Dubai is the jewel of the United Arab Emirates and the top tourism destination of the country. This futuristic city is a blend of traditional Arabic culture and contemporary living, often pushed to extreme modernity.
Because of the strategic location between Europe, Africa and Asia and its world-renowned attractions, as well as being a global business hub, Dubai is a melting pot of cultures, a cosmopolitan megacity and a magnet for visitors.
Visitors of Dubai are captivated by its modern architecture, luxurious lifestyle, and cultural diversity and are often mesmerized by it’s grandeur, as the city seems to be on a personal quest to host everything “xx-est in the world” (such as the largest mall, the tallest skyscraper, the most luxurious hotel etc).
The stunning beaches and desert adventures, world-class shopping and fine dining experiences, towering skyscrapers and ultra-luxurious hotels, all make Dubai a truly unique destination and a must-see for an avid traveller.
Contents
Bucket List
What to expect
UAE Info & Stats
- Language: Arabic is the official language. English is widely spoken and is the lingua franca of the country due to its many expats.
- Population: 9.8 million (est. 2020)
- Timezone: UTC +4
- Political System: Constitutional monarchy
- Ethnic Groups: 85% expats from various countries, such as India, Bangladesh, and the Philippines. 15% Emirati
- Religions: The UAE is primarily Muslim, with Islam being the state religion. The high number of expats, though, means that Christianity, Hinduism, and Buddhism are also present.
- Credit Cards: Credit Cards are widely accepted in cities and ATMs are evenly distributed
- Electricity: Europlug, British and related types, BS 1363, 220 volt / 50 hertz
- Tipping Customs: 10-15% in restaurants and taxis
- Haggling Culture: Common in markets and souks
Weather
The best time to visit is during the winter months when the temperatures are milder and more bearable.
Dubai experiences long, hot summers and mild winters. The weather is largely influenced by its location in the Arabian Peninsula, which is characterized by high temperatures, low humidity, and little precipitation. However because of its location near the Persian Gulf, Dubai also experiences high levels of humidity, with an average of 55-60% throughout the year. The city also experiences strong winds, especially during the summer months.
As with the rest of the climate of the UAE, it experiences mostly two seasons, namely summer and winter, with transitional seasons in between. In winter (December to March) the average temperatures are between 16.4°C to 24°C. During the transitional season towards Summer temperatures range from 26°C to 33.5 °C. In summer temperatures can easily exceeding 50 °C, but the average temperatures range between 32°C to 37.2°C.
Money
The currency is the United Arab Emirates Dirham (AED).
The real-time exchange rate from US dollars is: 4 AED
Credit Cards are widely accepted. ATMs are commonly distributed around the city.
Prices: The UAE is one of the most expensive countries in the Middle East and Dubai is one of the wealthiest cities in the world. As many large cities there is always a possibility to find cheaper alternatives but generally speaking the tourist attractions are all very expensive.
Tipping: Tipping is not mandatory but as always it is very appreciated if you do. Commonly a tip between 10-15% is given (for restaurants and taxis).
Entry Requirements
Most visitors from countries in Asia, Europe, and America can enter visa-free, with the notable exception of the USA and UK, which require a visa on entry.
Click the map to see details on visa requirements for each country
Input your passport citizenship below and quickly see the requirements that apply to you:
Getting around
The most popular transport is the Dubai Metro system which has an excellent infrastructure. As many things in Dubai which are “the xx-est in the world”, the metro system is the largest network of driverless trains in the world.
Most tourists though move around the city with tour buses or by taxi which are plentiful, therefore with competitive prices and easy to find and book. Car sharing services such as Uber or Lyft are present but on average are more expensive than taxis.
Walking is not very popular because of the heat and the size and grandeur of many buildings
Safety
Safety: Dubai is extremely safe for visitors. There is virtually no risk of mugging, kidnapping, or scams. At most pickpocketing can be a concern as in many large cities.
Natural risks: There are no major risks in the region except those brought by the high temperatures and desert, so sandstorms (locally known as shamal winds).
Emergencies number: 112, 997 (fire department), 998 (emergency medical services), 999 (police)
Tips & Impressions
- Despite being a modern cosmopolitan city, the capital of the UAE is deeply rooted in traditions, and it is important to respect both the Arabian and Muslim aspects of this world which are closely followed by the people. The UAE is also a constitutional monarchy with the Sheikh as the supreme leader. Because the country is also quite young, there have been few Sheikhs who have succeeded Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan who founded the country and all the previous Sheikhs are still very much present in the iconography and memory of people. As a visitor you must not disrespect any members of the royal family and criticism or talking about them in terms which are not flattering is not tolerated.
- Similarly to the above, the aspects related to the religion of Islam, which is the overwhelming prevalent religion, must also be taken in to consideration. The white mosque is one of the most visited landmarks of the city but as with other mosques, it is a very sacred worshipping place so dressing appropriately and being respectful is of utmost importance.
For a more in depth overview on how to visit and interact with Islamic places as a tourist, check out this article.
Deals for Dubai
Where to stay
Dubai has some of the most luxurious and lavished hotels in the world. Below you may find some of the best hotels that this extreme city has to offer
