If you’re planning a trip to Dubai, here are some tips and recommendations to help you make the most of your visit:
When to visit
The best time to visit Dubai is during the winter months, from November to March, when the weather is mild and pleasant. Summer months can be extremely hot and humid.
Accommodation
Dubai offers a range of accommodation options, from budget to luxury. If you want to stay close to the city’s main attractions, consider staying in areas like Downtown Dubai, Jumeirah, or Dubai Marina.
Some popular options include:
- Luxury hotels: Dubai is famous for its extravagant and opulent hotels, including the Burj Al Arab, Atlantis The Palm, and the Armani Hotel. These properties offer world-class amenities and exceptional service, but can be quite expensive.
- Budget hotels: For travelers on a tighter budget, Dubai also has a number of budget-friendly hotels and guesthouses, including the Rove Hotels chain, Holiday Inn Express, and Premier Inn. These properties offer basic amenities and comfortable rooms at more affordable rates.
- Serviced apartments: Serviced apartments are a popular choice for travelers looking for more space and privacy. Dubai has a variety of options, from budget-friendly apartments to luxury penthouses, such as the Ascott Park Place and the Fraser Suites Dubai.
- Airbnb and vacation rentals: A tip I got from a TN Residential Roofing contractor who just got back from Dubai to to book an Airbnb. This can be a good option for families or groups looking for more space and the opportunity to cook their own meals. However, it is important to research the property and host carefully to ensure a safe and comfortable stay.
- Hostels: Finally, for budget-conscious travelers, Dubai also has a few hostels, such as the Backpacker 16 hostel and the Dubai Youth Hostel. These properties offer shared accommodations and basic amenities at very affordable rates.
Getting around
Taxis are readily available in Dubai, and Uber is also an option. The city also has a modern and efficient metro system that is a convenient way to get around.
Must-see attractions
Some of the top attractions in Dubai include the Burj Khalifa (the world’s tallest building), the Dubai Mall (one of the largest shopping malls in the world), the Palm Jumeirah (an artificial island in the shape of a palm tree), and the Dubai Fountain (a spectacular water and light show).
Here are some of the must-see attractions in Dubai:
- Burj Khalifa: The tallest building in the world, Burj Khalifa stands at 828 meters and offers stunning views of the city from its observation deck.
- Dubai Mall: One of the largest malls in the world, Dubai Mall features over 1,200 shops, an aquarium, an ice rink, and an indoor theme park.
- Dubai Fountain: Located outside the Dubai Mall, the Dubai Fountain is the world’s largest choreographed fountain system and puts on a spectacular show of water and light.
- Palm Jumeirah: A man-made island in the shape of a palm tree, Palm Jumeirah is home to luxury hotels, restaurants, and stunning beachfront properties.
- Dubai Miracle Garden: A stunning flower garden featuring over 45 million flowers arranged in intricate designs, the Dubai Miracle Garden is a popular tourist attraction.
- Dubai Marina: A trendy area with a beautiful marina, Dubai Marina is home to high-end restaurants, shops, and luxury apartments.
- Dubai Museum: Located in the oldest building in Dubai, the Dubai Museum offers a fascinating look at the city’s history and culture.
- Dubai Creek: A natural saltwater inlet, Dubai Creek is a great place to take a boat ride and see the city from a different perspective.
- Ski Dubai: An indoor ski resort, Ski Dubai offers skiing and snowboarding on real snow, as well as penguin encounters and other winter-themed activities.
- Jumeirah Beach: A beautiful beach with crystal-clear waters and white sand, Jumeirah Beach is a great place to relax and soak up the sun.
Desert experiences
Dubai is located in the middle of the desert, so a desert safari is a must-do activity. You can go dune bashing, camel riding, and enjoy a traditional Bedouin dinner under the stars.
Food and drink
Dubai has a diverse food scene, with a range of cuisines available. Some must-try dishes include shawarma, falafel, and hummus. Alcohol is only served in licensed venues, so be sure to check before ordering.
Dress code
Dubai is a Muslim city, so it’s important to be respectful of local customs and traditions. Dress modestly in public places, and avoid wearing revealing clothing.
Here are some general guidelines to follow:
- For women, clothing should cover the shoulders, arms, and knees. It is recommended to avoid tight or revealing clothing.
- Men should avoid wearing shorts and tank tops in public places.
- Swimwear is only acceptable at the beach or in a swimming pool.
- When visiting mosques, women should cover their heads with a scarf, and both men and women should dress modestly.
- In government buildings, malls, and other public places, it is not allowed to wear clothing that displays offensive language or images.
- Traditional Emirati clothing is widely accepted and appreciated, especially during cultural events or festivals.
Safety
Dubai is generally a safe city, but it’s always a good idea to be vigilant and take precautions like keeping your valuables secure and being aware of your surroundings.
Shopping
Dubai is a shopper’s paradise, with a range of malls and souks to explore. Some popular shopping destinations include the Dubai Mall, Mall of the Emirates, and the Gold Souk.
Cultural experiences
Dubai has a rich cultural heritage, and there are a range of cultural experiences to be had, such as visiting the Dubai Museum, exploring the old Dubai neighborhood of Al Bastakiya, or taking a traditional abra boat ride across Dubai Creek.