Top 10 Things to Know About Dubai Before You Arrive
Dubai, the second-largest Emirate of the UAE, is a fusion of traditions, culture, and modernization. One of the most favorite cities to visit with endless attractions, modern architecture, stunning skyscrapers, mystical beaches, materialistic indulgences, and mesmerizing nightlife, there is something for everyone in this oasis of the desert. The UAE is a Muslim country that follows Islamic laws, though rules are slightly more relaxed for tourists and residents in the city of Dubai. Each year, millions of tourists visit Dubai. Plan your trip to Dubai at least 2 or 3 months in advance to enjoy the best rates for air travel, hotels, etc. The hustle and bustle of this city is very contagious. However, before you visit Dubai, it is important to understand what is and what is not appropriate and things to know about Dubai to ensure that your visit to the Gulf city is enjoyable and hassle-free.
Dubai Visa and Travel Essentials
The Dubai visa enables the visa holder to travel to UAE. There are different types of visas depending upon your travel purpose and duration of the trip. You can apply for a 96 hours’ transit visas, 14-day visas, 30-day visas, and 90 day visas as well as single or multiple entry visas. Dubai has strict laws against drugs brought into the country from overseas. The government has a zero-tolerance policy towards people found possessing drugs. If you are on any medications, always carry your prescription. There are also a few banned items. To avoid any trouble, look at the official website of Dubai Customs to check the list of these items.
Getting around Dubai
You can choose to take a taxi, the Dubai Metro, or ride the bus to travel across Dubai. The Dubai Metro is the best and the most affordable option to travel around the city as it connects to all the significant landmarks. Being driverless and completely automated, it is a must-experience during your Dubai stay. The Dubai Ferry is an ideal and exotic way to discover the stunning sights of Dubai. Taxis are easily available and a quick way to get around the city, though expensive. You can use ride-based apps like Uber and UAE-based Careem too. It is better to purchase an NOL (fare in Arabic) card that can be used to make payments for all the RTA transport.
Tipping in Dubai
Tipping is not required in Dubai but is always appreciated. When you give a tip, it shows that you are pleased with their service. If you are tipping in Dubai, there isn’t a set percentage that you should tip. Most people usually tip between ten to twenty percent of the bill. A lot of taxi drivers, servants, and waitstaff earn a low income. Most of them give a part of their income to support families in their home country. Make sure that you tip in cash because the card payments go to the owner, and there is no guarantee that the owner passes these tips on to the workers.
Best Time to Visit Dubai
Dubai experiences a desert climate with warm weather year-round. It gets extremely hot and humid during the summer months (between May and September) when the day temperature can reach up to 55 degrees with extreme humidity. The best time to visit Dubai is during the winter months (between November to March) to experience the beautiful clear, blue skies and the best beach weather. During Christmas and New Year, the streets are decorated, and there is festive fervor in the air. Winter is also the time to enjoy the seasonal attractions like Dubai Shopping Festival, Dubai Miracle Garden, Global Village, etc.
Best Place to Stay in Dubai
As a tourist hub, Dubai is full of hotels that suit the budget of all kinds of travelers. You can find budget-friendly hotels to the most expensive and luxurious ones. Choose to stay in an accommodation that provides easy access to all the attractions covered in your itinerary. If shopping and theme parks are your priority, consider taking accommodation in Al Barsha or Dubai Downtown. If you are looking for budget-friendly options, then Bur Dubai and Deira regions are places that you should choose to stay. Dubai is a popular tourist destination, and to avail of the best deals on accommodation and availability, it is better to book in advance.
Dubai Shopping
A visit to Dubai is incomplete without checking out the shopping scene. It is a shoppers’ haven, from its traditional Arabian Bazaars (Souks) to the shopping malls. The bazaar or souks of Dubai transport you to ancient Arabia, as you browse through the bazaar in search of sparkling gold, fragrant spices, and luxurious clothes. The gigantic malls of Dubai like The Dubai Mall, The Mall of Emirates, Marina Mall, Ibn Batuta Mall, etc. are places where shopaholics can find world-famous brands. There are exclusive designer boutiques, local shops, cheap wholesale stores, and handicraft stores to suit the budget of all kinds of visitors.
Dubai Attractions
There are many attractions and places to visit in Dubai like the iconic Burj Khalifa, Burj Al Arab, Dubai Fountain, Jumeirah beach and resorts, Dubai Creek, Dubai Souks, Dubai Frame, etc. The Desert Safari is an attraction that one should not miss while visiting this city. Dubai is home to more than a dozen theme parks and waterparks. The Aquaventure Water park, the Wild Wadi Waterpark, IMG World of Adventure, and Ski Dubai are the most popular ones. Don’t forget to visit some of the city’s historic places like Hatta Heritage village, Al Fahidi, Al Seef, Burj Nahar, and Saruq Al Hadid Archeology museum.
Public Display of Affection (PDA)
Public display of affection is considered disrespectful in Dubai and must be avoided at all times. It is socially unacceptable. You can get arrested for that. Couples should not show any public displays of affection like kissing, while they may occasionally hug in public. Married couples holding hands in public is still tolerable. Unmarried couples are prohibited from sharing a room or living together. Homosexual acts are unlawful in Dubai and may lead to severe punishment.
Dress Modestly
Dubai is more lenient than its Middle East neighbors. The dress code in tourist places and hotels is not very strict. However, you must respect the locals and dress modestly. Women don’t need to wear an abaya at all times. But in public places, they must wear clothing that covers their shoulders and knees. It is best to refrain from wearing clothing that is too tight or too revealing. It is better to carry a shawl or a light cardigan while going in public places. Bikinis and swimwear is permitted, but only on a private beach or swimming pool. Men can wear shorts, shirts, pants, or t-shirts. They should not show their bare chest in public.
Restrictions during the Month of Ramadan
During the holy month of Ramadan, Muslims fast from sunrise to sunset. It is the month of prayer and fasting for the Muslim community. If you happen to travel during the month of Ramadan, then be sure to read up on how you should behave during this religious festival. Eating, drinking, and smoking in public from sunrise to sunset are strictly forbidden. Many restaurants are closed until sunset. Avoid playing music or dancing in public. Desert Safari will be operational during the month of Ramadan, but the entertainment element of their program will be paused.
Other things that you should know before traveling to Dubai or any of the United Arab Emirates is that you should not spit on the road or take pictures of the locals without their permission, particularly the local Emirati women. A penalty is imposed if you are found smoking or drinking in public. It is a safe city to travel to as laws are strictly enforced for people to follow. So, ensure you respect the people and their culture and adhere to the rules. Dubai is an eclectic city that welcomes tourists with open arms, so do not let these rules dampen your holiday spirit.
