Dubai blends futuristic skyscrapers with old souks, desert adventures with beach days, and world-class dining with street food that costs just a few dirhams. It is easy to visit, very safe, and has something for every kind of traveler. This Dubai travel guide covers the best time to visit, where to stay, the top places to see, first-timer tips on etiquette and getting around, and what to sort out before you fly.
Best Time to Visit Dubai
- Winter (November to March): The best time to visit, with daytime temperatures around 24°C to 30°C (75°F to 86°F) and cooler evenings. Perfect for the beach, the desert, and outdoor dining. This is peak season, with events such as the Dubai Shopping Festival, so book early.
- Spring (April to May): Getting hotter, but evenings are still pleasant and crowds are thinner.
- Summer (June to August): Very hot and humid, often above 40°C (104°F). Outdoor activities are limited, but hotel prices drop, and indoor attractions stay busy.
- Autumn (September to October): Still hot at first, cooling gradually in October, with prices rising again toward the end of the month.
Where to Stay in Dubai
- Downtown Dubai: Next to the Burj Khalifa, the Dubai Mall, and the Fountain. Ideal for first-time visitors.
- Dubai Marina and JBR: Waterfront promenades, beaches, and nightlife, with metro and tram links.
- Palm Jumeirah: Beach resorts and a holiday atmosphere, but farther from the sights.
- Jumeirah: Low-rise and residential, close to public beaches and the Burj Al Arab.
- Deira and Bur Dubai: The historic heart around the creek, with souks, street food, and the best-value hotels.
Best Places to Visit in Dubai
- Burj Khalifa: Ride up to the observation decks of the world's tallest building, ideally at sunset.
- The Dubai Mall and the Dubai Fountain: Shop, visit the aquarium, then watch the free fountain show in the evening.
- Dubai Creek and the souks: Cross the creek by abra, explore the Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood, and browse the Gold and Spice Souks in Deira.
- Palm Jumeirah: Ride the monorail and walk the boardwalk around the crescent.
- Dubai Marina: Stroll the promenade or take a dinner cruise past the skyscrapers.
- The Museum of the Future: A striking building with immersive exhibitions. Book ahead.
- A desert safari: Dune bashing, camel rides, sandboarding, and dinner at a desert camp.
For the full list, see our 30 must-see tourist places in Dubai.
Tips for First-Time Visitors
Dress Code
Dubai is cosmopolitan, but it is still a Muslim city where modesty matters. Swimwear is fine at beaches and pools. Elsewhere, especially in malls, souks, and government buildings, cover your shoulders and knees. Women need a headscarf to enter mosques.
Alcohol
Alcohol is served in licensed venues such as hotels, bars, and clubs. Drinking in public places and being drunk in public are illegal.
Local Etiquette
- Keep public displays of affection to a minimum.
- Ask permission before photographing people, especially women.
- During Ramadan, do not eat, drink, or smoke in public during daylight hours.
- Avoid swearing and rude gestures, which can be treated as offenses.
Getting Around
The Dubai Metro is clean, cheap, and air-conditioned, with the Red Line running along the main attractions from the airport to Dubai Marina. Pay with a Nol card, which also works on trams and buses. Taxis are plentiful and metered, and ride-hailing apps are widely used. Note that the metro has a carriage reserved for women and children.
Money
The currency is the UAE dirham (AED). Cards are accepted almost everywhere, but carry some cash for souks, abras, and tips. Tipping around 10% in restaurants is common if service is not included.
Essentials Before You Travel
- Visa: Many nationalities get a free visa on arrival, valid for 30 or 90 days. Others need an e-visa in advance. Check the latest rules with your airline or the official UAE government portal.
- Medication: Some medicines that are legal elsewhere are controlled in the UAE. Carry prescriptions, and check the rules before you travel.
- Travel insurance: Make sure it covers medical costs, which can be high.
- Packing: Light, breathable clothes plus modest outfits for public places, a light layer for cold air conditioning, sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat.
- Plugs: Type G (British three-pin) plugs at 230 V.
Unique Experiences in Dubai
- Skydive over Palm Jumeirah for an unforgettable view of the island and skyline.
- Take a hot air balloon ride over the desert at sunrise.
- See a show at Dubai Opera, from ballet to concerts.
- Explore Global Village, a seasonal festival park with pavilions from around 90 countries.
- Dine with a view at one of the restaurants high up in the Burj Khalifa or the city's rooftop bars.
- Visit Abu Dhabi for a day to see the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque and the Louvre Abu Dhabi. Read our Abu Dhabi travel guide.
Stay Connected in Dubai
From metro routes to attraction tickets and restaurant bookings, Dubai runs on your smartphone. An egoViet UAE eSIM installs before you fly and connects as soon as you land, so you can order a ride from the airport without hunting for Wi-Fi. Compare plans in our UAE eSIM guide, and explore the rest of the country with our UAE travel guide.
FAQs: Dubai Travel Guide
Is Dubai safe for tourists?
Yes. Dubai has very low crime rates and a strong police presence. Take normal precautions and respect local laws and customs.
How many days do you need in Dubai?
Four to five days is enough for the main sights, a beach day, and a desert safari. Add a day for Abu Dhabi.
Can I drive in Dubai with my license?
Visitors from many countries can rent a car with their home license or an International Driving Permit. Check the rules for your nationality with the rental company before you travel.
What is the cheapest way to get around Dubai?
The Dubai Metro, trams, and buses are the cheapest options. Pay with a Nol card, which you can buy and top up at any metro station.