Dubai Travel Guide: How to Plan Your Trip as a First-Timer to the United Arab Emirates

Dubai is the biggest and most famous city in the United Arab Emirates. Its name is known by almost every traveler. At first, Dubai became famous for its oil, luxury lifestyle, and world-record buildings, but the real Dubai is much more than that.

For me, Dubai is one of my absolute favorite destinations. I return to the UAE often, either to revisit my favorite places or to explore new ones. After many trips, I felt it was time to collect all my experience in one complete Dubai travel guide, and this is the guide you’re reading now.

In this article, you’ll find a full Dubai travel guide with as much practical information as possible. I want to help you answer your questions and make planning easier. You’ll learn what to know about Dubai, the best places to visit, where to stay, how to get around, what the weather is like, what to wear, how safe the city is, what to expect when traveling with family, and much more.

So let’s start with a quick overview of the most important things to know, and then go through each topic in detail.

These basic questions can help you decide whether a trip to Dubai is right for you:

Where is Dubai located?

Dubai is the largest city in the United Arab Emirates. It is on the eastern side of the Arabian Peninsula, along the coast of the Persian Gulf.

With a population of around 4 million and a strong economy, Dubai is one of the most important cities in the Middle East.

Is Dubai worth visiting?

Yes, absolutely. If you love traveling, Dubai is a place you should not skip. The city offers wonderful experiences for almost everyone. It is modern, safe, clean, and easy to enjoy.

Tourists now visit Dubai not only for luxury, but also for its comfort, services, variety of activities, and overall quality of life.

Even if you do not like big cities or places that feel too modern, you will still find plenty of beautiful sights and interesting things to do. Just check the list below!

Why should you visit Dubai?

Dubai offers warm weather, amazing beaches, impressive architecture, fun activities, great shopping, and a mix of modern and traditional culture. It is a safe and exciting destination where you can relax, explore, and enjoy something new every day.

What you need to know before your first trip

Before visiting Dubai for the first time, there are a few important things that can make your trip easier and more comfortable. Dubai is very welcoming to tourists, but it also has its own local rules and customs that are good to know in advance.

Language: Do they speak English in Dubai?

The official language of Dubai and the UAE is Arabic, but English is widely spoken.

You will see English on road signs, in shops, and in most places where tourists go. Because many people living in Dubai come from other countries, English is the main language for everyday communication.

Currency: What money do they use?

The local currency is the UAE dirham, written as AED or Dhs. You can pay by card almost everywhere, but it is useful to carry a small amount of cash for markets or small shops.

Local rules and things NOT to do

Dubai is an open and modern city, but it still follows local cultural rules. These are simple to follow, and they help you show respect while enjoying your trip:

• Dress correctly: Wear modest clothing in malls, markets, and traditional areas. Shoulders and knees should be covered in most public places. At the beach and hotel pools, normal swimwear is completely fine.
• No kissing in public: Avoid kissing or showing too much affection in public spaces. Holding hands is usually accepted, but anything more can be seen as disrespectful.
• Rules about alcohol: You can drink alcohol only in licensed places such as hotels, bars, and certain restaurants. Drinking in public areas or on the street is not allowed. Being drunk in public is also taken seriously.
• Places where photography is not allowed: Some government buildings, military areas, and certain cultural sites do not allow photography. Always check for signs. Avoid taking photos of people without permission, especially women in traditional dress.

How to get to Dubai

Unless you are traveling from a nearby country, the easiest way to reach Dubai is by plane.

Most international flights land at Dubai International Airport (DXB). The main airlines are Emirates and FlyDubai, but many European and global cities also offer charter flights.

Do you need a visa to go to Dubai?

The UAE offers visa free entry for citizens of many countries. Travelers from places such as the EU, the United States, and the United Kingdom receive a tourist visa on arrival, which is automatic and free.

If your country is not on the UAE list of visa exempt countries, you need to apply for a visa online before your trip. In this case, visitors can apply for single entry or multiple entry tourist e visas. These have different fees and are usually processed within one or two days.

How to get around Dubai

Getting around Dubai is easy, and renting a car is often the most convenient option. Car rental prices are affordable, and fuel is much cheaper than in Europe.

Driving in Dubai can feel fast, and some drivers are impatient, so it is best if you or your travel partner feel confident on the road.

Parking is usually simple. Most malls and hotels offer free parking, but in busy areas like Downtown Dubai or JBR you will find paid parking zones, and the prices can be high.

Keep in mind that Dubai has road tolls called Salik. Each time you pass a toll gate, a small fee is charged automatically, and these costs can add up during a longer stay.

Always follow the speed limits. Dubai has many traffic cameras, and fines are expensive.

If you prefer not to drive, there are several easy alternatives:

• Dubai Metro: Clean, modern, and cheap. Great for reaching areas like Downtown and Dubai Marina.
• Taxis and ride hailing apps: Fast, safe, and reasonably priced.
• Hop on hop off buses or organized tours: A simple option if you want to see the main sights without worrying about driving or parking.

You can also book tours and tickets through platforms like GetYourGuide, where everything is arranged for you.

How to rent a car in Dubai

Renting a car in Dubai is simple, and it is one of the best ways to explore the city and nearby areas. Car rental prices are usually affordable, and most international companies operate in Dubai.

To rent a car, you need a passport, a valid driving license, and a credit card for the deposit. Some travelers also need an International Driving Permit, depending on their home country.

• Choose reliable companies. You will find the biggest rental offices at Dubai International Airport, mainly in Terminal 1 and Terminal 3. These are usually the easiest and safest options for first-time visitors.
• Be careful with deposits. Sometimes you hear stories about deposit problems, for example when a company returns the money late or not at all. Always check the deposit amount before booking, keep every document, and ask for a written confirmation when you return the car.
• Watch out for fines. In the UAE, traffic fines can take weeks or even months to appear in the system. We even had a case where some fines arrived one year after our trip. They were real fines, but always ask for an official proof or a government document before you pay anything.

Most cars come with automatic transmission, Salik toll registration, and basic insurance. You can upgrade to full insurance if you want extra peace of mind.

Overall, renting a car in Dubai is a convenient way to get around, as long as you choose a trusted company, keep your paperwork, and stay aware of deposits and possible fines.

Best time to visit Dubai

The best time to visit Dubai is during the winter months, when the weather is pleasant and easy to enjoy. From November to March, the temperatures are comfortable, and you can explore the city or spend time outdoors without worrying about extreme heat.

In the summer months from June to September, the temperature often rises above 40°C (104°F), which makes it difficult to stay outside for long.

If you want to enjoy the beach and still explore the city, October, November, March, and April are great choices. These months are warm enough for swimming, yet still comfortable for sightseeing.

Weather in Dubai

Dubai has a hot desert climate with warm winters and very hot summers.

Winter (November to March)

This is the most comfortable time of the year. Days are sunny and mild, usually between 20°C and 28°C. Evenings can feel a bit cooler, so a light jacket is sometimes useful. This is the best season for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

Spring and autumn (April, May, October)

These months are warm to hot. Daytime temperatures can reach 30°C to 35°C, but mornings and evenings are still pleasant. It is a good time for the beach, though the heat can be strong in the middle of the day.

Summer (June to September)

Summer in Dubai is extremely hot and humid. Temperatures often go above 40°C, and humidity can be very high, especially in August. Most activities take place indoors during this period, such as malls, restaurants, and waterparks.

Rain is rare in Dubai. When it does rain, it usually happens in the winter months and lasts only a short time.

Overall, Dubai is sunny all year round, but winter offers the most comfortable weather for visiting.

Where to stay in Dubai

Dubai has a huge variety of hotels for every budget and travel style, so choosing the right place can be a bit confusing.

Here are my recommendations. I have stayed in many of these hotels myself, and I can truly recommend them:

Best things to do in Dubai

Here are some of the top things to do in Dubai to make your trip fun and memorable:

• Go to the top of the Burj Khalifa: Enjoy incredible views from the tallest building in the world.
• Watch the Dubai Fountain show: See the world’s most beautiful fountain show. You can watch it from the promenade, or from one of the restaurants with a view at Souk Al Bahar or Dubai Mall.
• See other world records in Dubai: Dubai has the world’s largest Ferris wheel, the largest flower garden, and many other record breaking attractions worth visiting.
• Try local food and special treats: Taste Arabic dishes, camel milk chocolate, camel meat, and even golden foods and drinks
• Visit theme parks if you travel with family: Dubai is a very family friendly destination. You can choose from several fun parks, waterparks, and indoor entertainment centers.
• Try some extreme activities: Dubai offers skydiving, ziplining, jet skiing, desert quad biking, and many other exciting adventures.
• Experience a bit of luxury: Many travelers come to Dubai to enjoy luxury for a day. You can try luxury restaurants like Cé La Vi, rent a sports car, stay in one of the many five star hotels, or even buy gold jewelry at good prices.
• Go on a desert safari: A must do experience. You can choose morning or sunset tours, both are beautiful and full of activities.
• Explore Old Dubai: Walk through the old streets, visit the gold and spice souks, see traditional houses, and enjoy the real Arabic atmosphere.
• Take a boat trip: You can cruise from Dubai Marina, rent a private yacht, or take an affordable abra boat ride on Dubai Creek or Burj Lake.

These are some of the best things to do in Dubai, and they will help you enjoy the city in the best possible way.

Best places to visit in Dubai

These are the absolute best places you should visit during your trip to Dubai:

Downtown Dubai: Burj Khalifa, Dubai Mall, Dubai Fountain

The most famous area in the city, with the tallest building in the world, one of the largest malls, and the spectacular fountain show at Burj Lake.

This area is perfect for shopping, eating, and walking around. You will also find great photo spots like the Wings of Mexico statue and the “I Love Dubai” sign.

Museum of the Future

A stunning modern building with unique architecture and exhibitions about space, technology, and the future.

Old Dubai: Al Seef, Al Fahidi, Dubai Creek

The best place to feel traditional Dubai, with old style houses, narrow streets, museums, and a lovely promenade by the Creek.

Gold Souk and Spice Souk

Traditional markets where you can see gold jewelry, spices, perfumes, and local products.

Dubai Frame

A huge frame shaped structure that shows old Dubai on one side and modern Dubai on the other, with a glass walkway on the top.

Dubai Garden Glow

A colorful evening park full of glowing light installations, perfect for a relaxed night walk and photos.

Dubai Creek Harbour

A calm and modern waterfront area with great views of the skyline and the Burj Khalifa in the distance.

Expo City

The former Expo 2020 site, now a modern district with impressive pavilions, plazas, and futuristic buildings.

Dubai Miracle Garden

The world’s largest flower garden, famous for its flower covered airplane and heart shaped tunnels, open in the cooler months.

Global Village

An evening attraction with pavilions from many countries, street food, shops, shows, and fairground style fun.

Beaches: Kite Beach, JBR Beach, Mercato Beach, Jumeirah Beach

Great places to swim, walk, or relax by the sea, some with views of the Burj Al Arab or Ain Dubai.

Souk Madinat Jumeirah

A charming modern souk with canals and restaurants, plus amazing views of the iconic sail shaped Burj Al Arab hotel.

Palm Jumeirah

The famous palm shaped island, with The View observation deck, Atlantis hotels, and the Aquaventure Waterpark.

Dubai Marina and JBR

A lively modern district with tall skyscrapers, a marina promenade, many restaurants, the famous Address Beach Resort, and the popular JBR Beach.

Bluewaters Island and Ain Dubai

A stylish island with the world’s largest Ferris wheel, nice restaurants, and some of the best skyline views in Dubai.

How many days do you need in Dubai?

If you only want to see the most famous sights, such as the Burj Khalifa, Dubai Mall, Dubai Fountain, Old Dubai, and one desert safari, then 2–3 days can be enough.

If you would like to see more areas, relax on the beach, try special restaurants, go shopping, and add a day trip to places like Abu Dhabi or Hatta, I recommend at least 5 days, or even 7 to 10 days if you can.

Time passes quickly in Dubai, so if you want a more relaxed trip, it is worth staying a little longer.

Dubai travel costs

Dubai is known for being an expensive destination, even though you can still find many free or low-cost things to do. The final cost of your trip depends a lot on your travel style, hotel choice, and how many paid attractions you want to try.

Is Dubai expensive?

In general, yes.

Hotels and restaurants may look affordable at first, but flight tickets are usually expensive, and many attractions have high entrance fees. Parking, tolls, and shopping costs also add up quickly during a one-week stay.

How to pay in Dubai

Many travelers wonder how they can pay in Dubai, so here is a simple overview of the most common options:

Cash

The local currency is the UAE dirham (AED).

You do not need much cash, but it can be useful in markets, small shops, and for tipping.

Card

Bank cards and credit cards are accepted almost everywhere in Dubai.

You can also use contactless payment, Apple Pay, or Google Pay in most restaurants and shops.

If you want to save money on exchange rates, you can check options like Revolut or Wise, which many European travelers use.

Nol card

A Nol card is a travel card used for the metro, tram, and buses in Dubai.

You can buy it at ticket offices, vending machines, RTA customer centres, or authorized sales agents. You can also buy it online, but for tourists it is usually easier and faster to get one on the spot.

A Nol card is very convenient because you don’t need to buy single tickets every time you travel, you simply tap in and tap out.

SIM card and eSIM in Dubai

People often say you can get a free SIM card at Dubai Airport. This is partly true, but in my experience, you only get it if you go to the telecom stand and ask for it. Even then, it’s usually valid for just 24 hours and includes very little data.

If you need more data, you can either use your home provider’s roaming plan or buy a local SIM card.

The main providers are du, Etisalat, and Virgin Mobile.

eSIMs are also very popular now. Options like Airalo and Holafly work well in Dubai and are easy to set up at a good price.

Is Dubai safe for tourists?

Yes, Dubai is one of the safest travel destinations in the world.

Rules are taken very seriously, and crimes such as theft, harassment, or any kind of problematic behavior are punished strictly. Even traffic violations can result in high fines. Because of this, both locals and tourists usually follow the rules carefully.

This is why you often see videos showing how safe Dubai feels: people leave their bags on the beach without worrying, women feel comfortable walking alone at night, and the city is extremely clean and well-maintained (even littering is fined).

Dubai travel scams, and how to avoid them

Although Dubai is very safe, small scams can still happen, just like anywhere else.

Common examples include:

• vendors entering the wrong amount on the card machine at markets
• rental car companies not returning deposits, or creating reasons months later to keep the money

These situations are rare, but it’s good to stay alert, check amounts before you pay, and always ask for documents if a company charges you for something.

Safety tips for women and solo travelers

Dubai is extremely safe for women and solo travelers. It is a place I would personally visit alone without hesitation.

Here are a few simple tips:

• Dress respectfully, especially in traditional areas.
• Avoid the less polished neighborhoods at night (for example parts of Deira or Bur Dubai), although they are still much safer than similar zones in many Western cities.
• Respect local customs: don’t get drunk in public, don’t act loudly or disrespectfully.

If you follow basic travel manners, you should feel completely safe.

Can you drink tap water in Dubai?

Tap water in Dubai is safe to use, and you won’t get sick from it.

However, it’s not recommended for drinking. Most people, including locals, drink bottled water instead.

The tap water is purified seawater, so even though it’s safe, it’s better to avoid it for drinking and use bottled water instead.

What to wear in Dubai

Dubai has become very open and tourist-friendly in the past decades, so you can wear almost anything in most tourist areas.

However, after many trips, I still recommend dressing a bit more modestly. It helps you blend in, feel comfortable around locals, and avoid unwanted attention, especially outside the main tourist spots.

You can definitely wear short dresses, skirts, or shorts, as long as they look tasteful. Still, I suggest choosing clothes that are not too revealing, not see-through, and a bit loose. This way, you’ll feel comfortable anywhere you go, even in less touristy neighborhoods.

In elegant places, many restaurants and hotels have a dress code, usually smart casual, and they often follow it strictly. For example, my husband was once not allowed to enter a restaurant because he was wearing shorts.

So overall: dress freely, but respectfully, and always check the dress code if you plan to visit a fancy place.

Food and alcohol in Dubai

Dubai has restaurants from almost every country in the world.

Because many residents come from Asia (especially India), Asian restaurants are very popular. But you’ll also find great Italian, Greek, Mexican places, many steakhouses, burger restaurants, and almost anything you feel like eating.

There are options for every budget, from simple street food to high-end luxury dining.

Alcohol in Dubai

It’s important to know that alcohol is strictly regulated in Dubai for religious and cultural reasons. You can only buy alcohol in licensed shops and drink it in licensed restaurants, bars, or hotels.

Drinking in public areas is not allowed at all, and the fines can be very high.

So if you plan to drink alcohol in Dubai, make sure you do it only in the approved places.

Where to eat in Dubai

Dubai has so many great restaurants that it’s hard to choose, but here are some of my top recommendations:

• CÉ LA VI: A luxury restaurant with one of the best Burj Khalifa views. Perfect for a special lunch.
• Joe’s Café Dubai: Located in the Dubai Mall with a nice view over Burj Lake.
• Trattoria: A cozy Italian restaurant in Souk Madinat Jumeirah with beautiful views.
• Ossiano: A famous fine dining restaurant inside Atlantis The Palm, surrounded by an aquarium.
• Al Khayma Heritage Restaurant: A traditional Arabic restaurant in Old Dubai.
• Dinner in the Sky: A unique experience where your table is lifted high into the air.

These are some of the most impressive places in the city, but the list in Dubai is truly endless. It’s always worth asking for local recommendations too, even in Facebook groups.

Best gluten-free restaurants in Dubai

Since I’ve been on a gluten-free diet for many years, I’ve tried many places in Dubai.

Here are my personal favorites:

• Tawa Gluten-Free Eatery: One of the best gluten-free restaurants in Dubai, with a large menu of fast food, bakery items, and desserts. Located in the DIFC area.
• Krave: A good option inside the Dubai Mall, offering mainly Asian-style dishes with several gluten-free choices.
• Soulgreen Dubai: My favorite restaurant in Dubai Creek Harbour, with a beautiful view of the Dubai skyline. They serve mixed dishes, including many Italian options like gluten-free gnocchi — one of the reasons I love it.
• KOBEYa: A wonderful restaurant in Dubai Marina, offering Asian dishes and excellent gluten-free burgers. This is one of my go-to places every time I visit Dubai.
• Pastamamma: A great Italian restaurant with options like gluten-free pasta. Located on Bluewaters Island.

These are the best places I can recommend, but Dubai has many more gluten-free and diet-friendly options. It’s an amazing city for anyone with dietary needs.

Dubai public holidays and events

Dubai celebrates national, Islamic, and international holidays.

The most important ones are:

• New Year’s Day
• Eid al-Fitr (end of Ramadan)
• Eid al-Adha
• Islamic New Year
• UAE National Day (December 2)

In December and January, Dubai also hosts the famous Shopping Festival, which means weeks of big discounts, Christmas markets, fireworks, and amazing drone shows across the city.

Throughout the year, you will also find many food festivals, concerts, cultural programs, and sport events such as the Dubai Run. These events make the city very lively and fun to explore.

What is Dubai like during Ramadan

Many travelers ask this question. Although I personally prefer not to visit Muslim countries during Ramadan, I have looked into this topic in detail over the years.

Dubai is a very modern city. Even though many residents follow the fasting rules, the city does not stop during Ramadan.

More and more restaurants and shops stay open during the day, especially in tourist areas, so you can travel almost the same way as in any other month.

After sunset, everything becomes lively again, and you can enjoy special Iftar dinners all around the city.

Still, if you have the option, I recommend visiting outside the fasting period, just to avoid any possible inconvenience during the daytime.

Dubai for families

Dubai is one of the best family-friendly destinations in the world.

The city is clean, safe, easy to get around, and full of activities for children of all ages. Whether your family loves theme parks, water fun, learning experiences, or indoor attractions, you will always find something exciting to do.

Here are some of the best family activities in Dubai:

• Global Village: One of Dubai’s most popular evening attractions and a great choice for families. It’s a huge outdoor park with pavilions from all around the world, offering food, shows, rides, shopping, and cultural performances.
• IMG Worlds of Adventure: A huge indoor theme park with rides and shows based on Marvel, Cartoon Network, and dinosaurs.
• Aquaventure Waterpark: Located at Atlantis The Palm, this is one of the most famous waterparks in the world. It has massive slides, lazy rivers, kids’ areas, and even a private beach.
• KidZania: A mini-city in the Dubai Mall where kids can try more than 60 real-life jobs, like being a pilot, doctor, firefighter, chef, or journalist.
• Motiongate Dubai: A Hollywood-themed park with areas inspired by Shrek, Madagascar, Kung Fu Panda, The Smurfs, and more.
• Legoland Dubai: Perfect for younger children and LEGO fans. It offers colorful rides, interactive building zones, playful shows, and a famous Miniland with iconic buildings made from LEGO bricks. Since Legoland is right next to Motiongate, many families visit both on the same day.

Dubai makes family travel very easy, and with so many parks and activities, children never get bored. It’s a destination where the whole family can enjoy a fun and comfortable holiday.

Other places worth visiting in the United Arab Emirates

If you have extra time during your Dubai trip, there are several amazing places outside Dubai that are well worth exploring. Each destination shows a different side of the country, from modern landmarks to quiet mountain scenery.

Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi is one of the best and most popular day trips from Dubai. Many tour companies offer easy full-day trips, making it a simple and comfortable option.

The city is home to some of the UAE’s most impressive sights, including the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, the presidential palace Qasr Al Watan, the Emirates Heritage Village, and the Louvre Abu Dhabi. A new highlight is the Sheikh Zayed National Museum, which opened at the end of 2025.

Together, these places can easily fill a full day and give you a great overview of Abu Dhabi’s culture, architecture, and history.

Hatta

If you’re looking for a day trip destination in nature, Hatta is a wonderful choice. Even though it lies deep in the mountains, it officially belongs to the Emirate of Dubai.

The drive takes about 2 hours, and there’s also a cheap bus if you prefer not to drive.

The main attraction is the Hatta Reservoir, where you can rent a kayak or paddle boat and enjoy the calm mountain views. The surrounding area is also lovely, with spots like the Hatta Sign, Leem Lake, Al Wadi Park, and the roundabout near Hatta Fort.

Jebel Jais

For mountain lovers, Jebel Jais is one of the most impressive destinations in the UAE. It’s located in the Hajar Mountains near Ras Al Khaimah, about 2.5 hours from Dubai.

The drive itself is interesting, with desert scenery, scattered trees, and sometimes even camels walking near the highway.

The highlight, however, is the winding mountain road leading up to Jebel Jais. It has several viewpoints where you can stop, take photos, and enjoy the fresh air. For adventure seekers, the Jebel Jais Zipline (one of the longest in the world) is an unforgettable experience.

Al Ain

If you have more time and want to see a calmer, greener part of the UAE, consider visiting Al Ain, located about 1.5–2 hours from Abu Dhabi.

The city is known for its parks, palm oases, and mountain landscapes. You can drive up Jebel Hafeet for amazing views, explore the UNESCO-listed Al Ain Oasis, or visit the Al Ain Palace Museum, the former home of Sheikh Zayed. It’s a relaxing destination that offers a very different atmosphere from Dubai’s busy city life.

This was the complete Dubai travel guide, where I collected all the important information you need before planning your trip to Dubai.

I showed you the best attractions in Dubai, the best things to do, and gave you an overview of the most popular day trips as well. You also saw when to visit, where to stay, where to eat, how to get around, and what to expect during your stay.

I hope this guide helps you prepare well for your Dubai trip and makes your travel planning much easier.

If you need even more tips, feel free to read my other Dubai and UAE articles. I’ve covered many topics and itineraries across the Emirates, since this is one of my favorite destinations. Because I love Dubai so much, I always try to collect as many useful travel tips as possible, so you can experience the country in the best and most enjoyable way.

And if Dubai has inspired you too, don’t wait: book your trip, choose your hotel and activities, and get ready to enjoy this amazing city!