Dubai is a city renowned for its extravagant achievements and over-the-top amenities, boasting the tallest building, biggest man-made island, largest mall, and most opulent hotel in the world. This global city is popular among digital nomads, remote workers, and tourists alike, having recently been crowned the top tourist destination worldwide.
However, there are a few key considerations to keep in mind before embarking on a trip to Dubai. This article will provide a comprehensive guide to traveling to Dubai, covering topics such as travel costs, cultural etiquette, top attractions, safety, local cuisine and beverages, wifi availability, and length of stay.
If you’re planning a trip to Dubai, read on for the top 7 things you need to know before you go.
Affordability
Although Dubai offers a wide range of accommodation options that cater to different budgets, it is not known to be a budget-friendly travel destination. However, with careful planning and budgeting, you can still have a pleasant vacation without overspending. Keep in mind that luxury shopping can quickly add up to your expenses. On the other hand, if you are looking for a lavish vacation with no expense spared, Dubai has got you covered.
The local currency in Dubai is the United Arab Emirates Dirham (AED), with the exchange rate at 1 AED = 0.27 USD or 1 USD = 3.67 AED as of February 14, 2023. Travel insurance plans starting at $10 per week for 2023 are also available for your consideration.
Accommodation:
- The current average price for a hotel in Dubai is $225 per night.
- One night in a luxury 5-star hotel in Dubai will cost around $518 per night.
- Budget travelers can find a bed in a hostel for anywhere from $30-$60 a night.
Food:
- A mid-range three-course meal for two in Dubai will cost about $80.
- For a cheap meal at an inexpensive restaurant, expect to pay around $11.
- A bottle of beer from a restaurant costs around $13, while a cappuccino is about $5.
Transportation:
- Tickets on Dubai’s public transit system are very inexpensive and range from $0.80 to $2, depending on the distance traveled.
- Taxi fares start at $3 and then an additional $1.30 per mile.
- Ride-hailing services include Uber and Careem, with Uber costing slightly more.
Culture And Etiquette In Dubai
The UAE is an Islamic society, and visitors should respect the local customs, especially when outside of hotels, entertainment, and nightlife venues.
- DO dress conservatively by keeping shoulders, legs, and cleavage covered when out and about. It’s not necessary to cover up completely, but a scarf can be brought to throw over your shoulders if needed.
- DON’T engage in public displays of affection such as kissing and holding hands, as it is considered inappropriate.
- DON’T get drunk and disorderly in public. If you are out on the town enjoying yourself, make sure your behavior doesn’t get out of control once you leave the bar or nightclub.
- DON’T visit during Ramadan. Even tourists must follow the customs of Ramadan when in public – that means fasting between sunrise and sunset. While tourists can eat during the day at designated areas in hotel and shopping mall restaurants, many places close altogether.
Top Attractions in Dubai
- The Dubai Fountain: This incredible fountain in Burj Lake is the tallest in the world. Free shows are scheduled every day, and visitors can watch 22,000 gallons of water dance 500 feet into the air along with choreographed music.
- Burj Khalifa: No trip to Dubai is complete without a visit to the world’s tallest building. Tourists can visit the observation deck on the 124th floor and enjoy endless views of the city below.
- The Dubai Mall: The largest mall in the world could take a lifetime to explore. With over 1,200 retail outlets, 200 dining options, and even an aquarium. rewrite with points
- Museum of the Future Dubai: The Museum of the Future is a futuristic museum located in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. It was opened in 2021 and is dedicated to exploring the latest innovations and technologies shaping the future of various industries, including healthcare, education, transportation, and sustainabilit
Safety
- Dubai is a safe city with a low crime rate, but petty crimes like pickpocketing and theft can still occur in tourist areas like Jumeirah Beach.
- Visitors should be cautious when swimming at the beach and look out for red flags and riptides, as currents can be dangerous at times.
- The U.S. Department of State has issued a level 3 “reconsider travel” advisory for the UAE due to the threat of missile or drone attacks, so travelers should be aware of any travel warnings or advisories.
- It is recommended to get travel insurance to cover any potential health emergencies or travel mishaps during your trip to Dubai.
Local dining
One of the best parts of travel is checking out the local cuisine. Don’t let yourself leave Dubai without trying at least one of the following
- Khuzi – a lamb or mutton dish served on top of rice, vegetables, and nuts, which is the UAE’s national dish
- Luqaimat – hot dumplings with a sticky date sauce and sesame seeds
- Camel milk ice cream – a unique and popular local treat
- Machboos – spiced rice dish with dried lemon and shrimp, lamb, or chicken
- Khubz – Arabic flatbread, served with dips
- Dubai is increasingly catering to alternative diets, so vegans and vegetarians will find plenty of options.
- Arabic coffee – a light roast coffee infused with cardamom and served in tiny cups
- Jellab – a cold drink made with grape molasses and rose water, often topped with pinenuts and raisins
- Laban– a high-protein creamy buttermilk drink
- Alcohol is not widely served in Dubai, but it is easily found in hotels, restaurants, and bars targeted toward expats and tourists.
Wifi
In December 2022, the average download and upload speeds in Dubai, as measured by Ookla, were 184.66mbps and 25.77mbps, respectively.
How long can I stay?
Upon arrival in Dubai, American travelers will be granted a complimentary 30-day tourist visa. To be eligible, visitors must hold a passport that remains valid for at least six months beyond their arrival date and may be required to show evidence of a return ticket. Additionally, Dubai has become a popular destination for remote workers and digital nomads, who can now stay in the city for up to a year through the Remote Working Program.
