Dubai 2025: The Complete Guide to the City of the Future

Best Time to Visit Dubai

Dubai essentially has two seasons: hot and extremely hot. Understanding the climate is crucial for planning your trip, as your choice of timing affects not just comfort but also your travel budget significantly.

Peak Season (November – March)

This is the ideal time to visit Dubai. Air temperatures hover between a comfortable 20-28°C (68-82°F), the sea warms to 22-25°C (72-77°F), and the sun shines virtually every day. This period allows you to fully enjoy beach days, waterfront strolls, and desert excursions.

January — The Coolest Month

Average temperatures reach 21°C (70°F) — perfect for outdoor activities. January also hosts the legendary Dubai Shopping Festival, when discounts at malls can reach 75%. This is peak tourist season: hotel prices are at their highest, but so is the variety of entertainment options.

February — A Culinary Paradise

Temperatures rise to 22-24°C (72-75°F). February features the Dubai Food Festival — an excellent opportunity to explore the city's dining scene. The weather is ideal for extended walks and nature excursions.

March — Last Chance for Comfort

Temperatures reach 24-28°C (75-82°F). This is the final month when you can comfortably walk outdoors during midday. After March, the gradual transition to summer heat begins.

November – December: The Return of Comfort

After the scorching summer, the city comes alive again. Temperatures drop to 25-28°C (77-82°F), seasonal rooftop restaurants open, and Christmas festivities begin. December brings a holiday atmosphere: decorated trees in shopping centers, New Year's fireworks over the Burj Khalifa, and festive markets throughout the city.

Low Season (May – September)

Summer in Dubai is genuinely challenging. Temperatures regularly exceed 40-45°C (104-113°F), and humidity reaches 80-90%. Going outside during the day is physically uncomfortable — the asphalt gets hot enough to fry an egg.

However! Summer transforms Dubai into a paradise for budget travelers. Hotel prices drop 40-60%, and all entertainment — from shopping malls to water parks — operates with powerful air conditioning. If your goals are shopping, spa treatments, and indoor attractions, summer could be an excellent choice.

Shoulder Seasons (April and October)

April offers the last opportunity for beach holidays, with temperatures around 28-32°C (82-90°F). October brings the first signs of cooling after summer, with temperatures dropping to 30-35°C (86-95°F). Both months offer a good balance between comfort and pricing.

Getting to Dubai

Dubai is one of the world's largest aviation hubs, accessible from virtually anywhere on the planet.

Dubai International Airport (DXB)

The emirate's main gateway and one of the busiest airports globally. Located just 14 km from the city center (Downtown district). This is the home base of Emirates airline, operating flights to over 150 destinations.

Getting from the Airport to the City:

Metro (Red Line) — The Most Budget-Friendly Option

• Stations in Terminals 1 and 3
• Travel time to city center: 20-35 minutes
• Cost: 6-8 AED ($1.5-2 USD) depending on zone
• Operating hours: 5:00 AM to midnight (until 1:00 AM on weekends)
• Gold Class (first class): twice the price but more spacious

Taxi — Convenient for Groups

• Cost to Downtown: 60-80 AED ($16-22 USD)
• Cost to Dubai Marina: 100-130 AED ($27-35 USD)
• Travel time: 20-45 minutes depending on traffic
• Taxis operate 24/7, stands at all terminals

Bus — The Most Economical Option

• Routes C1, C26, and others connect the airport to various districts
• Cost: 5 AED
• Operates round the clock with 20-40 minute intervals

Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC)

Dubai's second airport, located 60 km from the city center in the Dubai South area. Primarily serves budget carriers (Wizz Air, some flydubai routes). Reach the center by taxi (150-200 AED) or bus F55 to Ibn Battuta metro station.

Visa Requirements

Citizens from many countries enjoy visa-free entry for stays up to 30-90 days. A free stamp is placed in your passport upon arrival. Entry requirements typically include:

• Passport valid for at least 6 months
• Return or onward ticket
• Hotel reservation (may be requested)

Note: If you plan to work remotely, there is a special Digital Nomad Visa available for 1 year.

Getting Around

Dubai is a city built for cars. Distances here are enormous: from Palm Jumeirah to the historic Deira district is about 40 km. However, public transport is excellently developed and continues to expand.

NOL Card — Your Essential Tool

The NOL Card is a unified transport card for paying fares on the metro, buses, trams, and water taxis. Without it, getting around the city will be difficult and expensive.

Types of NOL Cards:

• Red Ticket — for tourists, 1-10 trips, costs 4 AED + trip costs
• Silver Card — universal card, costs 25 AED (including 19 AED balance)
• Gold Card — access to first class on metro, costs 25 AED

Cards are sold at metro stations, on buses, and at supermarkets. Top up at machines in stations or through the app.

Dubai Metro

A fully automated, driverless system — one of the longest in the world. Two main lines:

Red Line — The Main Tourist Artery

• Connects DXB airport, Downtown (Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall), Business Bay, Dubai Marina
• Route 2020 branch leads to Expo City Dubai
• Length: 52 km, 29 stations

Green Line — Historic Districts

• Connects Deira, Bur Dubai, areas along Dubai Creek
• Stops near Gold Souk, Spice Souk, Al Fahidi
• Length: 23 km, 20 stations

Blue Line — Under Construction!

A new 30 km line will connect International City, Silicon Oasis, and Dubai Creek Harbour. Opening planned for September 2029 to coincide with the metro's 20th anniversary. The foundation stone for the first station was laid in June 2025.

Metro Fare Structure:

Pro tip: Gold Class (first class) isn't just about comfort — it's about the views! These carriages are at the front of the train with panoramic windows.

Dubai Tram

A modern system operating in Dubai Marina and JBR (Jumeirah Beach Residence) areas. Connects the waterfront with metro stations (DMCC and JLT). Fare: 4 AED with NOL card.

Water Transport

Dubai is a city on the water, and aquatic transport is not just entertainment but a real way to get around.

Abra — Traditional Wooden Boats

• Cross Dubai Creek between Deira and Bur Dubai
• Cost: 1 AED per crossing (cash to the captain)
• Operating hours: 6:00 AM to midnight
• A romantic way to see historic Dubai

Water Bus and Water Taxi — Modern Vessels

• Routes along Dubai Marina, Dubai Creek, Business Bay
• Cost: 4-5 AED with NOL card
• Water Taxi can be booked like a cab — from 25 AED per trip

Taxis

Official cream-colored taxis with colored roofs (different companies). All operate on meters:

• Flag fall: 12 AED (5 AED during peak hours)
• Per kilometer: 1.96 AED
• Minimum fare: 12 AED
• Night surcharge (10 PM - 6 AM): +50%

Apps: Careem (local Uber), Uber, official RTA Dubai app.

Car Rental

Dubai's roads are excellent quality, parking (usually free at malls) is convenient. However, consider:

• Aggressive local driving styles
• Hefty fines for speeding (radar cameras everywhere)
• Toll roads (Salik) at 4 AED per gate crossing

Rental costs: from 80-150 AED/day for economy class.

Dubai Neighborhoods: Where to Stay

Dubai isn't one city but a constellation of distinctly different neighborhoods, each with its own character. Your choice of location will define your trip experience.

Downtown Dubai — Best for First-Time Visitors

The heart of modern Dubai. Home to Burj Khalifa, Dubai Mall, and the famous fountains. Everything is within walking distance, with excellent transport links to the airport (20 minutes by metro). Perfect for those wanting to see "postcard" Dubai.

Pros:

• Everything nearby — main attractions literally around the corner
• Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall metro station
• Premium hotels with skyline views
• Restaurants and cafes for every taste

Cons:

• Highest prices in the city
• No beach (nearest is 15 minutes by taxi)
• Crowded with tourists

Recommended Hotels:

• Luxury: Armani Hotel Dubai (inside Burj Khalifa itself)
• Premium: Address Downtown — famous fountain views
• Mid-range: Rove Downtown — stylish boutique hotel

Dubai Marina and JBR — Beach Life

The most "Western" and walkable district of new Dubai. High-rises, yacht marina, The Walk promenade, and excellent JBR Beach. The city's nightlife centers here.

Pros:

• Beach within walking distance
• Waterfront with restaurants and shops
• Active nightlife
• Tram + metro connections

Cons:

• Far from airport (40-50 minutes)
• Far from historic districts
• Noisy in evenings

Recommended Hotels:

• Luxury: The Ritz-Carlton Dubai — right on the beach
• Premium: Address Beach Resort — infinity pool on 77th floor
• Mid-range: Wyndham Dubai Marina — excellent value
• Budget: Moxy Al Barsha (opening summer 2025) — stylish and affordable

Palm Jumeirah — Luxury and Seclusion

The famous artificial palm-shaped island. Home to Dubai's most luxurious resorts with private beaches. An island resort feeling just 20 minutes from the city center.

Pros:

• Luxury hotels with private beaches
• Peaceful atmosphere
• Incredible views of sea and city
• World-class restaurants

Cons:

• Very expensive
• Limited public transport
• Need taxis to reach the city

Recommended Hotels:

• Ultra-luxury: Atlantis The Royal (opened 2023) — the hotel of the future
• Luxury: One&Only The Palm — elite resort
• Premium: Atlantis The Palm — waterpark and aquarium included

Old Dubai (Deira and Bur Dubai) — For Authenticity Seekers

Historic Dubai along the banks of Dubai Creek. The atmosphere of a traditional Arabian city remains: spice and gold markets, narrow streets, mosques. A budget-friendly neighborhood with character.

Pros:

• Authentic atmosphere
• Lowest hotel prices
• Traditional markets (souks)
• Excellent food at local cafes

Cons:

• Far from new districts and beaches
• Less tourist infrastructure
• Hotter due to dense development

Recommended Hotels:

• Historic: XVA Art Hotel — in the Al Fahidi heritage area
• Mid-range: Hyatt Place Dubai Baniyas Square
• Budget: Arabian Courtyard Hotel — near Dubai Museum

Business Bay — The Sweet Spot

A modern business district adjacent to Downtown but with lower prices. Skyscrapers, restaurants, proximity to Dubai Mall, minus the tourist crowds.

Recommended Hotels:

• Premium: JW Marriott Marquis — one of the world's tallest hotels
• Mid-range: Residence Inn by Marriott — apartments with kitchens

Top Attractions in Dubai

Burj Khalifa

The world's tallest building (828 meters, 163 floors) — an absolute must-see in Dubai. But simply gazing from below is one thing; ascending to the observation deck is an entirely different experience.

Observation Decks:

At The Top (Floors 124-125, 456m height)

• Standard ticket: 169-179 AED (price varies by time)
• Panoramic views of all Dubai
• Interactive information screens
• Best times: morning (9-11 AM) or evening (hour before sunset)

At The Top SKY (Floor 148, 555m height)

• Premium ticket: from 399 AED
• World's highest observation deck
• Includes refreshments and Arabic sweets in the lounge
• Personal guide service

Important: Tickets CANNOT be purchased on-site — online booking only! Especially during peak season — book 1-2 weeks ahead.

Dubai Fountain

The world's largest choreographed fountain at the base of Burj Khalifa. Water jets reach 150 meters, dancing to music from Arabic classics to modern hits.

• Shows: daily at 6:00 PM, 6:30 PM, then every 30 minutes until 11:00 PM
• Daytime shows (Sat-Sun): 1:00 PM and 1:30 PM
• Free from Dubai Mall waterfront
• Paid lake boat ride: 79 AED — the most romantic option

Dubai Mall

The world's second-largest shopping center — you could spend an entire day here without entering a single store.

• Dubai Aquarium — one of the world's largest aquariums with tunnel and sharks (from 179 AED)
• VR Park — virtual reality theme park
• Dubai Ice Rink — Olympic-sized skating rink
• KidZania — children's role-playing city

1200+ stores, 200+ restaurants, IMAX cinema. Hours: 10:00 AM - midnight (until 1:00 AM on weekends).

Museum of the Future

An architectural marvel from 2022 — an eye-shaped building with Arabic calligraphy on its facade. Inside are interactive exhibitions on future technologies: space, ecology, health, artificial intelligence.

• Tickets: from 149-159 AED (children under 4 free)
• Visit duration: 2-3 hours
• Metro: Emirates Towers (Red Line), direct bridge connection
• Important: Online tickets only, not sold on-site!

Al Fahidi District (Al Bastakiya)

A historic quarter with traditional architecture: mud-brick houses, wind towers (barjeel), narrow lanes. Here you'll find:

• Dubai Museum in Al Fahidi Fort (1787) — emirate history before the oil era
• Coffee Museum — history of coffee in the Middle East
• XVA Gallery — contemporary Arab art

Museum entry: 3 AED. Hours: Sat-Thu 8:30 AM - 8:30 PM, Fri 2:30 PM - 8:30 PM.

Traditional Markets (Souks)

Gold Souk — The Gold Market in Deira

• Over 300 jewelry shops
• Prices 20-40% lower than Europe
• Bargaining is expected!

Spice Souk — The Spice Market

• Saffron, cardamom, frankincense, incense
• Aromatic atmosphere of the old East

Textile Souk in Bur Dubai — fabrics, pashmina, souvenirs

Tip: Markets operate 10:00 AM - 10:00 PM but close for lunch 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM. Best time is evening.

Palm Jumeirah and Atlantis

The artificial palm-shaped island visible from space. The "crown" houses villas of the world's wealthiest, while at the end of the "trunk" lies the Atlantis complex:

• Aquaventure Waterpark — Middle East's largest waterpark (from 369 AED)
• The Lost Chambers Aquarium — aquarium styled as lost Atlantis (from 140 AED)
• Atlantis The Royal (opened 2023) — ultra-modern hotel with celebrity chef restaurants

Dubai Frame

A giant 150-meter-tall "picture frame" — Dubai's new symbol. One side shows the skyscrapers of new Dubai, the other the historic districts. A glass floor lets you stand over the void.

• Tickets: 52 AED
• Hours: 9:00 AM - 9:00 PM
• Metro: Al Jafiliya (Green Line)

Ain Dubai (Dubai Eye)

The world's largest observation wheel at 250 meters tall on Bluewaters Island. One rotation takes 38 minutes with panoramic views of Dubai Marina, Palm Jumeirah, and the entire city.

• Tickets: from 130 AED
• VIP cabins with beverages available
• Best time: sunset

What's New in 2025

Dubai never stands still. Here's what has opened or will open in 2025:

New Hotels

Ciel Dubai Marina — World's Tallest Hotel

• 82 floors, 377 meters
• 1,042 rooms with Persian Gulf and city views
• Infinity pool on 76th floor — world's highest
• Three pools, spa, numerous restaurants

Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab (Opening March 14, 2025)

• Completes Jumeirah's "marine trilogy" (alongside Burj Al Arab and Jumeirah Beach Hotel)
• Design by Shaun Killa (Museum of the Future architect)
• 386 rooms and suites, 82 residences
• Private superyacht marina

Mandarin Oriental Wasl Tower (Opening October 2025)

• Sheikh Zayed Road location in a 300m+ tower
• 259 rooms and suites
• 10 restaurants and bars
• World-class spa

Aman Dubai (2025)

• First Aman property in UAE
• Exclusive waterfront location
• Minimalist Japanese-style luxury

New Attractions

Museum of the Future — AI Wing

In early 2025, the museum opened a new section entirely dedicated to artificial intelligence and human consciousness. Interactive exhibits responding to brainwaves, ethical AI debates, brain-to-device interfaces.

Spacewalk Experience at Expo City Dubai

• Full-scale space travel simulation
• Walk on a recreated lunar surface
• Anti-gravity chambers
• Developed with space agencies

Floating Art District at Dubai Creek Harbour

• Contemporary art galleries on floating platforms
• Connected by elegant bridges
• Surrounded by water features

Coming Soon

Palm Jebel Ali — A second palm-shaped island, five times larger than Palm Jumeirah. Massive project with resorts, villas, and entertainment.

Dubai Reefs — The world's largest artificial reef project for marine ecosystem restoration. Diving zones, floating eco-lodges, underwater educational centers.

Therme Dubai — Grand wellness complex with thermal springs, pools, and spas.

Food and Dining

Dubai is a culinary melting pot where Arabian cuisine meets Indian, Persian, Lebanese, and every world cuisine imaginable. In 2025, the city boasts 19 Michelin-starred restaurants, but the best discoveries often await at humble street stalls.

Michelin-Starred Restaurants

Trèsind Studio — 3 Michelin Stars (first Indian restaurant worldwide with three stars!)

• Modern Indian haute cuisine
• 12+ course tasting menu
• Chef Himanshu Saini
• Book 2-3 months ahead

FZN by Björn Frantzén — 3 Michelin Stars (new for 2025)

• Scandinavian-Japanese cuisine
• Intimate atmosphere (20 seats)
• Chef from three-starred Stockholm Frantzén

Il Ristorante – Niko Romito — 2 Michelin Stars

• Italian cuisine at Bulgari Hotel
• Minimalism and pure flavors

Local Cuisine: What to Try

Shawarma — King of Street Food

• Best spots: Al Mallah (Satwa), Shawarma Al Farooj, Zaroob (24 hours)
• Price: 10-20 AED per portion
• Try with garlic sauce and pickles

Manakeesh — Arabic "Pizza"

• Flatbread with za'atar, cheese, or meat
• Perfect breakfast for 8-15 AED

Hummus and Falafel

• Best at Lebanese restaurants in Deira
• Al Ustad Special Kebab — legend since 1978

Machboos — Emirati National Dish

• Rice with meat (chicken, lamb, camel) and spices
• Where to try: Al Fanar Restaurant (Emirati cuisine)

Luqaimat — Arabic doughnuts with honey and cardamom

Restaurants with Views

At.mosphere (122nd floor, Burj Khalifa)

• World's highest restaurant
• Modern European cuisine
• Lunch from 600 AED, dinner from 900 AED
• Reservations essential!

Pierchic — On a Pier Over the Sea

• Finest seafood
• Romantic atmosphere

CE LA VI (Address Sky View)

• Asian cuisine on rooftop with Burj Khalifa views
• Popular sunset spot

Budget Recommendations

• Al Rigga Street (Deira) — dozens of shawarma joints and Indian cafes
• Meena Bazaar (Bur Dubai) — Indian quarter with affordable food
• 2nd December Street (Satwa) — local favorites
• Ravi Restaurant — legendary Pakistani restaurant since 1978 (curry from 25 AED)

Alcohol in Dubai

Alcohol is sold only in licensed restaurants and bars at hotels. Supermarkets stock non-alcoholic beer only. Prices are high: cocktails 50-100 AED, wine glass from 60 AED, beer from 40 AED.

Important: Public intoxication is against the law.

Beaches of Dubai

Dubai offers 60+ kilometers of sandy beaches with turquoise water. All public beaches are free and well-equipped.

Best Public Beaches

JBR Beach (Jumeirah Beach Residence)

• Most popular and lively
• 1.7 km of white sand
• The Walk promenade with cafes and shops
• Sunbeds: 50-100 AED
• Water sports: jet skis, banana boats, parasailing
• Metro: DMCC + tram to JBR

Kite Beach

• Paradise for kitesurfers and athletes
• Volleyball and football courts
• Street food and food trucks
• View of Burj Al Arab
• Free entry and parking

La Mer

• Trendy district with beach, restaurants, and boutiques
• Instagram-worthy walls and art installations
• Laguna Waterpark (100+ AED)
• Great for families

Al Mamzar Beach Park

• 5 beaches in one park
• Calm water, ideal for children
• Entry: 5 AED (car 30 AED)
• Mon and Wed — women and children only

Beach Clubs

For premium beach experiences, hotel beach clubs offer day access from 200-500 AED, typically including pool, sunbed, and towels.

• Zero Gravity — pool + beach + parties
• Nikki Beach — famous brand at Pearl Jumeirah
• Drift Beach (One&Only Royal Mirage) — elegant and peaceful

Beach Etiquette

• Topless sunbathing prohibited (fine!)
• Overly revealing swimwear — not recommended
• Alcohol — only at licensed beach clubs
• Loud music — prohibited on public beaches
• Keep beaches clean — dispose of trash properly

Shopping in Dubai

Dubai is the world capital of shopping. Tax-free, grandiose malls, traditional markets — here shopping becomes an adventure in itself.

Shopping Malls

Dubai Mall — World's Largest by Total Area

• 1200+ stores, 200+ restaurants
• Aquarium, ice rink, VR park
• Fountains and Burj Khalifa views
• Fashion Avenue — luxury brands
• Hours: 10:00 AM - midnight (until 1:00 AM on weekends)

Mall of the Emirates

• Ski Dubai — indoor ski resort!
• Over 600 stores
• VOX cinema with premium theaters
• Metro: Mall of the Emirates (Red Line)

Ibn Battuta Mall

• Themed mall inspired by Ibn Battuta's travels
• 6 "countries": China, India, Persia, Egypt, Tunisia, Andalusia
• Great photos!

Dubai Shopping Festival

January is sale season. Discounts up to 75%, car and gold raffles, fireworks, concerts. If shopping is your goal — visit in January!

Best Buys

• Gold — at Gold Souk, 20-40% cheaper than Europe (price per gram without markup)
• Electronics — iPhones, MacBooks cheaper due to no VAT
• Perfumes — Arabian fragrances, original scents
• Carpets — Persian and Afghan at Textile Souk
• Spices and tea — at Spice Souk
• Designer goods — especially during sales season

Tax Refund

Tourists can reclaim 5% VAT on purchases over 250 AED. Look for stores with "Tax Free" signs. Refunds processed at the airport upon departure.

Budget Planning

Dubai has an expensive reputation, but you can travel here on any budget.

Budget Travel (250-400 AED/day)

• Hostel or budget hotel in Deira/Bur Dubai: 100-200 AED
• Street food and local cafes: 50-80 AED
• Metro and buses: 20-30 AED
• Free attractions: beaches, souks, mosques, viewpoints

Comfortable Travel (600-1000 AED/day)

• 3-4* hotel in good location: 300-500 AED
• Mid-range restaurants: 150-250 AED
• Taxis and metro: 50-100 AED
• 1-2 paid attractions: 150-300 AED

Luxury Travel (2500+ AED/day)

• 5* hotel on Palm or Downtown: 1500+ AED
• Fine dining with views and stars: 500-1000 AED
• Private tours, helicopter excursions
• Spa, beach clubs, VIP experiences

Sample 2025 Prices

Money-Saving Tips

• Buy combo attraction tickets (save up to 50%)
• Eat in Deira and Bur Dubai areas
• Use metro instead of taxis
• Book observation decks for morning slots (cheaper)
• Visit in summer — hotels are half price
• Free entertainment: beaches, Dubai Fountain, souks, Jumeirah Mosque

Culture and Etiquette

The UAE is a Muslim country with a modern approach to tourism. Dubai is the most liberal emirate, but respect for local culture is essential.

Dress Code

• In malls and public places: covered shoulders and knees (especially for women). Shorts above the knee may attract security attention.
• At the beach: regular swimwear is acceptable, but topless is strictly prohibited.
• In mosques: women — long clothing, covered head. Men — long trousers.
• In hotels and restaurants: more relaxed rules, but reasonable modesty is appreciated.

General Behavior Guidelines

• Public displays of affection (kissing, hugging) — frowned upon
• Swearing — can result in fines
• Photographing people (especially women) without permission — prohibited
• Consuming alcohol in public places — illegal
• Drugs — absolute taboo (up to death penalty)

Ramadan

The holy month of fasting (dates change each year). During Ramadan:

• No eating, drinking, or smoking in public during daylight hours
• Many restaurants closed until sunset
• Nightlife limited
• A time of respect and quiet

However: Tourists can eat in hotels and designated areas. After sunset, the city comes alive — it's a special experience!

Communication Tips

• Greeting: "As-salamu alaykum" (peace be upon you) — universal greeting
• Don't pass anything with your left hand (considered unclean)
• Remove shoes when entering homes and some shops
• Bargaining at markets is expected — it's part of the culture!

Practical Tips

Connectivity and Internet

• Tourist SIM cards: du and Etisalat — from 50 AED for 1-2 GB
• Available at airports or network stores
• eSIM available (check phone compatibility)
• Free WiFi nearly everywhere: hotels, cafes, malls, metro

Safety

Dubai is one of the world's safest cities. Crime rates are minimal, and walking at night is perfectly safe. However:

• Watch belongings in crowded areas (pickpockets exist)
• Don't leave valuables in cars
• Exercise caution crossing roads — speeds are high
• Keep document copies in the cloud

Health

• Tap water is safe but bottled is preferable
• SPF 50+ sunscreen is essential
• Drink plenty of water — dehydration is a real risk
• Pharmacies everywhere, but many medications require prescriptions
• Healthcare is paid — travel insurance is essential!

Money

• Currency: UAE Dirham (AED), pegged to US dollar (1 USD = 3.67 AED)
• Cards accepted everywhere (Visa, Mastercard)
• Cash needed for taxis, markets, small shops
• ATMs on every corner
• Tipping not mandatory but 10-15% at restaurants is appreciated

Useful Apps

• RTA Dubai — official transport app (metro, buses, routes)
• Careem — local Uber, often cheaper
• Zomato/Talabat — food delivery
• Visit Dubai — official city guide
• Entertainer — 2-for-1 offers at restaurants and attractions

Electrical Outlets

• Voltage: 220-240V, frequency 50Hz
• Outlets: UK standard (three rectangular pins)
• Adapter needed (sold at supermarkets for 10-20 AED)

Emergency Contacts

• Emergency services: 999
• Police: 901
• Ambulance: 998
• Tourist police: 800 4438

Suggested Itineraries

Dubai in 3 Days

Day 1: Modern Dubai

• Morning: Burj Khalifa (book for 9-10 AM)
• Day: Dubai Mall — aquarium, shopping, lunch
• Evening: Dubai Fountain (6:00 PM+), dinner with skyline views

Day 2: Historic Dubai + Beach

• Morning: Al Fahidi District, Dubai Museum, Coffee Museum
• Day: Abra across Creek, Gold Souk, Spice Souk
• Evening: JBR Beach, dinner at The Walk

Day 3: Palm Jumeirah + Entertainment

• Morning: Monorail to Palm, beach or Atlantis waterpark
• Day: Dubai Marina, lunch with views, Ain Dubai
• Evening: Museum of the Future or Mall of the Emirates shopping

Dubai in 7 Days

Add:

• Desert safari (half-day to full day)
• Expo City Dubai
• Day trip to Abu Dhabi (Sheikh Zayed Mosque, Louvre Abu Dhabi)
• Beach day at La Mer or a beach club
• Yacht party in Dubai Marina

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need a visa?

Many nationalities enjoy visa-free entry for 30-90 days. A free stamp is placed upon arrival. Check requirements for your specific country.

What currency should I bring?

US dollars or euros for exchange work best. Cards are accepted almost everywhere.

Is Dubai safe?

Yes, Dubai is one of the world's safest cities. Night walks are perfectly safe.

What should I wear?

In malls and on streets — covered shoulders and knees. At beaches — regular swimwear (but not too revealing).

Can I drink alcohol?

Yes, in licensed bars and restaurants at hotels. In public places — prohibited.

When is the best time to visit?

November-March for comfortable weather. July-August is hot but cheap.

How much money should I budget?

Budget: 250-400 AED/day. Comfortable: 600-1000 AED/day.

Do I need a power adapter?

Yes, UAE uses UK standard (three rectangular pins).