Dubai Essential Trip Information

Out of the seven United Arab Emirates, the Emirate of Dubai takes the second position. It is situated in the northeastern part of UAE. All throughout the year visitors and tourists come to this place in order to relish the exotic beaches, the sun-kissed sea as well as the fascinating desert. Besides the enchanting and majestic environment, travelers get to enjoy the heritage attractions of the place, the deluxe hotels, the magnificent shopping malls as well as the exotic marketplaces. The following tourist information on Dubai will guide you with all the minute details so as to make the trip a memorable one. The tourist map is a must for the travelers since it properly guides each and every tourist visiting the place. With that in hand, one can be more or less assured of covering every nook and corner of the city. For better convenience of the individuals on tour, even tourist guides are available. To get a detailed view of the city, one can easily know the tourism in Dubai facts from the official site of Dubai tourism. Dubai is a city of promise and progressive development. Contrary to popular belief, it’s safe to travel within the United Arab Emirates and there are loads of things to see, do, taste and of course, buy. It’s a remarkable destination to visit and with this packing checklist below, you’ll step out in style without overstepping any boundaries.

1. Stay in Dubai

The royal city of Dubai basically experiences two types of weather condition. From the month of November to April the weather is really soothing and cool. This is basically the winter season. Again from April to October, the city experiences a hot and humid weather. For a tourist, the best time to visit Dubai is in winter. The city becomes vivid and vibrant during the winter season and the tourists can better enjoy the Dubai Shopping Festival. The pleasant weather is the main reason behind the crowded Dubai city. On the contrary, if one wants to avoid the peak pricing, they can pay a visit during the summer time. Although the exploration of outdoor activities is quite impossible yet there is no restriction on visiting the shopping malls and various air-conditioned stores. The Dubai International Airport is considered to be one of the busiest airports in the world. The location of the airport is quite impressive since it is well connected with all the nearest hotels. The other amenities include halls for prayer, gymnasium, play area for toddlers and children, smoking hubs, swimming pool and much more. Both local, as well as international flights, are readily available from Dubai International Airport. Modes of conveyance cannot be an impediment for the travelers since different means are available for the purpose of sightseeing. Both luxurious, as well as budget friendly accommodation, can be found at the heart of the city and this hospitality well differentiates the pristine city from others. Seeing is believing. This proverb aptly goes with the city of Dubai. The rich cultural heritages and architectures are a must-see for all tourists. Some of them include the lofty Burj Khalifa, the shopping paradise Dubai Mall, the mind-blowing Dubai Fountain, the island Palm Jumeirah, the trading route of Dubai Creek, the vibrant Kite Beach, the stunning Dubai Marina, the majestic Desert, the popular Etihad Museum, the exotic Madinat Jumeirah, etc. Again Dubai is directly related to shopping. For the shopaholics, this city provides a large number of options like the Dubai Shopping Mall, Global Village, Deira Gold Souk, Al Fahidi Street, Bur Dubai Souk, Wafi Mall, and Karama Shopping Center etc. There is no doubt that it is shopping paradise both for the residents and visitors.

2. Travelling with Children

The UAE prides itself as a family-friendly environment and small children are welcome and adored everywhere. The larger hotels have a selection of kids' meals, especially for room service. Toddlers do not normally eat out at night, but they are welcome at eateries, with many places providing booster seats. Phone ahead to check if the hotel you're staying at has babysitting services available. There are lots of activities for children to do, both in and around the hotels, including special amusement parks and many green spaces with playgrounds. Children under 12 usually qualify for discounts on admission fees to most museums, amusement parks, swimming pools and entertainment centers.

3. Disabled Travelers

Several five-star hotels have specially-adapted rooms and other facilities for handicapped people that fulfil the international standards. Many of the branded hotels in Dubai have used the Americans with Disabilities Act as a guide during construction so hotels are pretty accessible with roll-in showers, grab bars and other accessibility features. The airport and major shopping malls have good access and facilities, as well as Dubai's Transport Taxis are fitted to accommodate wheelchairs. There are also designated disabled parking spaces in nearly all of the city’s car parks, though you will need a disabled window badge in order to use them..

4. Opening hours and holidays

Normally shops are open from 9am to 1pm and 4pm to 9pm however many shops, particularly in Dubai and Abu Dhabi stay open all day. Most shopping centers open from 10am to 10pm - frequently later. Some supermarkets are open 24 hours. Although shops and shopping centers are fully air conditioned, the cool of the evening is a favorite time for shopping. Shopping centers and most shops are open on Friday, the Islamic day of rest, but they all close for Juma (Friday) prayers from 11.30am to 1.30pm. All shops are required to close at prayer times in Raï's al-Khaimah.

5. The Best Times to Visit

Dubai is HOT! I Know-Duh. During the “winter months”, which correlate to ours, the temperatures are cooler with highs in the 80s to lows in the 60s. This is from November to March. Based on these temperatures, this is tourist season in Dubai, so expect it to be more crowded and prices to be a bit higher if you plan your Dubai trip for this time period. However, in the summer months from June to August, temperatures average a high of 105!

6. Arriving in Dubai

Most nationalities can simply get a visa on arrival at the airport but visitors should check their visa requirements before arriving. Both Dubai International Airport (DXB) and Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC) have a range of helpful facilities and public transport options. Money changing facilities and taxis are readily available, as well as car rental services, convenience stores and information desks for general queries.

7. Currency

The currency in Dubai is the dirham, which is shortened to AED (United Arab Emirates Dirham). One dirham is divided into 100 fils. The dirham has been pegged to the US dollar for since 1997, meaning the exchange rate never changes. One US dollar is worth AED3.67.

8. Weather

With a coastal location on the Arabian Peninsula, Dubai enjoys a warm climate all year. The ‘winter’ months last from October to May with warm temperatures ranging from 20–35°C (68–95°F). The summer season lasts from June to September with hotter temperatures reaching the mid-40s (~110° F) – and the city’s wide range of indoor and outdoor facilities and attractions ensure Dubai is a year-round destination

9. Dress Code

Dubai is a cosmopolitan city and a diverse melting pot where almost all attires and cultural expressions are accepted. Swimwear is permissible at beaches, waterparks, public pools and spa areas but is not considered appropriate in areas such as business districts and shopping malls. Dressing conservatively is appreciated in Dubai's historic neighborhoods and places of worship. There are specific requirements for entering a mosque, like wearing clothing that covers shoulders, arms and legs – and headscarves for women.

10. Greetings & Etiquette

Marhaba! Dubai is a warm and friendly city and you will come across many people who will greet you with a smile and wish you well. A handshake is customary, but do note it is typically accepted that this should be initiated by women. Public displays of affection are best kept to a minimum. Holding hands is acceptable, but kissing and hugging in public areas is not permitted. Alcohol is served in licensed establishments such as hotels, bars and specialized shops to those over 21 years of age. However, drunk and disorderly conduct and drunk driving are not acceptable. Use or possession of illegal drugs is also strictly prohibited.

11. Languages

Dubai is home to hundreds of nationalities and both Arabic and English are spoken across the city. Learning a few Arabic words can certainly make the trip more memorable! As you explore the city you're very likely to hear Russian, Tagalog, Hindi, Urdu, Portuguese and many other languages. Follow our detailed guide for a list of handy phrases.

12. Tipping

To tip or not to tip? The short answer is, there are no rules when it comes to tipping in Dubai. How much you tip varies from profession to profession and is also largely down to personal preference. It is customary to tip in most cases, but it certainly isn’t compulsory. Everyone arrives in Dubai with their own customs and expectations but one thing that's really consistent is the high level of service.

13. Getting around Dubai

• Metro

Dubai Metro has two convenient lines – red and green – that run from Dubai International Airport (DXB) and through the busiest areas of the city. It is the world’s largest driverless train system, offering comfortable seating, affordable prices and full air conditioning. Simply buy a Nol card, keep it topped up, or grab a single-use ticket at your starting stationtro

• Bus

Buses are a low-cost option to explore the city. You can hop on a bus at all of Dubai's airport terminals, with routes intersecting every major neighborhood. They run 24-hours a day as often as every 30 minutes – just make sure to check your map to understand the extensive network. You should also buy a top-up Nol card in advance as bus drivers will not accept cash.

• Taxi

A range of Dubai taxi services are available from the RTA and you can grab a cab from almost anywhere in the city, or order one by phone or via an app – such as Careem or Uber. Airport taxis will start from AED25 ($6.80), with clear signs pointing you towards the official pick-up area in any terminal.

14. Dubai Pass

Unlock huge savings with pre-paid access to top attractions, tours and activities Experience all that's possible in Dubai for less, with the Dubai Pass. With 48 must-visit attractions and activities to choose from citywide, you can create your own tailor-made Dubai experience, choosing from a wide variety of things to see and do. Each pass offers unbeatable value and convenience - there’s no need for cash or a pocketful of tickets. Simply present your pass and you’re in.

15. Food in Dubai

It is rightly described as one of the world’s unparalleled destination for dining. One should surely enjoy the Emirati Cuisine of Dubai which centers around meat dishes. One can also enjoy the delicious street foods of Dubai which reflects the rich taste of the culture. Shawarma is one of the authentic dishes of the place and tastes delicious with some extra salad and mint sauce.

16. Language and Festivals in Dubai

The official language of Dubai is Arabic but people out there mostly converse in English. One can easily find out residents who talk in Hindi, Tamil, Bengali, Urdu, Chinese, Malayalam, and many other languages of the world.
Some of the festivals of Dubai are:
Dubai Shopping Festival
Dubai International Jazz Festival
Dubai International Film Festival
One can also enjoy other festivals of music, food, textiles, art and the season related events while traveling to Dubai to get the real essence of the place

17. Dubai Power Adapter

You’ll need a universal power adapter for your trip to Dubai. This one is great because it works nearly everywhere in the world so it’ll come in handy if Dubai isn’t your only destination or for your future international adventures. Plug in multiple items at once using the convenient USB port and feel secure in your purchase with the lifetime warranty guarantee!

18. Time

Gulf Standard Time (GMT/UTC plus four hours)

19. Money Info

Credit/debit cards are accepted all over Dubai. ATMs can be found all across the city. make sure to tell your bank before you go to avoid any restrictions being applied to your card. If you're bringing cash, it's best to wait and exchange currency in Dubai - you'll find the best rates in malls

20. Visa

Most citizens from western and developed countries are allowed entry to Dubai. A 30-day visa will be issued free of charge on arrival.
Charges apply for those who overstay their visas.