travel bloggers from dubai

The Travel Blogger’s Guide to Dubai

By: Author Monica

Categories UAE

Travel bloggers are my favourite people to turn to for advice and recommendations when I’m researching a new destination. They offer a fresh perspective, and quite often answer the questions I’m searching for – especially when it’s for a city where the culture is so different, like Dubai. 

Before I travelled to Dubai, I did a fair amount of research looking for the best guides to Dubai I could find. I turned to Pinterest, to Instagram, and of course, to blogs, to find the best places to go, where to eat and drink, what to do with my kids, and how to navigate the local culture while I was there.

To save you having to do incredible amounts of research, I’ve rounded up the best posts to create this travel blogger’s guide to Dubai.

Whether it’s your first time there, or it’s a destination you already know and love, you should find some great ideas and tips in here. From day trips to dress codes, here’s everything you need to know before you visit Dubai – in the words of travel bloggers around the world! Most people visit Dubai for around 3-7 days but if you’re thinking about staying longer then check out this guide about extending your stay in the UAE .

Inspiration and reasons to visit Dubai

If you’re anything like me, you’ll head straight to Instagram for inspiration for upcoming trips. So if you’re planning a trip to Dubai, these are the go-to Instagrammers for the best pre-trip tips, including the most Instagrammable spots in Dubai.

The incredibly stylish Aimee from Song of Style shares her guide to Dubai via her Instagram photos. Her glamorous trip gives an insight into the most luxurious parts of Dubai, including a shoe store that is all kinds of goals.

Before I’d ever set foot in Dubai, I wrote this post about all of the reasons why it was on my bucket list. And I’m pleased to say that, after visiting, all of these are still great reasons to visit Dubai. It’s an incredible city, and as I discovered when I travelled there, this list was only the beginning of the things to do!

Dubai Itineraries

You don’t need a lot of time to make the most of a trip to Dubai. Brooke from World of Wanderlust shares her itinerary ideas for an action-packed layover in Dubai, which will help you to see as much as the city as possible in a very short amount of time.

Carrie from WishWishWish stopped in Dubai on her way home from Mauritius – not on a stopover, but a notover , a kind of holiday extension. So whether you’re delaying your return home, or taking a few days as a kind of pre-holiday stop, this dreamy 48 hour itinerary is for you.

If you’re spending your whole holiday in Dubai, rather than just a stopover, this family-friendly eight day itinerary means you can see loads of the city while still being able to relax between activities.

Dannielle lived in Dubai for over a year, so she knows what she’s talking about! This five day itinerary covers loads of the major tourist attractions as well as some great local spots. She also gives some insider tips for local beaches that you can visit, even if your hotel doesn’t have its own private beach.

A bit longer than a stopover, but shorter than a full-blown weeklong holiday, this long weekend itinerary covers some of the more traditional parts of Dubai – like the old town – as well as the ultra-modern side of the city. The highlight? An incredible helicopter ride that offers sweeping views over The Palm.

Hotels in Dubai

If you’re not sure where to stay in Dubai, this post by Chrissy of Travel Passionate shows you which hotels are closest to the attractions, and offers options for various budgets. There are hotels close to Dubai airport, hotels with pools, and basically hotels that’ll suit just about everyone!

Another great accommodation guide to Dubai, this one details the main areas of the city and what you can expect from each. It also offers a bunch of fantastic hotel recommendations in Dubai for any budget, including some hotels out in the desert!

This is the most incredibly detailed guide to hotels in Dubai that you’ll find on the internet. As well as sharing the highlights of each of the main areas to stay in, there’s a list of the 20 best hotels in Dubai, and a section for budget friendly accommodation that doesn’t suck.

Family travel in Dubai

Want to take your kids somewhere magical, with almost guaranteed sunshine and so much to do you can’t possibly get bored, even in 3-4 days? Let me introduce you to Dubai Parks and Resorts, which includes LEGOLAND, Motiongate Dubai, Bollywood Parks Dubai and LEGOLAND Waterpark.

Think Dubai isn’t a great destination for kids? Think again. This post by Samantha of Travelling King shares the best activities for the whole family – some that the kids will love, and some just for the young at heart!

Adventurous families will find plenty to keep everyone entertained during a holiday to Dubai. From skiing to desert safaris, and street food to kids’ painting classes, these 10 fun things to do in Dubai are bound to be a hit with the little ones.

If you think you might run out of ideas of things to do with kids in Dubai, this epic post will well and truly prove you wrong. There are ideas for family activities throughout the UAE, not just Dubai, but many of them are achievable as day trips. And if you don’t fancy venturing further afield, that’s fine too – there are loads of suggestions for Dubai to keep everyone happy.

Need further convincing that you should take your kids to Dubai? In this post I share my top 10 reasons why this city is a family-friendly holiday spot that everyone will love. After travelling to Dubai with my two boys, I was blown away by how great it was as a child-friendly destination.

Where to eat in Dubai

Angie from Silverspoon London is my go-to for luxurious meal recommendations, and this epic brunch in Dubai is no exception. With bottomless champagne, freshly made sushi and make your own mini Magnums, this is a brunch for the bucket list. I’m salivating just looking at these pictures…

From camel burgers to Arabic-style French toast, Kat explores the more unusual flavours of Dubai in this guide to her favourite things to eat. Definitely one for those with adventurous palates, these dishes will certainly be a memorable part of your trip to Dubai!

Dubai might not be a famous culinary destination, but this post by Katy from Untold Morsels argues why perhaps it should be. Whether you’re looking for Michelin star restaurants or local food experiences, you’ll find it all in this delicious guide to Dubai’s best foodie hotspots.

Another fab post from Dannielle, this guide to Dubai’s best rooftop bars gives you a glimpse into the glitz and glamour of the city’s hotel scene. And in a destination where the sun is basically shining all the time, it’s the perfect place to do a bit of bar-hopping…with a side of incredible views.

When Suzanne from The Travel Bunny visited Dubai, she took a tour of the old town to sample its flavours and to learn more about the food culture of the city. Join her as she visits markets, tastes unusual delicacies and makes her way across the old town, one course at a time.

Travel guides and things to do in Dubai

From the famous, like the world’s tallest building – the Burj Khalifa – to the unexpected, like Dubai’s only glass swimming pool, Brooke’s suggestions of things to do in Dubai are a great place to start your research. And those milkshakes! They might be worth the trip to Dubai alone…

From where to stay, to getting around using Dubai’s public transport system, to the culture of the United Arab Emirates, this travel guide covers the basics of your stay in Dubai so you’ll go armed with all of the information you need.

One thing I love about travel blogs over traditional guides is that bloggers might return to a destination again and again, with their guides constantly evolving as they discover new great spots to explore. This guide by Sana is based on loads of visits to her favourite city, Dubai, so it’s packed with fab recommendations.

Dubai is often considered to be a luxurious destination that’s reserved for high rollers and those with plenty of cash to burn. But in this post, Jurga shares some of Dubai’s best free attractions, as well as some others that are easy on the wallet.

Another fantastic guide for anyone travelling to Dubai on a budget, Helen shares how to really experience the best sights and flavours of the city without having to spend a fortune. There’s so much to do in Dubai that you really don’t need to spend a lot to have a memorable trip.

See beyond the shopping malls and luxury skyscrapers in this guide to the 50 most fun things to do in Dubai. Arzo offers plenty of options for thrill-seekers, foodies, culture vultures and nature lovers with this extensive (but by no means exhaustive) list.

Have you heard of the Dubai Miracle Garden? This stunning attraction in Dubai is an Instagrammer’s dream, and this post by Liliane gives us a glimpse inside this garden, a riot of colour and incredibly creative displays to take your breath away. Don’t miss this attraction while you’re in town.

Tips for visiting Dubai

There are plenty of myths surrounding the city of Dubai – you have to be rich to visit, you can’t drink alcohol, etc. This blog post clears up some of the most common misconceptions, and explains why Dubai is definitely a great place to visit!

Before you travel to Dubai, it’s a good idea to brush up on the culture and customs of the city, as well as practicalities such as currency and language. There’s also a useful section in this blog post about how to find wifi when you’re out and about.

If you’re worried about what you can and can’t do in Dubai, this blog post breaks it all down simply for first-time travellers. It covers some things you might not already be aware of – like the holy day when things might be closed – and offers reassurance that Dubai is perfectly safe, even for solo female travellers.

I’m all about affordable luxury here at The Travel Hack, so these tips are exactly the kind of content I look for when I’m planning a trip. There are some great ideas in this post, including an app to download before you visit Dubai to get discounts and deals on fine dining restaurants.

Travelling to Dubai as a couple? This post by Lauren and Ben shares the most romantic activities to try in Dubai for a memorable getaway, whether it’s a honeymoon, babymoon, or just an excuse to spend some time together in the sun.

What to pack for Dubai

Whether it’s just a great excuse to buy some new favourite pieces, or your summer wardrobe is severely lacking (because England), then this is the post for you. It’s full of loose-fitting, flowing pieces for wearing out and about in Dubai, as well as some stylish swimwear to wear by your hotel pool, and all in a gorgeous desert-inspired colour palette.

Based on her travels in Dubai and Ras al Khaimah, Elle shares the dos and don’t for dressing in the UAE, and includes some examples of what to wear in different situations when you’re visiting Dubai and beyond.

In this detailed post, Bianca shares what to expect from the weather in Dubai in each month of the year, and then suggests what to wear for every activity you’d be likely to try while you’re visiting, from brunch to nightclubs.

If you’re panicking about what to wear in Dubai, you’re not alone. Sarah, who wrote this post, was also stressed before she visited, but she did the research while she was there, so you don’t have to worry.

This is my simple video post about what to pack for Dubai. I found there was a lot of conflicting advice out there about what women should wear in Dubai so I’ve tried to simplify it and share what you can wear in different situations.

Day trips from Dubai

If you’ve had a few days to get to know Dubai and you’d like to explore a bit further afield, this post shares some of the best day trips from Dubai, including one to Oman! There are some beautiful destinations just outside the city, so if you’re travelling to the UAE for more than a few days, it’s great to see a bit more while you’re there.

One of the most beautiful mosques in the world, the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi is easy to reach from Dubai. This post by Helen shares how to get there, and what to expect when you arrive. It’s definitely worth seeing, and if you don’t have loads of time to spare, you can even fit it into a half day.

Oman looks like an incredibly beautiful destination – and if you’re travelling to Dubai, you can take a day trip and check it out for yourself. It’s a long day, but this post gives you all of the information you need to plan your visit, including the pros and cons of a day trip to Oman.

If you’re planning your trip to Dubai and want to book the best tours and day trips, this is the blog post you need to read. It’s packed full of advice for booking tours for every travel style and budget, as well as some really unusual options like sand boarding, and falconry.

Monday 29th of April 2024

Your blog is super useful for anyone heading to Dubai...Dubai can be a bit overwhelming with all its culture, luxury, and innovation, but your guide breaks it down nicely.

Thanks for sharing your insights...

Emmanuel Obarhua

Thursday 30th of December 2021

Hello Monica,

Wow! This is a great resource you've put together here. I'm a Dubai blogger and I've been looking for Dubai blogs for an outreach and this will definitely be useful. I hope we collaborated.

Thanks for taking your time on this and happy holidays!

Saturday 29th of May 2021

Oh my goodness! Your blog is a fantastic treasure trove of travel inspiration. These Dubai posts are fantastic. There is so much to see and do in Dubai, which will undoubtedly be my next travel trip.

Sunday 22nd of September 2019

We took the on off bus. It has three different guided tours, each a different color. We did all 3 in one day. Reasonably priced, Feel like we saw all highlights of Dubai.

Wednesday 18th of September 2019

I appreciate your humble efforts to help travelers find everything about Dubai at one place. The list of travel blogs that you’ve provided will definitely save lots of research time and also inundate readers with ample of useful information.

Dubai Travel Blog

This post may contain affiliate links.

It was love at first sight for us in Dubai. From the moment we left the airport, Dubai was one big wow. We posted about our fantastically fun camel-riding, belly-dancing, dune-jumping adventure in the desert.  We’ve told you about the cultural heritage tour that took us beyond the glitz into the living heart of Old Dubai.  I may have mentioned, more than once, what an incredible experience seeing the dancing fountains at the Burj Kalifa was . Now some tips, a Dubai travel guide, things to do, places to stay and more on our Dubai travel blog round-up page.

The problem with Dubai is, you need a month to see and do it all. We can’t say we’ve been there that long, but we’ve been there multiple times, each time as layovers en-route to Bangkok, Singapore, Mumbai, Kathmandu and beyond. Each time we’ve had a blast.

Bookmark this very long guide to Pinterest to use when you plan your Dubai itinerary.

Each time we’ve done the same favourite things as well as added some experiences and tours. Here’s our round-up on things to do in Dubai to help you plan your Dubai trip.

We will most certainly be back to sample more, including the beaches and water parks and to experience more of the great quality Middle-Eastern accommodation, food and service that make Dubai such a stand-out destination.

We’ll also take more tours, (the company we normally use is GetYorGuide, our review is here) there are loads to take out of Dubai into surrounding areas.

If you’d like an overview of the tours, activities, transfers, boat trips, tickets, just everything awesome available from Dubai , then we can give you that. Looking at what’s available will really help you plan your Dubai itinerary.

Dubai is not, at all, our usual sort of destination, a lot of people stick their noses in the air and won’t even consider visiting Dubai. We were surprised how much we loved visiting, every time.

Yes, I found the excess hard to take after leaving the tent villages of the earthquake victims in Kathmandu. It upset me. However, Dubai is what it is and everywhere in the world has something unique and fascinating to offer.

This post relates to personal experience and opinion only, please double check facts for yourself as things change fast in Dubai.

Dubai Quick Guide to Activities and Tours

This is our pick of the best tours, experiences, and activities in Dubai!

• Book a private boat or yacht, for fishing or pleasure.
• Book a desert safari with 4×4 dune bashing, camels, dancing, dinner and dune surfing, there is a wide choice of excellent activities at Dubai’s desert camps.
• Reserve your chance to visit the Burj Khalifa Observation Deck , incredible views from the world’s tallest building.
• See Dubai, ancient and modern, a city tour to take in all of the main highlights , particularly good if you’re short of time
• Take in the exclusive, View From The Palm Jumeira.
• Enjoy the sparkling Dubai Marina on a yacht cruise with breakfast or BBQ onboard.
• Spend a day at the Atlantis (The Palm) Aquaventure water park and Lost Chambers Aquarium . This is a must-do in Dubai!

Where to Stay in Dubai

This is a little tricky because much of it is personal taste. There are some hugely luxurious coastal resort hotels for holidaymakers but there are also thousands of options within the different areas of the city and on The Creek.

It really depends on what you want to get out of your trip. Dubai hotels certainly come in the luxury category and budget hotels in Dubai are, not so budget as elsewhere.

For the ultimate Dubai experience, try looking at Atlantis the Palm or Burj al Arab on Jumeira Beach , you’ll need a fat wallet but it would be an experience never to forget.

Did you know The Atlantis has water rides, shark encounters, a teen and kids club and more? This is a bucket list item to tick off, check it out at our link above.

We tend to go for apartment-style hotels for stopovers of a few days. They include kitchens and washing machines, which makes life easier. They are towards the more budget-friendly end.

The Golden Sands series of apartment hotels  in Bur Dubai are popular and usually have swimming pools.  They are away from the coast but in a central area. We’ve stayed at a couple of their apartment hotels and they’ve been pretty good value.

Consider transport options. As a family of four, we generally find taxis are easier and cheaper than the Dubai metro. If you’re not sticking to a tight budget, luxury cars and transfers are easy to arrange.

Getting Around Dubai

When we visited, Dubai had two metro lines, red and green, which covered most of the tourist areas in and around the city.

The red line heads south as far as Jebel Ali. Tickets are per zone.

For tourists you can buy a red NOL card which allows travel on all metro, bus and tram networks.

You can preload your card with the amount of money and zones you wish to use.

I don’t really recommend catching the metro as for us it has always been overcrowded. On each occasion we’ve used it we’ve had to wait for several full trains to pass before we could force our way on. The ladies-only carriages didn’t offer any advantage when travelling as a family.

Taxis are a convenient way of getting around the city if you’re only going to a few places. For a family of 4, the cost isn’t much more than the metro. They are all metered and you won’t need to haggle. Just be cautious during peak hours when you could be stuck on one of the many large roads in gridlock traffic.

Buses are common across Dubai but unless you really know where you are going then I wouldn’t worry.  The NOL card will include travel on buses if you want to have a go. We have seen horrendous queues at the public bus station in Dubai, they were so bad we gave up on catching one.

A train line connecting the Emirates is currently under construction.

Flights to Dubai

We were victims of a scam when we flew to Dubai. Maybe read this post on 3rd party bookings  (it opens in a new tab so you don’t lose this page)  before you pay for your flight. Most of the local airlines are very good indeed and are some of our favourite carriers in the world.

Both Etihad and Emirates are sometimes able to offer free layover accommodation if you have a long lay over in Dubai.

Arriving at Dubai’s Airports

Dubai has two airports located at opposite ends of the city. The Dubai International Airport with code DXB and the newer Al Maktoum International Airport with code DWC.

Dubai International (DXB) is the main airport and is one of the world’s busiest in terms of international travellers. The information below was correct last time we visited.

It has 3 terminals in total and terminals 1 and 3 (exclusively Emirates and Qantas) are connected via a walkway but terminal 2 is on the other side of the airport.

Getting into Dubai from DXB is easy with multiple options from taxis, private hire transfers, buses and even the metro trains which stop at both terminal 1 and 3 or terminal 2 on a separate line.

Transfers between terminals 1 & 3 and terminal 2 require a shuttle bus so allow plenty of time.

DWC is located some 50 km south of the old town and isn’t as well connected to transport links. Probably the easiest option when arriving is to catch a taxi directly to your hotel. This is more expensive than taxis from DXB. Not many airlines use the new airport and the chances of flying in here aren’t high.

If you need to connect between DWC and DXB then you can catch the metro line as far south as Ibn Battuta and then the dedicated bus directly to the airport. Obviously, it is the same in reverse.

Please double check all of this information for yourself, we do our best to stay current, but can’t guarantee this. I wouldn’t recommend this if you have large amounts of luggage.

The other option is taxi which will be expensive and take a long time. Allow plenty of time as traffic in Dubai can often be at a stand-still depending on the time of day.

Abu Dhabi airport is another option, Emirates / Etihad gave us a free transfer from Dubai to Abu Dhabi airport.

Dubai With Kids

Dubai is absolutely, without doubt, one of the best and easiest places in the world to take kids. It’s just not a cheap family destination!

There are hundreds of ultra-fun, family, and kid-friendly things to do in Dubai. My children love the camel safari we mentioned above, but there’s also the mall, beaches, pools, and theme parks.

Dubai is one of the most family-friendly destinations in the world, if you don’t mind the cost. Dubai is, of course, considered very safe.

For more cultural travel there is old Dubai and Arabic culture to discover. Maybe visit mosques such as Jumeirah Mosque.

Just some of the attractions for kids in Dubai are below. Things to do in Dubai with kids, that are child-friendly, include:

• Kidzania Dubai Mall
• Sega World Dubai Mall
• The Ice Rink at Dubai Mall
• Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo Dubai Mall
• Desert Safaris as mentioned here
• Legoland Dubai
• IMG World of Adventure Theme Park
• Bounce Dubai
• Wild Wadi Water Park near Jumeira Beach
• VR World Dubai Mall
• Dubai City Walk
• Aquaventure Water Park at Atlantis the Palm
• Dancing Fountains at the Burj Khalifa
• Dolphin Bay at Atlantis the Palm

Our full post on Dubai with kids is coming soon.

Dubai Beaches

The beaches were very clean and the water calm when we were last in Dubai. Water temperature wasn’t as warm as you’d think but not as cold as the Mediterranean.

The beaches have shops and restaurants backing them but there is little shade making it very hot and exposed in the middle of the day.

If you’re not staying on the beach, getting there will probably require a taxi or shuttle bus as the metro stopped a few blocks back. Our hotel provided a shuttle bus to the beach.

Swimwear is fine at the beach, but cover up elsewhere.

Finding Culture and History in Dubai- Old Dubai

It’s not just about gleaming skyscrapers. Down by The Creek, you can find the Al Fahidi Historical District where wind towers (see them above) coral block houses, and well-restored traditional Arabian doorways give you a glimpse into yesterday.

The historic area is relatively small but is nonetheless fascinating.

Take a tour as we did , before wandering down to The Creek, visiting the souks and Dubai Fort.

Dubai’s Gold and Spice Souks

Again these Dubai Souks are small compared to those you see in Istanbul or Egypt , but nonetheless, you should go.

Identify spices as you stroll the alleyways and be stunned by just how much gold it’s possible to wear.

Just be very, very wary of buying. Some of the biggest rip-offs we’ve ever seen are here. ALWAYS ask the price first, even for camel milk ice cream.

Cross The Creek by boat from Old Dubai to get here.

Dubai Museum of The Future

Dubai’s new Museum of the Future is due to open on February 22nd 2022. Obviously, we haven’t been, but if it opened on time we’ll be there soon. It looks incredible.

Visitors journey into a future over multiple floors of a stunningly beautiful construction.

Visit the website here to learn more. It’s on Sheikh Zayed Road and tickets should be available soon.

Dubai Creek

Dubai Creek divides Dubai into two areas, Deira and Bur Dubai.

It was the main port and entry to Dubai for many years and it wasn’t until 1963 that the first bridge was built over it.

You can still take boats across the creek but they are mainly for tourists and a few people commuting between the two areas.

A boat ride costs very little and is a nice thing to do when visiting the souks and Old Dubai. These attractions are on either side of The Creek.

The Fish Market

The old Deira Dubai fish market which had been around for decades finally shut its doors as the new Waterfront market opened.

The old market was a great place to visit but it was tired and was long overdue for an upgrade.

Being so busy the vendors had taken to selling their wares in the parking lot out the front.

Like most things in Dubai, it wasn’t updated but replaced with a brand new purpose-built market.

Located near Hamriya Port, the Waterfront Market offers fresh fish, meat, fruits, and vegetables. It has everything any modern market would have with coffee shops and restaurants opening as development progresses.

It isn’t on the metro line so I’d suggest a taxi and get there early to see the day’s catch.

The Date Market

Part of the old Deira Market, the fruit and vegetable market will also be moving to the new Waterfront Market further north.

It will take a while to get it up and running properly and make sure that all the shops have tenants but when it is finished it will be great to see.

The largest mall in the world by area is how this mall is often described and you could easily lose days here.

We loved Dubai aquarium on the ground floor of The Dubai Mall and the Burj Khalifa outside where you’ll be able to see the water fountain display every evening.

Please check times and dates for variations.

Getting to and from the mall was easy with either the crowded metro (don’t try and catch it during peak hour) or the taxi ranks located at designated areas on the lower ground floor.

During peak hour we had an hour wait to catch a taxi but the designated waiting areas are well manned and all taxis were official and on meters.

You’ll notice that many of the attractions listed above under Dubai with Kids are in the mall. Add to these, one of the biggest candy stores we’ve ever seen (it was opposite the huge viewing tank of the aquarium) and you have kid paradise.

Where is the Dubai Mall?

The Dubai Mall is in the city of Dubai in the United Arab Emirates, a country in the continent of Asia, and the Middle East. It is located on Financial Center Street, Along Sheikh Zayed Road, Next to the Burj Khalifa and Dubai fountains.It is part of the Downtown centre, known as Downtown Dubai, a building project which took over 20 million dollars to create. It has it’s own Metro stop and parking for cars. The nearest Metro Stop is the the Burj Khalifa/The Dubai Mall station but the walk to the Dubai Mall itself, from the station, is around 15 minutes through air-conditioned walkways and shops.

The Dubai Mall and Mall of The Emirates are two different places.

Tours of Dubai

We’ve always found it hard to book tours in Dubai, the only local option seems to be to book via your hotel.

Of course, they have an agenda and will point you towards the tours that pay them best.

We first discovered GetYourGuide in Dubai when we booked our Desert Safari (book using this link) and have been using them ever since. They have a lowest price guarantee and come with the peace of mind that a big company gives you.

We use them, we trust them. There are dozens of tours, from sightseeing to dinners to major adventures and thrills that only Dubai can provide. Check out the top Dubai tours and attractions here.

Tours From Dubai

Abu Dhabi is the capital of the United Arab Emirates and multiple tours are available from Dubai.

These are very popular and well worth doing. We tried and failed to get from Dubai to Abu Dhabi by bus. In the end we took a free shuttle.

Read about getting f rom Dubai to Abu Dhabi here .

Dubai Currency and Cash

The currency of Dubai is the UAE Dirham and most transactions in Dubai will be via Apple Pay, Google Pay or any major credit card.

Read our full post on handling money and currency exchange in Dubai.

Burj Khalifa

The tallest building in the world (it may not be now) it stands at 829.8 m in downtown Dubai.

It is so high that we heard people living above the 80th floor should wait 2 minutes and people above 150 should wait 3 minutes before eating during Ramadan as the setting sun can still be seen from these floors.

The building is mixed usage, with apartments, restaurants, offices and viewing areas. It has won many awards for its architecture.

The Burk Khalifa also holds numerous records for base jumping, both official and unofficial.

Each night it hosts a water fountain display which is located just outside of the Dubai Mall at the base of the Burj.

We’ve enjoyed this Dubai fountain show several times now, it’s quite special. Expect crowds.

At the end of the display is when taxi ranks at the mall will be very full. It can easily take an hour to get into a taxi.

Burj Al Arab

The beautiful Burj Al Arab on Jumeirah Beach is said to be the most luxurious hotel in the world. It’s 6 star status actually came about because of a misunderstanding.

It’s certainly a stunning building and a trip to the beach will give you great views. If you’d like to stay, check it out . I know I would.

Food in Dubai

Obviously, you can get anything you’d like in Dubai, it’s a big modern city. The most authentic local food we found was probably on our cultural tour and Emirati lunch and the street snacks we bought in the souk near Old Dubai (pictured above).

We tend to self-cater a lot in Dubai, not my favourite thing, but good cheap eats are thin on the ground.

Look out for the supermarket chain, Spinneys, there seems to be one every few paces.

What to Wear in Dubai

Surprisingly, there are no hard and fast restrictive dress rules around Dubai.

You’ll see women fully covered through personal choice while others wear swimsuits or bikinis at the beach and around pools.

However, if you’re heading to the mall, a restaurant, market, or really, any public place. Show some respect in terms of dress.

Certain items are not allowed, very short shorts and skirts, crop tops, strappy tops and so on.

Cover up from shoulders to knees and all should be well.

Men should also show similar respect.

Please check current requirements and dress regulations for anywhere you’re planning to visit in Dubai.

The locals always seemed dressed to the nines and you’ll be amazed by the well-groomed, fragrant, dazzlingly white-robed men and their immaculately made up partners.

Even if you can only see eyes, those eyes will be faultless and captivating.

Dubai-Best Times to Visit

December is a popular time to visit Dubai, with school holidays, Christmas, and cooler temperatures making Dubai a great winter sun destination.

Probably the worst time to visit Dubai would be July and August, when you could see temperatures up to 50C.

The best time to visit Dubai is generally the cooler months, November through to February. But Easter can be OK too.

Generally, Dubai is a winter destination for most northern hemisphere tourists (UK, Europe, USA), a summer destination for Australians escaping the Melbourne, Canberra, Sydney or Adelaide cold!

Can You Drink the Tap Water in Dubai?

Nearly all the drinking water in Dubai comes from desalination. The government has stated that it is safe to drink when it leaves the processing plants.

A lot of locals don’t drink the water blaming bad taste and the pipes that carry it.

We’re happy brushing our teeth with tap water but wouldn’t be drinking glasses of it.

Can You See Shows in Dubai?

Yes, Dubai has numerous shows, the biggest and best is probably La Perle by Dragone .

You can also see a belly dancing and tanoura dance show on most desert safaris in Dubai.

What to Take With You to Dubai

There’s very little that you’d need to pack for Dubai that you can’t buy there. Dubai culture revolves around shopping, they’ll have what you need. 

You’ll be in a city, so the sort of travel gadgets we normally recommend are redundant.

Theft isn’t a big worry but think about anti theft bags and devices particularly for the souks.  

Dubai is one of the places that we visit to stock up on things like good quality jeans and underwear, so don’t over-pack.

That’s it for now. We’re heading to Dubai again this autumn so this post will be updated yet again and more content added. It was a pleasure creating this Dubai travel blog and guide to help you plan your trip to Dubai and UAE. Can you use the red Pinterest button below to save this post to Pinterest? Or hover over the centre of one of the long images and a button will appear by magic. You can then choose which Pinterest image you like best. Thanks!

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If you'd like to hire a car during your stay, use this car rental comparison tool to find the best deal! We also suggest you take a look at this company to get a quote for all kinds of the more tricky adventure or extended travel insurance. Try Stayz / VRBO for an alternative way to find rentals on homes/apartments/condos in any country!

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Alyson Long

Everest base camp trek itinerary, ​best gyms in dubai, 84 thoughts on “dubai travel blog”.

What a great article! We’re lucky enough to be a photography company based in Dubai. You’re quite right about the best view of the Burj Al Arab being from Jumeirah beach. We’ve shot headshots there a few times.

Nice Blog, Can you next write a text about yacht in Dubai and the market development?

No, I can’t. I write about travel Tim. And we don’t take spammy guest posts.

It is interesting to read how you enjoyed many diverse experiences during your Dubai travel. I have always been eager to visit Dubai.

I love how you have gone from making modest amounts through your blogs to now making enough to fund your families lifestyle. It is truly inspiring. Keep doing what you do, so that we can continue to follow and learn from you, as we muddle our way through a journey of our own!

Your blog is a captivating read, beautifully showcasing the wonders of Dubai’s tourism and travel scene. It serves as an excellent guide for people seeking to discover the vibrant attractions and unique experiences Dubai has to offer. From stunning landmarks to fascinating cultural insights, Dubai is undeniably a delightful destination to explore.

Additionally, Dubai provides exceptional transportation options, including the renowned Dubai metro. With its extensive network and state-of-the-art facilities, the Dubai Metro offers a convenient and efficient way to navigate the city. Travelers can enjoy a comfortable and seamless journey while admiring the modern architecture and stunning cityscape from the metro’s panoramic windows.

To elevate your travel experience further, consider complementing your adventures with the luxury of a chauffeur-driven car. Indulge in the convenience and opulence of a luxury vehicle, ensuring a truly memorable and effortless trip throughout Dubai.

The Dubai metro can be very crowded. As a family we normally just take a taxi.

Very insightful blog! Thanks for sharing helpful information.

See why so many travelers make La Quinta Jumeriah by Wyndham their hotel of choice when visiting Dubai. Providing an ideal mix of value, comfort and convenience, it offers an array of amenities designed for travelers like you.

La Quinta Dubai is the perfect choice for a luxurious and comfortable stay in Dubai. Ranked as the top hotel on Tripadvisor, our hotel apartments in Dubai offer exceptional hospitality and customer satisfaction. Book your stay at Dubai’s best hotel now!

Nice Blog, Thank you for sharing this information with us. We also provide family taxis with baby car seats. You can also visit our website.

Your description of Dubai travel really seems tempting. I am actually looking for cleartrip flights that will help me get the same experience in Dubai. I have always dreamt of witnessing the true beauty of the deserts. I wished to witness the belly dance myself and now you have mentioned it in this post and tempted me further. Nice post!

What a sensational guide here. Dubai has long been on our list. The closest we’ve been was Oman, when visiting Nizwa. I just love the feel in that part of the world. Middle Eastern hospitality is epic.

Hi Ryan good to hear from you again, we’re actually off to Jordan tomorrow, another Middle Eastern country checked off.

All place is nice but Dubai Love Lake is most top place according to me.

Thanks, we’ll add that soon.

You write such beautiful blog, and its help to introduce people with dubai tourism and travel, peoples make there holidays to know about that places and ideas, dubai is a such a lovely place. Enjoy your trip with luxury car with chauffeur service.

What a great article! We’re currently dreaming of going to Dubai again – we’ve been there before and we love, love love it! Here’s to a year with loads of travel plans and new experiences!

We offer Dubai Tour Packages From India at an affordable price. Dubai is one of the most visited travel destinations across the globe and this destination is not only for honeymooners but also for the solo travelers and for family vacationers.

Looking forward to try out some of these places! We’ll be in Dubai next Fall… can’t wait to get there. Talitha

Hi Talitha! Good to see you here again. Hopefully, we’ll be out of here about June, still don’t have passports, and D just bought himself a new kitten, so I don’t think he’ll want to leave here. She’s on the Tropical Food Garden Instagram, super cute. Have a great trip!

I really like this article you have written. Most of the things you mention here are very accurate. We also have Luxury Holiday Homes in Dubai.

Wonderful post! I recently filled out the Dubai Visa Application Form with the help of a reputable visa consultancy. Since then, I have been looking for some interesting places to visit in Dubai. That is when I stumbled upon your post. Your interesting Dubai travel guide coupled with beautiful pictures has piqued my interest. I am pretty excited to visit Dubai with my husband next month.

Strange. We’ve never needed a visa for Dubai.

What a great article! We’re lucky enough to be a photography company based in Dubai. You’re quite right about the best view of the Burj Al Arab being from Jumeirah beach. We’ve shot headshots there a few times.

Hi, It’s great content. This is the ultimate guide for first-time Dubai travelers. Really informative and fun to read, I am planning to visit Dubai, I have book also H Hotel Dubai, as per my google search The H Dubai Hotel is located right in the heart of the Middle East’s most dynamic city. The city’s main attractions including Burj Khalifa, Dubai Frame, Dubai Mall, Dubai Garden Glow, La Mer Beach, and Dubai World Trade Center are a short distance from the hotel.

You have a comprehensive Dubai travel guide here. This will help travellers interested in doing self-packaging, find their way around Dubai. I’ve commented with love from Dubai tour pro.

Arabian Desert Safari

Dubai Desert Safari tour is among the very popular activities. The combination of various activities is the reason behind it,s popularity. Dubai desert safari deals include dinner, tours & shows.

Desert Safari Dubai Desert Safari Toura

Your content is amazing, I appreciate it. But if you want to off-roading in the desert of Dubai, You can contact us, we care about your experiences.

Greetings, Awesome blog. Burz Khalifa is my favorite place over there.

Beyond Dubai

Excellent post! Your Dubai travel experiences have nudged me to get a Dubai visa. Some of the adventure activities like camel riding, dune jumping, belly dancing and desert safaris look really enjoyable. I would love to experience all these amazing attractions and more in Dubai with my lovely wife. Hope she likes the short Dubai getaway.

Excellent Article Loved it, thanks for sharing

RENT A DUNE BUGGY TOURS IN DUBAI You worry about dune buggy riding techniques, so you don’t need to worry about it all! Your safety is our priority. As our buggies are equipped with advanced modernized safety features with comfortable bucket seats giving you all the cushion you need to immerse yourself in the red crystals of desert dunes.

WOW Amazing I absolutely enjoyed every part of your website and i also have you bookmarked to see new stuff in your site.

Etihad Airline flight, Just amazing — they’ve never been late for me, but Etihad booking cancellation policy is easy to understand. After searching so much about the modification policy, finally, I got a solution. They have crisp, short, and relevant information about modification, cancellation, check-in, Baggage, and Pet policy. They helped me a lot during the harsh Covid-19 time. I am very thankful to the team of airlinespolicy.

The Golden Sands series of apartment hotels is good.

explanation of Dubai Tourism by your blog is a very good manner

Don’t miss Emirati food. Bin Eid Restaurant is the Best and oldest Emirati restaurant in Dubai

this blog is really helpful for travelling to Dubai however, home to more than 200 nationalities; Dubai is very tolerant, cosmopolitan and multicultural. This rainbow of diversity brings an array of delectable global cuisines, fashion and delightful entertainment from around the world right to its shores, much to the delight of curious visitors. When in Dubai, just as in any other foreign destination, respect for local customs and culture is important and it’s recommended to dress modestly, particularly in public spaces like shopping malls and restaurants and when visiting the heritage areas just like Al Fahidi Dubai and the Dubai Creek. There are few things you should take care of while visiting to Dubai.

This guide is very interesting and I came to know many things about Dubai through this blog. However there is one thing very less people are aware about. Bird-watchers will be thrilled to hear that there are over 320 bird species that migrate between Europe, Asia and Africa via Dubai. During the spring and fall, birds such as spotted eagles, broad-billed sandpipers, and greater herons pass through the city. They can be seen on a visit to Ras al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary and a falconry safari is a must for bird-lovers young and old. Experience the traditional sport of falconry first-hand with a greater spotted eagle, Harris’ hawk, and desert eagle owl.

The answer is that the flight tickets, hotel fares, and hence the overall package cost would be high as the lock-down lifts.

Your blog has literally provided all the impetus to visit Dubai with my kids. I can imagine myself enjoying in this city with my family as I was going through it. I have already been to this city twice on an official tour. That’s why I couldn’t explore it to the fullest owing to the lack of time. But I will see to it that I spend a full fledged vacation here very soon with my family.

Good to hear!

Dubai is indeed a must-go travel destination in the Middle East, especially during this winter season. You will enjoy every amenities and events in every nook and corner of the city. The way you have described Dubai in your blog makes it more exciting for travelers from all over the world to be here soon.

Hi! Great content. This is the ultimate guide for first time Dubai travelers. Really informative and fun to read! 🙂 I think your readers would find this little info on Car rental services in Dubai to be useful!

Very interesting and informative blogs. Must read

This is excellent Travel guide thanks for sharing;

wow….so nice…. Dubai mall is so amazing…….

well written,… congrats,,,,,,,,,

Very informative blog.

Even Dubai natives may not know this much about Dubai.

A definitive Dubai Travel Blog anyone ever needs in my opinion.

Keep up the good work.

All the best,

Exellent info about Dubai

Thanks for sharing such an important information with us but i also want to add one point that you don’t mention, Dubai’s safe and secure taxi service…i experienced taxi service last month for the first time really it was fabulous.

Hi, I am planning to visit Dubai. I have a craze to go on the safari desert, and I also have amazed to see water parks in Dubai. Can you please recommend a budget to enjoy 15 days in Dubai. Should I wait for the off-season to travel?

I can’t really advise on a budget because we all spend differently. Dubai is an expensive destination. You will be spending – probably a few hundred dollars a day depending on what you do and what you spend, up to thousands per day if you stay at the Burj. All these tours are pretty expensive too. You can self cater and eat at McDonalds or use nice restaurants. You can spend a fortune or you can keep it as budget as possible. I’m sorry I can’t really help much more.

Iam going to Dubai in Nov.19 as single passenger through a travel agency. Can I visit all places safely with the cab driver.Though the travels is watching me via WhatsApp, is this safe ? Iam 68 years old.can I go around all the places easily without any guide?.

In my opinion, yes, but you can find bad people anywhere, I’ve never felt unsafe in Dubai. The opposite infact, I feel highly safe there and have wandered around by myself, as a woman, often. They have tough laws. Just follow normal safety procedures.

Your blog is unbelievably fantastic. This is very nice and informative blog. National Day UAE 2019 .

Great post! Thanks for sharing. I think a lot of travellers are looking for more ops to make those cultural connections and see more.

EXCELLENT ARTICLE…

Thank you. Appreciated.

Thanks For deep knowledge about Dubai Foods and Clothes

Thanks for sharing the post. Dubai is the perfect place to enjoy the holiday with family.

Beautiful article, Really interesting to read. I have gone to Dubai one year later with the assistance of a tour operator . I got a wonderful experience. Thanks for sharing this article.

Very well explained all about dubai travel guide. Thanks for the great dubai travel ideas. Very informative post indeed.

This was a complete article on Dubai. Thanks for sharing this amazing knowledge. Keep up the good work, Cheers!!!

The best time to explore Dubai is in Winter time. Dubai is known for its luxury homes, this guide is more than that. thank you for sharing your experience.

Very comprehensive blog post on Dubai tour. It is beneficial for all the visitors who are going to Dubai. Thanks for sharing this with us!

Hi Alyson Long,

Thanks for sharing your knowledge about Dubai. It’s very helpful for me when I visit in Dubai as a traveler or I am also happy to read your travel blog because I also love traveling.

I simply say keep it up and don’t stop writing a blog for travels

Hi, can you suggest any site for tours and trips in emirates or dubai? Which one will be used there? I found getyouguide, tripadvisor and tripsemirates.com. Thanks, Tony

We provide links to GetYourGuide tours on this page. Scroll back up and have a look, we use them a lot and can certainly recommend the desert safaris we mention above, we also tried an speed boat tour recently. They are our preferred company.

Yes. We took the on off bus. It has three different guided tours, each a different color. We did all 3 in one day. Reasonably priced, Feel like we saw all highlights of Dubai.

Very easy to get a taxi or hop on the Metro also. But beware bad traffic and packed trains. It’s not a place you can walk much other than down around The Creek, Old Dubai and the Souks, with the little fery boats to cross.

Desert Safari Dubai is an amazing trip that will give you a unique experience. The undulating sands are not only an attraction, but they are an adventure that you should not miss. The sand will beckon you with the shine and mystery that is has hidden in it. The desert is one of natures amazing gifts to mankind that you should go on a Desert Safari to fall in love with the sand dunes.

I really like the blog you have written on Dubai very informative and in detail. I think you covered almost everything from hotels to popular places, activities, travelling, etc

Nice and simple guide for people planning to visit Dubai! I saw the city while watching live cricket match in Dubai. The city is very beautiful! I would love to go there!

Hi. I just came across your blog and wanted to know if there’s any place in Dubai where tourists can go horseriding?

I’m sure there are although I’ve never done it. Use the links above to the other tours and search through what’s listed there. Have fun !

Hi, We will be there in Dubai from 31/10/2018 to 14/11/2018. With my three kids,wife and mother.we are looking for deals at popular destinations.any suggestions?

Just spent 2 days in Dubai. The airport and process,of entering are seamlessly organized. Everyone very helpful, We chose,the Big Bus, on and off for tours of the city, marina and beach. Well worth the beautiful sites and stories of Dubai. We also visited Dubai Mall and saw the beautiful fountain light display.

We are planning a trip for Dubai in late December for roundabout 8-9 days We are a family of 4 including 2 children Can you help plan a tour? We are planning to save on the accommodation by buying some apartments but can’t find any reasonable options.

Hello! We will go to Dubai on Dec. 23 to 30, any suggestion for our itinerary? Any any suggested hotel which is cheap, comfy and near to mall and metro. Thanks in advance.

I’ll get back to you ASAP Loren. Been up Everest!

My husband and I are headed to Dubai in October as part of our round the world adventure. There seems to be conflicted information about brining in prescription medications, I am prescribed meds for anxiety and sleep. Have you heard problems arising at customs? We plan to have original bottles, prescriptions and letter from doctor. Any feedback would be helpful. Thank you.

Hi Jude. We don’t have prescription drugs so no first hand experience, but yes, it DOES happen. Keep all drugs in their original containers and have your doctor’s notification, but also check which drugs and medications are illegal or banned in Dubai. It’s not just Dubai, certain drugs, legal in your own country, can get you into deep trouble in others, even if prescribed. I’m sorry I can’t be much more help than that.

Thank you for the insights! I am heading to Dubai this autumn and look forward to exploring this amazing city.

Have a great time Claudette!

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DUBAI TRAVEL GUIDE with Budget Itinerary

A mixture of sadness, pride, and joy enveloped my heart when a very dear friend announced that she had been reassigned to their company’s UAE office. Sadness because I was losing yet another friend to a faraway land. We had been very close, and the thought of not being able to constantly see her or talk to her brought tears to my eyes. Pride because this was the promotion she had been hoping for. And joy, because — and I’m embarrassed to admit this — I finally found a reason to visit Dubai.

Well, in true Catriona Gray fashion, I’m always that guy who finds a silver lining and makes a run for it. Months later, I was in Dubai.

WHAT'S COVERED IN THIS GUIDE?

UNDERSTANDING DUBAI

Dubai is a true global city, where people from all around the world come together. It is the capital of the Emirate of Dubai, one of the seven emirates that make up the United Arab Emirates (UAE). The other six are Abu Dhabi, Ajman, Fujairah, Ras Al Khaimah, Sharjah, and Umm Al Quwain.

Although Dubai City is the capital of the Emirate of Dubai, it is not the federal capital of the UAE. That title belongs to Abu Dhabi. Yet, Dubai is the most populous, with the biggest fraction of the population composed of migrant workers, like the rest of the country. For many, like my friend, it is a land of opportunity. Much of the economy is driven by foreign migrant workers, which make up 80% of UAE’s population and 90% of its workforce.

Dubai is also the most popular destination among tourists, registering an estimated 16.7 million visitors in 2018 alone. Dubai has become the region’s banner city for opulence and grandeur. It is well-known for its ambitious projects like its artificial offshore islands and towering skyscrapers like Burj Khalifa, the tallest man-made structure in the world.

Here are more facts about this city.

• Location : Dubai Emirate, United Arab Emirates. UAE lies on the southeastern chunk of the Arabian peninsula in Western Asia (what many westerners like to call the Middle East). The UAE shares its borders with Saudi Arabia to the south and Oman to the east. Coordinates: 25°15′47″N 55°17′50″E.
• Time Zone : UTC+4 (UAE Standard Time). Dubai is 4 hours behind the Philippines, Singapore or Malaysia; and 5 hours behind Japan.
• Language : Arabic is the national language and the official language of the UAE. But English is the second language and is widely spoken.
• Currency : UAE dirham (AED, Dhs, د.إ). AED 1 is roughly equivalent to PHP14, USD 0.27, SGD 0.37, EUR 0.24 (as of July 2019).
• Modes of Payment : Cash and credit cards are both commonly accepted.

WHERE TO STAY IN DUBAI

Dubai is a coastal city, a long stretch of concrete caught between the waves of the Persian Gulf and the dunes of the vast Arabian Desert. The city is divided into several districts but these are what tourists should be more familiar with.

• Downtown Dubai. If you haven’t been to Dubai, this is probably the image that first pops in your head when you imagine the city. Downtown Dubai is where you’ll find some of the city’s most iconic structures including Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building, and Dubai Mall, one of the world’s largest shopping complexes. It is also sometimes called the New Dubai.
• Dubai Marina. This is one of the most ideal places to stay in the city, which is probably why most European expats live here. It is hemmed in by a beach and is easily accessible. It is also close to a lot of attractions.
• Jumeirah Beach. Another seaside district that is linked to almost anywhere in the city. Jumeirah is centrally located, surrounded by the Marina, the Downtown area, and the Old City. It is home to diverse communities including Europeans, Pakistanis, and Filipinos.
• Al Barsha. Situated between Marina and Jumeirah. The great thing about this area is that it is well-connected to the rest of the city. You’ll also find several mid-range hotels here.
• Bur Dubai. The heart and soul of Dubai. When they say Old City, they usually mean Bur Dubai. This was the center of the city before all the developments happened. If you want a more cultural and historical approach to your trip, this is the place to be. Lots of vibrant souks (bazaars), traditional structures, assorted restaurants, and cheap accommodations.
• Deira. Traditionally considered an extension of the Old City. Think of it as a more modern Bur Dubai, also with plenty of affordable dining, shopping, and lodging options. The best part about Deira is its proximity to the airport.

Best Area to Stay in Dubai

What’s the best area? It depends on what you want to experience and how much you’re willing to spend. The Downtown and Marina areas are closest to the modern attractions but are notably expensive. When you search for hotels online, don’t be shocked to see hotels at USD 400 to 1000 per night. Dubai is widely considered a luxury destination, so there are dozens of luxury hotels especially in these areas. There are a few more affordable options.

Bur Dubai and Deira offer a more traditional experience at a significantly lower price. If you’re on a budget, Bur Dubai and Deira may offer more options that are within your spending range. You can find a double room at a great hotel for USD 100 per night. Budget hotels are also available, offering much cheaper rooms.

Top Budget Hotels in Dubai

• Rove City Centre. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• Rove Trade Centre. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• Rose Park Hotel Al Barsha. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• Roda Links Al Nasr. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• Zabeel House MINI Al Seef. Check Rates & Availability! ✅

Top Dubai Hostels and Dorms

A more pocket-friendly option is staying at a hostel. Although very few of them are available, they are all around the city, even in the pricier districts. You can find a dorm bed for USD 20 to 30 per night.

Here are some Dubai hostels that can be booked via Agoda.

• AtTheTop Bed & Breakfast. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• Backpacker 16 Dubai Hostel. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• California Hostel Dubai Beach. Check Rates & Availability! ✅
• Super Stay. Check Rates & Availability! ✅

Search for more Dubai Hotels!

How to get to dubai.

Dubai is served by two airports: Dubai International Airport (DXB) and Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC).

Dubai International Airport (DXB). Located northeast of the city center, near Deira. DXB is the busiest airport in the world by international passenger traffic. DXB is also the hub for airlines Emirates and flydubai. These two airlines alone connect Dubai to over 150 cities around the globe.

Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC). Located south of the city center. Only a handful of commercial flights are operated here, primarily by Russia’s flag carrier Aeroflot and European low-cost airlines like Wizz Air. Most flights are seasonal.

If you’re coming from Manila, the cheapest non-stop flights are operated by Cebu Pacific and Philippine Airlines. Here’s a quick random search on SkyScanner.

Emirates sometimes reduce their rates when there’s a promo.

All three airlines use DXB. Travel time from Manila is usually 9 hours, 30 minutes.

DUBAI AIRPORT TO CITY CENTER

The good news is, the Dubai International Airport is situated not too far from the city center. In fact, you can get to Bur Dubai in 15 minutes or Deira in 5 minutes. Here are some of your options.

• BY METRO. Dubai Airport is directly connected to the metro system, so just find out the metro station closest to your hotel. Both Terminals 1 and 3 have their own metro station. There’s one train leaving either station every 10 minutes. Operating hours: Saturday-Wednesday, 5:50am-12 midnight; Thursday, 5:30am-1am; Friday, 1pm-1am. Travel time: 15-20 minutes to Bur Dubai/Downtown, 2-5 minutes to Deira Fare: AED5 to Bur Dubai/Downtown, AED3-5 to Deira,
• BY TAXI. There’s a cab queue right outside the terminal. For taxis picked up at the airport, a flagdown rate of AED25 applies. Then, AED1.96 is charged per succeeding km. Travel time: 10 minutes to Deira, 15-20 minutes to Bur Dubai or Downtown Estimated fare: AED50-60 to Bur Dubai, AED 60-70 to Downtown.
• BY UBER/CAREEM. Uber operates in Dubai, so if you’re more comfortable with it, you can use this app to reach the city effortlessly. Aside from Uber, there’s also Careem, another transportation app, which you can use to book a private car or even taxi.

Note that if you decide to take the metro, you’re allowed only 2 suitcases and you must store them in dedicated areas.

HOW TO GET AROUND DUBAI

Dubai has one of the most advanced transportation system in the region, with a very uncomplicated metro, plenty of ride-sharing options, and the usual taxi service. But before we delve deeper into each, it is important to be familiar with the transport zones.

The city’s public transportation network is run and managed by Roads and Transport Authority (RTA), a branch of the local government. The agency has centralized all modes of transportation into a system that appears intimidating at first, but is more forgiving once you get the hang of it.

The city is divided into seven fare zones. But for tourists, most of the points of interest are within Zones 2, 6 and 5.

Here are the zones that cover some of the most visited areas:

• Zone 2: Dubai Marina, the Palm Jumeirah, Al Barsha
• Zone 6: Downtown Dubai (Burj Khalifa, Dubai Mall), Bur Dubai
• Zone 7: Deira, Dubai International Airport

You can use RTA’s Journey Planner to figure out the best route you can take and the corresponding fare. The fare depends on the number of zones your journey will straddle and the type of ticket you use. Speaking of tickets…

Understanding Nol Cards

Nol cards are reloadable cards that give you easy access to Dubai’s public transportation system including the metro, buses, trams, and the Dubai ferry. All you need to do is hover the card above the reader and go. It’s similar to Hong Kong’s Octopus card or Singapore’s EZ card, but because of the zonal fares, it’s actually much closer to Melbourne’s myki, if you’re familiar with it.

There are four cards available: red, silver, gold, and blue (personalized). Assuming that you’re staying in Dubai for a short time, let’s just focus on the RED TICKET because it’s the most suitable for tourists.

The RED Ticket is a disposable paper ticket that you can top up. Here’s what you need to know about it.

• Price: AED 6 (AED 2 for the actual card and AED 4 balance that you can use immediately)
• Reload limit: Can only be used up to 10 single journeys or 5 daily passes. (I’ll explain these daily passes later).
• Types: It can only be used on one mode of transportation at a time. For example, METRO only or BUS only. You cannot use one card for metro and then a bus later. You will have to buy separate tickets if you change the mode of transport.
• Validity: Valid for 90 days.

For short-term visitors, the RED Ticket is often sufficient. But if you’re interested in other types, we have a separate post for it.

If you feel like you’ll be taking public transportation multiple times a day, you might want to consider purchasing a pass instead of paying for every single ride. Purchasing a pass means you get to use the metro or bus for an unlimited number of times within the covered period.

The pass comes in five variants, tagged by number of days: 1-day, 7-day, 30-day, 90-day and 365-day passes.

A 1-Day Pass that covers all zones costs AED 22 (AED 2 for the card + AED 20 balance).

Note that your RED TICKET must have a minimum balance equivalent to 1 trip or 1 daily pass. Other cards must have a minimum of AED 7.5. Spot checks are done, and penalties apply.

Wifi Rental and Local SIM in Dubai

For extra help when navigating or taking public transportation around Dubai, stay connected! A good Internet connection will allow you to use travel apps like Google Maps and Uber. You can also use one of the many Dubai Metro apps available.

Klook offers pocket wifi devices for rent and local data SIM cards that you can pick up at Dubai International Airport. Choose whatever is better for you. Both options will give you access to the city’s 4G/LTE network. If you’re a group, the pocket wi-fi might be more convenient.

Dubai Metro links most of the city’s most popular attractions. It is composed of only two lines: RED and GREEN. It’s also easy to use. Just touch on your Nol card as you pass through the gates and make your way to the platforms to catch a train.

Trains run frequently from 5:50am-12 midnight (Saturday-Wednesday); 5:30am-1am (Thursday); 1pm-1am (Friday). Note that in Dubai, weekend is Friday-Saturday.

Here are some things you need to know about Dubai Metro.

• It is generally comfortable, but expect some crowding during rush hours (7-9am and 4-7pm).
• There are separate cars for GOLD class passengers. You must only use it if you’re holding a GOLD nol card. Otherwise, you might be fined a substantial amount.
• Female passengers may also choose to use the FEMALE-ONLY cars.
• Chewing gum, eating, drinking, and sleeping are prohibited onboard the metro.
• Nol cards have a minimum balance that you must maintain. It’s AED 7.5 for silver, gold, and blue cards; and the equivalent of one trip or a daily pass for the red ticket.
• Spot checks are sometimes done so always follow the rules. You don’t want to get fined.

There are plenty of Dubai Metro apps available on App Store and Google Play that you can use. Just make sure you know the nearest station to your origin and destination and it will show you how to get there (including the transfers) and how much the fare is.

With its network of wide roads, Dubai is a city ruled by cars. Despite the reliable metro, the taxi remains a very popular transportation mode. There are thousands of taxi units roaming the streets of Dubai.

A special fleet of pink cabs have also been deployed to serve female passengers. These taxis can pick up solo female passengers and groups with female members, but not solo males or male-only groups.

The standard taxi rate si AED 1.75/km. But take note of the following surcharges:

• Minimum fare: AED 12
• Regular taxi starting fare: AED 3 when hailed on the street, AED 6 when booked. A slightly higher night time rate applies (10pm-6am).
• Ladies taxi starting fare: AED 6 from 6am-10pm, AED 7 from 10pm-6am
• From the airport: AED 25
• When passing through the Sharjah border: AED 20
• When crossing a toll gate: AED 4

By Uber or Careem

Uber operates in Dubai, so if you’re more comfortable with it, you can use this app to reach the city effortlessly. Aside from Uber, there’s also Careem, another transportation app, which you can use to book a private car or even taxi.

According to my Dubai-based friends, the taxi is still slightly cheaper but Uber and Careem have better service. But between Uber and Careem, the latter is the better, cheaper option.

By Hop-On Hop-Off Bus

If you’re a fan of HOHO tourist buses, you’ll be glad that it’s also available in Dubai. If you’re not familiar, these are the open-top sightseeing buses that roam the city and makes a stop at some of the city’s most popular attractions. You don’t need to busy your mind with fares and navigation. All you need to do is hop in, present your ticket, and get off at your desired stop.

Here are some of the stops covered by the sightseeing bus.

• Burj Khalifa
• Jumeirah Mosque
• Mall of the Emirates
• Dubai Creek
• Deira City Center
• Miracle Garden

Global Village

There are 6 day routes and 2 night routes available. Each bus is also equipped with multi-lingual audio guide that can give more information about every stop. Every ticket also comes with FREE tours!

THINGS TO DO IN DUBAI

Burj khalifa observation deck.

Ride the world’s fastest elevator to the 124th-125th floor of the world’s tallest man-made structure, the Burj Khalifa. Enjoy a fantastic view of the emirates! If you want to skip the lines, you can book in advance below.

Hours Open: 8:30am–11pm, daily Nearest Metro Station: Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall Station (Red Line)

Dubai Desert Safari

This is definitely the most unforgettable tour that I did in Dubai! A desert safari tour usually starts in the afternoon and ends at night. It will take you on a 4×4 ride on the red dunes of the Arabian desert. You also get to watch the sunset and have a glimpse into the Bedouin culture. At night, dinner will be served as you enjoy a traditional show, including a tanoura and belly dancing performances.

You’ll find a lot of desert safari tours on Klook, and almost all of them offer the same package. But the two below are the most popular. The first one is the regular tour, while the other is a more premium service. Both options include hotel pickup and drop off, and service of an English-speaking guide.

IMG Worlds of Adventure

This is the world’s largest indoor theme park! It spans an area of 1.5 million sq. ft., featuring dozens of attractions inspired by Marvel (Thor, Spider-Man) and Cartoon Network (Powerpuff Girls, Ben 10) among others. There’s also a spooky Haunted Hotel, for horror fans out there.

Opening time: 11am until sunset. Closing time: Between 8pm and 11pm, depending on time of the year and day of the week. Closest Metro Station: Mall of the Emirates Station (Red Line). From here, you can take a cab to IMG Worlds of Adventure.

Legoland Dubai

Legoland Dubai is the first Legoland in Western Asia. It harbors 40+ Lego-themed attractions and divided into six zones! It’s perfect for kids and kids at heart!

Opening time: 10am Closing time: Between 6pm and 8pm, depending on time of the year and day of the week. Nearest Metro Station: Ibn Battuta Station (Red Line). From here, take the bus to Dubai Parks and Resorts. There are 26 trips from 7am until 11:15pm.

Dubai City Tour

One of the best ways to truly appreciate the city is by joining a group tour. Not only will you get to see the tourist sites, you also learn about them along the way, with insights from locals. Klook’s Dubai City Tour will take you to some of the city’s historic and modern wonders alike including Burj Al Arab, Burj Khalifa, Jumeirah Mosque, Dubai Museum, and Palm Island. Hotel pick up and drop off are included.

Dubai Mall is one of the largest shopping malls in the world. Aside from a great selection of stores and restaurants, it houses a lot of attractions that the whole family can enjoy including KidZania and the VR Park.

If you plan on trying out three of the attractions here, it would be best to purchase a Dubai Mall Attraction Pass, which you can use for up to 30 days. It also comes with a FREE SIM card worth AED65.

Hours Open: 10am-12am, daily. Nearest Metro Station: Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall Station (Red Line).

Mall of the Emirates and Ski Dubai

The Mall of the Emirates is another well-known mall in Dubai with over 600 retail shops and 100 restaurants. Aside from shopping, it also takes pride in its fun attractions including Ski Dubai, an indoor ski park where you can enjoy snow activities like skiing and hamster balling!

Mall Hours: Sunday-Wednesday, 10am-10pm; Thursday-Saturday, 10am-12am. Ski Dubai Hours: Sunday-Thursday, 10am-12am; Friday-Saturday, 9am-12am. Closest Metro Station: Mall of the Emirates Station (Red Line).

Wild Wadi Water Park

Although situated next to a vast desert, Dubai has an obsession with water parks. One of the most established name is Wild Wadi Water Park, which boasts 30 heart-racing waterslides and rides, including the 32-meter Jumeirah Sceirah, the tallest slide in the region. I think this has been featured on the Amazing Race a couple of times, too!

Operating hours: 10am until sunset. Closing time is between 5:30pm and 10pm, depending on time of the year. Closest Metro Station: Mall of the Emirates Station (Red Line). From here, you can take a cab or the Bus 81 to Wild Wadi.

Dubai Marina and Jumeirah Beaches

The coast of Dubai Marina and Jumeirah District are fringed with public beaches (JBR Beach, Jumeira Public Beach). You can swim, get a tan, or simple admire the view here.

Aside from the beach, visitors tend to gravitate towards The Walk , a waterfront boulevard flanked with retail outlets, cafes, and restaurants.

Dubai Miracle Garden

This is the biggest natural flower garden in the world, covering an area of over 70,000 square meters. The park features flowering plants that are creatively sculpted to mimic landmarks, animals, and other beautiful shapes. It’s a vibrant destination for the whole family, especially children!

It is not open year-round. The garden is routinely closed to the public in the extreme summer months (some time in April/May until October). It reopens some time in November.

Entrance Fee: Adult, 50 AED; Child (2-12yo), 40AED; Child below 2yo, FREE. Operating hours: November-April, 9am until 9pm/11pm. Closest Metro Station: Mall of the Emirates Station (Red Line). From here, you can take a cab or the Bus 105 to Dubai Miracle Garden.

Global Village is an international cultural theme park that combines tourism, entertainment and shopping. The cultures of around 90 countries are featured here, which makes a visit fascinating and, to a certain extent, educational. I enjoyed my time exploring this park, especially at night!

NOT open year-round! It welcomes visitors only from late October/early November until early April. Closed from April to October. The exact dates vary every year.

Entrance Fee: Adult, 15 AED; Child below 3yo or senior above 65yo, FREE. Operating hours: 4pm to 12am (weekdays), 1am (weekends) Closest Metro Station: Mall of the Emirates Station (Red Line). From here, you can take a cab or Bus 106 to the Global Village.

SAMPLE DUBAI ITINERARY

Here’s a sample 4-day 4-night Dubai itinerary. This assumes the following:

• You’re a party of 2 pax, splitting some of the costs like hotel and cab fare.
• You’re arriving at Dubai International Airport in the evening, so we added a Day 0.
• You’re staying at a budget hotel/hostel in Deira for AED72 per night per person. Check the nearest Metro Station.
• Your food budget is AED 25 per meal. You’ll find a lot of fast food chains or inexpensive restaurants within this budget. ZOOM, a convenience store chain in Dubai, also sells cheap packed meals.
• You only have 1 theme park visit. For Day 3, choose among IMG Worlds of Adventure, Wild Wadi and Legoland.
• Prices below are in UAE dirhams.

Note that the times here are just estimates, for sample purposes only. Actual times may vary so double check before your trip.

Feel free to change anything in the itinerary in order to match your preferences or flight schedule.

DAY 0 – ARRIVAL 09:40pm – Arrival at DXB 11:00pm – Buy nol ticket, top up, AED 10 11:30pm – Metro to Deira, AED 3 11:45pm – Walk to hotel 12:00pm – Hotel Check in

DAY 4 – DUBAI SOUKS 08:00am – Wake up call 09:00am – Early check out, leave bags 09:30am – Metro to Al Ghubaiba Station, AED 3 09:45am – Explore Souk places 12:00pm – Lunch, AED 25 01:30pm – Explore Bur Dubai, buy pasalubong 03:30pm – Metro to Deira, AED 3 04:00pm – Pick up bags at hotel 04:30pm – Metro to Airport, AED 3 05:00pm – Flight check-in 07:35pm – Flight out

If you follow the itinerary above, the total cost depends on what you choose for Day 3. But here are some ballpark figures per person:

• Option A (with Legoland Dubai): AED 870 (PHP 12,110, USD 237, SGD 323, EUR 213)
• Option B (with IMG Worlds of Adventures): AED 825 (PHP 11,500, USD 225, SGD 306, EUR 202)
• Option C (with Wild Wadi Waterpark): AED 810 (PHP 11,280, USD 221, SGD 300, EUR 198)

The above estimates do NOT include accommodations, airfare, travel tax, and shopping expenses.

If you spend AED 72 per night on accommodations, Options A-C will cost you the following:

• Option A (with Legoland Dubai): AED 1083 (PHP 15,100, USD 299, SGD 402, EUR 265)
• Option B (with IMG Worlds of Adventures): AED 1038 (PHP 14,500, USD 283, SGD 385, EUR 254)
• Option C (with Wild Wadi Waterpark): AED 1019 (PHP 14,200, USD 277, SGD 378, EUR 249)

The above estimates do not include airfare, travel tax, tips, and shopping expenses.

We added a little bit of extra allowance to cover incidental expenses, price adjustments, and other costs we might have missed.

There are many ways to further reduce the expenses. See the next section!

MORE DUBAI TIPS FOR THE POOR TRAVELER

• Find a hotel that is within walking distance of a Metro Station , so you don’t need to take a cab all the time.
• Cut your food budget. The itinerary above assumes you’re spending AED 25 per meal. But you can find cheaper options especially at Asian restaurants. Shawarma, manakish and sandwiches are also a lot cheaper.
• If you can also find a place with a kitchen , you can prepare your own meals instead of eating out all the time.
• Form a group with other travelers. This will allow you to reduce food and taxi costs.
• Hit a supermarket or convenience store. A small bottled water at a restaurant can cost as much as AED 5. But you can find 1.5L of water at supermarkets for less than AED 2. Some convenience stores also sell cheap packed meals.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT DUBAI

Is dubai safe.

It is generally safe. The government also wants to build its reputation as one of the safest destinations in the region. There are shady areas, but most of the touristy parts of the city are very safe. That said, practice common sense and beware of pickpockets especially at crowded places.

In addition, make sure you follow the local laws and customs. Although relatively loose compared to its neighbors, Dubai is still pretty conservative by Western standards.

Do we need a visa to visit Dubai?

If you’re holding a Philippine passport, yes, you need a visa to visit Dubai or any part of UAE. The good news is, it’s easy to get one. We have a separate post for the application here: HOW TO APPLY FOR A UAE VISA!

When is the best time to visit Dubai?

November to March , when the temperatures are pleasant and comfortable and when most seasonal attractions are open. There’s a reason why some of these sites are closed for business for the rest of the year.

While April and October can be tolerable, May to September is when the heat can be unforgiving.

Note that weekend in Dubai is NOT Saturday-Sunday. Instead, workdays are from Sunday-Thursday. Weekend is Friday-Saturday.

What type of power plug / socket is used in Dubai?

Type G , with 3 cornered pins. 220/240 V, 50 Hz.

What is the tipping custom in Dubai?

Tipping is appreciated in Dubai but NOT mandatory. At restaurants, the bill usually includes a service charge already, but if you enjoyed the service, tipping 10% is customary.

For taxi drivers, you can tip AED 5 or tell them to keep the change if it’s less than 10 dirhams.

For bell staff, AED 5-10 is sufficient.

What is the escalator etiquette in Dubai?

Walk to the left, stand to the right.

2️⃣0️⃣1️⃣9️⃣ • 7️⃣ • 2️⃣6️⃣

More Tips on YouTube ⬇️⬇️⬇️

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Nice Article. Thanks for sharing the post. Dubai is one of the most popular tourist destinations. Your article explains all about Dubai very well. Thanks Again.

nice posting

Good article, nice sharing. good talked about place.

thanks for sharing.

Thanks for sharing all the information! VEry helpful. :-)

One question: Is there also a day pass that allows to take metro AND tram AND bus AND water taxi as often as you want? If yes, what is the price?

Thank you for sharing, I will be coming to Dubai as soon as possible

Fantastic article. I m inspire from this article. Dubai is the most beautiful place . I also want to come.

are gays, transgenders allowed to enter and travel in Dubai?

So informative.. I enjoyed your blog never knew things before about dubai.. thanks for sharing ..

Thanks, Dan!

Enjoyed reading the article Dubai City, really explains everything in detail, the article is very interesting and effective. Thank you and good luck for the upcoming articles

I think I’ve seen the entire Dubai city through your article. You’ve written it with such in-depth knowledge and details. The best Dubai blog in my opinion. Kudos to you!

The creativity in this post just summed the whole city in a few sentences. Thanks for taking me round Dubai in less than 30 minutes.

I am really crazy about Dubai and would love to visit very soon. I keep on reading articles written on Dubai, but, your blog has proved one of the best with something new to read and know about. A very detailed blog with amazing insights.

This is the best blog for those looking to travel to Dubai, you have described everything in detail. Thanks for the information!

Thank you very helpful for my Dec trip to Dubai this year.

Detailed and to the point. Thanks for this comprehensive guide

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Dubai Travel Guide: What To Do | Budget Tips | Day Trips & More

Things to do in Dubai Dubai Travel Guide Dubai Travel Guide

Get ready to go on an epic adventure as I spill the beans on one of the most dazzling gems of the Middle East – Dubai! I've called this city home for quite some time, and let me tell you, it's a place that never ceases to amaze me. In this comprehensive travel guide, I'm dishing out all the deets from A to Z – why you absolutely must visit Dubai, how to prep for your journey, the top-notch things to check off your bucket list, breezy ways to get around, hidden gems near the city, the scoop on the best neighborhoods to crash, cozy hotels to make your stay memorable, and of course, the lowdown on what and where to chow down. Stick with me, and we'll even explore how to enjoy this dazzling destination without burning a hole in your pocket. Buckle up, let's dive into the fabulous world of Dubai together!

4 reasons you should visit Dubai

How to prepare for your trip to Dubai?

Visa requirements.

Navigating the UAE's visa landscape is like picking out the perfect outfit for your Dubai adventure – it's essential, and the options are diverse! Depending on your passport, you could either walk in visa-free, get one online, or apply for one at the embassy in your country. For the short-term fling, there's the UAE Tourist Visa, perfect for stays under 30 days. For a longer affair, you can dive into the world of UAE Residence Visas – Student, Work, Family, Retirement, or even the Dubai Digital Nomad Visa. Level up with the Long-Term Residence Visa, offering 5-10 years of UAE bliss. Just passing through? The UAE Transit Visa has your back.

Health insurance

Before you get swept away by the glitz of Dubai, let's chat about health insurance. Trust me, it's like having a golden ticket to the healthcare wonderland. While not a must for citizens from visa-free countries, snagging travel insurance is a savvy move. In a city where healthcare costs can empty your pockets, you want to be covered. Think ambulance rides, doctor dates, and unexpected hospital shindigs. Opt for a policy that hugs you in emergencies, guards against trip disruptions, shields your luggage and even has a plan for getting you home if things go sideways.

Best time to visit

Buckle up for the prime seasons – November to February, where the city flaunts its A-game. The desert escapades, live gigs, and perfect weather make it a dreamy getaway. March, April, September, and October dial it down for a laid-back escape without the hustle. Dubai's got a year-round charm, thanks to futuristic cooling tech! High season (Nov-Apr) rocks with cooler temperatures, lively events, and festive vibes, but brace for pricier tags. Low season (May-Aug) suits budget travelers with great summer deals, and my favorite, shoulder season (Sep-Oct), beckons with sea frolics on a budget.

Language Arabic

Time zone GMT +4

Country Code +971

Socket Type G

Currency AED

Top things to do in Dubai

Dubai's a massive playground I've been lucky enough to explore every nook! From the towering heights of Burj Khalifa to the mind-bending views at Dubai Frame, the wild wonders of Safari Park, the floral magic of Miracle Garden, the chilly thrills at Ski Dubai, the heart-pounding Desert Safari, and the cultural extravaganza at Global Village – we're diving into the city's beating heart.

Landmarks in Dubai

Adventure in Dubai:

Buckle up for Dubai's adrenaline buffet – where adventures are as bold as the skyline! From dune bashing and a free-fall euphoria with Tandem Skydiving, to frosty fun at Ski Dubai and breezy Sailing escapades, get ready to turn your vacation mode into a full-throttle adventure!

Observation decks in Dubai

Elevate your Dubai experience to new heights with the city's jaw-dropping observation decks. Get ready for eye-popping panoramas at The View at the Palm and Burj Khalifa's At The Top. Immerse in futuristic vibes at the Dubai Frame, and soak up the cityscape at Sky Views Observatory. These decks aren't just platforms; they're front-row seats to Dubai's glittering skyline

Unmissable experiences in Dubai

Brace yourselves for Dubai's show-stoppers – the unmissable experiences that'll add a dash of magic to your trip. Glide through the city lights on enchanting Dhow Cruises, savor the sky-high culinary thrill with Dinner in the Sky, and get ready to be mesmerized by the aquatic wonders at La Perle.

Getting around Dubai

Before we get into the ways of getting around Dubai, let's talk about the magic wand of Dubai commuting – the NOL card. This little card is your golden ticket to glide through the city hassle-free. Just tap your NOL card at Metro and Waterbus gates, RTA Bus entrances, and parking meters – and voilà, you're on your way! Load it up with credit before your adventures begin, and you're set to conquer Dubai's transport wonders. Metro rides, breezy bus journeys, water escapades, tram adventures, and even parking – NOL's got your back.

• Metro: Hop on the sleek Dubai Metro for a hassle-free city tour. With the Red Line stretching from Dubai Intl Airport to UAE Exchange and the Green Line meandering from Etisalat to Al Qusais Creek, it's the ultimate transit duo. Switch lines at Union or Bur Juman for a seamless ride, making exploring Dubai's vibrant neighborhoods a breeze.
• Bus: Feel the cool breeze in air-conditioned comfort aboard Dubai's RTA buses. Equipped with NOL card sensors and accessible for all, these buses cover the city efficiently. Even the bus stops are cooled – a thoughtful touch to combat Dubai’s heat.
• Trams: Ride the modern wave with the Dubai Tram, connecting Dubai Marina to the Palm Jumeirah and Al Sufouh. With Wi-Fi, disabled access, private cabins, and dedicated metro police, it's a deluxe journey with seamless transfers to the metro and Palm Jumeirah monorail.
• Cabs: Dubai's ubiquitous taxis offer convenience at a cost. Despite being pricier, their availability and comfort make them a go-to choice. Spot them at malls, tourist attractions, or simply hail one on the road.
• Monorail: Glide along the Palm Islands with the Dubai Monorail, the Middle East's first. The Monorail also accepts the NOL card now. Connecting to the mainland and having future plans to link with the Metro Red Line, it's a unique journey, where a one-way ticket opens the door to Palm Jumeirah's wonders.
• Abras: Step back in time with Abras, Dubai's traditional water taxi. Half boat, half raft, they gracefully traverse the Dubai Creek, providing a link to the city's rich history. As you float across the waters, it's a nostalgic nod to the old days, offering a serene and scenic ride.
• Ferries: Embark on a journey with a touch of tradition on Dubai Ferries. Echoing the design of Abras, these boats ferry passengers along the picturesque 14-km stretch of the Dubai Creek.

Places to visit near Dubai

Buckle up for nearby city jaunts that'll add a pinch of diversity to your journey. Sneak off to Abu Dhabi, the UAE's glitzy capital, just a road trip away, flaunting architectural wonders and cultural gems. Sharjah, a cultural haven, beckons with vibrant markets and artsy vibes. Craving beach bliss? Head to Ajman, where pristine shores await. For an old-meets-new vibe, Ras Al Khaimah's got you covered with historic sites, adventurous activities at Jebel Jais, and modern luxuries. These neighboring gems are like Dubai's cool cousins, each offering a unique flavor to savor.

Best neighborhoods to stay in Dubai

For the views, nightlife & beaches, on a budget, luxury stay, where to stay in dubai for the views - downtown .

Downtown is the heart of Dubai. It is where the glitz and glam take center stage. It's the Dubai you've seen on TV, boasting the iconic Burj Khalifa, luxe shopping havens, and chic boulevards. This vibrant hub is the reason Dubai is in the spotlight. With dazzling club nights, fountain spectacles, and the world's largest mall, Downtown is the ritziest playground in Dubai. Do your research on cheap accommodation here because this area can get quite expensive!

Where to Stay in Dubai for Nightlife & beaches - Dubai Marina and Jumeirah Beach Residence

The lively duo of Dubai Marina and Jumeirah Beach Residence (my home turf) is the epitome of Western vibes in this cit. Spending the best of my 20s growing up in JBR, with its sandy shores and chic promenade was a dream! Peek beyond, and the Marina's towering skyscrapers and scenic canals steal the show. Living here is a breeze for European expats with endless bar options, relaxed beach vibes, and fewer wardrobe restrictions. It's the hub of fun, flaunting a beachy charm, diverse dining, and a skyline that'll leave you in awe.

Where to Stay in Dubai on a Budget - Bur Dubai & Deira

If you're chasing the heart and soul of Dubai without breaking the bank, Bur Dubai is your hidden gem. Steeped in history, this Old City haven offers narrow alleys, bustling bazaars, and authentic vibes. Inhabited by vibrant Indian communities, it's a cultural immersion you've been craving. Affordable accommodations and some of the city's best wallet-friendly Indian eats? Check and check! Now, if you're feeling the modern buzz, wander into Deira – a bit more polished but still flaunting that old-world charm. Both areas let you stretch your dirhams without sacrificing the essence of Dubai.

Experience Luxury in Dubai - Palm Jumeirah

If your idea of a dreamy Dubai stay involves glam, glitz, and a dash of exclusivity, Palm Jumeirah is your golden ticket. The Palm Jumeirah is a colossal palm-shaped island tethered to Dubai's mainland, flaunting opulence at every turn. Stretching for kilometers, it culminates in the lap of extravagance – the Atlantis Hotel, a mirror image of its Bahamian counterpart. This is the playground for those craving ultimate luxury vibes. From lavish accommodations to the mesmerizing Palm views, it's a haven for the discerning traveler. First time in Dubai and ready to splurge? Palm Jumeirah is where luxury whispers your name!

Where do expats stay in Dubai - Al Barsha

If you're craving practicality and pocket-friendly living without sacrificing city perks, Al Barsha is your Dubai haven. Sure, it might not shout glamour, but here's the deal – it's functional, well-connected, and a budget-friendly gem. Nestled near the metro, it's a commuting dream, linking you seamlessly to Marina and Downtown. The Mall of the Emirates is at your doorstep, and the area is a budget-friendly haven with a few Carrefour markets, diverse shops, and an array of local eats, from Arabic delights to top-notch Indian and Pakistani flavors.

Hotels in Dubai

• WeStay Hostel
• Marina Homes
• Hawana Hostel
• Bollywood Beach Hostel

Mid-range Hotels

• Royal Club By RVHR
• Aloft Palm Jumeirah
• Roda Beach Resort
• Rove La Mer Beach
• Hyatt Regency

Budget Hotels

• Montreal Barsha Hotel
• HIcon Delux Hotel Apartments
• Ramee Rose Hotel
• Signature 1 Hotel
• ibis Dubai Al Barsha

Luxury Hotels

• Atlantis, The Palm
• Burj Al Arab
• Bulgari Resort Dubai
• Nikki Beach Resort & Spa
• Kempinski Hotel

What to eat in Dubai

1. Manakish Dubai's manakish scene is a flavorsome journey through Levantine delight. These thin, crispy flatbreads adorned with cheeses, meats, and herbs have conquered hearts for centuries. Akawi Oven, a standout, crafts pizza-style manakish with a tantalizing array of toppings, from classic sausage and cheese to the intriguing meat with grenadine.

2. Arabic coffee and Dates Dubai's coffee culture is a delight, especially the complimentary Arabic coffee sprinkled across the UAE. For a top-notch experience, swing by Café Bateel and savor their signature qahwa – a traditional Arabic brew blended with lightly roasted beans and cardamom, accompanied by organic local dates.

3. Luqaimat Meet Luqaimat – Dubai's delectable dumplings, a lot like doughnuts but with a unique twist. Swing by Local Bites Café in Jumeirah for a morning delight. Freshly made, dripping in date sauce, and sprinkled with sesame seeds – a perfect sweet treat with your coffee!

4. Oozie Dubai's got a culinary gem – Oozie, a star at weddings and Ramadan. It’s basically rice, chicken, and a flavor explosion. Scoop it with yogurt or sprinkle some nuts for pure comfort. During Ramadan, it's a must-try, offering a taste of Dubai's festive flavors.

5. Al Harees Savor the heartwarming delight of Al Harees in Dubai – a culinary treasure of wheat, meat, and a pinch of salt slow-cooked to perfection. Traditionally enjoyed during Ramadan, Eid, and weddings, this dish embodies Dubai's rich culinary heritage. Experience its magic at Al Fanar Restaurant & Cafe.

6. Iranian Sangak Dive into Dubai's culinary charm with Iranian Sangak, a whole wheat flatbread sensation. Served plain or gluten-free, it's a health-conscious foodie's dream. For the best bite, swing by Al Adedh Baker - Harmoodi Irani – your go-to spot for top-notch Sangak delight!

BONUS: How to save money in Dubai

1. Use City Cards Maximize your Dubai adventure without maxing out your budget with a Go City Dubai Explorer Pass or a Turbo Dubai City Pass . Unlock top attractions, tours, and experiences at a steal. It's your golden ticket to explore, save, and make the most of dazzling Dubai without burning a hole in your pocket!

2. There are loads of affordable food joints (and they're delicious) Eat at Karama, Bur Dubai, and Deira. These hidden gems serve up tasty treats starting at just AED10. Savor Pakistani delights at Ravi's and Iranian kebabs at Al Ustad Special Kebab. Don't overlook mall food courts for wallet-friendly fast food.

3. Choose the right neighbourhood If you're chasing affordable vibes in Dubai, check out areas like Al Barsha and Bur Dubai. They're not flashy, but they're practical, well-connected, and budget-friendly.

4. Use public transportation Maximize your dirhams with the budget-friendly Dubai Metro – a wallet-wise ride to key spots, from malls to the airport. Grab a 'Nol' card for metro, trams, and buses covering every nook. For Old Dubai charm, cruise the Creek on AED1 abra rides, blending savings with scenic views.

5. Groupon Groupon is the go-to magic wand for unlocking discounts galore! Whether you're itching for adventures, dining out, or some pampering, Groupon's got your back. It's the city's treasure trove of 2-for-1 specials and wallet-friendly deals. Planning a day out or craving a fancy dinner? Before you say 'let's go,' peek into Groupon for a high chance of snagging a sweet discount.

6. Travel during off season While it's sizzling outside, the city cools down its prices. Bag incredible hotel deals, snag budget-friendly airfares, and score discounts galore. Top-notch malls and attractions offer summer specials, letting you beat the heat indoors.

Amulya Chintaluri

Amulya's love for travelling was a natural consequence of her moving around so much as a child. Throw in her love for writing into the mix, and there's no better way to spend her time. A person who collects hobbies like Infinity Stones, she loves reading, sketching, drawing, painting, dry pressing flowers, music, cooking, eating cake, watching TV and sleeping.

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Why Visit Udaipur? Udaipur is a popular city in Rajasthan, also called as city of lakes and Venice of the East. There are lots of palaces and museums in the city that make for the best tourist attractions. The city was the previous capital of Mewar Kingdom, and still has many reflections of the past…

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Ras Al Khaimah, known for its pristine beaches and stunning desert landscapes, is becoming an increasingly popular destination for tourists. Whether you’re a Dubai resident looking for a quick weekend getaway or an international traveler seeking a unique experience, there are plenty of Ras Al Khaimah tourist places to explore. This Emirate offers a blend…

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Ultimate Dubai Travel Blog – Everything you need to plan a trip to Dubai

Hello and welcome to our Dubai Travel Blog!

Dubai Travel Planner aims to help first-time visitors through to repeat Dubai travel lovers who want to make the most out of their time in Dubai.

We take you through all the practicalities you need to know for planning a visit to Dubai, from UAE Visa requirements through to Dubai dress code and share with you all our insider tips for visiting Dubai’s top attractions , where to eat in Dubai and the best areas in Dubai for tourists to stay .

We also look beyond just the city of Dubai to fabulous day trips you can take within the 7 Emirates of the UAE , and further onto neighbouring Oman.  There are so many fascinating experiences you can have basing yourself in Dubai for your Arabian Adventure.

Our Dubai Travel Blog is broken down into some easy-to-use sections so you can find the information you are looking for:

• When to Visit Dubai
• What to Pack for Dubai
• Dubai Transport
• Dubai Laws, Visas and Customs
• Where to Stay in Dubai
• Where To Eat in Dubai
• Attraction Reviews
• Suggested Itineraries
• Around the Emirates
• Travel Blog

We also have month-by-month guides that take you through what weather you should expect, what to pack and what are the best things to see and do in Dubai at that time of year.

Our Dubai Blog will keep you up to date with the latest news and happenings in Dubai, seasonal events and how to get the most out our your Dubai experience. You might like to start with

• How to save money on attractions using the Dubai Pass
• Or how about our detailed guide on how you can day trip to Abu Dhabi to see the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque ?

Our Dubai Travel Blog content is aimed at all types of travellers from singles and couples through to family travellers . We have lived with our family in the UAE for nearly a decade and have extensive experience tackling Dubai’s attractions as a family and with our many visitors over the years.

Living in the UAE has been an amazing learning experience and it delights us to share our passion for writing and exploring with a wider audience.

Come and take an explore around our site .  We are still quite new so developing our content every day! You can sign up to be on our mailing lis t if you’d like to know the latest happenings once a month. We also have a Facebook chat group aimed at family visitors to Dubai & the Middle East region.

Please note that this website contains some affiliate links. We may earn a small commission if a purchase is made after clicking on one of these links with our trusted partners, thank you. 

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Top 15 Dubai Instagrammers you should be following for travel inspiration

Last Updated on June 25, 2022 by gregor

Dubai is an overwhelming city of inspiration. So many things to discover.  It is vibrant, full of energy and you can enjoy a lot of exciting monuments and stunning places. Every time I am here it looks different with countless new buildings and resorts for pleasure, entertainment, and business.

In planning my vacations I leverage many sources of inspiration. One of the best sources is Instagram the popular Social Media photo sharing platform.

Here are my Top Dubai Instagramers to follow for your perfect Dubai Travel inspiration

TravelJunkieDiary (Michelle Karam)

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Michelle Karam (@michkaram)

Shackette (Junell Hackette)

? Dubai, UAE ? [email protected] www.junellcornejo.com

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Junell جونيل | Dubai (@shackette)

Secretsquirelfood (KAREN MCLEAN)

? Winner 2016 Stylist Arabia Food Social Media Awards ?DUBAI based Activia brand ambassador ❤️

View this post on Instagram A post shared by •KAREN MCLEAN• (@secretsquirrelfood)

eliaselindari

Elias El-indari – SMF Blog

A Gentleman’s Inspiration. Menswear & Lifestyle – Dubai. ✉️ [email protected]

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Elias El-indari (@eliaselindari)

Taimalfalasi (Taim AlFalasi)

?? Dubai,UAE. Food | Travel | Lifestyle ✉️ [email protected] instagram.com/tan

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Taim AlFalasi تيم الفلاسي | 🇦🇪 (@taimalfalasi)

  Noreenwasti (noni’s place)

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Noreen Wasti (@noreenwasti)

Lizettepitout

Lizette – Dubai

https://www.instagram.com/p/BPUA4AygBGf/?taken-by=lizettepitout

Jeromerafael

? Fujifilm X30 | ?iPhone 6s

View this post on Instagram A post shared by J (@jeromerafael)

Heraldherrera (Herald | Dubai)

Architecture. Design. Instameets. Street. Strangers. Moments. Life

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Herald (@heraldherrera)

mycustardpie

Sally Prosser ? ? ✈️ ?? in Dubai Whole food, authentic travel, wine, gin & other stories

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Sally Prosser (@mycustardpie)

Ibrahim Albeshari⠀ [email protected]

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Ibrahim Albeshari (@ialbeshari)

Lifestyle content creator From Ljubljana, Slovenia || Living in Dubai ✉️: [email protected]

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Tjaša Džafić (@tjasha)

#MyDubai A biography of the lives of Dubai’s residents and visitors – #MyDubai سيرة مصورة من يوميات المقيمين والزائرين في دبي ننق  #MyDubai

View this post on Instagram A post shared by #MyDubai (@mydubai)

Thanks for wonderful cooperation with @madinatjumeirah

Click for more Info about MadinatJumeirah

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Madinat Jumeirah (@madinatjumeirah)

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Greg Sideris I Vienna (@gregsideris)

https://www.instagram.com/p/BQAA3OJjuUV/?taken-by=hannahargyle

https://www.instagram.com/p/BP8c8nkg7se/?taken-by=cbezerraphotos

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Marina Comes ✈︎ Let’s Explore! (@marinacomes)

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Lowi Sahi (@lowisahi)

Thanks @flydubai

Click for more Info FLYDUBAI

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Traveling to Dubai for the First Time (2024): 19 Tips & Tricks

By Author Jurga

Posted on Last updated: March 26, 2024

Traveling to Dubai (United Arab Emirates) for the first time  and not sure where to start? Indeed, planning a trip to Dubai might be overwhelming, even more so if this is your first time in this rapidly growing and continuously changing city!

When is the best time to visit? How much time do you need in Dubai? What are the best areas to stay in and how to travel around? Do you need to pre-book tickets or can you just go with the flow? How to save time and money and still see the best that Dubai has to offer?

Dubai is a city of contrasts, a place where modern extravagance and traditional values go hand in hand. From its towering skyscrapers to its pristine beaches and bustling souks, visiting Dubai is like stepping into a different world…

To help you plan your first trip to this dynamic and unique city, in this guide we share some of our top travel tips for visiting Dubai .

We have visited Dubai several times and all the information and tips in this article are based on our personal experience. Some of these tricks we only learned after several trips…

This practical guide includes all the info I wish we had known before planning a trip to Dubai. These tips will not only help you plan your trip, but will also show you how to make the best of your visit, time, and budget. Find out!

Top 5 Experiences in Dubai:

• Burj Khalifa (book in advance + opt for the level 148 ticket for priority access).
• Desert Safari.
• Museum of the Future (book well in advance!).
• Luxury Yacht Tour .
• Abu Dhabi Day Trip .

Here are our top travel tips for visiting Dubai:

1. Avoid Traveling in Summer

Dubai is known for its scorching temperatures, especially during the summer months. To give you an idea, average daytime temperatures during June, July, and August are well over 40°C (104°F). Even in April or November, Dubai temperatures usually still exceed 30°C (86°F).

The best time to visit Dubai is during the winter months – between December and February. The daytime temperatures at this time of the year are usually around 25°C (77°F). So it’s still warm enough to enjoy beaches, pools, and waterparks, but the temperatures are also pleasant for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

Good to know: Winter is also the peak tourist season in Dubai. So expect accommodation prices to be higher and more crowds at the main attractions. However, with some advance planning and preparation, you can still have a very enjoyable visit, more than in the summer.

The shoulder season – the months of March-April or October-November – can be a good time to visit Dubai as well. If you don’t mind temperatures of around 30-35°C (86-95°F), you can take advantage of somewhat lower prices and fewer crowds than in the winter.

In addition, you may want to check when Ramadan is. During this month, most Muslims do not eat from sunrise to sunset, so many restaurants will be closed during the day. This may might impact your experience, depending on the places you visit.

TIP: No matter when you visit Dubai, be prepared for the heat by wearing lightweight, breathable clothing, using sun protection, and staying hydrated. Plan outdoor activities for the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the peak heat.

READ ALSO: What It’s Like to Visit Dubai in February

2. Book Attraction Tickets in Advance

One of the biggest mistakes you can make when planning a trip to Dubai is not to plan/book attraction tickets in advance.

Booking in advance means more time slots to choose from, better prices, and less time wasted queuing.  After all, you want to make the most of your trip to Dubai and not spend all your precious time standing in lines.

Good to know: Tickets to many popular attractions in Dubai are often sold out at least a few days in advance. Furthermore, many tickets are cheaper if booked online. In addition, some attraction tickets, e.g. Atlantis Aquaventure , cost less if you book at least a week before your visit.

For some places, not reserving in advance means that you won’t be able to visit at all.  For example, the Museum of the Future is so popular that all tickets are usually sold out at least 2-3 weeks upfront. If you want to be able to choose the time slot that fits you best, you need to book at least a month in advance.

If you want to visit observation decks at Burj Khalifa or Dubai Frame , you also need to book ahead. In most cases, a few days in advance is sufficient, but it really depends on the period when you travel and how flexible you are. Also, consider visiting these attractions early in the morning or late in the evening for smaller crowds and better photo opportunities.

PRO TIP: For Burj Khalifa, we recommend getting a ticket that includes Level 148 . Not only you get to visit another level which is not included with standard tickets, but you also get skip-the-line access through the security check and at the elevators, and it includes some snacks and drinks. It’s well worth it.

Overall, we always recommend booking tickets and tours at least a month before your trip. But keep in mind that for many popular destinations worldwide booking a month or even two upfront is not sufficient anymore.

Tickets don’t get cheaper and there’s less availability the longer you wait. Plus, if you use GetYourG u ide for all attraction tickets and tours like we do, you can take advantage of their very flexible cancelation policy.

Good to know: Booking tickets/tours via websites like GetYourGuide , Viator , or Tiqets also saves you money on exchange rates. The exchange rate they use is the official rate and transactions are in your currency. Whereas if you pay on the spot, it will usually cost you quite a lot more (not only because many tickets are more expensive at the counter, but also because of credit card fees, exchange rate deviations, etc.).

Plus, booking and paying ahead makes it easier to budget for your vacation and keep your credit card’s spending limit available for other expenses during your trip.

READ ALSO: Top Places to See & Things to Do in Dubai

3. Foresee Enough Time & Plan Wisely

There is one thing that you may not realize as a first-time visitor to Dubai and that’s how huge the city is. It’s not a place that you can compare to cities like Rome or London , or even New York City where you can still walk between many attractions and see a lot in a short time…

Dubai is totally different! It’s big, not really walkable (except in some areas), and the attractions are spread out all over the enormous and ever-growing city.

Plus, road works and traffic jams turn every ride into an expedition. The same trip that takes 20 minutes at night or early in the morning can take you an hour or even longer during the day. And yes, public transport can be a good option, but it also has its limitations – more about it further below.

Good to know: When planning your sightseeing itinerary, you will see that most Dubai attractions work with timed entry slots. Be sure to foresee plenty of extra time everywhere though! Even with timed entry tickets, you will often be standing in line for an hour or even longer, not to mention the time that it takes to actually visit the place or get from one attraction to the other.

TIP: So while planning what to see and do, foresee enough extra time between the sights and don’t try to do too much in a single day. Also, group the attractions based on their location, and go for a mix of top attractions with some lesser-known ones. That way, you don’t have to rush from one queue to another and your trip will be much more relaxed.

This brings us to the next tip – see below.

4. Don’t Try to See Everything

There is so much to see and do in Dubai that you could easily stay here for a few months and still not experience everything the area has to offer. So resist FOMO and the urge of having to see ‘everything’. It’s simply impossible, especially if you are only traveling to Dubai for just a few days or a week.

TIP: Choose a few places, attractions, and experiences that interest you the most and focus on those rather than ticking off boxes just because some guidebook told you that one or the other place is ‘a must’.

If you absolutely want to go to the top of Burj Khalifa, well – just do it and tick it off your bucket list. After all, how often will you get a chance to visit the world’s tallest building… In that case, book tickets in advance and be prepared to queue, or save time and avoid the crowds with priority access .

On the other hand, maybe you are perfectly content just seeing the building from the outside and rather spend your time visiting other viewing platforms like Sky Views , the View at The Palm , or Dubai Frame …

Or maybe you don’t care about any of these at all and much rather spend a day at a water park , exploring the old town souks (markets), or enjoying the views from a luxury yacht …

Dubai has so much to offer to all types of travelers. So personalize your itinerary based on what you really want to do, taking into account the time that you have, your interests, and your budget. If you are visiting Dubai with the family, try to incorporate some fun activities for the kids in your itinerary as well, even if it means that you’ll have less time for sightseeing.

READ ALSO: Dubai Itinerary (detailed guide for a week in Dubai)

5. Consider Tours & Private Drivers

If you want to see a lot of Dubai in a short time or you don’t know where to even start deciding where to go, consider booking tours or private guides/drivers .

Sometimes, a private driver can also be cheaper than taking a taxi between all those places, and often, you can also find cars that can take up to 6 passengers (vs 4 in most taxis).

Just to be clear, I am talking about quickly seeing multiple places all over the city in a single day. If you want to spend more time exploring the sites, you better go on your own.

There are tons of different ‘city highlights’ tours that bring you to many of the main landmarks of Dubai in (half) a day. Keep in mind that in most cases, your ‘visit’ will be just a quick photo stop, so it’s not comparable to actually visiting the sights. But it’s a good way to get an introduction to Dubai and catch a glimpse of the top spots.

PRO TIP: If you do a city highlights tour, do it at the beginning of your trip! That way, you can later come back to some of the places that you like the most. An ideal way to explore Dubai is to take an introductory city tour first as you arrive and then thoroughly visiting some of the main landmarks and attractions on your own later.

Abu Dhabi day trip tip: One of the best guided tours we recently did in Dubai was this highly-rated tour. If you want to see the top sights of Abu Dhabi in a day, this tour has by far the best itinerary (I compared many tours before we chose this one and it didn’t disappoint).

READ ALSO: Best Abu Dhabi Tours from Dubai (+Review of the Tour We Chose)

6. Save Time & Money with Combination Tickets

Dubai is expensive, there is no arguing about it. But with some smart planning, you can save some money on some of the main attractions.

One of the best ways to do this is by opting for combination tickets and/or city cards that include several popular places.

Here are some of the most popular deals:

• Burj Khalifa + Dubai Aquarium (+-$20 savings per person).
• Atlantis Aquaventure + Lost Chambers Aquarium (+-$25-30 savings per person).
• GoCity Explorer Pass (up to 50% savings, depending on the attractions you visit).

Good to know: Some tickets cost more during the most popular times. For example, Burj Khalifa around sunset. So if you want to save money, be sure to check prices for different time slots/days when making reservations.

7. Stay Longer

You might be wondering how much time you need to see the best of Dubai. Well, there is really no straightforward answer to this and so much depends on your interests.

That being said, I recommend planning at least a week for a first visit to Dubai. But if you have time and your budget allows it, stay longer. You won’t get bored!

With a week in Dubai, you will be able to visit most of the top landmarks, explore several different parts of the city, and also find some time to relax and unwind. If you want to spend more time at the beach or by the pool, visit a water park or a theme park with your kids, or make a day trip to Abu Dhabi, ideally, you plan at least 10-12 days for Dubai.

But don’t worry if your trip is shorter and you can’t extend it. You can have a perfectly enjoyable visit and see a lot even if you only have a day or two in Dubai. Via the link below, you can find plenty of ideas for planning a shorter visit.

LEARN MORE: Dubai Stopover: How to See The Best of Dubai in 1-2 Days

8. Choose the Location of Your Hotel Wisely

Deciding where to stay in Dubai might not be as straightforward as you may think, especially if the main purpose of your visit is to explore the city.

There is not one perfect place to stay in Dubai – it’s simply much too big and too spread out for that.

However, some areas are better than others and some are really a disaster for commute. If you pick the wrong location, you might be stuck in traffic for hours every time you want to go anywhere and do some sightseeing. On the other hand, that same spot might be perfect for those who are mainly interested in swimming and dining, and are just looking for a relaxing vacation with maybe one or two excursions that include a pick-up and drop-off at the hotel…

TIP: I strongly recommend that you look at the map and the location of the places that you want to visit before deciding where to stay in Dubai. Also, consider how you will travel around.

For example, staying within walking distance of a metro station might save you a lot of time and money on commuting if you plan to do lots of sightseeing. Whereas staying in a nice walkable area with lots of shops and restaurants will be ideal if you like to go out at night.

Here are two of the very best areas to stay in Dubai:

• Dubai Downtown (the area around Dubai Mall – Burj Khalifa) is very central and is perfect for those who want to do a lot of sightseeing, but also for shopping and dining. Sofitel Dubai Downtown is a great choice in this area, close to Dubai Mall and just near a metro station. Remember, however, that this is the heart of the city, so very busy and far from the sea.
• Dubai Marina in the south of the city is another popular area to stay in Dubai. It’s a great choice for those who are looking for a more relaxing vacation, boat trips, water parks, dining, shopping, etc. The beach is not too far from here, however, it will take at least 45-60 minutes to reach the city center. Millennium Place is a very popular hotel not too far from the main Marina area and close to the metro. On a somewhat higher budget, JW Marriott Hotel Marina is a wonderful choice if you want to be in the heart of the Marina.

TIP: On our most recent visit to Dubai, we stayed at Rove La Mer Beach Hotel . It’s close to the downtown area, so quite convenient for sightseeing, but also with direct access to a private beach – the best of both worlds. We loved this hip modern hotel, also because it’s much smaller and more intimate – a kind of place where you don’t have to worry about losing your kids at breakfast. It also offers great price/quality for Dubai. The only downside is that the area around the hotel is still developing with lots of construction going on, but it will only get more attractive in the future.

9. Beware of Tourism Taxes

Hotel stays (including hotel apartments, guesthouses, holiday homes, etc.) in the United Arab Emirates are taxed with various fees, surcharges, and taxes. These amounts might vary depending on the hotel, but it’s not abnormal that these taxes add over 20-25% to your room rate.

For example, our recent hotel invoice in Dubai showed a 10% service charge, 7% municipality fees, 5 % VAT, and an additional 10 AED (+-$3) Tourism Dirham Fee per night.

Altogether, we paid about 24,4% on top of the official room rate. The good thing is that we knew in advance how much we had to pay. Otherwise, this could be a very unpleasant surprise…

So when looking for accommodation in Dubai and comparing prices, make sure that you are actually comparing the same thing!

Many hotel websites show prices without (some/any) taxes, so you may think that booking directly with them is cheaper. Often, it’s not the case at all!

TIP: We always use Booking.com for our accommodation bookings, also in Dubai. With them, you see the total price, including all fees and taxes, so you know exactly how much you will spend. (Depending on booking conditions, you may have to prepay for the stay in advance whereas the taxes are charged separately when you arrive at the hotel, but the total amount you see when making a reservation is correct).

10. Use Public Transport & Local Taxis

Dubai’s public transport system is efficient and inexpensive. Depending on where you are staying and traveling to, it might be very convenient to use the Dubai Metro, Tram, Monorail, or even local buses.

However, this depends on the exact trip you are planning to make and also on the size of your group. Sometimes, public transport is the best way to get around the city quickly and affordably. But there are also many situations when it’s a real hassle and doesn’t make your trip faster or much cheaper.

In those cases, you will be glad to know that taxis are rather affordable in Dubai . The most expensive taxi ride we recently took in Dubai was 25 kilometers, it took over 50 minutes, and it cost us 76 AED (+-$21).

However, be careful that you only use official taxis! Because e.g. Uber is often quite a lot more expensive. Not even to mention that they sometimes charge twice the price during peak times of increased demand. We learned this the hard way, after taking a few overpriced Uber rides…

Also, unlike in many other countries where we use Uber all the time, in Dubai, you never really know how much you will pay until the end of the ride. The price you see in the beginning is usually just an approximate indication.

TIP: Install Careem app on your smartphone and use it to request ‘Hala Taxi’. That’s the best way to get an official taxi in Dubai. If you request ‘Rides’, it works similar as Uber and is more expensive. We learned this from a local taxi driver after a few very unpleasant experiences with Uber and private drivers randomly offering their services at the main tourist spots, and it saved us a fortune.

To give you an idea, we were quoted 120 AED ($33) by Uber and 150 AED ($40) by random ‘kind strangers’ for a ride that in the end cost us 22 AED ($6) by official taxi. When it comes to busy times and popular tourist hotspots, getting a taxi ride in Dubai can feel like navigating the Wild West…

LEARN MORE: Tourist Guide to Dubai Public Transport

11. Start Your Days Early

One of the best ways to make the most out of your trip to Dubai is to start your days early.

There’s much less traffic in the morning, so you can get everywhere much quicker. But the main advantage is that there are hardly any other people, even at the most popular attractions. In addition – if you are visiting Dubai in the warmest months – getting up early is the best way to avoid the biggest heat.

Good to know: Be sure to check opening times of the places you want to visit. While some attractions don’t open until noon, many others are open from 9-10 AM. There are also places – like e.g. Burj Khalifa – that you can visit at 7 AM, and on some days even earlier if you like…

For example, we recently went to the Aquaventure Water Park at Atlantis around opening time. There were no lines at the entrance and we could also do many popular slides without any wait. A few hours later, people were queuing for 45-60 minutes at the same rides…

In addition, the taxi ride to get there in the morning took us just 22 minutes. That same ride to get back to our hotel in the evening was over 50 minutes, not counting more than 10 minutes for a taxi to arrive… So yes, it really pays to explore Dubai in the morning!

READ ALSO: Tips & Tricks for Visiting Atlantis Aquaventure

12. Stay Connected

While pretty much all public places and tourist attractions in Dubai offer free Wi-Fi, we highly recommend getting a local SIM card for your visit to UAE. There are so many situations when it’s just much easier to stay connected. For example, if you need to book a taxi ride, or book some tickets on the go, etc.

Depending on your data plan, roaming can cost a fortune in Dubai. My provider sent me an sms saying that using data in UAE will cost me 15 euros per megabyte (ouch! and no, thank you!). So the first thing I did after landing in Dubai was disconnect roaming.

There are several ways to approach this:

• Pocket Wi-Fi. One of the easiest ways to stay connected on the go is by renting a pocket WiFi at Dubai airport . This is a very convenient option if you don’t want to change anything on your phone. It’s also convenient if you are traveling with a family/friends since you can connect up to 10 devices to it.
• Local SIM card. Alternatively, you can opt opt for a physical SIM card, which is also available at the airport . With this option, you will need to place this card into your phone. If you want to keep your ‘own’ phone number working as well, see if your phone has a dual SIM option – then you can use both. Otherwise, you may want to bring an old phone to use with this local card.
• eSIM. There are many providers available (just search online), but what’s included and the prices vary a lot. Depending on which one you choose and also on your device, this can be a very easy and simple process, but it’s also not very straightforward if you have never done it before. Also, not all phones allow eSIM – so be sure to double-check if your smartphone has this capability.

13. Respect Local Culture

While Dubai is a very cosmopolitan city, it’s also a place with different cultural norms and traditions. Overall, UAE is very ‘Western’ and Dubai in particular is very laid back and relaxed. With over 200 nationalities living in Dubai, it’s a true melting pot of different cultures. Still, remember that you are a visitor here, and be respectful.

Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites or public places. Also, avoid public displays of affection, as these can be considered disrespectful.

If you’re visiting during Ramadan, be mindful of local customs and traditions. Keep in mind that many traditional restaurants and cafes will be closed during the day but will come to life after sunset. If you are visiting during Ramadan and are planning sightseeing during the day or a day trip to e.g. Abu Dhabi, it’s advisable to pack your own lunch.

One of the most common questions we get is what to wear when traveling to Dubai. Well, you will see people wearing all kinds of clothing – from burkas that cover the entire body to revealing summer clothes that hardly cover much at all. However, while a lot is tolerated, it’s not always appreciated.

So when in doubt, remember that it’s always safer to cover your knees and shoulders. See-through clothing is also not the best idea, unless on a beach.

TIP: Wear loose light clothes – not as much for religious or cultural reasons, but also because of the heat. Long skirts/dresses or wide summer pants will be much more comfortable than tight clothes.

LEARN MORE: What to Wear in Dubai

14. Use Credit Cards

The official currency in Dubai is the United Arab Emirates Dirham (AED) and all the prices are displayed in this currency. All regular businesses accept cash and electronic means of payment, such as credit cards or smartphone payments.

We haven’t encountered a single place in Dubai that wouldn’t accept a credit card. So if you want to make it easy and simple for yourself, you don’t even need to exchange money and can simply use cards everywhere.

Important! Inform your bank about your visit so that they don’t block your cards for ‘suspicious activity’. And even then… Despite precautions, one of my cards got blocked by a credit card company after a random payment at a restaurant in one of the main malls in Dubai. We had to call the bank to get them to unblock it again and they say that this happens when ‘the systems’ suspect anything suspicious, despite us having notified our bank in advance…

If you want to leave a tip to someone or purchase something small, you may want to have some local currency at hand. In that case, you can get some cash from local ATMs which you will find in malls all over the city. I strongly encourage you to only use ATMs attached to local bank offices as some others might charge additional fees and/or give the worst exchange rates.

PRO TIP: When using ATMs to withdraw money or paying by card, you always get an option between local currency (AED) and your own currency. Always choose local currency (AED) – that way, your bank will do the exchange and you will always get a better rate than the one offered by ATMs or pay terminals.

Good to know: We heard it on quite a few occasions that money is king in Dubai and it doesn’t matter in which currency you want to pay – they will accept it. Indeed, this is the case at the markets (souks) and some smaller private businesses. On a recent trip to Dubai, I could use Euros at the souk. The sellers also told us that they accept credit cards (just make sure to haggle – see below).

15. Shop Smart

Dubai is a shopper’s paradise, but prices can vary a lot depending on where you shop. The prestigious locations like the Dubai Mall are home to some of the most expensive brands in the world and the prices here are usually very high. You will be able to find much better deals at the Dubai Outlet Mall, for example.

Also, if you go to various local markets (souks), be sure to shop around for better deals. Also, don’t forget to haggle – and not a little! Many sellers take advantage of tourists asking ridiculously high prices. Often, 3-4 times higher than what you should pay, and likely even more… Don’t be shy, offer the price that seems correct to you, and be prepared to walk away.

On a recent trip, I got intrigued by a perfume someone put on me while walking through the Dubai Spice Souk (this is common practice – people will (try to) put all kinds of stuff on you – from scarfs to perfumes etc.). So I asked how much it was. The prices depend on the size and the design of the bottle, they said, and so we settled on a medium-sized simple bottle and they told me it was 280 AED (+- 70 euros).

No way I would pay 70 euros for a tiny bottle of perfume at a market! And so we started the negotiations. In the end, I paid 20 euros in cash which – to me – felt like a correct price. The seller was telling me that this was way too low and he was only willing to do it because it was our last day in Dubai and my kids were cute… 😉

After that, I saw similar perfumes at Dubai Airport souvenir store and indeed, most of them were about 20-25 euros for about the same size I got. So don’t be afraid to negotiate and if you don’t feel comfortable with the price or the quality, simply walk away.

16. Explore Beyond the Glitz

While Dubai is best known for its skyscrapers and extravagant landmarks, don’t miss out on its cultural gems as well.

One of the best places to catch a glimpse of authentic culture is Old Dubai. Visit the historic Al Fahidi neighborhood, explore the spice and gold souks, and take a traditional abra ride along Dubai Creek. These experiences are also quite touristy, but they are also totally different from the main attractions in Dubai.

TIP: There are many excellent guided tours that visit Old Dubai . They all take you to the same area, do the traditional boat ride on Dubai Creek, and visit the same local markets. Most tours also include local coffee and dades, and some also food tasting. While you can just visit the area on your own, these tours are really affordable and give you a somewhat deeper insight and insider tips.

On our recent visit, we chose this walking/food tour . It started with some traditional food tasting at a local restaurant, followed by a visit to the old town, a boat ride, and ended at the gold and spice souks. A nice way to spend a few hours and get to know a different side of the city.

READ ALSO: Best Tours in Dubai

17. Avoid Weekends

If you think Dubai is busy on a weekday, try to imagine it on a weekend or on public holidays.

So if you can adjust your plans, avoid visiting the most popular attractions on weekends (Friday afternoon, Saturday, and Sunday).

If you are in Dubai for more than a few days, this is really not difficult to do. Visit the most popular places such as Burj Khalifa, Dubai Mall, Global Village , Miracle Garden , or theme parks and water parks on weekdays.

On weekends, you can do more relaxing activities such as a sightseeing a yacht trip , a speedboat tour , spend time at the beach or by the pool, go parasailing or jetskiing , or take a desert tour – see below.

18. Experience the Desert

No trip to Dubai would be complete without experiencing its desert. Book a desert safari tour for an adrenaline-pumping ride over the dunes, followed by a traditional Bedouin-style dinner under the stars. It’s an unforgettable experience!

There are many desert tour options , but when you look closely, they are very similar in what they offer. Depending on the option you book, you have one main activity – usually, dune bashing in a jeep, quad, or camel ride. Afterward, you spend time in a desert camp where you can partake in all kinds of different experiences.

Some of these experiences include taking pictures with falcons and camels, sandboarding, various shows (traditional dance, belly dance, fire show), henna tattoos, etc. There is always lots of local food and it’s surprisingly good.

Our experience: We have done two desert tours in Dubai (on different trips) and they were both very similar and both excellent. The first time we went on this dune safari tour and on a recent trip, we opted for this highly-rated tour that includes a longer camel ride . In both cases, the second part of the tour was quite similar, the main difference was that the first tour included an exhilarating jeep ride through the dunes, and the second one – a 45-minute camel ride.

The whole family really enjoyed these tours and I couldn’t say which one is better. All I can tell you is that it’s a nice experience that will make your trip to Dubai even more memorable.

19. Don’t Forget Little Important Details

Here are some additional travel tips for Dubai:

• Bring a reusable water bottle. Dubai is so warm and dry that you will want to carry a bottle of water on you at all times. If you want to minimize plastic waste, you may want to bring your own reusable water bottle. Tap water is, in general, safe to drink. In addition, you will also see free water taps at some public areas, where you can refill your bottles.
• Pack a travel adapter. UAE uses  Type G  plugs, same as in the UK. However, we noticed that in most hotels you can also simply use European plugs and sometimes a simple USB cable. Still, we always pack a Type G adapter just to be safe.
• Bring a power bank to charge your phone on the go. Also, carry extra batteries for your camera.
• Know that you are not obliged to tip, but it’s also appreciated. Many people tip 10-15% at the restaurants or give a small tip to tour guides. If you like to tip, make sure you have some small bills of local currency.
• Bring a small crossbody bag for sightseeing. At some landmarks, you will be asked to leave bigger bags/backpacks in a locker. I like Hedgren crossbody bags for travel – they are light, sturdy, and very durable. The one I have is big enough to hold my camera, a power bank, documents, and even two water bottles, and I was never asked to use a locker. But pack the smallest backpack and you’ll often have to leave it behind…
• Don’t forget sun protection. A sun hat, sunscreen lotion, and sunglasses are a must when visiting Dubai!

So, these are some of the most useful travel tips for Dubai that you may want to know when traveling to this fascinating city for the first time. I hope that this helps you make the most of your visit.

Have a great trip!

Before you go, you may want to learn a bit more about Dubai with some surprising and interesting facts that will leave you fascinated and eager to explore more. Check it out: Fun & Interesting Facts About Dubai .

More tips for visiting Dubai:

• Budget:  How Expensive is Dubai
• Getting around:  Public Transport in Dubai
• With kids:  Best Things to Do in Dubai with Kids
• Fun to do:  Best Free & Cheap Things to Do in Dubai

If you found this post helpful, don’t forget to bookmark it and share it with your friends. Are you on Pinterest? Pin these images!

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Friday 23rd of February 2024

Thanks for the article. It is very informative.

Glad to help. Have a great time in Dubai!

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Helene in Between

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Essential Dubai Travel Guide

By Helene Sula

From the tallest skyscraper in the world to the ancient souks still selling their wares in tight alleyways, Dubai is a city of dichotomies in so many ways. You’ll find an immense city full of hustle juxtaposed with a peaceful oasis away from the crowds near the beach.

Although Dubai, at first glance, seems like a city centered on glitz and glam, reminiscent of Las Vegas, if you scratch under the surface, you will find a lot more than skyscrapers and shopping. I’ve created the essential travel guide to Dubai to help you navigate this vast city and have the best experience possible.

With so much to see and do I made sure to highlight the best of Dubai. There’s simply no place in the world where you can traverse the desert, ski indoors, and see some of the most original architecture.

You’ll find so many “world’s tallest, greatest, most, etc.” here, you might lose track! This guide will ensure you see the best this flamboyant city has to offer.

What to Know About Dubai Before Visiting

Where to stay in dubai, essential things to do in dubai, burj khalifa, dubai creek and al seef district, bastakia – old dubai, dubai museum, dubai miracle garden, global village, burj al-arab, dubai marina, mall of emirates, palm jumeirah, dubai frame, jumeirah mosque, head to the desert, enjoy the nightlife, go to abu dhabi.

Where is Dubai? Located in the UAE (United Arab Emirates) Dubai is a city-state (states are called Emirates) located in the Eastern part of the Middle East. Currency is in Dirhams (Dhs), but most places take credit card.

Is Dubai safe? Yes! Dubai is extremely safe for tourists. In fact, this is one of the safest places to travel to in the Middle East. I also found it to be very clean.

As a woman, do I need to cover up in Dubai? No. You will not need to cover up, and you’ll see that although many women are, it’s not necessary. You are free to wear whatever you like, but I do recommend dressing a bit more conservative since this is a Muslim country. The weather can be quite hot, in the summer temperatures reach over 100 degrees Fahrenheit. I recommend packing layers, as the nights can get chilly.

Best time to visit Dubai? I recommend the winter time for more mild climate without harsh sun. I went in February and felt it was perfect. Many places close during the heat of the summer. For example, Global Village is only open from November through March.

Important to know: Dubai is 80%+ expats. I’ve never expected to see so many people from around the world, with so many languages spoken. As a melting pot of nationalities, people from all over flock to Dubai for opportunity and sightseeing. The locals as well as many of the expats and tourists come from Muslim parts of the world so you will see women covered up. If you’re not from somewhere with those traditions it can take a bit of getting used to. I’ve traveled to other Muslim countries ( Morocco ), but it seems different in this region in that you see more women with their faces covered instead of just their hair. Hotels are the only place tourists can buy alcoholic drinks. So, if you'd like to purchase alcohol other than at a hotel bar or restaurant, do so at the airport before going to your hotel.

Getting around Dubai. I recommend renting a car. The city is quite large with lots of things to do and see. You might want to drive on the man-made palm tree island, see the 7-star hotel up close, or drive out to the desert. Having a car gives you flexibility. There are cabs, Uber, and a public transportation system, but I found a car best. You will most likely be going up and down Sheikh Zayed Road, the longest road in the Emirates. It stretches from Al-Silah in Abu Dhabi all the way to Ras al-Khaimah in the North. This eight lane highway is the main thoroughfare through the city. It’s important to note that driving is a bit strange. In that almost everything is located directly off the freeway, but getting to your destination often requires lots of turns. Just a note, don’t get frustrated when you have to turn eight times to get somewhere just a few blocks away!

It's crazy to see how much this city has grown. In 1968 there were only 13 cars in the whole city. Now, 130,000 cards use Sheikh Zayed road every day.

Who is Sheikh Zayed? You'll be sure to hear this name often. He was the ruler of Abu Dhabi for nearly 30 years and was the founding father for the formation of the UAE. He helped drive the region's economy and create a prosperous region. 2018 was declared “the Year of Zayed” for all his efforts in helping to form the country today.

Below you can find a map of all the places discussed in those post:

If you’re coming to Dubai, you want a hotel that matches the ultra-modern feel and luxurious surroundings. There is sincerely no better hotel than the Shangri-La Dubai .

This spectacular hotel is the perfect spot, right by the Burj Khalifa and the Dubai Mall in the bustling Financial Center. As I mentioned, driving isn’t always easy. So you’ll want a spot that is centrally located for sightseeing. Shangri-La offers an unparalleled view of the world’s tallest building. There’s also free on-site valet, so it’s easy to pop in and out. The staff is extremely helpful and kind, and the exquisite hotel caps off a fabulous stay in Dubai.

Let me put it this way: when you go to Las Vegas, you stay at the Bellagio. When you go to Dubai, you stay at Shangri-La.

Shangri-La Dubai offers multiple pools, a tennis court, spa, racquetball, and even a salon. But I felt so at peace in our lovely room, complete with a stunning view of the Burj Khalifa. Each room is well equipped for travelers from all over the world. You'll find outlets that work for both European and US plugs. There's a gargantuan bathroom with a rainwater shower, as well as a tub. The room has a fully stocked mini-bar and fresh fruit artfully arranged. You'll also find fresh flowers right in your room.

Upon entering you’ll find pristine marble floors, elegant flower displays, and a thoughtful check-in desk with open books from countries all over the wall. The staff is exceptionally kind and ensures you have the best stay possible. You'll find gold accents as well as deep blue chairs in the lobby and breakfast areas.

Exploring the hotel is a must. The views of the Burj Khalifa and the other skyscrapers around Sheikh Zayed Road are phenomenal. Head up to the 42nd floor to an indoor swimming pool, lounge area, and exceptional views.

The outdoor pool and iKandy Ultralounge are a great spot to hang out and have a drink or go for a swim. Of course, you can see more views of the Burj Khalifa, but I liked lounging on the pink chairs and couches with palm trees towering over for shade. Walking through the courtyard and over the short bridge you can head into the spa for a relaxing and rejuvenating massage or facial. There, you'll also find a hair salon and racquetball court.

Breakfast is always essential to me at a hotel. Here you’ll find a decadent spread of breakfast dishes from all over the world. I particularly liked the local dishes, such as “Foul Medames” which is a base of beans and you can add spices, tomatoes, onions, and olive oil. After passing by it on our first day, I tried it the second and kept going back again and again. Tea is served in the lobby lounge every afternoon complete with delicious pastries. In the evening live music is played, or you can enjoy the swanky bar for a drink.

One of the best experiences about coming to Dubai is trying the world renown food from all over the world. Shang Palace in Shangri-La is absolutely divine. This traditional Chinese restaurant serves a wide variety of dishes that will suit any palette. Every dish we ordered was better than the next. I also recommend trying the “CockTeals,” made with traditional tea and alcohol for something refreshing and delicious. The duck is a feature of the menu and it was absolutely divine. I recommend coming to this restaurant even if you aren't staying in the Shangri-La; it was that tasty.

Hoi An is another restaurant in the hotel serving authentic Vietnamese cuisine – one of the first in Dubai! There's also Dunes Café which features all-day dining with a variety of dishes. The most beautiful restaurant is Oni , specializing in Japanese cuisine with beautiful purple accents, a sleek design, and a marble bar. You'd be remiss to come to Dubai and not stay (or at least take in the views) at Shangri-La.

The activities are endless for couples, families, and solo travelers. Whether you’re after adventure, shopping, luxury, or just want a fun destination, you can’t go wrong with Dubai.

Walking the warm paved streets of Dubai, I was awestruck with the sheer ingenuity of the architecture. Massive buildings that pierced the sky and others that seemed to twist upwards span the horizon. The shimmering lights of the city at night transform Dubai into what feels like an outdoor theme park.

In 2018, the Burj Khalifa had more tourists than Paris’ Eiffel Tower. The world’s tallest building stands at 829.8 meters (2,722 feet) and makes you feel like an ant in its shadow. You can go up to the 124th floor for a bird’s eye view ( tickets are about $35). A high-speed elevator whisks you to the top where you’ll find an observation deck and a movie explaining the building's construction. I recommend buying your Burj Khalifa “At the Top” ticket in advance to avoid the lines.

The best view of the building itself is at the Dubai Mall during a fountain show, and you can see the light show as the building glitters in the sky. Or, at the Shangri-La where you can perch right next to the building and the other skyscrapers.

Burj Khalifa got its name in honor of the Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the ruler of Abu Dhabi . It took 22 million man hours to construct by 12,000 workers. The total cost to build was 4.1 billion dollars. Not too bad considering this is the tallest building in the world and Cowboys stadium in Dallas cost 1.2 billion to construct. The design itself is based on a Spider Lily, which is a flower found in the desert. Not only is it the tallest building, the 153rd floor is the world's highest occupied floor. The 148th floor is the world's highest observation deck, the 122nd floor houses the world's highest restaurant, and of course, it holds the world's highest elevator.

A must-visit place in Dubai, the Dubai Mall encompasses multi-level shops, expensive designer powerhouses on their “ Fashion Avenue, ” and beautiful art installations throughout. Every January and February is the Dubai Shopping Festival which hosts live music and activities. You’ll also find the famous Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo , with 140 different species of sea life which is worth it if you have the time. There’s an ice skating rink and a Virtual Reality indoor theme park , in addition to myriad shops. Walking outside you’ll see the fantastic fountains that flank the Burj Khalifa.

Naturally, this is the world’s tallest performing fountain, and it's modeled after the Bellagio fountains in Las Vegas. It’s amazing to see the water jet into the sky. It’s easy to see the fountains from the bridges and surrounding park, there’s no need to pay additional to sit in the floating island for a view. I recommend coming back at night to walk around and see the light and fountain show once it’s dark for the best experience.

Don't forget to check out some other beautiful displays in the mall such as the Human Waterfalls . The cascade of falling water coupled with silver statues of men diving is such a peaceful scene. You can also see the Dubai Dino , a 155-million-year old fossil. Coming from Wyoming, USA, this is an almost perfectly intact dinosaur.

Here, you’ll find boats lined up along the dock with tourists and locals packed on each. It’s only 1 Dirham (about 27 cents?) to take the boat (called an abra) across and go to the real Old Dubai. Tightly packed streets are filled to the brim with shops, the famed Gold Souk , Spice Souk and vendors selling cheap and delicious fried food. I suggest wandering this area and popping into a gold shop or haggling for a good deal on shoes or jewelry. Dubai is separated into two parts by Dubai Creek: Bur Dubai in the south and Deira in the North. Deira is where you’ll find the old way of life in Dubai, a stark contrast from the glam of Dubai today. If you’re looking for inexpensive shopping and a great cultural experience, look no further than Deira Souks. Don’t miss this.

This looks more like a theme park than truly “Old Dubai.” But you can get a feel for how the city used to look. The Bastakia District, also known as the Al-Fahidi neighborhood, was built in the late 19th century as the home of wealthy Persian merchants who came to Dubai because of the tax-free trading and access to Dubai Creek to trade with pearls and textiles. You'll find the Majilis Gallery for a collection of traditional Arab ceramics and furniture, housed in a wind-tower, which was once used as air conditioning.

If you want to understand how this powerhouse city came to life, check out the Dubai Museum, located in Al-Fahidi Fort, which was built in 1787 to defend Dubai Creek. You’ll find out more about how the oil boom helped facilitate the wealth of this city and its outlook for the future.

150 million flowers in the desert? It’s possible in Dubai. I first saw the garden on Instagram with the heart-shaped flower structure and thought it would be a bit cheesy. But this garden is a nice respite from the glitzy buildings. As the world's largest flower garden, it spans 2,000 square meters and is carpeted in flowers. There are clocks, butterflies, hearts, Disney Characters, houses and even an Emirates plane covered in flowers. Buy tickets here or at the front entrance. Be aware, the park is often closed in the summer for restoration and because of the heat.

Nearby, there’s a Butterfly Garden that has around 15,000 butterflies.

Global Village is a theme park focused on many cities, countries, and regions of the world. There’s shopping throughout, entertainment, and food. You’ll see each region offers typical merchandise from their culture. However, some of the offerings were pretty cheesy. Walk around and find what looks best to you. We were pleasantly surprised by the Bosnian zone with people from Bosnia selling handicrafts and delicious food. Note: Open from October 30th-April 6th from 4pm-to 12am. Mondays are dedicated to families and ladies only.

Touted as the world’s only 7-star hotel, it’s also the world’s tallest at over 320 meters (*feet) high. Designed as a sail, it stands on a man-made island. You’ll also find some of the most expensive hotel rooms in the world – $15,000 for the night! Of course, if you don't quite have the budget for a room, you can have drinks at 200 feet up . This top sight in Dubai is a great place to walk the beach and catch sunset.

One of the best places to get a view of the shining skyscrapers, grab a bite to eat, and do some shopping. Considered to have the world’s largest man-made marina in the world, you have immense views of boats, Bentleys, and buildings.

You can’t go to Dubai and not do a little shopping. Mall of the Emirates is one of the best places to visit in Dubai as it’s manageable to walk around, find eateries from all over the world, and even do a little skiing! Yes, you can ski indoors in Dubai. Dubai Ski offers year-round skiing and a penguin enclosure.

If you’re not quite done shopping, you can also check out Ibn Battuta Mall , which is the largest theme based mall in the world. Containing over 270 shops and 50 restaurants, there are endless opportunities to shop and dine.

You might be wondering, like me, why there are so many shopping malls. But because Dubai gets so hot in the summer, it’s necessary to take some of the actives indoors. I can appreciate Dubai’s ingenuity to bring all kinds of activities, even if you’re in the desert.

As we flew to Dubai we looked down to spot the man-made islands of Dubai shaped just like Palm Trees. One is still being built, but the original, Palm Jumeirah, is full of hotels, restaurants, and homes- all with beachfront views. Unfortunately, you can’t drive down the “fronds” (streets) to get a look at the houses as all are private, but you can venture over to the Atlantis Resort . This decadent resort has a water park (including a nine story waterslide- the world’s largest!), shopping, and restaurants. I don’t recommend staying here, as it’s so hard to drive in and out of the palm tree island- there is literally only one way in and out through an underground tunnel.

When I saw the glittering gold frame, as tall as a building, I thought it was just an excuse for Instagram photos. But we decided to take a look. To my astonishment, you can go inside and up to get a great view of the city and learn a great deal about old and new Dubai. Located between old and new, it gives you a view into how to city started and panoramic views of old and new Dubai. The Future Dubai gallery shares an imagined vision of the future for the city. Check out Dubai Frame tickets here , or purchase at the front entrance.

Kite beach, aka Jumeirah Beach , is a hub for kite surfers and a great place to find an array of water sports. You can even learn to kite surf ! You'll also find a perfect spot to lay on the beach and soak up the sun.  There’s also an outdoor movie theater, plenty of restaurants, and boardwalks for you to stroll.

Nearby you can find Zero Gravity which offers a fun, late-night take on “brunch.” For around $50 you can graze on unlimited food and drinks with a great view of Dubai’s epic skyline. Drinks can be very pricey, so having an all-you-can-drink feast is a great budget-friendly option.

There aren’t many mosques non-Muslims can visit, but every day at 10am you can take a tour of this lovely mosque. The mosque is an exact copy of Cairo's Al-Azhar Mosque, but eight times its size. Jumeirah Mosque is the largest in UAE and a great example of Islamic architecture with towering minarets.

There are many options for a desert trek in Dubai . You can drive the dunes, take a camel ride, sandboard, or just watch the sunset over the mesmerizing dunes. Escape the hustle of the city and find serenity and peace in the desert. Expect a half day to make the trek and to get the full experience.

Dubai really comes to life a night. Go to a late dinner, head out to clubs even later, and stay up to the early hours of the morning with the glittering lights of the city. There are lots of options for finding events and parties. Most hotels have a bar where you can order alcoholic drinks, as the restaurants outside of hotels are not allowed to serve alcohol. A great area to go out is Barasti , filled with expats as well as locals. This multilevel club has a huge dance floor with the beach at the bottom.

Abu Dhabi is only about an hour and 15 minutes drive from Dubai and I think you’ll be kicking yourself if you don’t visit this Emirate. The exquisite Grand Mosque is absolutely breathtaking and worth it even if you just go for the day. Of course, you can stay for a few days here at the Shangri-La Abu Dhabi like I did! If you're only here for a short time, check out this one day excursion to Abu Dhabi from Dubai .

Here's my full guide to Abu Dhabi .

If you need a stop on the way from Dubai to Abu Dhabi, try “ Last Exit ” for Mad Max themed food trucks.

Dubai feels like a different world. A city on the forefront of modern innovation, still looking back at ancient traditions. It’s worth it to visit Dubai at least once in your life!

P.S. how many time’s did I say “world’s largest/longest/tallest” in this post?!

MEET THE AUTHOR

Helene Sula

I believe that one trip can change your life. It did for me. I'm a self proclaimed home body that quit her job, moved abroad, and more often than not, lives out of a carry-on bag. If I'm not traveling, I'm most likely re-reading Harry Potter or watching "Midnight in Paris" while snuggling my dogs. I'm a digital marketing expert who turned my love of travel into a full-time career. And I help others do it too.

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My trip to dubai — the memorable experiences in the mysterious city of middle east.

Over 5 years ago, no one had ever thought of traveling to Dubai (the United Arab Emirates – UAE), but a few years ago, this small state was chosen as an attractive destination. In this time of the year, Dubai is not crowded or hot but very cool and attractive with many exciting places and activities. A week in Dubai will blow you away with a space of not only wind and sand… Now, let’s discover Dubai through this my trip to Dubai and my Dubai trip blog with memorable experiences in the mysterious city of the Middle East.

• Where to go in Dubai? — 7 best places to visit in Dubai
• What to buy in Dubai? — Top +23 best things to buy in Dubai
• What to know before going to Dubai? — 10 Dubai travel tips & things to know before traveling to Dubai
• What to do in Dubai? — 10+ cool, must & best things to do in Dubai
• Where to stay in Dubai? — 13+ best areas + hotels & best places to stay in Dubai

My trip to Dubai: To the top of the world

Dubai owns the highest man-made architecture in the world – Burj Khalifa tower of 828m high, opened in January 2010 and quickly become a new symbol of this small state situated on the banks of the Persian Gulf. There are so many articles about the record of the Khalifa, however, to achieve today’s look, two interesting things need to be mentioned.

Hymenocallis flower with 6 petals 3-lobed, popular in Arab countries is the inspiration for the building’s design. The pure white flower has a fragile look but is enduring and graceful, like the shape of the tower. From many places in the states, people can see the Burj Khalifa rising strongly. Prime Minister Khalifa, head of Abu Dhabi – played an important role when the tower building project faced economic crisis. He helped disburse billions of dollars to continue the building process.

With the price of 200 AED (the currency of the UAE, approximately 55 USD), a trip to the 124th floor gives visitors overwhelming feelings about a mysterious Middle East, from the road decorated with vivid LED screen recreating human life in the desert to the detailed information about the tower. The elevator takes less than 1 minute to open the door from an airy altitude of 300m. The outdoor balcony is windy, everything below looks like toys. The skyscraper known as Manhattan of Dubai rises in the sun. Looking further, on a clear day, tourists can see palm islands in the desert on the horizon.

The Dubai government knows how to do tourism as everything can be turned into tourist attractions or cultural promotion. On top of the tower, there are a variety of services such as binocular magnification show detailed information about the works under construction or you can take photo just like Tom Cruise in Mission Impossible 4. The shop here is full of gifts from $ 5 – $500 to choose as much as you like. You can also buy gold, real gold, with a credit card at the world’s highest gold-selling machine. Pieces of gold in the shape of the tower or rose are sold at prices ranging from $ 500 – $ 1,000.

Dubai trip blog: From Dubai Mall to Souk

$20 billion invested along with the Khalifa Tower, Dubai Mall is the “paradise of paradise” for any shopaholic. Connecting Khalifa tower are more than 1,200 large and small shops and the same number of brands can make tourists fall in love easily. Famous fashion brands such as Louis Vuitton, Gucci, Hermes… are located in the main lobby, spreading out and around are various kinds of items from watches, shoes, tie, cosmetics, phones, candy, toys, etc. Thanks to a 0% tax policy, shopping in Dubai has always been a great attraction. With approximately 150.000m2, Dubai Mall offers a vast aquarium that can be viewed from the outside, children especially interested in the fish tank cleaning staff in their wetsuits occasionally waving from inside. Across the bridge of musical fountain tank outside Dubai Mall, visitors will encounter a Middle Eastern market where they sell sand paintings, silk and lovely jewelry.

To experience the daily life of Dubai people, Souk would be an indispensable address. In the native language, “souk” means market. Located near each other in the old Dubai Deira, Spicy Souk and Gold Souk – the spice market and the gold market – take you to the friendly booths. In the spice market, sellers always smile inviting guests to try candies, date-palms, chestnuts… Those who love gold jewelry can choose more jewelry in Gold Souk, which is not far away; Average prices are $100 – $200 for one bracelet, $200 – $400 for a necklace and $50 for earrings. You can also try your bargaining skill here to make it more fun.

Dubai trip blog: Experiencing luxurious Dubai

In the water taken from the ocean filtered through a tank at Atlantis Hotel, your task is just lying on a buoy floating on the lazy river. Atlantis Hotel, a luxury hotel lying towards the Persian Gulf at the top of Palm Island, is a real resort destination for spring. You can also board a train traveling around the island with 4 stations stretching over more than 2km distance from the hotel to the entrance. Each “branch” features hundreds of luxury villas helping Dubai to have an additional 70km of coastline and to become the greatest man-made work that the Dubai government takes pride in.

In the evening, dinner at Burj Al Arab hotel provides a chance to experience the noise and sparkle of Dubai. The hotel is located on an island 280 meters away from the shore, connected by a bridge lying on the blue sky. The hotel interior is extremely luxurious with numerous details carved in gold and marble. The main lobby displays works of many famous artists. 202 rooms are a private paradise with an area ranging from 170 – 780m2. Each room’s furniture is made of solid gold and from the world’s top suppliers. This feature along with the world-class service makes Burj Al Arab the only 7-star hotel in the world. The hotel restaurant is at the altitude of 200m, taking only 33 seconds by elevator, serves typical Mediterranean cuisine. In the shimmering sunset on the Persian Gulf, sip a little white wine and try a raw oyster sprinkled with sauce or roasted beef with a glass of red wine… it will be an unforgettable dinner for all guests.

My trip to Dubai: Bobbing in the desert

The 4WD Toyota car runs very fast on the highway connecting to the outside of Dubai center. The car is reinforced with a strong steel frame inside. The driver, Rajib, a Pakistani (most of jobs in the tourism sector in Dubai are done by immigrants), is happily humming to the music with cheery spirit. After about 20km, the camel farms appear on the right side. Before entering the desert, the car’s 4 wheels are blown with steam to increase grip and the exciting journey starts.

Selecting new dunes of sand, with no trace of car, Rajib takes us to the top and suddenly rushes down the steep slope the guests’ scream and then burst out in laughter. Dubai’s desert the golden sand connecting to the horizon with a multitude of small dunes lying close to each other. The car runs on top of sand, slopes on either side, in the afternoon sun, the watery dark and light pieces make it more miraculous. The visitors are filled with terror while the car runs across the middle of the 60-degree slopes but Rajib still smiles calmly, calling and screaming with the visitors, making it as exciting as ever.

After half an hour playing on the sand dunes, the car stops in the middle of a vast plain. Many small cars like ants crawl on the desert. We have a peaceful time looking at our shadows behind us. The cars run to a farm owned by the travel company. You can ride a camel, a 4-wheel terrain motor, wear traditional clothes of the Arabs to take photos or draw henna on your hands, a very popular and subtle form of make up in the Middle East. There are curry, grilled fish, meat skewers and steamed rice in the dinner on a long table, where visitors from all over the world become closer.

When it gets dark, the music starts; the dancer in colorful clothes with mounted LEDs makes the dance more vivid. But the most favourite is still the sexy belly dance performance. The beauty of their movements and their fascinated eyes embody the Arab night perfectly. The bright constellations in the desert sky, the car runs back to Dubai, hot desert wind surfing through the visitors’ faces. In the distance, the twinkling lights of downtown and the Burj Khalifa tower illuminate the vitality of UAE’s most dynamic city.

In the world of Muslim culture

The Dubai trip would not be complete without a visit to the Grand Mosque, the Muslim holy mosque located near Abu Dhabi. Sheikh Zayed Mosque – one of the world’s largest mosques, with a capacity of 41,000 worshipers celebrating at the same time. There are 82 domes, more than 1000 columns, hall chandeliers made from 24 carat gold and the world’s largest hand-woven carpets… such numbers of this majestic cathedral are difficult to surpass. Stepping into the main prayer hall, the world’s biggest hall chandelier with 10m diameter, 15m high and 12 tonnes weigh, attracts all the admiring gazes from visitors. The first ceremony which took place in the cathedral was the funeral of Sheikh Zayed, the first president of the United Arab Emirates and the head of Abu Dhabi. He was also buried here later.

Though it is still early, throughout the mosque, all the believers still gather praying around the Mihrab towards Mecca. Men wear the Islamic hat and dress in white; women wear veils and a black dress, creating two contrasting colors, but very suitable for the solemn air inside.

The lake around the mosque reminds people of the Taj Mahal in India. White and yellow stand out under daylight and at night that magic light lights up the sky full of moon and stars. A romantic scene that you shouldn’t miss is the sunset. Tourists should choose to visit the mosque at 4:30 pm as it is the best time to capture the magical moments. Unlike other mosques, Sheikh Zayed opens every day except Friday morning, when it’s reserved for the faithful to worship. They also offer 1-hour guide free from Sunday – Thursday at 10 a.m, 11a.m and 4:30p.m, 5p.m; Friday at 5 p.m, 7:30p.m and 8p.m; Saturday at 10a.m, 11a.m and 2p.m, 4:30p.m, 5p.m, 7:30p.m and 8p.m.

A day in Dubai is endless as each place has a different culture, architecture, cuisine, and history. Next time, if possible, we will visit Dubai Museum, where a half-century history of state is recorded over wax statues; or maybe we’ll try skiing in the desert at the height of 60m and 400m length, the widest in the Middle East … Without a doubt, Dubai will remain an attractive destination for many years to come.

My trip to Dubai: Where to stay?

Below we recommend more best cheap, budget, mid-range and upscale hotels with good ratings and reviews you can refer to..

• Atlantis, The Palm , a top rated 5-star hotel with room rates from $528/night (Check rates on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).
• FIVE Palm Jumeirah Dubai , a top rated 5-star hotel with room rates from $466/night (Check rates on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).
• Address Sky View , a top rated 5-star hotel with room rates from $282/night (Check rates on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).
• Taj Dubai , a top rated 5-star hotel with room rates from $152/night (Check rates on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).
• Anantara The Palm Dubai Resort , a top rated 5-star hotel with room rates from $328/night (Check rates on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).
• Five Jumeirah Village Dubai , a top rated 5-star hotel with room rates from $147/night (Check rates on Agoda.com or Booking.com ).

Further information

• If you want to travel to Dubai to experience the mysterious, luxury world of wind and sand, you can contact travel agencies such as: Saigontourist, VYC Travel, Fiditour, Vietravel, TST. Dubai tours often range from 50 – 66 millions VND (~US$2.900) for a 5 or 6-day trip.
• Dubai souvenirs that have always been favored by international tourists are gold jewelry at the gold market, sand painting at many places from the markets to the shopping centers. Nuts and spices at spice market.
• In addition, handicrafts such as Dubai carpets, silver cups, dishes are very beautiful & sophisticated. You can buy them at the Dubai Mall, clothing and Arabic traditional costumes can be bought at markets and shopping centers.

Dubai trip blog:Some best day tours, trips, activities and transfer services, tickets in, from and to Dubai you can refer to

• Shared Transfers between Dubai Hotel and Dubai Attractions
• Private Dubai International Airport (DXB) Transfers for UAE Emirates
• [Sale] Ski Dubai Admission Ticket
• Global Village Ticket in Dubai
• KidZania Dubai Ticket
• VR Park Dubai Ticket
• Dubai Frame Ticket
• Burj Khalifa Observation Deck with Dubai Aquarium & More
• Go Dubai Explorer Pass (3, 4, 5, or 7 Attractions)
• Dubai City Sightseeing Bus Pass
• Dubai Big Bus Hop-On Hop-Off Tours (Open-Top)
• Half Day Dubai City Tour
• Half Day City Tour in Dubai with Dubai Frame

Are you looking for more top things to do in Dubai: Tours, activities, attractions and other things? Let’s check it out here . And What to do in Dubai? — 7 best places to visit in Dubai & best things to do in Dubai  And Dubai travel blog — The fullest Dubai travel guide for a great budget trip for first-timers.

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UAE Travel Blog

Let me help you plan your trip to the UAE with basic information and posts from my UAE travel blog. If you’d like to go straight to the posts, click on ‘Latest UAE Posts’ below or scroll all the way to the end of this page to read the latest UAE posts.

I’ve called the U.A.E home for most of my life. I was born and raised in Dubai, and every time I’m asked how it was to grow up in a city that has changed as dramatically as Dubai (and I’m asked this very often), I struggle for the right words. As many words as I may have inside my head, it’s hard to explain that the Dubai I know is vastly different from the city that the average tourist sees on his three or four-day long stint.

Of course, part of that comes from having known the city as it once was and a comfortable familiarity with the lesser-known neighborhoods where it still feels the same.

Even so, I’m beginning to venture outside Dubai and explore more of the UAE and bring you stories and recommendations from places you may have not heard of before.

Markets, souks, mountains, beaches and trails- all of these in the UAE are just as beautiful as the glorious desert and just as impressive as the Burj Khalifa , but given how little information is available about them, it’s not surprising you’ve probably never heard of them.

Don’t believe me? Just explore these day trips from Dubai for a bit of nature, adventure, culture and cities. It’s also not true that Dubai is an expensive city, suitable only for luxury travelers.

There are plenty of things to do in Dubai on a budget , and they’re just as much, if not more fun than the high-end stuff.

As with any city, Dubai is not just one thing, it’s so many and I encourage you to explore as many faces of the city as you possibly can before you decide whether or not you like it. You might also be interested in my posts about what to wear in Dubai and the best romantic hotels in Dubai .

Join me as I get off the tourist trail and experience and share everything that’s authentic in the UAE. And if you ever find yourself here, take time to get to know the country and the culture; take day-trips from Dubai , visit a mosque , visit a nature trail and go kayaking , and venture outside the cities- you won’t be disappointed.

What To Pack

Read my complete guide on how to dress in Dubai to know exactly what to wear in different situations and settings in Dubai.

For the cities: The cities of Dubai and Abu Dhabi have huge expat populations and are essentially very cosmopolitan. It’s common for women and men to be dressed as they would be in the Western world. The residents are very fashionable and very rarely do you see people dressed sloppily. Women wear dresses, jeans, skirts and even shorts and tank tops.

That being said, it’s best to steer clear of clothing that’s too revealing and dressing appropriately (depending on where you are) so as not to attract unwanted attention or hurt the feelings of locals (who’re conservatively dressed in keeping with their culture).

So while it’s common to see women wearing super short dresses in nightclubs, that isn’t the best way to show up at the mall or on the metro.

If you’re not sure about how much is too much, keep your knees and arms covered and you should be okay.

While visiting a mosque, men and women must cover their arms and knees.

Nicer nightclubs and restaurants require men and women to be dressed impeccably in formals or smart casuals. Some may not let you enter in T-shirts, sneakers or casual clothing.

Carry a pair of walking shoes or sandals and something formal/stylish for fancier places.

For the outdoors: In summer, light, breezy and breathable fabrics are recommended to keep you cool. In winter, a light to medium jacket should suffice.

Swimwear is allowed at the beaches only. Don’t expect to cross the street in beachwear or ride the metro to the beach wearing skimpy clothing.

Additional Reading

Where To Stay in Dubai: The Dubai Hotel Accommodation Guide for Every Budget

Best Places To Stay in Dubai for Couples (The Most Romantic Hotels)

Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara Review: Stay at Abu Dhabi’s Grandest Desert Palace

Best Time to Visit Dubai

Guide to Ramadan in Dubai

What to Wear in Dubai: The Ultimate Guide

How to go from Dubai Airport to City Center

Best Day Trips from Dubai

Best Things to Do in Khor Fakkan

Best Places to Visit in Dubai for Cheap & Free

Best Cafes in Dubai for Great Coffee and Good Vibes

What to Buy in Dubai: Best Souvenirs from Dubai

Wadi Shees: Nature Trails and Kayaking on this Dubai Day Trip

How to spend 48 hours in Sharjah

Chedi Al Bait: Tasteful Luxury in a Heritage Setting

Should You Rent a Car on your Dubai Vacation?

13 Countries to Visit From Dubai On Your Holiday

Stay at the Only Wildlife Safari Resort in the UAE

20 Signs I’ve Been in Dubai Too Long

Dubai Through the Eyes of an Old-Timer

Almost Wonderland at Dubai Miracle Garden

Dubai Travel Blog

Languages Spoken

Arabic and English

In certain areas, you’ll also hear a lot of Hindi, Malayalam, Farsi and Urdu, among other languages, because people from the Indian subcontinent and other countries in the Middle East were among the first to have moved to the country for a living.

But almost everyone speaks English, signs and instructions are mostly mentioned in English and you should be okay even if you do not speak a word of Arabic.

The Arabic greeting As-salamu ‘alaykum is answered with W’alaykum as-salam . An informal Hello is Marhaba and thank you is Shukran .

Budget Hotels in Dubai

Dubai can be very expensive during the peak season with hotel prices increasing drastically.

For cheaper options, look at hotels in the older areas of the city such as Bur Dubai, Mankhool, Satwa, Oud Metha or Deira. Hostels and guest houses are rare (there’s just one hostel I know of and it really just is the bare minimum).

Recently, there have been quite a few nice budget hotels that have opened up in the city, and I’ll keep adding to this list as I find and hear of new ones.

Here’s my guide on where to stay in Dubai with a complete breakdown of neighborhoods plus hotels and apartments for every budget .

Tours in Dubai

Need to know.

Whether or not you really enjoy your trip to Dubai also depends upon choosing to visit Dubai at the right time- summer can be extremely hot and humid, so here’s a guide to the best time to visit Dubai , to help you choose.

Regardless of how modern the cities are, this is still the Middle East- it’s important to understand that the culture is different from the west. So public displays of affection, wandering the streets inebriated, and giving bear hugs to people you’re meeting for the second time are big no-nos.

Alcohol is served only at licensed establishments which are usually restaurants, bars, pubs, lounges or nightclubs attached to or inside a hotel.

If you’re visiting during the Holy Month of Ramadan, you should be aware of the right etiquette. You can check my guide to Ramadan in the UAE .

Planning your trip to Dubai? Join my Dubai Travel Planning Group on Facebook for FREE resources, tips, and updated and new info about cool restaurants, cafes, instagrammable spots, attractions and things to do in and around Dubai.

LATEST UAE POSTS

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Sunday 12th of March 2017

[…] 11. The Boho Chica […]

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A Dubai Travelogue for Today’s Blogger

Dubai, the emirate where futuristic skylines pierce sun-drenched deserts, beckons not just tourists but travel bloggers as well. With its ever-evolving tapestry of experiences, from adrenaline-pumping adventures to historical souks overflowing with spices, Dubai offers a treasure trove of content for the online explorer.

Must-Sees for the Gram-Worthy Itinerary

Scaling the dizzying heights of the Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building, is a non-negotiable. Breathtaking panoramic views await those who reach the observation deck, providing a glimpse of the city sprawled beneath like a shimmering mirage. A dhow cruise along Dubai Creek, the city’s historic lifeline, offers a contrasting perspective. Glide past traditional wooden boats laden with spices and textiles, capturing the essence of old Dubai.

Unveiling Dubai’s Hidden Gems

While the dazzling architecture and opulent hotels are a major draw, the true soul of Dubai lies in its cultural pockets. Delve into the labyrinthine alleys of Deira Souk, where haggling for hand-woven rugs and aromatic oudh (a type of incense) is an experience in itself. Foodies will find a haven in Satwa, a vibrant district brimming with hidden cafes serving up delectable Emirati cuisine. Don’t miss the chance to capture the aroma of freshly baked Arabic bread wafting from traditional bakeries.

Unveiling Dubai’s Untamed Side

The vast expanse of the Arabian Desert holds a unique charm for the intrepid traveler. Embark on a thrilling desert safari, hurtling across sand dunes in a 4×4 vehicle and witnessing a captivating desert sunset. Capture the majestic silhouette of a falcon soaring through the sky during a traditional falconry demonstration, an experience that embodies the UAE’s rich heritage.

Balancing Luxury with Local Experiences

Dubai caters to every budget and travel style. While five-star hotels with Michelin-starred restaurants offer unparalleled luxury, budget-conscious travelers can find comfortable guesthouses and hidden gem eateries. A stay in a traditional wind tower house (barajeel) provides a unique glimpse into the emirate’s architectural heritage.

Essential Tips for the Savvy Blogger

Dubai’s scorching summer sun demands proper hydration and sun protection. Lightweight, breathable clothing is ideal for exploring the city. Understanding a few basic Arabic phrases like “shukran” (thank you) and “marhaba” (hello) goes a long way in connecting with locals.

**Dubai beckons travel bloggers with a captivating blend of tradition and cutting-edge modernity. **From adrenaline-charged adventures to historical souks overflowing with exotic treasures, the emirate offers a treasure trove of experiences waiting to be documented and shared with the world.

By The Krew

Related post, a look at whatsapp statuses, instagram unveils creator marketplace, dubai unveils cultural gems at arabian travel market.

Dubai Travel Blog

48 Hours in Dubai: 2-Day DIY Budget Itinerary

If you’re wondering what you’re going to do in Dubai and you have limited time, here’s a Do It Yourself DIY itinerary to guide you in planning a 2 day trip in this emirate. This guide is ideal for backpackers and budget travellers who don’t want to spend much on tours and agencies. This is still applicable to all tourists who want to map out their own Dubai adventures by themselves.

Related Post: Exploring Dubai on a Budget of 15 AED (or Less)

Take note that this 48 hour guide may require you to spend a bit more cash in certain areas, but most of it can be experienced within a reasonable or affordable budget. We will save the skydiving ,   shark diving , water theme parks, and other expensive activities in a later article. For now, here’s a 2-day budget tour of Dubai.

Book a Hop on Hop off Bus Tour of Dubai Here

Day 1 – Tour of Old Dubai & Desert Adventure

Day 2 – tour of new dubai – skyscrapers, malls and beaches, dubai in 2 days: a budget travel guide.

Please take note that the best months to visit Dubai would be during winter season when the weather is great to experience outdoors :   November to February Depending on your tolerance, the weather is bearable in these months:  September, October,  March, April Let’s start the tour!

Jumeirah Mosque Visit Location: Jumeirah Beach Road Hours: 3 hours Mosques are places of worship for Muslims and if you’re a non-Muslim, you cannot really enter this place. However, the Sheikh Mohammed Center for Cultural Understanding (SMCCU) offers a Mosque Visit for anyone to understand our Muslim brothers and sisters and Islam religion. You can book a religious tour and have your questions about Emirati culture and religion answered by a Muslim.

Guided tour of the Jumeirah Mosque

Tour of the Souks in Old Dubai and Riding  an Abra Location: Dubai Creek – Deira side and Al Fahidi side Bur Dubai – Gold Souk ,  Spice Souk , Al Bastakiya , Al Fahidi museum Hours to spend: 3-5 hours including lunch

You can head to the Creek area in Old Dubai and tour the Gold Souk, Spice Souk, and Perfume Souk in the Deira side of the creek. Afterwards, you can ride the Abra, or a  traditional wooden boat and pay as low as 1 Dirham for the trip to the Al Fahidi side of the creek. Once you’re at the Al Fahidi side, you can then walk to the Old Souk and to the old bastakiya area. Drop by Arabian Teahouse and grab yourself a bite of their salads and drink tea even for lunch.

Go back and pass the old souk area,  continue walking until you reach the the side where you can see some camels and a donkey. Locals are around, drinking tea and you can chat with them. You will be given dates and Arabic tea so you can experience Emirati hospitality. You can also take a photo of a falcon.

• You can also drop by the Al Fahidi Museum ( for 10 AED entrance fee) and learn about the history of the oldest neighborhood district in Dubai.
• Ride the abra for 1 Dirham.
• Have late lunch at Arabian teahouse

gold souk in Deira

spices and herbs at the Spice Souk

Riding the Abra in the Dubai Creek

Desert Safari Sunset and Dinner Location: Depends in your chosen Tour Company Hours to Spend: 4 hours

When you book a desert safari tour in one of the travel agencies in Dubai, the meet up time is usually around 4pm. Depending on the your agreement, the tour agency can pick you up from your hotel or a suggested meeting area.

Ride a 4×4 and the driver will take you to the desert camp while bashing sand dunes, don’t forget to hold on tight! Experience the Dubai desert sunset, have barbecue dinner and watch a tanoura dance and belly dance at the campsite.

You will finish around 8pm and you will be brought back to your hotel by the travel company after the trip.

Related Post: What to Expect in a Desert Safari Adventure in Dubai

DESERT SAFARI TIP:  When booking a travel agency, ask them which location is the desert safari trip going to be held. If it’s just about 30 minutes from Dubai, the desert sand is still a mix of white and red and there are going to be some patches of bushes and plants in the desert.  if you are looking for a dark red desert and endless sand dunes, then it’s usually about an hour drive from Dubai. One sample area is in Lahbab, Sharjah or Al Faqa Desert . Although you will spend more, if you go farther from the city the quality of the sand is much better.

sand-boarding in the desert in Al Faqa

Bonus, if you don’t want to sleep yet, you can head to Al Rigga Street which is also located in Deira for some shisha, shawarma, or Arabic tea or milk tea. Plenty of shops are still open even in the late night and you can experience the rugged side of Dubai.

…………………………………………………………………………………………………………………..

At the Top Adventure at Burj Khalifa Hours to Spend: 2 hours Location: Burj Khalifa (At the Top)

Wakeup early for an early trip to the tallest building in the world. Ride a taxi since the Dubai Metro is still closed at dawn. Around 5:30am is the meeting time at the At The Top. This is the place where you can view the city of Dubai from the observation deck of the tallest building the world.

The reason why we want you to wake up and book this dawn experience is because you can see the city while it’s still dark and witness the sunrise and see the city during daylight. You get both views one visit. Take plenty of photos or just admire the view! Tip: The sunrise viewing is only available every Friday and Saturday. Otherwise, regular viewing is at 8am. 125 AED per person Book tickets in advance. You can book online via atthetop.ae

view from At the Top – Burj Khalifa

Burj Khalifa, view from Burj Plaza

Mall Hopping Location: The Dubai Mall, Mall of the Emirates Hours to Spend: 3 hours

Afterwards, you can explore The Dubai Mall, which is known to be the largest shopping complex in the world! You can have breakfast here or have an early lunch. Explore various areas and check out the Dubai Dino, Human Waterfalls, Dubai Fountain, Dubai Aquarium, and shops in the Fashion Avenue. Even if you’re not going to shop, you will be mesmerized by the various attractions inside the mall. Here are places to visit in Dubai Mall without spending money .

You can also drop by the Mall of Emirates (by riding a metro). You can check out the Indoor Ski if you’re up for some snow adventure in the desert.

Souk entrance at The Dubai Mall

Dubai Aquarium in The Dubai Mall

Umm Suqeim Beach/ Burj Al Arab Beach Location: Umm Suqeim Hours to Spend: 3 hours

Hire a cab and head to Umm Suqeim Beach or Kite Beach. This is a place where you can see a view of the iconic Burj Al Arab, the only 7 star hotel in the world.

activities in Kite Beach (with a view of Burj Al Arab)

Afterwards, head to Dubai Marina and have some lunch or snacks. Take a leisurely stroll as you explore this water district and amazing architecture. There are plenty of restaurants in the area so you can grab a bite to eat.

Book a Sunset Boat Trip Location: Dubai Marina Hours to Spend: 1 Hour

Book a sunset trip to see the Atlantis the Palm Resort and the Burj Al Arab hotel from the water side. You can go to Dubai Marina and buy a 50 AED ticket from for a sunset tour starting at 3pm from Dubai Marina to Burj Al Arab. This is a great way for you to see these tall skyscrapers structures from a different view. Make sure you catch the boat trip via Dubai ferry as this is the cheapest option. Otherwise, you may also look for private companies like YellowBoats to join a group in hiring a raft to the same sights.

Dubai Mall Water Fountain Show Location: Burj Lake Hours to Spend: 3 hours

Cap off the night by going back to Dubai Mall and head to the water fountain for an amazing  water fountain show . There is a dancing water fountain presentation every 30 minutes starting 6pm at the Burj Lake with every set having a different song playing. You can spend the remaining time inside the mall for tea.

be ready as it can get busy at the Dubai fountain

Bonus Half-Day: Head to Abu Dhabi and visit the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque

Location: Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Hours to Spend: 3 hours

If you have an extra half-day, you can book a trip early in the morning for Abu Dhabi, For 25 AED, you can reach the capital city of the UAE and visit the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque. This is a beautiful mosque which is open for tourists to visit for free. Abu Dhabi is 2 hours from Dubai and even if you visit the this place alone, it is surely going to be worth your time.

inside the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque

To get to Abu Dhabi, take a bus from Al Ghubaiba Bus station. The bus will drop you off at the bus station in Abu Dhabi (opposite Al Wahda mall). You can take a taxi from the bus station to the Grand Mosque. Spend about 1-2 hours just admiring the grandness of this place of worship.

Plenty of tourists come to Dubai to see what it has to offer. With so many superlatives highlighted, you might get lost on what tourist attraction you want to visit first. It is best that you have a set itinerary to get a glimpse of this emirate within this limited time.

Again, the above-mentioned activities are good especially when you are trying to make the best of your stay without spending much and still enjoying the best of Old Dubai and New Dubai. But if you have the cash to burn, by all means skydive at the Palm Drop Zone, shop till you drop in the malls, tour Dubai on a seaplane , rent a yacht, and enjoy a fun time with family at the various theme parks!

I hope this guide will give you a better idea how to manage your time with a short 48 hour holiday in the city of gold.

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Where to find one of dubai’s best views.

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Enjoy an up-close vista of the Burj.

Rising more than 1,000 feet over the gulf on an artificial island, Burj Al Arab Jumeirah is one of the most distinctive buildings in Dubai and the world. It resembles a dhow (an Arabian boat) with a billowing white sail cruising through the azure water toward the coastline.

The icon is a must-see if you are in Dubai. And one of the best ways to take it all in is by checking into Jumeirah Al Naseem . Read on to learn more about this Forbes Travel Guide Five-Star hotel, a stunningly designed structure in its own right.

Opened in 2016, Jumeirah Al Naseem is the newest property in the expansive, nearly 100-acre, four-hotel Madinat Jumeirah complex modeled after a traditional Arabian village. It’s also the one closest to the Burj.

Among the 435 rooms, many face the Tom Wright-designed architectural marvel. We stayed in a spacious corner Ocean Suite, which provides a breathtaking panorama from the sprawling L-shaped terrace. Whether lounging on the plush chaise, sinking into the comfortable armchairs or gathering around the dining table under the elegant pergolas, the Burj Al Arab Jumeirah commands your attention, especially in the evenings, when the alfresco space is cooler and the landmark is dramatically illuminated.

For a different vantage point of the Burj, stroll along Madinat Jumeirah’s pristine private beach, stretching more than a mile long and just steps away from Jumeirah Al Naseem. Feeling the soft sand beneath your feet, you can snap photos that capture the essence of Dubai’s coastal allure and architectural ingenuity.

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Stay in sophisticated, contemporary accommodations.

The accommodations offer more than just an incredible view. Al Naseem, which means “breeze” in Arabic, sets itself off from its neighboring sister properties, Jumeirah Al Qasr , Jumeirah Mina A’Salam and Jumeirah Dar Al Masyaf , with a more beachy and contemporary aesthetic. It takes the sand and sea as inspiration for the color palette. Organic materials like wood and stone blend seamlessly with subtle Arabian touches, like the understated Moroccan lamps and black-and-white photos of fishermen adorning the headboard.

The blue-and-tan mosaic-tiled bathrooms provide a refuge at the luxury hotel. Our suite bathroom was outfitted with two separate sinks with stone basins, two wardrobes, a standalone shower with rain and handheld fixtures and an enticing tub in the middle of the oversized space. Plus, it came with convenient amenities like a Dyson hair dryer.

Be on the lookout for gifts from the attentive staff during your stay. In your room one day, you might open beautifully crafted wooden boxes filled with housemade chocolates or desserts that showcase the hotel’s culinary delights. As the day draws to a close, you might find mini bottles of ginger and manuka honey shots — a thoughtful gesture to boost your immune system before a flight.

Be sure to get a room with a Burj view.

The Amenities

One perk of staying in a suite or penthouse at the Dubai hotel is access to The Orchid Club Lounge. The sophisticated and tranquil space encourages lingering with plush gray armchairs and sofas. However, you’ll especially want to visit for the complimentary culinary offerings, including afternoon tea service and sundowners with canapés.

We enjoyed starting our quiet morning there with the breakfast buffet, sampling dishes like shakshuka, syrniki (Russian cheese pancakes), aloo bhaji (Indian spiced potatoes), pistachio-stuffed dates and za’atar croissants. The spread also included a tasty array of meats, cheeses and yogurts.

As the Dubai sun heats up, you can find relief with five pools scattered throughout the complex. While the infinity pool on the beach was a popular spot, Jumeirah Al Naseem’s adults-only mosaic pool near Sugarmash restaurant provided a more tranquil respite. It’s discreetly tucked away closer to the luxury hotel and nestled amid verdant gardens designed by famed architect Bill Bensley. In between dips, retreat to the beautiful, Southeast Asian-influenced semi-private areas, like a wooden pergola flanked by black spear-like columns, or an awning that covers two sculptural chairs that resemble Slinkies.

Cool off in the pool.

Don’t miss a visit to Talise Spa Madinat Jumeirah , which resides in Jumeirah Al Qasr but is open to all guests in the complex. The 26-spa-villa sanctuary can target your wellness goals, like improving sleep, detoxing and mental well-being. Or simply unwind with a Revitalising Massage (a deep-tissue treatment that employs acupressure and light stretching) and immerse yourself in the serene surroundings with trickling fountains and lush greenery.

Housed at Jumeirah Al Naseem, the Dubai Turtle Rehabilitation Project will be a surefire hit with the kids. But the sanctuary isn’t just an opportunity to snap photos of the fascinating creatures gliding through the water. Established in 2004 as the first nonprofit of its kind in the Middle East, the project has rescued and rehabilitated more than 2,100 hawksbill, green and loggerhead turtles. With a dedicated hotline (800-TURTLE), the project encourages the public to report sick or injured turtles, which then recover in a private aquarium at the Burj. When they’ve regained their strength, the turtles are transferred to the sanctuary’s sea-fed outdoor lagoons before being released back into the gulf.

For more turtle fun, book the turtle tea at the luxury hotel’s Al Mandhar Lounge. The bites feature local ingredients and arrive on a shiny, angular chrome turtle sculpture. Made by Dubai-based French-Tunisian artist Idriss B, it uses recycled and eco-friendly material created on 3D printers. A portion of the proceeds from the tea is donated to the sanctuary.

Choose from more than 50 restaurants and bars.

If you want a more substantial meal, there are endless dining options among Madinat Jumeirah’s 50 restaurants and bars. At Al Naseem, you’ll want to dine at Rockfish, wedged between the beach and a pool. The restaurant focuses on seafood with an Italian slant. Start with the soft locally produced burrata with tomatoes and basil. Then move onto the scallop seamare, fresh hand-dived Norwegian scallops with generous truffle shavings and Jerusalem artichoke.

Also at Jumeirah Al Naseem, be sure to visit Summersalt Beach Club, an alfresco Latin American fusion restaurant. Enjoy light fare like a king crab roll or bluefin and tuna truffle nigiri. Or opt for something heavier, like the luscious wagyu beef, which arrives sizzling on a grill, or the Peruvian tacu tacu , pan-seared rice studded with seafood and mixed with macho sauce.

The beachside location makes it a hot spot during the day, whether you’re on the sand or under one of the restaurant’s crocheted umbrellas, but it’s also a great place to visit at night when the DJ-spun music still pulsates among the casual-chic crowd. Sip on a white sangria or pisco sour as you take in the front-row view of the Burj glowing against the night sky.

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Places To enjoy in Dubai (UAE)

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Dubai Tourism: Top Art & Culture Districts in Dubai

D ubai is a unique and vibrant city home to many art districts, making it an excellent tourist destination. From bustling downtowns to historic neighborhoods, Dubai has something for everyone.

Additionally, the city is known for its low cost of living and lively nightlife, making it an attractive destination for those looking for an unforgettable experience.

Dubai, the glittering jewel of the United Arab Emirates, has long been known for its real estate marvels that manifest in futuristic skyscrapers, luxurious villas, and sprawling resorts, as well as some investment off-plan projects in Dubai are also going on.

However, whether you are traveling solo, with family, or on business, an often-underappreciated aspect of Dubai's real estate ecosystem is its dynamic art districts, which are gradually becoming pivotal in shaping real estate prices.

Places to Explore in Dubai

Influence of art districts.

Art districts are neighborhoods where art galleries, studios, museums, and design spaces cluster.

These cultural hubs have long been recognized for their role in fostering creativity, promoting local talent, and enriching the fabric of a city.

However, in recent years, the influence of art districts has begun to expand beyond culture and into the realm of real estate economics.

Downtown Dubai

The downtown area of Dubai is home to various art districts, including the Dubai Design District, Al Quoz, and Alserkal Avenue.

Dubai Design District is a creative community with art galleries, cafes, and restaurants. The area has many fashion stores and boutiques, making it an excellent destination for unique and stylish clothing.

Art District Effect on Real Estate

Art districts often bring about a profound transformation in their surrounding neighborhoods. Their establishment sparks an influx of tourists and artists, enhancing the local economy and fostering community engagement.

They attract businesses such as cafes, restaurants, and boutiques, increasing the neighborhood's appeal. This elevated interest eventually leads to rising real estate prices, a phenomenon observed in numerous cities globally and gradually manifesting in Dubai.

Take Alserkal Avenue, for instance. Since its transformation into an art hub, the surrounding areas have experienced a surge in property value.

Core, a leading UAE real estate advisory firm, reported that rental prices in Al Quoz increased by 5 to 10% following Alserkal Avenue's establishment.

Additional Art Districts

Al Quoz is a historic district in the heart of Dubai, home to art galleries and studios. The area is also known for its bustling markets and bazaars, where visitors can find traditional souvenirs and handmade goods.

Additionally, the area is home to restaurants, cafes, and bars, making it an excellent destination for those looking for a fantastic nightlife experience.

Alserkal Avenue is a spirited art district located in the heart of Dubai. The area is home to art galleries, studios, workshops, restaurants, cafes, and bars. Like Al Quos, there are markets and bazaars for shopping.

Top Attractions in Dubai

Dubai, the glittering epitome of modern architecture and luxury, attracts tourists from around the globe with its top-rated attractions.

A city where tradition meets modernity, where skyscrapers stand alongside traditional Arabic houses, Dubai offers diverse experiences that cater to every tourist's preference.

A journey to Dubai isn't complete without marveling at the engineering marvel of the Burj Khalifa.

Soaring over 2,723 feet (830 meters), the world's tallest structure provides heavenly panoramic views of the Dubai skyline from its viewing deck on the 124th floor.

Adjacent to Burj Khalifa, located in the heart of Dubai, is the Dubai Mall, one of the world's largest and most visited shopping centers.

Apart from hosting many stores, the mall also houses attractions such as the Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo, sure to leave kids and adults alike in awe.

Yet, tradition thrives even in a city known for its contemporary structures. This is evident in the Bastakiya Quarter, also known as Old Dubai.

The narrow lanes and ancient buildings transport you back to a simpler time, offering a sharp but intriguing contrast to the city's skyscrapers.

While not traditionally an attraction, the souks of Dubai are as enchanting as any. Whether searching for spices, perfumes, textiles, or gold, wandering through these bustling marketplaces is like stepping into a radiant mosaic of Arabic culture.

One can't mention Dubai without bringing up the exhilarating desert safaris, offering dune bashing, camel riding, sandboarding , and traditional barbecues under the open sky.

These trips blend adventure and culture, leaving every tourist with unforgettable memories.

Complementing the desert landscape is Dubai's coastline, embellished by the artificial Palm Jumeirah Island. Shaped like a palm tree, it hosts luxurious hotels like Atlantis and The Palm and is a marvel of modern engineering.

For art enthusiasts, the Alserkal Art District is an evolving cultural hub home to contemporary art galleries, non-profit organizations, and homegrown businesses.

The district offers enriching experiences that extend to design, media, and community-centric initiatives.

For thrill-seekers, there's no beating the adrenaline rush at Dubai's theme parks. IMG Worlds of Adventure, the largest indoor theme park globally, presents an exciting mix of rides, movies, dining, and shopping experiences.

And no one can resist the allure of Dubai Parks and Resorts, housing Motiongate Dubai, Bollywood Parks Dubai, and LEGOLAND Dubai.

This summer, LEGOLAND Dubai offers free theme park entry to every child accompanying a paid adult visitor at either the Theme Park or the Water Park!

The Legoland Dubai Resort is a fantastic family destination adjacent to the Legoland Water Park.

This extraordinary amusement park is open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Monday through Friday, and from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., Saturday and Sunday, at Dubai Parks and Resorts. It is the ideal location for families with children between two and twelve. 

Lastly, Dubai forges an emotional connection with tourists at Dubai Creek, where one can take a traditional dhow cruise and soak in the city's skyline view.

This array of top-rated attractions underlies Dubai's transitional charm. It will captivate you with its ultramodern architecture and seduce you with its traditional Arabic charm at the turn of a corner.

The city's rapid transformation from a desert outpost into one of the world's most architecturally innovative cities is nothing short of miraculous.

It's no surprise that Dubai's fusion of modernity and tradition makes it one of the world's top tourist destinations.

Future of Art Districts and Real Estate in Dubai

Dubai's commitment to fostering its cultural landscape is evident in its continued investment in art and creative districts.

With the art scene in Dubai projected to flourish, the impact on surrounding real estate markets is anticipated to follow a similar growth trajectory.

In line with the UAE's Vision 2021, Dubai is set to establish itself as a global hub for arts and culture.

Ambitious initiatives like the Dubai Culture Plan 2025 aim to strengthen the cultural and creative sectors, contributing to the city's socioeconomic development.

Consequently, these plans are expected to catalyze the creation of new art districts, potentially leading to new real estate hotspots.

Moreover, with Expo 2020 Dubai rescheduled to 2023, the international spotlight on the emirate's art and culture scene has intensified.

The global event has given a platform to Dubai's vibrant art scene, further boosting its cultural footprint and indirectly influencing the real estate market.

As the art scene continues to gain momentum, we can expect a more significant effect on real estate prices around art districts.

Art districts have changed Dubai's urban fabric and added an extra layer of consideration for real estate investors and enthusiasts.

The once-overlooked industrial and financial areas are now bustling art districts, influencing the lifestyle and property values in their vicinity.

Art districts have undeniably added a new dimension to Dubai's real estate landscape. As places of cultural exchange and economic activity, they have proven to be a key driver in real estate valuation.

Understanding the impact of these cultural hubs can be invaluable for potential investors in making informed investment decisions. Get more information to guide your decision at https://emirates.estate .

Dubai is a great destination for tourists and property investors due to its unique art districts and vibrant nightlife. From bustling downtowns to historic districts, the city has something for everyone.

Additionally, the city is known for its low cost of living and lively nightlife, making it an attractive destination for those looking for an exceptional experience. 

As Dubai continues to foster its art scene and build more art districts, we can expect the correlation between art districts and real estate prices to strengthen further.

In a city renowned for its extraordinary architectural feats, art districts and their influence on property prices add another fascinating layer to the tapestry of Dubai's dynamic real estate market.

This story is brought to you in partnership with Emirates.Estate.

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