingly a city of lush gardens and trees - an aspect quite unusual in this region considering its desert surroundings. ( updated Aug 2015 )
• Peaceful Umm al Quwain emirate . If you want a cosy and relaxing environment, free from city hustle and bustle. ( updated Aug 2015 )

Other countries [ edit ]

• Dubai has an arrangement with Oman to allow visitors who qualify to get an Omani visa on arrival by road through Hatta .
• The Iranian island of Kish . A free trade zone that does not require a visa. ( updated Aug 2015 )
• Fjords of Musandam Peninsula ( two hours' ride north to this Omani exclave ). Explore beautiful caves and enjoy the awesome scenery of the desert and the mountains. to hike in the mountains or dive in the fjords. ( updated Aug 2015 )

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The ultimate Dubai travel guide

The duty-free zone of Dubai is a shopper's paradise, offering some of the most lavish malls on earth, as well as super-luxury hotels and miles of pristine beach.

Where to stay in Dubai

Mandarin oriental jumeira, dubai.

Mandarin Oriental did its homework when launching in the Middle East in 2019. The Asian heavyweight's ornate urban low-rise is spread across a prime patch of affluent Jumeira. It's not the first luxury name to stake a claim here – Four Seasons and Bulgari are nearby – but it is one of the latest, and, in Dubai , that matters. It means that a Prada-draped mix of locals and expats are elbowing for tables at the sunlight Noor lounge in the evening before sharing plates of Wagyu at Japanese steakhouse Netsu (all after perfecting their poses between the lobby’s Forest of Lights, an avenue of bronze trees bearing 900 leaf-shaped crystal lights). Neat rows of palms continue the eye-line beyond the glass rear wall to the beachfront terrace and pools. The architectural symmetry is signature Jeffrey A Wilkes, the interior designer who owns the landmark hotel game – his other projects include The Mandarin Oriental Bangkok and Taj Mahal Palace Mumbai.

The friendly door staff are dashing in their bright blue frock coats and fedoras, ushering guests towards the highlights including the Mediterranean-inspired Tasca. Superstar Portuguese chef José Avillez has brought some of the aces from his Michelin-starred spot in Lisbon here, including the ecstatically creamy avocado tempura, while edible cocktails crunch with wedges of green apple infused with spearmint Margarita mix. Every time a hotel gets added to Dubai , the glitz goes up a notch. Mandarin manages to add the right amount of dazzle without going too far over the top. £££ (00 971 4 777 2222; mandarinoriental.com ).

To find out more and check availability, now go to Mandarin Oriental Dubai hotel review

AL MAHA RESORT

Forty five minutes from Dubai, the exclusive Al Maha resort is a desert haven set within a conservation reserve. Each of the Bedouin-style suites, grouped into Emirates, Royal and Bedouin Suites, has its own private swimming pool and activities include falconry, wildlife tours and horse-riding. Guests can dine in the relaxed Al Diwaan restaurant, or on the private decks of the guest suites. ££££ (00 971 4 343 9595; al-maha.com ).

BAB AL SHAMS DESERT RESORT & SPA

Fifty kilometres away from the colossal resort of Madinat Jumeirah, Jumeirah International has opened a sister hotel, Bab Al Shams Desert Resort & Spa. A tasteful Arab-style spa retreat, with 115 rooms and suites, offering camel rides and dune-bashing, and the region's first open-air desert restaurant, Al Hadheerah. The Satori Spa has an extensive range of treatments. ££ (00 971 4 832 6699; jumeirahbabalshams.com ).

BURJ AL ARAB

Burj Al Arab, meaning The Arabian Tower, is located within a magnificent glass sail-shaped building rising from the waters of the Arabian Gulf, about 280m offshore from Jumeirah Beach. Now a Dubai landmark, the hotel has 202 suites, each one with a private butler and arranged over 2 floors, and an 'underwater-experience' signature restaurant, Al Mahara. The Assawan Spa & Health Club is located on the 18th floor of the hotel. (00 971 4 301 7777, burj-al-arab.com ).

GROSVENOR HOUSE

Grosvenor House, the first Marina hotel, is already filled with visitors happy to forego beach frontage (although there is an outdoor pool). The 45-storey hotel, with 217 sea-facing, butler-serviced rooms, gleams with polished stone and bespoke lighting. The foyer sets the exaggerated Art Deco tone with vast stone columns and cream-leather club chairs. Bedrooms, while as sleek and thoughtfully furnished as the rest of the hotel, are not the real draw. This is a drinks and dinner destination, from the plushly decadent Buddha Bar, which follows the successful Parisian format, to Bar 44, which encircles the 44th floor and is packed nightly with media types lounging in pony-skin chairs. The hotel's signature restaurant, Mezzanine, has white-leather padded walls punctuated with acid green Perspex screens and burnt-orange velvet chairs, a stylish backdrop to the inspired British menu of chef Gary Robinson (lately Prince Charles's private chef). Jet Set is a kitsch, airline-themed salon offering Short Haul and Long Haul wash and blow-dries. There is also a spa retreat. ££ Grosvenor House, Dubai Marina, Dubai, UAE (00 971 4 399 8888; grosvenorhouse-dubai.com ).

HYATT REGENCY

Located on the Deira Corniche, the Hyatt Regency is close to Dubai Creek Golf Club and the Deira Centre. It has 414 rooms and suites which offer stunning views across the Arabian Gulf, and a revolving rooftop restaurant, Al Dawaar, which is located on the 25th floor and has spectacular sea views. ££ (00 971 4 209 1234; dubai.regency.hyatt.com ).

JUMEIRAH BEACH HOTEL

All 598 rooms at Jumeirah Beach Hotel have sea views and floor-to-ceiling windows, and some have private balconies. The hotel also boasts a private beach, the luxurious 19-villa Beit Al Bahar, a PADI National Geographic Dive Centre, luxury yacht charters and mooring for up to 50 yachts. ££££ (00 971 4 3480000; jumeirahbeachhotel.com ).

MADINAT JUMEIRAH

Al Qasr, Mina A'Salam and Dar Al Masyaf, two 292-room hotels, and 29 detached courtyard summerhouses respectively, form part of the sprawling resort of Madinat Jumeirah, which has Mina A' Salam hotel at one end, the Six Senses Spa at the other, and a man-made waterway, an undulating swimming pool, restaurant terraces and the Souk shopping area in between. Al Qasr is the resort's polished and tasselled centerpiece. Forget less-is-more: this is unashamedly more, more, more, but with enough attention to detail - the amber-and-ochre heavy silks and damasks in the bedrooms, wood-panelled baths, antique rugs on the corridor walls - to carry it off with panache. Restaurants include Al Hambra for tapas, where the chef is from Michelin-starred El Bulli in Spain; Six Senses Spa and Carita salon offer pampering of the highest order. ££££ (00 971 4 3668888; jumeirahinternational.com ).

METROPOLITAN CLUB

Also on Jumeirah Beach is the Metropolitan Resort and Beach Club Features Andalucian-style architecture, landscaped gardens, a private beach, swimming pool, tennis and squash courts and water sports facilities. There are 80 rooms and 14 suites. L'Orangerie serves international cuisine, Luciano's Italian and Al Basha Lebanese. ££ (00 971 4 399 5000; metropolitanhoteldubai.com ).

CNT Editors

Olivia Morelli , CN Traveller

ONE&ONLY ROYAL MIRAGE

Dubai likes a superlative. It has the world’s tallest building and the world’s largest shopping mall. And inside this shopping mall is an actual indoor ski resort. And an aquarium (the world’s second largest). But it hasn’t always been like this. The Royal Mirage was the first hotel to arrive on Jumeirah Beach back in 1998, a trailblazer in an undeveloped desert town. Now buildings have shot up everywhere but, with 26 hectares of gardens, it maintains a surprising sense of space. The hotel is a super-scale Middle Eastern fantasia of intricately carved wood, elaborate terracotta tiles and gleaming marble. There are three sections – the Arabian Court, members’-club-style Residences and the family-friendly Palace where the KidsOnly club, with everything from belly dancing to sand sculpting, is part of the deal. Four- to 11-year-olds will show up parents with a roll call of Arabic phrases, while teens will be learning to water-ski and windsurf from the private beach. Federer and Djokovic have both stayed, which is a seal of approval for the floodlit tennis courts (too hot to play during the day). It’s easy to stay put for the entire holiday. There are eight restaurants, from pizzas and pasta at Olive and just-caught lobster at the beach bar to the Jetty Lounge for a mint Mojito and a view of the Palm Islands. But do get out to see one of the fastest-growing cities in the world. Taking a sea plane up the coast towards the landmark Burj Khalifa tower is a fascinating lesson in how quickly sand turns to skyscraper. Stay in the Beach Garden Villa. It’s the only private house at the hotel, sleeps six and has its own pool, so you can dip in and out of the action. £££ Jumeirah Beach Road (00 971 4 399 9999; oneandonlyresorts.com ).

ONE&ONLY THE PALM RESORT

There are not one but two stonking One&Only hotels to choose from in Dubai just a five-minute boat ride apart. While the One&Only Royal Mirage is more obviously family-focused, One&Only The Palm , on the outer leafy bit of the man-made island Palm Jumeirah, which only started being built in 2001, is just too smart to resist: a low-rise village of creamy, Alhambra-esque buildings. This is Dubai, served up hot, hassle-free and enormously child-friendly with its water parks and malls, desert escapades and indoor ski domes. Of course, there's plenty to keep them entertained at the hotel too. The kids' club has a jam-packed itinerary of destination-appropriate fun and games from camel riding and belly dancing to henna painting and basic Arabic lessons.

There are even desert camp-outs, but it's more comfortable (and less sandy) getting into pyjamas in one of the Moorish-style two-bedroom waterfront villas. These vast houses have terraces that lead straight onto the pristine white beach, and their own pools (big enough for lots of jumping in). Interiors are ultra elegant with light bouncing off shiny marble, latticework detail and horseshoe arches. The can-do staff are incredibly speedy when it comes to requests such as heating puree or locating a tiny pair of sunglasses abandoned at the bottom of the pool. Plenty of guests get dressed up for supper, but no one frowns at the younger mob propping up the table - though after a day of full-throttle excitement they might just be too wiped out to join you. Make a beeline for the massive spa, recently taken over by Guerlain: the treatment rooms have gorgeous private gardens from which you can just see the skyscraper tips on the horizon. £££ (00 971 4 399 9999; oneandonlyresorts.com )

RITZ CARLTON

Situated on Jumeirah Beach, The Ritz-Carlton is Dubai's answer to Beverly Hills. It has a private beach and three swimming pools, plus a French seafood restaurant and a cigar bar. Some of the 138 rooms and suites include steam showers and all rooms overlook the pool and garden area with private balcony or patio. There is also a Balinese spa. (00 971 4 399 4000; ( ritzcarlton.com ).

SHERATON DUBAI CREEK HOTEL AND TOWERS

Perhaps outclassed by its newer sister hotel in Deira, the rather cubic Sheraton Dubai scores with its plum Creekside location next to the yacht club, 800 yards from the souk area. It boasts 255 rooms and a choice of restaurants, including Vivaldi, an Italian restaurant and Ashiana, which serves Indian food. ££ Baniyas Street (Creek Road), (00 971 4 228 1111; starwoodhotels.com ).

Where to eat out in Dubai

Burj al arab.

Chic showcase for simple Arabic dishes with a strong Moroccan accent. Part of the Burj Al Arab Hotel, with an attentive, helpful front-of-house staff, the Al Iwan is perhaps more popular with visitors than locals, but remains one of Dubai's finest culinary treats. The Al Muntaha, up on the top floor of the hotel, probably just pips the Al Iwan by dint of those incredible views, but its mod Med menu, fine as it is, doesn't offer the full Dubai experience. If you're only having one meal in the hotel, compromise with pre/post cocktails in the bar here, before heading back downstairs to the Al Iwan. (00 971 4 301 7600; burj-al-arab.com/dining/al_iwan )

Al Dhiyafha Road

A busy Lebanese shawarma house in the Satwa district. Terrific, tasty street food for a few pounds. If the day is cool enough, sit at a pavement table and watch the traffic flow past like a lazy river. The delicious juices and fruit cocktails are served in old-style, dimpled pint mugs. (00 971 4 398 4723)

Cruise the creek through the centre of Dubai aboard the 56-metre Al Minsaf. Go for lunch, sunset cocktails or dinner - or simply throw a private party for 400 of your closest friends. (00 971 4 315 47 77; bateauxdubai.com )

BASTA ART CAFÉ

This café is the best thing in Bastakia, the 'old quarter' of Bur Dubai. Sip iced tea with mint, or enjoy a salad in the quiet courtyard under the gnarled old tree. It's shady, child-friendly and a great spot to sit with a book during the heat of the day. Al Fahidi Street (00 971 4 353 5071)

Despite the name, this is more jazz than blues; you can survey the scene from a high stool or chill out on one of the squashy couches. Belgian beer is the drink of choice. Open 2pm to 3am. Novotel World Trade Centre, Zabeel Road 2nd (00 971 4 332 0000, novotel-dubai-world-trade-centre.com /)

Oddly enough, Dubai has only one restaurant on the creek, the Boardwalk. For a view across the water and the delightful sensation of being over it, this restaurant on stilts is unbeatable. But for everything else, food, ambience and clientele, it is disappointing. Dubai Creek Golf and Yacht Club (00 971 4 295 6000; dubaigolf.com )

CELEBRITIES

Don't be put off by that slightly naff moniker; this is a stylish Arabic honey-pot, spicy and perky, with fine views of Dubai. Good value too (no mean feat in this city of notoriously over-priced hotel dining rooms): try the seven-course tasting menu for a guided tour of the kitchen's myriad specialities. One&Only Royal Mirage (00 971 4 399 9999; oneandonlyresorts.com )

The plush, pampered surrounds of Cigar Bar, with the scent of Montecristo and Cohiba hanging in the air, make it a popular after-dinner haunt which provides a welcome refuge from the desert heat. Open 6pm to 2am. Fairmont Hotel, Sheikh Zayed Road (00 971 4 332 5555, fairmont.com )

Sophisticated fusion restaurant that's part of the One&Only Royal Mirage. Have lunch by the beach or dinner by the pool. Try hamour, a local fish that looks like a wide-hipped cod, or salmon with wasabi mash. Starters include Thai coconut chicken soup and open crispy wontons with octopus salad. Arabian Court (00 971 4 399 9999, oneandonlyresorts.com )

Modish designer café, perfect for leisurely (and nicely authentic) tapas nibbling, or espresso pick-me-up. Bur Dubai (00 971 4 324 4252)

This is a lively Thai restaurant offering gallons of cocktails and a resident DJ. It has the food (try the shark fillet wrapped in betel leaf) and mood (low-key music) exactly right. Open noon to 3pm, 7pm to 3am. Ground Floor, Convention Centre, Sheikh Zayed Road (00 971 4 329 3200)

Accessed via the beach in front of Al Qasr, the 'palace' at the heart of the Madinat Jumeirah resort, Pierchic is accessed via a 5-minute stroll along the wood bedecked pier, where you will find a bar and restaurant which is one of Dubai's most unique culinary hotspots. Al Qasr Hotel, Madinat Jumeirah (00 971 4 366 6730)

RAVI'S

Proper curry, near Al Mallah. Specialises in North Indian dishes and caters to the large expat community from the Indian subcontinent. Satwa High Stret (00 971 4 331 5353)

Securing a weekend reservation here is one of Dubai's greatest culinary challenges. The offerings are rare for this city: excellent Japanese food that is also reasonably priced. The sushi, teriyaki and tempura are carefully prepared and simply presented. Fish tanks built into the walls create an interesting atmosphere. Be warned: from about 10pm the noise level starts to rise, with a young and beautiful crowd pouring in for the sake and cocktails. If you want an intimate evening, get here early. Open from 7.00pm to 2.30am. Dubai Marine Beach Resort (00 971 4 346 1111; dxbmarine.com )

Tucked away in the Royal Mirage hotel on Jumeirah beach, Tagine is well worth the small trek out of the city centre. The restaurant's sumptuous Moroccan decor (huge candles, harem-style rugs and lanterns) and North African cooking make it a good choice for a lively evening (there is live music too). The bathrooms are gorgeous. One&Only Royal Mirage (00 971 4 399 9999; oneandonlyresorts.com )

THE GLASSHOUSE

The three-course set brunch is pretty good, and includes everything from pan-fried snapper to Cumberland sausages. But the food is secondary to the promise of unlimited champagne from noon till 3pm. Also a good choice for a business lunch. Hilton Dubai Creek (00 971 4 212 7550, www3.hilton.com )

THE MEAT COMPANY

Located on the sea front of the Souk Madinat Jumeirah, this restaurant, taking its cue from its name, is particularly good for steaks, and has a comprehensive selection of wines. Shop 148 Souk Madinat, Jumeirah (00 971 4 368 6040; themeatcompany.co.za )

THE THAI KITCHEN

Sit around the kitchens and watch the chefs prepare excellent Thai cuisine. Dishes are served in a variety of small cups, plates and saucers, perfect for sharing. Alfresco dining is available in the covered terrace. (00 971 4 602 1234; dubai.park.hyatt.com )

ZHENG HE'S

Truly fabulous Chinese food, the best dim sum you'll eat in Dubai. Be sure to try the black pepper beef. Madinat Jumeirah (00 971 4 366 6730, jumeirah.com )

The best nightlife in Dubai

Considered the coolest venue in town by long-term expats, who drink away their tax-free earnings under the impressive gaze of the gargantuan Buddha. Grosvenor House, Dubai Marina (00 971 4 399 8888, buddhabar-dubai.com )

Lovely spot in the Al Qars. Sit at the granite bar and chat to the friendly Jordanian staff, or take a drink out on the terrace, settle into the cushions and kilims and watch the sun sink slowly into the sea. Madinat Jumeirah (00 971 4 366 8888, jumeirah.com )

SKYVIEW BAR

It is quite difficult to get past the doormen at the Burj Al Arab, so this bar at the very pinnacle of the great sail may be the most exclusive spot in all Dubai. On a clear day you can see all the way to the Creek, you can gaze at the desert beyond the city, and you can look down on the islands of the Palm development as they take shape out to sea. Reservations essential. Burj Al Arab (00 971 4 301 7600, jumeirah.com )

VU'S BAR

Up on the 51st floor of the Jumeirah Emirates Towers is this hyper-chic bar. The ride up in the glass lift is intoxicating, and the prices will set you reeling, so you'll feel tipsy before you even touch a drop. The views across the city are stunning. Jumeirah Emirates Towers (00 971 4 319 8088)

Things to do in Dubai

As well as the obvious shopping opportunities, there are some fantastic boat trips to be had in Dubai, along the Creek which divides the city.

DUBAI MUSEUM

Housed within the beautifully restored Al Fahidi Fort, which was erected around 1787 to defend the city against invasion, the museum's diverse collection of exhibits offers a fascinating insight into its history and cultural heritage. Renovated in 1971 for use as museum. Open Sat to Thurs, from 8:30am to 7:30pm, and Fri from 2pm to 7:30pm. Al Fahidi Street (00 971 4 353 1862)

Behind the Great Mosque in Bur Dubai is this narrow alley of tiny shops selling Hindu paraphernalia, such as gaudy pictures of blue baby Krishnas. At the end of Hindi Lane is the delightful textile souk, where wholesalers hang pashminas and sari silks on the wooden shutters.

JUMEIRAH MOSQUE

It's the only mosque in Dubai open to non-Muslims. The interior is serene. Take a guided tour, then reflect at the nearby Lime Tree Café (00 971 4 349 8498).

The Mall of the Emirates has a dry ski slope, a vast edifice that is, in effect, a giant fridge with a plastic mountain inside. There are sledges and ice slides for kids, and some challenging pistes for grown-ups. Quite bizarre. ( malloftheemirates.com )

THE HERITAGE AND DIVING VILLAGE

Recreates life in pre-oil Dubai. (00 971 4 3937151)

How to get to Dubai

Flights go direct to Dubai airport.

AIRLINES FROM THE UK

British Airways (0870 850 9850; ba.com ) flies from Heathrow to Dubai. Emirates (0870 243 222; emirates.com ) flies from Gatwick and Heathrow to Dubai, and from Manchester.

Tour operator details for Dubai

The following organise trips to Dubai; Azure (01244 322770; azurecollection.com ); Carrier (0161 491; carrier.co.uk ); Elegant Resorts (01244 897 888; elegantresorts.co.uk ); ITC Classics (01244 355 320; itcclassics.com ); Kuoni (01306 743 000; kuoni.co.uk ); Seasons in Style (01244 202 000; seasonsinstyle.co.uk ).

the ultimate travel guide to Dubai

Dubai, often referred to as “The Gateway to the Middle East” is more than just a city of sparkling skyscrapers. We cover the best of the world’s new favourite stopover destination in our Dubai travel guide here.

The path to fascination and adventure here is paved with amazing hospitality (and unbeatable Indiana Jones-style photo ops).

Known for its luxury shopping, ultramodern architecture and lively nightlife scene, Dubai is now more than just a popular stopover between Australia and Europe – it’s become a holiday destination in its own right. There’s plenty to do in this relatively progressive UAE city that is working hard for the tourist dollar. Highlights in the city include the 830m-tall Burj Khalifa tower and the Dubai Fountain (with jets and lights choreographed to music).

Be tempted to drop all your hard-earned cash at the Dubai Mall – the second largest mall in the world. This truly mind-boggling place boasts an iceskating rink, 250-room luxury hotel, 22 cinema screens, 120 restaurants and cafes and more than 1000 retailers.

Dubai is also an absolute paradise for foodies, with Michelin-starred restaurants as well as more cheap and cheerful traditional eats. Enjoy otherworldly falafel stuffed with onions and chilli paste, extraordinary eggplant dips and Yemeni chicken and rice dishes.

One of the most iconic accommodation offerings in Dubai is Atlantis – the first resort to open its doors on Dubai’s revolutionary island, The Palm.

Redefining tourism in Dubai as the first truly integrated entertainment destination resort, today it encompasses the region’s leading waterpark – Aquaventure – as well as extensive fresh and salt-water pools, lagoon exhibits, plus an open-air marine habitat. It’s a wonderland for children of all ages.

Another resort option on The Palm island is One & Only . The hotel’s Moorish-Andalusian architecture and Arabian-international interiors are sumptuous and sophisticated. Beachfront villas, suites and spacious guest rooms are designed to ensure privacy and seclusion. Michelin-starred, French super-chef Yannick Alléno directs the three restaurants – all set on the glimmering waterfront with Dubai’s reach-for-the-sky skyline glittering in the distance.

Friday brunch is favourite pastime in Dubai (the weekend falls on Friday and Saturday, not Saturday and Sunday). It usually involves a four-hour all-you-can-eat marathon and takes place at hundreds of acclaimed restaurants across the city. We have a definitive list of Dubai’s best brunch spots to help you find your ideal venue.

If the action of the city isn’t to your taste you can always escape to the desert. Far from Dubai’s towers and traffic is The Al Maha Desert Resort – a super-luxe resort made up of just 42 suites.

The tented suites are filled with simple, sheikh-like luxuries – plush Middle Eastern rugs, Arabian antiques and four-poster beds, each with a private pool. Get up early to see the desert dawn and falcons soaring in the sky.

Camel treks, dune drives or a wildlife safari can fill the day, or slip into the spa for Middle Eastern and Asian-influenced therapies followed by a candlelit dinner on the dunes. Falconry dates back more than 2000 years in Emirati culture and the resort has seven falcons, most of them bred especially for hunting.

Top Destinations Near Dubai

More On Dubai

Dubai’s most daring family attractions

The first-timers guide to Dubai

The definitive list of Dubai’s best brunches

33. One & Only The Palm, Dubai, UAE

38. Al Maha Desert Resort, Dubai, UAE

Dubai – Size Isn’t Everything

Dubai – Then and Now

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• PLAN YOUR TRIP
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Dubai Travel Guide

The insiders' guide to discover all the wonders of dubai, top 3 unmissable attractions in dubai, burj khalifa: the highest skyscraper in the world, enjoy a memorable safari in the dubai desert, visit the incredible dubai aquarium, the best things to do and see in dubai, al bastakiya: the historical district of dubai, burj al arab: how to visit the iconic 7-star hotel, dubai creek: the most authentic side of dubai.

PALM JUMEIRAH

The most incredible island in the world

DUBAI MARINA

The heart of Dubai nightlife

DUBAI FRAME

A strange new tower in the Dubai skyline

Discover Deira: the Old Town of Dubai

The Deira district is one of the oldest and most authentic places in Dubai. Bustling with locals and tourists from sunrise to sunset, Deira is the ideal place for a stroll through the old souks of spices, essences and gold.  Read also: GUIDE TO DUBAI GOLD SOUK

Climb to the top of Burj Khalifa!

Discover the best tips and discounts for the most unmissable experience in dubai.

Much more than just a shopping center

JUMEIRAH MOSQUE

A dip into the local culture

DUBAI MUSEUM

Discover the origins of the city of Dubai

Top 10 Best Public Beaches in Dubai

In Dubai you can go to the beach almost all year round: not just resorts and luxurious beach clubs, but tens of kilometers of free public beaches, white sand and crystal clear water.

We have made our own ranking of the best public beaches in Dubai, based on the best tips from the locals.

DUBAI FOUNTAIN

The most famous show in the city

DUBAI OPERA

Home of the best international music

An incredible ancient oasis in the desert

Top 20 Museums to Visit in Dubai

Dubai is not just modernity, luxury and skyscrapers. In the city there are excellent museums that tell the incredible history of the United Arab Emirates and allow you to see exhibits featuring the best of world art.

In this guide you will find all the best museums to see in and around Dubai and tips on how to visit them on a budget.

The Best Theme Parks in Dubai

The ultimate guide to the best water parks in dubai, dubai parks and resorts: info, tickets & offers, dubai garden glow: useful tips, tickets & offers, outdoor activities in dubai, camping in dubai: best places to stay in the desert, ride a camel in dubai: 3 amazing safaris and trekking to do, practical information, best time to go.

The best time is from November to March, because the temperatures are milder (around 20-30 °C). The hottest month is August and temperatures can be higher than 40 °C.

Language and Religion

The official language is Arabic. However English is widely spoken in all tourist facilities, in shops, on transport and on guided tours. UAE is a Muslim country.

Electricity and Sockets

In Dubai the electrical voltage is 220 V AC at 50 Hz. British-style three-pin sockets (type G and D) are the standard. Remember to bring a universal travel adapter with you.

The official currency of the UAE is the United Arab Emirates Dirham (AED). It is possible to withdraw directly from ATMs that are widespread in the major cities.

Day Trips from Dubai

The wonderful sheikh zayed white mosque, a day at the ferrari world theme park in abu dhabi, scuba diving o snorkeling experience in fujairah, hatta: mountains and lakes on the oman border, al ain: discover the most authentic side of the uae, liwa hotels & resorts: stay in a fabulous oasis in the desert, best places to stay in dubai, hotels with burj khalifa view, dubai airport hotels in & around dbx, villas with private pool in dubai, more things to do in dubai, visit dubai at night, dubai abra boat ride, dubai new year's eve, the green planet dubai, dubai spice souk, museum of the future dubai, camel races in dubai, aura skypool dubai, dubai quranic park, ski indoor at ski dubai, dubai hot air balloon, qe2 ship hotel in dubai, last exit dubai food trucks, time out market dubai, love lake dubai, trampoline parks in dubai, splash park & splash pad, deep dive dubai.

Top 10 things to know before visiting Dubai

Jul 19, 2019 • 5 min read

Dubai Downtown Skyline in early morning fog, United Arab Emirates

Dubai is one of the most visited destinations in the world and home to a number of record-breakers, from the world’s tallest tower to the busiest international airport on the planet. Yet for all the city's accolades, there are still plenty of misconceptions about the glitzy Gulf emirate. Here are 10 things you to know before you arrive.

You don’t have to be a millionaire

It’s regularly named one of the world's most expensive cities , but you can enjoy Dubai on a budget . As the city gears up to host Expo 2020, millennial-friendly mid-market hotel chains such as Rove and Hilton Garden Inn are booming. Metered taxis are cheap by international standards, and you can ride the metro for as little as Dh3. The city is brimming with cheap eats too, especially around Al Muraqqabat Rd and Al Rigga Rd in Deira . You can now avoid any roaming charges as well, with visitors receiving free Sim cards on arrival at Dubai International Airport .

There is culture

Contrary to popular stereotypes, there’s more to Dubai than shopping and skyscrapers. Look beyond the bling, and you’ll discover a rich cultural heritage that blends Bedouin, Arab and Islamic traditions . For a quick history lesson, visit the Etihad Museum and Dubai Museum and then head to the Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding for a no-holds-barred Q&A session on Emirati culture. Meanwhile, explore the burgeoning contemporary art scene at Alserkal Avenue and catch a performance at the ship-shaped Dubai Opera .

Dubai is not dry

Think you can’t get a drink? Alcohol is available in licensed bars and restaurants, which are generally attached to hotels (although exceptions include some high-end eateries in Dubai International Financial Centre and City Walk ). Most bars have happy hours – Nola has one of the best – and the legal drinking age is 21, so take your photo ID. Ladies’ night, usually on Tuesdays, means women can enjoy free drinks, while all-you-ca n-eat-and-drink Friday brunches are a Dubai institution . Visitors can now also obtain a liquor licence to buy alcohol in Dubai .

Dubai is a top spot for foodies

With Michelin tipped to launch a guide to Dubai in the near future, dining out in the city has never tasted so good. Dubai’s multicultural mix means you can feast on everything from budget-friendly ethnic eats and traditional Emirati cuisine to French fine-dining and molecular gastronomy. Hip homegrown eateries like Sum of Us and Salt are leading the shift away from international chains, while Frying Pan Adventures offers fantastic foodie tours of old Dubai. Dubai will also be getting a Time Out food market in 2020 , where travellers can sample the best of what the city has to offer under one roof, as well as the world's first MasterChef restaurant .

Skip the burkini

Dubai is a cosmopolitan city, with expats making up almost 85% of the population. There’s no need to cover your hair, shorts and t-shirts are fine in many places, and you can wear a bikini at the beach or by the pool . It’s a glamorous city too, so dress to impress at brunch and out clubbing. In the malls, mosques and souqs, you should respect local Islamic culture by dressing modestly, which means shoulders and knees covered.

Dubai is incredibly forward-looking

Forget notions of a city fuelled solely by black gold; Dubai has successfully diversified its economy away from oil to become a thriving hub for transport, trade, finance and tourism. What’s more, the government is working with high-tech companies to develop self-driving cars, flying drone taxis and 3D organ printing. One of the most exciting partnerships is with Hyperloop One, which is developing a supersonic transport system that could link Dubai with Abu Dhabi in 12 minutes.

The weekend is Friday and Saturday

Most people have Friday off work, when Muslims gather for congregational prayers. Dubai Metro services start at 10am on Fridays, and businesses are traditionally closed for a few hours in the afternoon, although many now remain open throughout the day. If you’re looking to party, the busiest nights of the week are Thursdays and Fridays, while malls are also packed with shoppers until midnight.

Dubai wants to rival Orlando

Florida’s theme-park capital faces a new challenger, with four major theme parks opened in Dubai in 2016 . They include IMG Worlds of Adventure , the world’s largest indoor theme park with dedicated Marvel and Cartoon Network zones, and the Hollywood-inspired Motiongate , with rides based on blockbusters such as Madagascar and Ghostbusters . Dubai's biggest water park is also soon to become the biggest in the world , with the addition of a giant new tower as well as 12 new slides.

Dubai is probably safer than your home city

Despite unrest in the region, the UAE is the second safest country in the world, according to the World Economic Forum. Dubai is very safe compared with other large cities across the globe, and street crime is rare. It’s safe to take taxis at night, and walking around on your own is fine in most areas. The biggest dangers are reckless driving and crossing the street, with many motorists ignoring pedestrian crossings.

There’s (almost) a new super-tall tower in town

Dubai is a city that loves a superlative. Not content with the world’s tallest tower, the 828m Burj Khalifa , the emirate is building another epic skyscraper. Located at Dubai Creek Harbour, The Tower will stand at 928m when completed in 2020 and house a 360-degree observation platform, along with a hotel, restaurants and vertical gardens. It's got competition for the ‘world’s tallest’ title though, with Saudi Arabia’s kilometre-high Jeddah Tower also set to open in 2020.

First published in June 2017, last updated July 2019.

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Travel Guide Middle East United Arab Emirates Dubai

Introduction

Burj Kalifah

© RobandEve

Dubai is the second-largest of the seven emirates that together constitute the United Arab Emirates . This is one of the fastest growing areas anywhere in the world with buildings being erected at an enormous speed. Plans are even more ambitious with hundreds of high rise buildings to be added (including the highest building in the world) and thousands of islands in the form of the world or palms which are for the rich and famous only. Unfortunately, much of the old and original Dubai is hidden away in between, but can still be found in the old quarter of the city.

Neighbourhoods

Dubai is expanding so rapidly that you can not really speak of neighbourhoods, but you would rather divide the city in the old town, that spreads along the Dubai Creek, and the new parts that spread out along the coast line. For travellers purposes, there is a handy division in districts:

• Deira - The old financial centre, today a bustling commercial–residential district with old souks. One is the famous Gold Souk. Another one is the spice souk where you can buy a range of spices from the entire world. The quality of spices available there is pretty good.
• Bur Dubai - A historical district on the south side of Dubai Creek, with attractions from abras to souks to floating restaurants to the famous Creek. Meena Bazaar, is for clothes (you can buy fabrics there).
• Jumeirah Beach - A diverse mix of residents and tourists at the beach. It is a mixed Little Europe, Karachi and Manila. Jumeirah is much favoured by Europeans due to easy access to the public beach. Jumeirah Mosque and Dubai Zoo are the top attractions of this district.
• Jumeirah Beach Residences - This area between the sea and Dubai Marina includes The Walk, a strip with a lot of restaurants and shops. Few public beaches can be found at JBR.
• Dubai Marina - Surrounded by skyscrapers, this mega-development is part of New Dubai, next to The Palm Jumeirah and JBR. This is a man made marina.
• Jebel Ali - Mega man-made port, location of the new airport, Dubai World Central, the venue for Expo 2020, and the entry point to the Palm Jebel Ali
• Downtown Dubai - City centre where you can find the Burj Khalifa and the Dubai Mall. Next to the Business Bay and Dubai International Finance Centre.
• Emirates Road - Suburban Dubai inland from the coast.
• The Palm Jumeirah - An artificial peninsula set as a palm tree over the sea. All the luxury hotels are set over the central trunk and the crescent road. Private villas can be found on the palm tree branches.
• Festival City - An area close to the airport with few malls and hotels, along the Creek.

Sights and Activities

Burj al arab.

Burj Al Arab

© neilcrespi

The Burj al Arab (the tower of Arabs) has become a landmark of Dubai, and one of the most famous buildings virtualy overnight after being finished in 1999. The very recognisable building that is shaped to resemble the sail of a Dhow, a local fishing boat. The structure is 321 metres tall, and stands on an artificial island 280 metres away from the beach. It is connected to the mainland by a bridge. The building serves as a luxury hotel with 202 rooms. A hotel room is not cheap, the cheapest room costs about a thousand US$ a night, the Royal suits sets you back around US$ 28,000. If you want to arrive in style from the airport you can be picked up by a Rolls Royce or a helicopter. The Burj al-Arab is a 7-star hotel, the only one in the world. If you'd like to visit the Burj Al Arab, you'll either have to stay there (pretty expensive) or book a table for a diner or a tea time (also expensive). The good thing is that the view over the city is simply amazing.

Burj Khalifa

Officially opened on 4 January 2010, Burj Khalifa (Arabic: برج خليفة‎ "Khalifa Tower"), formerly known as Burj Dubai, took six years to complete. The tower is named after Khalifa bin Zayed, the current President of the United Arab Emirates and ruler of Abu Dhabi. With a height of 828 metres (2716 feet), Burj Khalif is the tallest man-made structure in the world, topping the previous recordholder (Taipei 101) by a staggering 319 metres. It also is nicknamed "the Needle" and "The Tower of Bable". It has 168 floors, with the upper 30 to 40 floors being so small that they are useless, apart from storage room. Counting all the floors and the podium, it has 465,000 m² of surface space. In the skyscraper you will find 1,044 luxury appartments, 49 floors of offices and the Armani Hotel, with 160 rooms that are designed by Armani. An observation deck, named At The Top , is located on Level 142 of the tower. Tickets for At The Top are available online and also from the reception at the lower ground level of The Dubai Mall, located within the building. Best time to visit the Burj Khalifa is during sunset. You will see the sun falling behind the city and the desert. This is truly breathtaking experience. As this timeframe is pretty busy, it is a good idea to book your tickets in advance. Consider buying a bypass ticket to avoid the long queue lane before the elevators. Don't be worried about the elevators. Those are pretty fast. It only takes 2 minutes to get to the top and the experience has been thought to make the travel really smooth. You won't feel the speed.

Jumeirah Beach

VIEW FROM THE BAR AT TEH TOP OF THE BURJ!

© dwalker66

Jumeirah Beach is the famous beach resort area about 15 kilometres south of the centre of Dubai. The Burj al Arab is located here, as well as the Jumeirah Beach hotel and the waterpark 'Wild Wadi'. There is also the Jumeirah Mosque, one of only a few mosques which is open for non-Islamic tourists, which has regular morning tours. In 2009, the FIFA Beach Soccer World Cup was held here as well.

Jumeirah Mosque

If you want to learn about Emirati Culture a visit to the Jumeirah Mosque is a place where you can get some insights. The Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding (SMCCU) hosts visits of the Grand Jumeirah Mosque 6 days a week Saturday through Thursday at 10:00am. A reservation is not needed to attend, but you must arrive at the main entrance to the Jumeirah Mosque by approximately 9:45am. Each tour lasts approximately 75 minutes. 10AED per person, children under 12 free. Parties of 10 or more should contact the SMCCU prior to your visit. Modest dress is preferred, however traditional attire can be borrowed from the Mosque. SMCCU offers more cultural activities you can attend during your stay in Dubai.

Miracle Garden

Miracle Garden is a pretty unique place in Dubai. If you want to escape from the crowd and the modern buildings, you can get there. This is a peaceful area where you will see millions of flowers. Those are used to create nice structures. You can even see there a reproduction of an Emirates plane with flowers. The Miracle Garden is located in Barsha South area, near Jumeirah Village Circle.

Shopping is a major activity for Dubai visitors. Wafi Mall, Dubai Marina Mall, Ibn Battuta mall, Mall of the Emirates, Bur Juman, Magrudy's shopping mall are some of the numerous malls that have sprouted around the city in the past decade. The most famous one, largest mall in the world, is the Dubai Mall. Located next to the Burj Khalifa, extending over 800,000 square metres, the Dubai Mall has more than 1,200 retail stores. The Dubai Mall hosts one of the largest aquarium in the world (Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo) where visitors can see sharks, rays and more than 300 species of marine animals. There is also Dubai Ice Rink where people can practice ice skating. More than 90 millions of visitors came to the Dubai Mall in 2015. Tourists can buy jewels at the traditional Gold Souk (Deira area) and the Gold and Diamond Park (next to the Mall of Emirates). Spices from all over the world can be found at the Spice souk (Deira area).

Located in the Mall of Emirates, Ski Dubai is a man made indoor ski area. The 85-metre-high mountain includes 5 slopes. In order to maintain the snow in good condition, a powerful air conditioning system keeps the temperature between -6 °C and -1 °C . You can rent all the required equipment and clothing to practice skiing or snowboarding directly onsite. Only the gloves and the cap can't be rented there. But you can buy some or bring yours with you. If you don't want to practice skiing, you can encounter with real penguins or just enjoy the atmosphere on the chairlift. What you'll see is that many locals don't know how to practice skiing so they just go up and down on the chairlift.

Al Bastakiya Quarter

A walk through the Al Bastakiya Quarter or Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood will take you back in time. Quietly placed in Old Dubai area and close to Dubai Creek, it stands as a striking epitome of Dubai’s modest past. Wander around its narrow alleys, stroll past its antiquated sandstone structures with traditional wind towers, and learn some history from its many museums and attractions including the Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding and the Dubai Museum (housed inside the region’s oldest of its kind Al Fahidi Fort).

Desert Safari

Dubai may be an ultra-modern city, but it well preserves its culture and prides itself on its desert settings. Rightly so, its desert landscape is untouched and serves to delight the nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Go on a desert safari to experience this first hand! It takes only a short drive of 30 minutes to access the desert. Beyond seeing the seas of sands, you can expect to participate in several desert exclusive adventures. The thrilling 4X4 dune bash tops the list. Follow it up with a spectrum of Bedouin inspired activities like camel ride, Shisha smoking, falconry etc. You can choose from morning or evening desert safari with the add-on of BBQ dining and traditional entertainment.

Dhow Cruise

Whether you want to end your Dubai sightseeing with a romantic experience or just looking to give a perfect start to your night out, a dhow cruise in Dubai is your best bet. This comes in the form of an approximately two hours dinner cruise with buffet dining and live entertainment. But what really makes it special is the stunning city skyline views from water. Moreover, the traditional dhow in which you set sail itself is one of its major highlights. This is due to its inevitable role in boosting the region’s economy during the region’s pre oil phase.

Bluewaters Island

This island destination off Dubai Marina, Bluewaters Island , is one of Dubai’s most ambitious projects and holds some of the most prestigious and first of its kind attractions. Ain Dubai is the major highlight that welcomes you here! At a height of over 250 metres, this work in progress observation wheel is all set to become the world’s tallest once it opens. Well, this is just a tip off to the enormous amount of sights it presents. This ranges from the world’s biggest 3D Art Museum and the Middle East’s first Madame Tussauds Museum to the only Caesar’s Palace property in the world outside of Las Vegas. In fact, a trip here alone would easily fill up your Dubai travel agenda.

Jumeirah is one spot that finds a top position on any Dubai bucketlist. So next time don’t just limit your Jumeirah trip to Jumeirah Beach and Jumeirah Mosque! Go a little farther to discover the super trendy beach district of La Mer . The vibrant architecture, some chic cafes / restaurants and the coolest ever activities all make this a must-experience during your upcoming Dubai trip. It’s also a favorite of water sport lovers and be sure to check out its Laguna Water Park which is somewhat an exact replica of the exuberant Argentinian neighborhood, La Boca.

Theme Parks

Dubai is called the Middle East’s Theme Park Capital for a reason. The endless rides, unique themes, and lively characters all make Dubai an ultimate haven for theme park lovers. Experience this for yourself as you visit its parks that are as diverse and exciting as the snow filled Ski Dubai to the biggest of its kind IMG Worlds of Adventure with five themed zones. That’s not all; you can even plan an entire Dubai holiday completely themed around its theme parks. Just visit Dubai Parks and Resorts - the region’s first integrated resort with everything under its roof. You can choose to stay in one of its hotels and make the most of its four parks including Motiongate Dubai, Bollywood Parks Dubai, LEGOLAND Dubai, and LEGOLAND Water Park.

Downtown Dubai

Opened a little over a decade ago, Downtown Dubai and its splendid sights continue to dominate the list of Dubai’s top attractions. After all, a whole universe of entertainment, leisure, shopping and sightseeing options is squeezed into this stylish Dubai neighborhood. The showstopping attraction that draws most people here is Burj Khalifa. After all, it’s the world’s tallest building where its observation decks (on 124th and 148th levels) serve as the perfect base to ogle at Dubai’s breathtaking city skyline and beyond. Outside Burj Khalifa, you can stroll through the Souk Al Bahar and of course, explore the biggest of its kind Dubai Mall which is so massive that it accommodates over 1200 outlets, together with several attractions such as Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo, Dubai Ice Rink, VR Park, and KidZania. Finally, don’t miss the superbly choreographed Dubai Fountain show as part of your Dubai Downtown visit.

Palm Jumeirah

A car drive or a monorail ride along this palm-shaped island is one of the absolute must-dos in Dubai. But this experience is far more enriching when you experience it from atop on a helicopter ride or an extreme Sky Diving adventure. Speaking of its attractions, there are many posh shopping, dining, accommodation and leisure attractions, particularly Atlantis, The Palm resort complete with Aquaventure Waterpark, Lost Chamber Aquarium, and Dolphin Bay. Not far from here is Burj Al Arab; set on a private island, this luxurious sail-shaped hotel has been one of Dubai’s favorite photo ops since 1999. A stay here may be unimaginable if you’re on a budget, but it’s highly recommended to catch a glimpse of its majestic interiors with a dine / drink session.

Events and Festivals

Dubai marathon.

In January, the Dubai Marathon takes center stage. There are 3, 10 and 50 kilometre races, with the winners receiving large sums of money. Thousands of participants come to the UAE to join, with an increasing number of runners every year.

Dubai Shopping Festival

Shopaholics need to remember to breathe because the Dubai Shopping Festival is a month-long event. Every mall in the city reduces its prices during January and February, attracting thousands from around the globe. There are concerts and entertainment as a backdrop. This is a major event and the city is pretty crowded during that period.

Dubai Desert Classic

Every year, the best golfers from around the world make their way to Dubai, where the Desert Classic takes place. The prize money allures the best of the best and spectators if they can get a hold of the highly coveted tickets. The tournament is held at the Emirates Golf Club in March.

Emirates World Series Horse Race

The Emirates World Series of Horse Racing concludes in Dubai, where the world’s richest race takes place. Held in April, the Dubai World Cup Horse Race welcomes thousands of spectators, along with the best jockeys, trainers, and horses from the world over. The event is run from the Nad Al Sheba Racecourse, which provides memorable entertainment and a social atmosphere in the UAE.

At the end of Ramadan, the cities of the UAE celebrate Eid with parties and feasts. Both visitors and locals can share in the spoils as Dubai and Abu Dhabi throw social events for several days to mark the end of the Islamic fasting period in September.

International Film Festival Dubai

The Dubai film festival takes place in November and attracts not only thousands of cinema enthusiasts from across the Middle East and Europe, but famous producers and Hollywood stars for screenings all over the city.

National Day Festival

Commemorating the formation of the UAE and the independence of the region from Britain, National Day is celebrated across the country in December with performances and events in Dubai and Abu Dhabi. Accommodations are hard to come by at this time, so book well in advance.

Weather in Dubai generally is warm to hot and dry. The hottest months are between June and September when temperatures can rise up to 45 °C or even more. Humidity can be high as well, although this mainly applies to the coastal areas. Still, the best times to visit are from October to April with warm and dry conditions, although some rainshowers are possible during the wintermonths. But don't be concerned about rainshowers, you will never see rainfall for few consecutive days in Dubai. This never really happens. Dubai is not a place where rain is falling every week. The more you'll get is 2-3 days a month. You will never see snow in Dubai, except in Dubai ski at the Mall of Emirates. Snow falls only once every 10 to 20 years. This is a very rare event. So don't expect to see some if you are just there for few days. Locals consider that the temperature is cold when it is around 15 -20 °C in January. This is the lowest you'll see. Most of the time, it is way above 25 -30 °C .

Getting There

Dubai's main airport is the Dubai International Airport (DXB IATA). Its eventual replacement, Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC IATA), is open to passenger flights but is only serving a few flights. You can also enter Dubai by using Sharjah International Airport (SHJ IATA) in the nearby emirate of Sharjah and Abu Dhabi International Airport (AUH IATA) in nearby Abu Dhabi.

Airlines often have price wars to glamorous destinations like Dubai and this can work to your advantage by careful planning and comparison of the various airlines serving Dubai. Emirates is Dubai's official airline carrier which connects Dubai to over 100 destinations while FlyDubai is Dubai's low-cost carrier. Etihad has shuttle services from their exclusive check in facility in Sheikh Zayed Rd or Central Business District of Dubai to and from Abu Dhabi Int'l Airport, you can also fly with Sharjah's low-cost carrier; Air Arabia which flies to over 46 destinations within the Middle East. Low fares from North America are most often found on Qatar Airways, however since June 2017 Qatar Airways has been banned from flying to Dubai until due to a diplomatic spat.

• Dubai International Airport (DXB IATA). This is the largest hub in the Middle East and the home base of Dubai's flag carrier Emirates and its low-cost wing flydubai. It has grown at such a furious pace that its terminals are bursting at the seams, especially during the peak hours around midnight. Frequent visitors from countries granted automatic visa on entry may wish to purchase an e-gate card to speed up immigration formalities and save passport pages. The e-gate card office is situated in the upstairs food court area of the Terminal 1 departures concourse. The card will cost 200 dirham. To buy an e-gate card in Dubai, you must have entered UAE via Dubai airport.
• Dubai World Central - Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC IATA). The airport opened to passenger flights in October 2013 and has grand ambitions to be the largest airport in the world, capable of serving 160 million passengers a year. (For comparison, London Heathrow has around 70 million.) For time being it's only served by several low-cost carriers such as Wizz Air and flydubai (other carriers usually operate seasonal charters from Europe). It is a major hub for cargo flights. Emirates is not planning to shift until 2025 or so. The airport is in Jebel Ali at the far western end of Dubai, nearly 60 km from central Dubai and about 110 km from Abu Dhabi. A train line is planned, but the current transport options are taxi, which will cost over 100 dirham to most parts of the city, and bus lines F55/F55A. F55 connects Al Maktoum airport with Ibn Batuta Metro Station during the day, while F55A runs between Al Maktoum airport and Al Satwa Bus station during the night. Buses depart every hour from the airport.
• Sharjah International Airport (SHJ IATA) (in the emirate of Sharjah). It is 30 min by road from Dubai and takes an increasing number of international flights as Dubai airport struggles to keep up with demand. The principal carrier here is Air Arabia, a low-cost carrier serving the Middle East and South Asia. The airport is fairly basic but is being expanded. A taxi to Dubai will typically cost 50 dirham. A bus service by Air Arabia also runs from the Airport to the Rashidiya Metro Station in Dubai. Rashidiya metro station is located close to the Dubai International Airport.

Dubai is home to a thriving private aviation community, with luxury charters and business jets traveling between London, Moscow, and the United States on a daily basis. There are numerous FBOs to accommodate luxury and business travelers, and companies such as PrivateFly and Dubai Private Jet Charter offer on-demand private air charters from on a variety of planes, from luxury Gulfstreams and VIP airliners to twin-engine pistons and helicopters for small groups and individuals.

Dubai's only international road border is with Oman at Al Wajajah. Expatriate residents of Oman will require an official permit to exit Oman by road. Visitors do not require the permit. There is an OMR3 charge per vehicle to exit Oman and, if returning, retain the charge receipt as it will be required to re-enter. Ensure that insurance is valid for the UAE (preferably before commencing the journey). Temporary UAE insurance can be purchased at the border for a premium price.

There are also road borders between the neighbouring Emirate of Abu Dhabi and Oman at the Al Burami Oasis which divides the sister cites of Al Ain and Al Burami, Oman.

Dubai is a very car-oriented city and most visitors will choose to take taxis instead of the public transportation system. You can easily find them at the taxi queue or you just simple wave at one on the road, but this could be just difficult during rush hours. Also some of them even refuse short rides in jammed areas.

Signage is terrible in Dubai, and taxis often get lost. The best thing to do is navigate from well-known landmarks, such as hotels. GPS devices are often outdated. Street and road names can be very confusing, because the different transliterations from Arabic, you will notice that the slight variance in the spelling is very important.

You can find a lot of car rental agencies that will give you a vehicle with very cheap rates and only an International Driving Permit, if you don’t have an UAE one. Some agencies also offer a car hire service with drivers, an option much more comfortable for visitors, specially if the driver speaks English and knows the way around the city better than most taxi drivers.

Some of the best car rental companies are: Careem Car Services, that offers an easy booking system with a real-time tracking app and, if you need it, you can hire a car with child sit. DotTransfers also offers additional services like an executive transportation and limousine service with fair rates and good booking assistance. Ahdab International Luxury Transport is a highly experienced team of professionals but their rates tend to be quite expensive.

The Government of Dubai operates a network of buses linking Dubai city with the capitals of the other six emirates of the UAE. The buses run under the name Emirates Express and operate from various bus terminals in Dubai.

• To/from Abu Dhabi - Buses operate every 40 minutes from 06:20am from both Dubai's Al Ghubaibah bus station and Abu Dhabi's main bus station.
• To/from Sharjah - Frequent buses run between Dubai and Sharjah. There are several different routes and buses depart from various bus stations in Dubai including Al Karama, Gold Souq, Baniyas Square, Jebel Ali and Al Ittihad Square.
• To/from Al Ain - Buses operate every hour from both Dubai's Al Ghubaibah bus station to Al Ain, taking about 2 hours.
• To/from Fujairah - The bus to Fujairah leaves from the Rashidiya Metro station and takes about 3 to 4 hours.

For bus travel from Saudi Arabia, SAPTCO offers daily bus services from cities such as Dammam and Riyadh.

There are daily connections between Dubai and Muscat , the capital of Oman, taking around 4 to 5 hours.

Dubai is a trading hub for dhows from around the Indian Ocean. Travellers wanting to arrive in the city this way will probably need to make their own arrangements with the captain of the vessel. Most of the dhows sail to Iran; some also head to Yemen and Somalia. Emulating Michael Palin and heading to India on a dhow is difficult-to-impossible.

Dubai has an international cruise terminal at Port Rashid. During wintertime Costa Cruises has bases at least two of its cruise ships (Costa Luminosa, Cost Fortuna) at Dubai.

Valfajr Shipping Company runs a boat service that leaves Bandar Lengeh and Bandar Abbas in Iran supposedly every second day and docks in Port Rashid in Dubai, returning the following day. Crossing the Persian Gulf takes roughly 6 hours. A two-way first class ticket costs USD145 (1,450,000 Iranian rials) as of February 2010 and two-way economy class tickets cost USD122 (1,220,000 rials). The ticket includes Iranian-style lunch.

Getting Around

Taxis ply the streets of Dubai and are relatively easy to spot with their cream bodies and coloured roofs. The easiest place to find them is at the taxi queue at one of the malls or outside a hotel. Waving down a taxi on the road is possible, but can be difficult during rush hours. At peak times (07:00-09:00 & 16:00-19:00 workdays, and Friday evenings) demand exceeds supply, and not only are taxis hard to find, but those who deign to pick you up may demand crazy off-meter fares or refuse short rides in congested areas entirely. If you accept an off-meter quote, ensure that the driver clearly says 'Dirhams' as occasionally the word metamorphoses into 'Dollars' when you reach your destination. Also, the drivers of Dubai Taxi Corporation go through their shift change between 16:00-18:00 daily and it can be more difficult to find taxis during this time. The standard of driving in Dubai ranges from poor to wild - taxis are some of the worst on the roads. Taxi drivers are pretty good at knowing where the main shopping malls and hotels are, however less well known places will mean the driver calling his brother-in-law to get directions, whilst he drives around in circles on your time - hence it is a good idea to have a rough idea of where you are heading or what a nearby landmark is.

Taxis are metered at 1.82 dirham/km during the day and 1.82 dirham/km at night, so no haggling is necessary. The rates of all taxi companies — Dubai Transport, National, Cars, Metro, and Arabian — are identical, so just take the first one that comes along. Street pickups attract a standing charge of 5 dirham during the day and 5.50 dirham at night (22:00-06:00). From the airport, there is a standing charge of 25 dirham; there is a surcharge of 20 dirham for going to Sharjah. A minimum total fare of 12 dirham applies. Taxis are exempt from the Salik road toll charges.

Beware of unmarked hotel taxis and limousines though: while some of these are metered, they are not tied to the official rates, and can be much more expensive. One way to spot whether a taxi is official or not is to look for a meter: no meter, don't get in.

If you can't find one otherwise, you can attempt to call Dubai Taxi on 04-2080808 (each franchise has its own booking number but one central system), there's a surcharge of 3 dirham to book. The booking system was notorious for its unreliability but with a significantly increased taxi fleet, many taxis now deliberately wait in unofficial holding areas waiting for bookings. As a result, on a good day it can be possible to book a taxi and have it arrive within less than five minutes. If you absolutely have to get somewhere at a certain time (say, the airport or a meeting), it's still best to book a hotel taxi in advance, and get their estimate of how bad the traffic will be.

Women should travel in the back of the taxi as some drivers see it as a sexual invitation if you get in the front.

Taxi drivers are usually friendly, but may have a different ideas on hygiene.

You can also use Careem or Uber services for moving in Dubai.

There are a countless number of Rent-A-Cars that will provide a mode of transportation for very cheap rates and very little paperwork. An International Driving Permit is not necessarily required, but hire companies may not rent a car without one.

Some agencies will hire out cars complete with drivers. Visitors taking advantage of this option will need to make certain that their driver knows his way around as many do not.

When driving on the main roads, such as Sheikh Zayed road, the junction numbers are not in logical order. Junction 13 is just after Junction 18 and are rarely as shown on the maps. Road names can also be very confusing with slight differences in spelling (due to different transliterations from Arabic) being very important. The construction work that is taking place throughout and around Dubai can make finding your destination a challenge. Temporary road layouts change with alarming regularity and temporary signs can be misleading or non existent. As GPS maps are not up to date (and usually not anyway available to rent with hire cars), you will be very well off with a printed map (you can get an excellent one in Virgin stores, for example. There is a Virgin Megastore on the top floor of City Center).

Driving during morning and afternoon peak hours is not recommended, as traffic slows to a standstill and even a simple trip across a bridge can take up to 45 minutes. There is also a scarcity of parking spaces in many parts of the city.

With such a mixture of nationalities residing in the city, driving styles are mixed to say the least. Both dangerous and experienced driving will be witnessed or experienced frequently. Dubai has one of the highest per capita road death rates in the world. There is zero tolerance for alcohol and driving with stiff penalties meted out including jail and deportation.

See Salik for information about tolls on certain routes in Dubai. If you rent a car, usually a Salik tag will be provided by the car hire company and you will be charged separately (normally 5 dirham a gate) when returning the car.

By Public Transport

A day pass valid for unlimited rides on the metro, tram and buses costs Dh22, while the Nol Silver stored-value card costs Dh20 (including AED14 worth of balance) and gives a 10% discount on both metro and bus fares. Both are available at metro stations and major bus stations. The Silver card is useful for public transport users who stay in Dubai for more than a day. Check out at the end of your trip (this includes buses).

More buses now ply the city than in the 90's but information on the bus routes is not easily available to the new visitor and bystanders on the road do not help with queries.

On the 9th of September 2009, the Dubai Metro started operations. It is a fully automatic system, the waiting platforms are airconditioned and there are special VIP areas as well. The first line to be opened was the Red Line, the Green Line is still under construction and there are a few more lines planned as well. The Green Line will start operations in June 2010 if all goes well. After this completion, it will be the longest fully automatic metro network in the world (current is in Vancouver). The Red Line runs from Jebel Ali Port, the American University in Dubai, through the city centre to Al Rashidiya. The Green Line will run from Festival City, through the city centre, Dubai International Airport Terminal 2 and the Airport Free Zone. The Purple and Blue Line will form a major transport connection between the current airport and the new Al Maktoum International Airport, expected to be in operation from June 2010 onwards. Both lines will be in operation from 2012 onwards and a Yellow Line was announced in 2008, but has no deadline of operation yet. For an overview, see the Dubai Metro Map .

The latest of Dubai's modern transportation system is the Dubai Tram, which opened on November 12, 2014. It provides commuters a comfortable transit service around the prime business and leisure districts of Dubai. The Dubai Tram operates for 19 hours daily running for 14.5 kilometers along Al Sufouh Road. It passes around the vibrant Dubai Marina where passengers are treated to breathtaking sights of towering skyscrapers and luxury yachts, and then travels down Jumeirah passing by the iconic Burj Al Arab.

The Dubai Tram connects with the Dubai Metro at the Jumeirah Lakes Towers and DAMAC stations, and links with the monorail of Palm Jumeirah. Outside of Europe, the Dubai Tram is the first tram system that uses the state-of-the-art ground cable system which eliminates the unsightly and dangerous overhead cables.

An easier way of crossing the Dubai Creek is by abra, essentially a small ferry. Abra stations are located along the Creek on both the Bur Dubai and Deira sides, and the system of filling the boats is remarkably efficient. The cross-river trip costs 1 AED per passenger, payable to the driver after the boat has left the station, and affords a very picturesque view of the city. Abras set off very regularly, and the service is available round-the-clock. The Waterbus is another option for tousists who want to go by boat but avoid the abra crowd (or the heat). It is a part of Dubai's public transport system. The waterbus also features a 'tourist route' round trip. While this is convenient, it can get quite expensive (AED 50 for an adult, AED 25 for a child).

The Creek is also the home of many boats offering more comfortable (and correspondingly more expensive) tours, often in boats designed to resemble dhows. Prices tend to be higher, particularly for dinner cruises with on-board entertainment.

Some areas are easily navigated on foot, but mind the heat in summer, when it's better to stick to short distances and use public transport and taxis as well.

Shawarma is the most available food item on almost all streets (and cheap) in Dubai. It is the Arabic equivalent of the burger. It is meat that has been cooked on a skewer and then cut into thin strips and placed into a kuhbus (pita) bread with vegetables and dressing. It costs about 5 AED for either the plain-jane variety or the more exotic Lebanese and Iranian varieties. The shawarma sold by Indian restaurants are arguably the cheapest.

Another local snack is fala-fil (felafel, falafel), which is as cheap as shawarma.

Most of the American fast food chains have set up shop, including KFC, Chillis, TGI Fridays, Starbucks, and McDonalds. The beauty of the food in Dubai is that you will probably find cuisine for every taste. All food is halal.

Dubai has a big selection of budget Indian food. Dosa, vada, idlee, samosa, chapaati/roti, with generous servings of sabji (cooked vegetable stew) are available at throwaway prices, typically less than 10 AED per course. The more expensive stuff costs up to USD 5. Bur Dubai (particularly Meena Bazaar area) and Karama are the places that abound in these restaurants. Most of them are open from 7:00am till 10:00pm or 11:00pm throughout the week.

Pork is eaten here mostly by non-Muslim Filipinos and Europeans. Pork sections exclusive for non-Muslims are found in Spinneys (numerous branches, including ones in Jumeirah and Dubai Marina), Al Maya Lal's (generally caters to Filipinos; there's a branch in Satwa) New Westzone Supermarket (has a branch in Satwa that's bigger than nearby rival Al Maya Lal's).

Dubai has several laws regarding alcohol which travelers should be aware of:

• Alcohol is available only at licensed premises, usually attached to hotels (most nightclubs and bars are in or attached to hotels, though they may have separate entrances).
• Alcohol is not sold on religious holidays, nor during daylight hours in Ramadan (even to non-Muslims).
• It is illegal to drink alcohol in public places, and there is a zero-tolerance policy on drunk driving. Anyone involved in a collision found with alcohol in their blood will usually get a month's jail sentence and fine.
• Alcohol can be bought only for home consumption at certain outlets in Dubai, and an alcohol license is required. Supermarkets only stock non-alcoholic beers. Even food items containing alcohol are not sold in supermarkets.
• Dubai Youth Hostel , 39 Al Nahda Rd (next to Lulu Hyper Market), ☎ +971 4 2988151 (reservation), +971 4 2988161 (reception), fax: +971 4 2988141, e-mail: [email protected] . Check-in: 2PM, check-out: noon. Reception 24/7. Pool, football field, chill-out garden, A/C in the room, small bar fridge. It's located next to a mosque so morning prayers may wake you. Stadium metro station and bus stop just 100 m from hostel, Lulu Hyper Market shopping center and supermarket nearby. Free safety deposit boxes (hang on to your key as they have stiff $200 replacement fee). Clean rooms but unhelpful staff. You can walk there from Terminal 2. When you get out walk straight along 16th St to the end. It takes around 10 min. From terminal 1 or 3 you can take the metro to Union and transfer to Green Line (just take a train on the other side of the platform) to Stadium station (zone 1 fare, 2 AED). A taxi from terminal 1 or 3 costs around 40 AED. It is a branch of the UAE YHA, and only hostel in Dubai; thus booked up weeks ahead. WiFi cost extra 10 AED. Dorm from 100 AED or US$27, breakfast included.
• Dar Al Sondos Hotel Apartments by Le Meridien is part of the Starwood properties in Dubai. Located on Rolla street in Bur Dubai, the apartments are lovely self-contained units with a kitchenette, cable TV, IDD facilities and a lovely bathroom. Prices are from AED 300 - 500 per night (80 - 140 US dollar) for an apartment for two. A great bargain in the expensive city.
• Avari Dubai Hotel , near Clock Tower roundabout, ☎ +971 4 295 6666, fax: +971 2 295 9359, e-mail: [email protected] . Rooms from US$152.
• Avenue Hotel , Al Riqqa St, ☎ +971 4 297-0808, fax: +971 4 297-1112, e-mail: [email protected] . Rooms start at 350 dhs, including breakfast.
• Hyatt Regency Dubai , Deira Corniche, ☎ +971 4 209 1234, e-mail: [email protected] . 414 rooms and suites with views of the Persian Gulf. Host to Al Dawaar, Dubai's only revolving restaurant.
• InterContinental Dubai Festival City (from Sheikh Zayed Rd take the Garhoud Bridge and exit to Umm Ramool Rd on to Al Rebat St and exit right to Dubai Festival City), ☎ +971 4 7011111, e-mail: [email protected] . Check-in: 2PM, check-out: 12PM. 498 rooms over 36 floors with views of the Dubai Creek and a 3800 sq m event centre. Attached to the Festival Centre shopping mall.
• InterContinental Residence Suites Dubai Festival City (from Sheikh Zayed Rd take the Garhoud Bridge and exit to Umm Ramool Rd on to Al Rebat St and exit right to Dubai Festival City), ☎ +971 4 7013333, e-mail: [email protected] . Offers one, two and three-bedroom serviced suites with a choice between Creek and city views. Available for short or long stays.
• Park Hyatt Dubai , ☎ +971 4 602 1234, e-mail: [email protected] . Waterfront location next to the Dubai Creek Golf and Yacht Club.
• Radisson Blu Hotel , Dubai Deira Creek, Bani Yas Road - 476 Dubai, ☎ +971 4 222 7171, fax: +971 4 228 4777, e-mail: [email protected] .
• Taj Palace Hotel Dubai , PO Box 42211 (between Al Rigga and Al Maktoum Streets, Deira), ☎ +971 4 223-2222, e-mail: [email protected] . Check-in: 3PM, check-out: 3PM. Near Naif Square Bazaar.
• Ascot Hotel , Khalid bin Al Waleed Rd, ☎ +971 4 3520900, fax: +971 4 3529819, e-mail: [email protected] . Has Russian, Irish and Thai themed restaurants. Rooms from AED $180.
• Highland Hotel , Khalid bin Al Waleed Rd, ☎ +971 4 3939773, fax: +971 4 3937399, e-mail: [email protected] . US$108.
• Grand Hyatt Dubai (by Dubai Creek), ☎ +971 4 317 1234, e-mail: [email protected] . Check-in: 12:00, check-out: 15:00. A resort style hotel with extensive conference facilities and 13 restaurants serving cuisine from all over the world.
• Raffles Dubai , Sheikh Rashid Rd (next to Wafi Shopping Centres), ☎ +971 4 324-8888, e-mail: [email protected] . Check-in: 3PM, check-out: 3PM. Attached to Wafi Mall. Egyptian themed.
• The Address Downtown Dubai , Mohammed Bin Rashid Boulevard, Downtown Dubai, ☎ +971 4 436 8888, e-mail: [email protected] . One of the many luxury hotels next to Burj Khalifa with many good fine dining restaurants and bars.
• Anantara The Palm Dubai Resort , East Crescent, ☎ +971 4 567 8888, e-mail: [email protected] . Houses the only over water villas in the UAE. Starting from $291.
• Atlantis , the Palm, Crescent Rd, The Palm, ☎ +971 4 426-1000, e-mail: [email protected] . Check-in: 14:00, check-out: 12:00. Hotel on the Palm. Connects to mainland by monorail.
• Burj al-Arab , ☎ +971 4 3017777, fax: +971 4 3017000. It claims to be the first seven-star hotel in the world (it's actually a five-star deluxe hotel), this striking sail-shaped building is a symbol of Dubai and one of most opulent hotels in the world. Over USD 1800 per night after taxes/fees.
• Fairmont Dubai , Sheikh Zayed Rd, ☎ +971 4 332-5555, e-mail: [email protected] . Check-in: 15:00, check-out: 12:00. Closest 5-star hotel to the World Trade Centre.
• Fraser Suites Dubai , Sidra Tower, Sheikh Zayed Road, PO Box 502306, Media City, ☎ +971 4 440 1400, e-mail: [email protected] . Serviced apartments & accommodation in Sidra Tower.
• Grand Millennium Dubai , Sheikh Zayed Rd, ☎ +971 4 429 9999, e-mail: [email protected] . Check-in: 15:00, check-out: 15:00.
• Hilton Dubai Jumeirah Resort , 1 Jumeirah Beach Rd (Exit 32 from Sheikh Zayed Rd), ☎ +971 4399 1111, e-mail: [email protected] . Resort with a private beach. The hotel is only 10 floors which is dwarfed by nearby high-rises, but the location is lively and the pool/garden area is lush.
• Holiday Inn Dubai - Al Barsha , Sheikh Zayed Road, Al Barsha 1, P.O.Box 115443, Dubai, ☎ +971 4 323 4333, e-mail: [email protected] . 310 elegant rooms. a choice of 3 bars, choice of 2 fine dining restaurants and 6-storey high atrium and piano lounge. Gymnasium, roof top pool, massage rooms, sauna and spa.
• Jumeirah Beach Hotel , ☎ +971 4 348-0000, fax: +971 4 3482273, e-mail: [email protected] . Next to Burj al-Arab and run by the same company. Rooms from USD700.

You can use the form below to search for availability ( Travellerspoint receives a commission for bookings made through the form )

While Dubai tries to promote itself as the business and entertainment capital of the world, the government has a complex and at times frustrating work permit procedure that one should not attempt on their own unless they have prior experience. Therefore, it is best to go through official channels when looking for work in Dubai as spot inspections are frequent and if found working illegally, both the employee and the employer will be subject to fines and even deportation.

All the necessary forms and documents are written and processed in Arabic and is best left to a professional or a "P.R.O" to handle your paperwork.

There are rules about changing jobs, which apply to nationalities. They have to complete their contract period, which is 2 years. If the employee breaks his/her contract before the completion of 2 years, the new employer has to offer them salary above 5,000 dirham in-order to avoid ban. Otherwise the employee has to wait until the completion of the left over months of his cancelled contract. If the employer breaks the contracts, then the employee can join another employer immediately irrespective of nationality, religion, cast or creed.

With the price of rentals ever soaring in Dubai and neighbouring Emirates, it is a good idea to discuss a housing allowance when negotiating a pay package.

Despite all of this, there are a few upsides, Dubai companies are generous with holidays averaging almost 39 days a year of paid vacation (including public holidays), a round trip ticket home once a year (depending on your contract) and the UAE government does not impose income taxes on foreign workers. Instead it imposes fees and charges on almost everything, so the cost of living in the UAE, and especially Dubai, is quite high.

Recruitment fraud is quite pervasive in this part of the world. Read your employment contract carefully before signing and do not pay any fees to recruitment agencies, as they are usually paid by the companies. Your passport is your personal property and cannot be withheld by the employer unless you are in a position of trust or are handling large sums of money.

Dubai has been accused by numerous organizations of effectively enslaving workers from Southeast Asia by allowing companies to take their passports without returning them and allowing salaries to go unpaid. Foreign workers, Western and otherwise, have no rights that will be upheld by the courts, and so they have no recourse should they feel their rights violated. Potential workers should be aware of this when considering work in Dubai.

• American University in Dubai
• University of Dubai
• British University of Dubai

Keep Connected

Internet cafés are fairly common in the larger cities, and web censorship is at times odd, but rarely obtrusive. Free wifi is rolled out over the country, starting with Abu Dhabi en Dubai in 2014 and 2015, and many places like hotels, restaurants, bars and coffee places have free wifi as well.

See also International Telephone Calls

The country code is 971. Emergency numbers include 999 (police), 998 (ambulance) and 997 (fire), though the general 112 number can be used as well.

The mobile phone network uses the GSM technology and use is widespread. The format for dialing is: +971-#-### ####, where the first "#" designates the area code. Key area codes include Dubai (4), Sharjah (6) and Abu Dhabi (2). Calls to mobile phones use the operator's area codes: (50/56) for Etisalat and (55) for Du.

If you bring your own cellphone, be sure to switch off roaming to avoid high costs, or otherwise purchase a local SIM card from Du or Etisalat. You need your passport with valid visa to purchase the SIM card.

You can also make phone calls with an application such as WhatsApp using the Wifi to avoid roaming costs.

Emirates Post provides services in the country. It's fairly affordable and reliable and many post offices keep long hours from Saturday to Thursday, usually from around 7:30am to 8:00pm or even a little later. Most are closed on Fridays, though some are open for a few hours. If you want to send packages internationally, you might want to use companies like DHL , TNT , FedEx or UPS , as they are fast, reliable and competitively priced. A good alternative is the country's own Empost UAE .

External Links

• Dubai Emirate Website
• Dubai Municipality Website
• Official Tourism Website

Quick Facts

• Latitude: 25.27087
• Longitude: 55.309212

Accommodation in Dubai

We have a comprehensive list of accommodation in Dubai searchable right here on Travellerspoint.

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I travel to UAE often & can help in case of any questions.

deeptisubraya

Dubai is my second home, been living here for more than 15 years. It's one of the top tourist destination and an awesome city to live.

I can answer people's question because I have myself visited Dubai for a month.

I was there for 3 months. I flew there in September and stayed til December before Christmas. I lived in Deira, visited neighboring cities like Sharjah, Al-Ain and Jumeirah. I used train, bus and taxi for transportation.

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Lived there for 6 years aand 2 of them worked as a professional travel guide.

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• Visit Dubai

Uncover the history and origins of Dubai

Arts & Culture

Wed, February 21, 2024

Learn more about Dubai's evolution from fishing village to modern-day metropolis.

Historical sites in Dubai

Dubai boasts a wealth of historical sites, from fascinating museums to archaeological digs.

Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood

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Discover Dubai's maritime trading origins at the historic dhow wharfage.

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Unlock the mysteries of Dubai's Iron Age history through recent archaeological discoveries.

The Al Maktoum tribe establishes the fishing settlement of Dubai, continuing  to rule Dubai ever since.

Pearling and maritime business begins to flourish. Traders from across the world arrive in Dubai to benefit from incredible deals and rates.

Dubai's first school, Al Ahmadiya is built in Deira. The original building in Al Ras remains open as a museum, showcasing what life was like more than a century ago.

His Highness Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum becomes the Ruler of Dubai. He leads the emirate for 32 years and develops a major hub for international trade.

Oil is discovered in Dubai, attracting foreign trade and stimulating the economy, which over several decades diversified with shipping, finance and tourism.

Dubai and other emirates sign a deal to form the United Arab Emirates (UAE) on 2 December, 1971. This date is marked each year as the UAE's National Day.

Dubai World Trade Centre, the city's first skyscraper, opens. Formerly known as Sheikh Rashid Tower,  the 38-storey building remains an icon on the city skyline.

Dubai's flagship airline, Emirates, is launched. The airline carries more than 50 million passengers per year with cabin crew from 130+ countries.

His Highness Sheikh Maktoum bin Rashid Al Maktoum becomes the Ruler of Dubai, following his father, His Highness Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum.

The city plays host to the  annual meeting of the World Bank and the International Monetary Fund (IMF) and is recognised as a global financial hub.

His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum becomes the Ruler of Dubai, as well as the Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE.

The Burj Khalifa becomes the tallest building in the world, soaring 828m high and welcoming thousands of visitors each year.

The UAE is gearing up to celebrate the 50 th year of the Union and host Expo 2020 from 1 October 2021 to 31 March, 2022.

SELECT A YEAR TO DISCOVER THE STORY & TIMELINE OF DUBAI

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Shortcut Guides

Essential travel guide to dubai [infographic].

Dubai is one of the seven emirates of the United Arab Emirates (UAE). The city has been developing at a mind-blowing pace as the world’s ultimate tourist destination.

Essentially a desert city, Dubai has turned itself into a magnet for visitors with its liberal policies, superb infrastructure, excellent tourist amenities and spectacular manmade marvels. Read about traveling to Dubai with our Essential Travel Guide to Dubai.

You must check out the magnificent Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world; the manmade Palm Islands; the Dubai Fountain, the Dubai Mall and so many others.

You might think that, being so modern and new, Dubai has nothing to offer tourists except shopping and glitz, but that’s really not the case.

You’ll likely discover that you enjoy Dubai, and nearby Abu Dhabi , more than you ever thought possible, once you’ve given it a chance.

↓ Click to jump directly down to the Shortcut Guide Infographic

Be Prepared For Travel Planning is the most important part of any successful trip. Do it the easy way:

🧳 Travel Packing List | ✔️ Why You Need Travel Insurance | ✈️ What to Do Before You Leave Home

• Find and book the best hotel (our favorite booking site is Expedia)
• Research flight options (our favorite tool is Skyscanner )
• Book a tour (we always use Viator to find the best tours)
• Rent a car through Discover Cars (they search the best deals for you!)

Table of Contents

When To Go to Dubai

Seasonal Travel : The best time to travel to Dubai is from October to March. The weather is mild, and visitors can sunbathe on Dubai’s beaches safely. The city throngs with tourists during this period though, so remember to book reservations for hotels and sights such as the Burj Khalifa in advance. It tends to rain a bit from January to March, so carry an umbrella if you need to.

Off-season Travel : During summer, the heat is oppressive and humidity levels are also very high. Heat strokes are common, so best to keep your head covered. Wear plenty of sunscreen and drink lots of water. Literally every building, taxi, metro and boat in Dubai is fully air-conditioned.

So as long as you don’t walk the streets, you can still visit Dubai during the summer. Off-season travelers can benefit from discounted airline tickets, and discounts and freebies offered by hotels and attractions.

Dubai – Festivals And Events

• January-February: Dubai Shopping Festival
• February: Dubai Food Festival
• March: Al Marmoom Heritage Festival)
• October: Islamic New Year
• December: Dubai International Film Festival

Where to Go in Dubai

Visit the Jumeirah district for its mixed cultures, fabulous beaches, beautiful villas and the Jumeirah Mosque. Downtown Dubai is home to the Burj Khalifa, the Dubai Mall, the Dubai Fountain and other fabulous skyscrapers. Dubai Marina has the world’s largest manmade port, Jebel Ali, along with a lovely open-air market, fabulous beaches and more.

The Satwa district with its gold Souqs, Indian restaurants and supermarkets is a good place to visit. Bur Dubai and Deira are Dubai’s historic and financial districts, located on either side of the Dubai Creek. Here you’ll find souqs, floating restaurants and the famous Dubai Creek.

Don’t forget to enjoy the amazing Dubai Dhow cruise for two hours of absolute fun and entertainment while admiring the glittering Dubai skyline. The two manmade hills, Arabian Ranches and Emirates Hills are lovely, with their lovely villas. Dubai’s International City is built in the middle of the desert and is famous for its architectural design.

What to Do in Dubai

Building an itinerary is a great idea to make sure you’ve researched the things you want to do and booked tours if necessary. Here’s a 7-day Dubai itinerary that we recommend.

If you want to take part in some of the fantastic activities we’ve suggested in our shortcut guide (below), here are some quick links you can use to book in advance. There are a lot of things you can do in Dubai without reservations, but we do suggest booking these ones in advance because they fill up fast.

(Note: these are affiliate links, which cost you nothing to use, but earn us a small commission.

Tours to Book:

Where To Stay in Dubai

Dubai has its share of 5-star hotels and it can be very tempting to spend your entire budget on one of these amazing rooms with views that are unbelievable. If you visit Dubai during high season, you’ll have a hard time finding any deals, but even five star hotels offer discounts on rooms during the off-season, so keep your eye out for deals.

Three of the most convenient locations for travelers are Downtown Dubai and near The Dubai Mall, Jumeira Beach and Dubai Creek. You may be wanting to stay on the Palm, which has a lot of really great hotels and restaurants, but just be aware that it takes a long time to get from the Palm to downtown and other popular activities.

We stayed at the JW Marriott Marquis (see on Trip Advisor ) in Downtown Dubai. It was convenient to transport links on the metro. There were always taxis available to take us where we needed to go. And it was a lovely hotel with lots of restaurants and bars.

However, I think it might have been even more convenient to stay near The Dubai Mall. When we go again, we’ll book a room at Palace Downtown ( see on  Tripadvisor ) or Address Dubai Mall (see on  Tripadvisor ). Staying at the mall is convenient for many reasons, the most of which is that it’s just easier to to get to everything you’ll want to see from there.

If you want to splurge, the Burj al Arab is a gorgeous hotel with stunning architecture and equally amazing views. It’s not cheap, but it’s one of the most worthy splurges in the world. It’s a 5-star ultra luxury hotel on a man-made island with a private beach – the 7th tallest hotel in the world.  If you don’t stay, there are other more affordable ways to visit the Burj al Arab and get a peek inside.

Where & What To Eat

Dubai’s hotels, restaurants and eateries offer all kinds of cuisines – Iranian, Indian, Pakistani, Emirati, European, Chinese, Filipino, Japanese and more.

There are many luxury restaurants and bars in Dubai. Be sure you’ve packed your dresses and travel blazer for this trip. You’ll need them. Many restaurants have dress codes. You can’t just walk in wearing what you had on for touring around.

Some of our favorite restaurants:

• Coya – Peruvian – Four Season Jumeira Beach
• Pai Thai – Madinat Jumeira
• Nobu – Japanese/Sushi – Friday Bottomless Brunch! – Atlantis, the Palm

The UAE’s answer to the ubiquitous burger is the Shawarma roll . Meat is barbecued on skewers and served on pita bread with assorted veggies and yummy dressing. They are cheap and made of quality chicken, beef or lamb.

Fala-Fil is another cheap snack when you’re on the move. You’ll find plenty of American fast food chains all around Dubai, but give those a pass and explore the more exotic eateries.

Dubai is famous for its excellent restaurant chains, such as the Karachi Darbar and Jabal Al Noor. The Pak Liyari Restaurant is well known for its amazing biryani, while Dubai Frying Pan Adventures is famous for regional foods.

The Royal Kebab Restaurant, Jedoudna Restaurant, BBQ Tonight, Noodle House, Toscana, Lal Qila Dubai and Karam Beirut are some other great budget eateries.

Tour You May Enjoy:

The 10 Tastings of Dubai With Locals: Private Food Tour

What & Where To Drink

Dubai’s nightlife has grown along with its skylines and liberal attitudes. You’ll find classy nightclubs and bars at most 3 to 5 star hotels. Dubai’s nightclubs often host world-class DJs, and several A-list musical celebrities perform at the Burj-Al-Arab and other top hotels.

It is important to keep in mind, however, that there are severe laws in place with regard to alcohol in Dubai.  Only licensed premises are allowed to sell alcohol to guests, which will be bars, nightclubs and hotels with bars attached. During Islamic holidays alcohol will not be sold.

This is especially true during the holy month of Ramadan, when even non-Muslims will not be served food or drinks during the daylight hours.

Dubai’s laws are very strict when it comes to drinking in public places, and drunk driving is absolutely not tolerated. A month’s jail sentence plus a hearty fine or outright deportation awaits anyone who drinks and drives.

Supermarkets are not allowed to sell alcohol – not even food items that might contain alcohol – such as fruit cakes. Always carry your identification card when visiting a bar; 21 is the legal age for drinking.

Besides the great bars and cocktails we mention in our shortcut guide below, here are a few more good bars to check out while you’re in Dubai: Longs Bar (near Financial center metro); Left Bank (Madinat Jumeirah), The Rooftop Swimming Pool ( Hilton Dubai Creek ); The Cocktail Bar ( Jumeirah Beach Hotel ); The Terrace Bar ( Park Hyatt Dubai ).

How to Get to Dubai

International flights come into Dubai International Airport (DBX). From there, it’s a 15+-minute taxi ride or 30-minute train ride to the city center, depending on where you’re going.

On the train, you can reach downtown Dubai by taking a Red Line metro from either Terminal 3 or Terminal 1. A ride will cost only 4 AED, but you will need to purchase a red metro card before boarding, and you can only take 2 pieces of luggage aboard with you.

More Tours to Book:

• Big Bus Dubai Hop-On Hop-Off Tour
• Old and Modern Dubai City Tour
• Dubai Guided Sightseeing Boat Tours

Essential Travel Guide to Dubai

Now that you’ve read this Dubai travel guide, you know where to go and what to do. Make sure you follow Dubai’s rules with regard to alcohol, clothing and public behavior and you’ll be bound to enjoy your trip to this magnificent city.

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Like this post? Why not save it to Pinterest? FOLLOW US  on  Pinterest ,  Instagram ,  Facebook  for more great travel inspiration and tips.

Laura Lynch, creator and writer of Savored Journeys, is an avid world traveler, certified wine expert, and international food specialist. She has written about travel and food for over 20 years and has visited over 75 countries. Her work has been published in numerous guidebooks, websites, and magazines.

5 thoughts on “ Essential Travel Guide to Dubai [Infographic] ”

Great article, thanks for the tips! With pristine sandy beaches, blue seas, palm trees and cosmopolitan cities, UAE is a dream to visit. However, with the rise of tourism, cases of tourist targeted scams and crime have risen as well.

Do be wary of the spilled liquid/spit scam, pickpockets, woman with sick child, travelling salesman scam, man with injury, out of petrol sob story, fake goods/jewellery, unofficial taxis, rogue taxis, door knocking scam, fake police and many more!

Thanks for your input, David. There are a lot of travel scams out there to be aware of. Too bad for those of us who still want to be helpful to people.

Dubai is considered one of the safest cities on earth. The law is so strict in Dubai. On the other hand, the people of Dubai are maintained with full of the morality.

Do you have any plan to visit Dubai in near future?

Shedi, we actually visited Dubai last November.

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Hotels and lodging [ ]

• My Dubai Stay Rental Holiday Apartments My Dubai Stay is the largest operator of holiday apartments in Dubai. Choose from wide selection of self-catering yet serviced apartments in the best areas of the city at great value.
• Burj Al Arab, Dubai

The distinctive sail-shaped silhouette of Burj Al Arab Jumeirah is more than just a stunning hotel, it is a symbol of modern Dubai.

Repeatedly voted the world's most luxurious hotel, this magnificent destination offers you the finest service and experiences throughout - right down to an optional chauffeur-driven Rolls-Royce, helicopter trips from an iconic helipad, private beach access, luxury leisure on a breathtaking terrace with pools and cabanas as well as some of the world’s best dining venues, including the highly acclaimed Nathan Outlaw at Al Mahara.

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Dubai is a well known shopping destination. The city has seen an increase in the number of shopping malls and open areas, in the past few years. The biggest shopping mall at this time is the Emirates Mall, which is also home of indoor dubai ski. it also is home to the burj al Arab which is on an artificial island

The dubai flower shopping center is also one of the amazing sites in Dubai. There are a variety of flowers available in Dubai, UAE.

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Getting to dubai [ ].

Dubai International Airport is the largest hub in the Middle East.

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Hot Oceans Worsened Dubai’s Dramatic Flooding, Scientists Say

An international team of researchers found that heavy rains had intensified in the region, though they couldn’t say for sure how much climate change was responsible.

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By Raymond Zhong

Scenes of flood-ravaged neighborhoods in one of the planet’s driest regions stunned the world this month. Heavy rains in the United Arab Emirates and Oman submerged cars, clogged highways and killed at least 21 people. Flights out of Dubai’s airport, a major global hub, were severely disrupted.

The downpours weren’t a total surprise — forecasters had anticipated the storms several days earlier and issued warnings. But they were certainly unusual.

Here’s what to know.

Heavy rain there is rare, but not unheard-of.

On average, the Arabian Peninsula receives a scant few inches of rain a year, although scientists have found that a sizable chunk of that precipitation falls in infrequent but severe bursts, not as periodic showers. These rains often come during El Niño conditions like the ones the world is experiencing now.

U.A.E. officials said the 24-hour rain total on April 16 was the country’s largest since records there began in 1949 . And parts of the nation had already experienced an earlier round of thunderstorms in March.

Oman, with its coastline on the Arabian Sea, is also vulnerable to tropical cyclones. Past storms there have brought torrential rain, powerful winds and mudslides, causing extensive damage.

Global warming is projected to intensify downpours.

Stronger storms are a key consequence of human-caused global warming. As the atmosphere gets hotter, it can hold more moisture, which can eventually make its way down to the earth as rain or snow.

But that doesn’t mean rainfall patterns are changing in precisely the same way across every part of the globe.

In their latest assessment of climate research , scientists convened by the United Nations found there wasn’t enough data to have firm conclusions about rainfall trends in the Arabian Peninsula and how climate change was affecting them. The researchers said, however, that if global warming were to be allowed to continue worsening in the coming decades, extreme downpours in the region would quite likely become more intense and more frequent.

Hot oceans are a big factor.

An international team of scientists has made a first attempt at estimating the extent to which climate change may have contributed to April’s storms. The researchers didn’t manage to pin down the connection precisely, though in their analysis, they did highlight one known driver of heavy rain in the region: above-normal ocean temperatures.

Large parts of the Indian, Pacific and Atlantic Oceans have been hotter than usual recently, in part because of El Niño and other natural weather cycles, and in part because of human-induced warming .

When looking only at El Niño years, the scientists estimated that storm events as infrequent as this month’s delivered 10 percent to 40 percent more rain to the region than they would in a world that hadn’t been warmed by human activities. They cautioned, however, that these estimates were highly uncertain.

“Rainfall, in general, is getting more extreme,” said Mansour Almazroui, a climate scientist at King Abdulaziz University in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, and one of the researchers who contributed to the analysis.

The analysis was conducted by scientists affiliated with World Weather Attribution, a research collaboration that studies extreme weather events shortly after they occur. Their findings about this month’s rains haven’t yet been peer reviewed, but are based on standardized methods .

The role of cloud seeding isn’t clear.

The U.A.E. has for decades worked to increase rainfall and boost water supplies by seeding clouds. Essentially, this involves shooting particles into clouds to encourage the moisture to gather into larger, heavier droplets, ones that are more likely to fall as rain or snow.

Cloud seeding and other rain-enhancement methods have been tried around the world, including in Australia, China, India, Israel, South Africa and the United States. Studies have found that these operations can, at best, affect precipitation modestly — enough to turn a downpour into a bigger downpour, but probably not a drizzle into a deluge.

Still, experts said pinning down how much seeding might have contributed to this month’s storms would require detailed study.

“In general, it is quite a challenge to assess the impact of seeding,” said Luca Delle Monache, a climate scientist at the Scripps Institution of Oceanography in La Jolla, Calif. Dr. Delle Monache has been leading efforts to use artificial intelligence to improve the U.A.E.’s rain-enhancement program.

An official with the U.A.E.’s National Center of Meteorology, Omar Al Yazeedi, told news outlets that the agency didn’t conduct any seeding during the latest storms. His statements didn’t make clear, however, whether that was also true in the hours or days before.

Mr. Al Yazeedi didn’t respond to emailed questions from The New York Times, and Adel Kamal, a spokesman for the center, didn’t have further comment.

Cities in dry places just aren’t designed for floods.

Wherever it happens, flooding isn’t just a matter of how much rain comes down. It’s also about what happens to all that water once it’s on the ground — most critically, in the places people live.

Cities in arid regions often aren’t designed to drain very effectively. In these areas, paved surfaces block rain from seeping into the earth below, forcing it into drainage systems that can easily become overwhelmed.

One recent study of Sharjah , the capital of the third-largest emirate in the U.A.E., found that the city’s rapid growth over the past half-century had made it vulnerable to flooding at far lower levels of rain than before.

Omnia Al Desoukie contributed reporting.

Raymond Zhong reports on climate and environmental issues for The Times. More about Raymond Zhong