Magical, majestic, and amazing Dubai is the desert city of luxury. It’s where the old meets the new. There is something for both sun worshipers and culturists in this unique desert city!
There is some know-how in advance that you have to take into account when you go to Dubai. We went to Dubai for a week and we listed everything that you need to know before traveling to Dubai.
Language
In Dubai, they speak Arabic, which is a very difficult language to pronounce and to learn for foreigners. Here you can find the most important Arabic words for your trip.
Arabic is the official language in Dubai and is spoken by a large part of the population. However, many immigrants also speak a lot of English, Urdu, and Hindi. You will be fine in English, all tourist information, street names, and menus are described in both Arabic and English. And you can also approach and address people on the street in English. Sometimes there is a heavy accent which makes them more difficult to understand.
Continent & timezone
Dubai is a city located in the United Arab Emirates. Casually resting on the coast of the Persian Gulf, the city today is a popular tourist destination for people all around the world. Dubai is bordered by Abu Dhabi to the south, Oman to the south-east, and Sharjah to the north-east. Almost 10 million people live in the UAE in 2020. and in Dubai, 3,3 million. The timezone is UTC +4.
Visa
US citizens can enter Dubai visa-free for tourism or business purposes for up to 30 days. Upon arrival at the airport, you will receive a free stamp in your passport which is valid for 30 days. Please note that your passport must be valid for at least six months. For all other countries visiting Dubai, please check out this Wiki-page.
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Best time to visit Dubai
The best time to visit Dubai is during the winter months from November till April. The temperatures are then pleasant enough to explore Dubai and its surroundings.
Currency
The currency in the UAE is the Dirham (AED). Because Dubai has many different banks, you will find an ATM all over the city. Because Dubai has many different banks, you will find an ATM all over the city. But you can actually pay with your credit card anywhere, except on the street. Also not in all taxis you can pay by credit card. Ask this in advance when boarding if you do not have cash with you to avoid misunderstandings.
Dubai city is known for being extremely luxurious and offering excellent service in shops and restaurants. In restaurants, the tip is usually included, but you can give an extra tip of 10-15%. And for example, chambermaids or other services can give you a tip between 5-10 AED.
If you are also looking for a great hotel, luxury hotel, or Airbnb rental in Dubai, be sure to check out our recommendations.
Safety
Dubai is very safe to visit, even as a solo female traveler. Crime is rare since Dubai is a city with a lot of government surveillance and strict rules and laws. When we visited Dubai we only saw the police on the street once. You feel very safe and the atmosphere is very relaxed and casual if you respect the Arab culture.
Culture & Religion
The Laws and Culture of Dubai and the UAE are directly related to the Islamic tradition. Travelers should be aware that Dubai is a society with traditional Islamic roots. Discover the city's rich culture and history at Dubai Creek and in Deira. Here you really feel the old and authentic Dubai.
As a woman especially, keep in mind that if you don't want any fuss or disapproving looks, you shouldn't wear tight or revealing clothes in public places. In mosques, the shoulders and knees must be covered and there is a headscarf (hijab) available at the entrance or bring your own scarf that you can use as a headscarf.
The female Emirati themselves wear chic abayas with a hijab, often in dark colors. Young ladies often wear high designer heels with a matching designer bag. And the makeup is always on fleek! Women in Dubai are much more liberal than women in other Gulf countries such as Saudi Arabia. They are allowed to drive, work and they are also enjoying nights out with their friends in the hippest neighborhoods of Dubai.
In addition, there is a strict ban on alcohol on the streets and it is prohibited to use alcohol under the age of 21. Restaurants, hotels, and clubs do have an alcohol license so you can quietly obtain and consume alcohol here. If alcohol is not allowed, there is a wide choice of very fun, delicious, and creative mocktails.
This bucket-list location is waiting for you. But first, you´ll need a ticket up in the air!
Dubai insider tips you need to know
>> Don't be put off by all the luxury you see in photos. Yes, Dubai is known for its great wealth, but a trip to Dubai doesn't have to be expensive! You can choose where you want to eat (from very cheap to extremely luxurious, you'll find both in Dubai) and choose how much you will spend on your hotel (from very affordable hotels to extreme luxury hotels). There are plenty of fun things to do and see in Dubai that are free, such as exploring Deira or walking The Walk at night and marveling at all the tall buildings. It is certainly not a budget trip, but you have control over the costs.
>> Summers are really too hot in Dubai. Don't let the low prices tempt you to go anyway, the heat won't make you able to explore the city.
>> Be sure to check out our entire Top 10 Things to do in Dubai – Highlights and tips! for more insider tips and must-see attractions!
So now you know a whole bunch of useful information before you travel to the one-of-a-kind city of Dubai. Immerse yourself in this unique world of luxury and wealth!
>> Top 7 best hotels in Dubai
>> Top 7 best luxury hotels in Dubai
>> Top 7 best Airbnb rentals in Dubai
