A Comprehensive Guide to Traveling in Dubai

Welcome to our comprehensive guide titled “A Comprehensive Guide to Traveling in Dubai”. My name is Pardeep, and in this blog, I’ll be sharing everything you need to know about traveling to Dubai, from A to Z. By the end of this post, you’ll be equipped to plan your entire Dubai trip on your own.

If you’re planning your first international trip, Dubai is the perfect destination, offering something for everyone—individuals, couples, and families alike. This guide is divided into four parts, ensuring that even first-time international travelers can plan their trip smoothly. We’ll recommend locations, share dos and don’ts, and provide practical tips for your journey.

Part 1: When to Visit and How to Get There (Traveling in Dubai)

Best Time to Visit Dubai

Dubai offers something for everyone throughout the year, but the best time to visit is from November to March when the weather is pleasantly cool. This period is ideal for outdoor activities, sightseeing, and enjoying the beach.

Shoulder Months

For those looking to travel on a budget, the shoulder months—late October, early March, and April—are a great option. During these months, the weather is mildly hot and humid but still bearable. Additionally, you can find excellent deals on flights and accommodations.

Trip Duration

To make the most of your Dubai trip, plan your stay based on what you want to experience:

• 5 Days: Enough to cover the major points of interest in Dubai.
• 10 Days: Ideal if you plan to include a visit to Abu Dhabi.

We stayed for 7 days, which allowed us to explore Dubai comfortably. For a detailed budget breakdown and travel tips, check the guide linked in the description box.

Flights and Airports

Flight Costs

• Round-trip flight from Mumbai to Dubai: Approximately ₹22,000 per head.
• Cheapest airline: Indigo.

Airports

• Dubai International Airport (DXB): The primary airport, well-connected to the city.
• Sharjah Airport (SHJ): An alternative, but the cost difference in flights is minimal (around ₹2,000). Considering transportation costs to Downtown Dubai or Bur Dubai from Sharjah, it’s more convenient to fly into Dubai International Airport.

Flight Experience

We flew Emirates, renowned for its luxurious service even in economy class. Booking directly through the Emirates website offers the best deals and skyward membership points, which can be redeemed for future trips.

Visa Process

Dubai’s visa process is quick and straightforward. Indians must apply for an E-visa unless they hold a US visit visa or UK/Europe resident visa, which allows for a visa on arrival.

Applying for a Visa

• Documents needed: Scanned copy of your passport (valid for at least six months) and passport-size photos.
• Processing time: Usually within 48 hours, but it’s recommended to apply at least seven days before your flight.
• Covid insurance: Required along with the E-visa.

Visa Options

You can apply for the UAE visa either on your own or via a travel agent. We chose the latter for convenience, as the agent only required two documents: a scanned copy of our passport and passport-size photos.

Currency

• Currency: Dirham (AED).
• Conversion rate: 1 AED = ₹22.68 INR.

Payment Methods

Card payments are widely accepted in Dubai, including in taxis. Use a good forex card with zero markup fees and choose AED as the payment currency to avoid conversion fees. Carry some cash for emergencies, and if AED is not available for exchange, opt for USD, which offers better rates.

Sim Cards

Providers

• DU
• Etisalat
• Virgin

Purchase

Buy sim cards at the airport for convenience. We bought DU and Virgin sim cards with 21 GB of data and 7 days’ validity.

Travel Insurance

While not mandatory, travel insurance is highly recommended. It can be purchased online for around ₹700-800, providing peace of mind during your trip.

This concludes Part 1 of our detailed Dubai travel guide. Stay tuned for Part 2, where we will cover accommodation and transport options to make your stay comfortable and hassle-free.

Read also: ULTIMATE JAKARTA TRAVEL GUIDE: ITINERARY, COSTS, PLACES TO EAT, AND TRAVEL TIPS

Part 2: Accommodation and Transport

Choosing Accommodation for your Dubai Trip

Finding the right place to stay in Dubai can be overwhelming due to the wide range of options available. Here are three main criteria to help you decide:

Location

• Downtown Dubai or Bur Dubai: Ideal for those who want to be close to major attractions like Dubai Mall, Burj Khalifa, and more.
• JBR (Jumeirah Beach Residence) or Palm Jumeirah: Perfect for luxury seekers, with high-end hotels and Airbnbs offering stunning views and top-notch amenities.
• Al Jadaf: A good mid-range option, offering a balance between cost and convenience.
• Bur Dubai or Old Dubai: Best for budget travelers, with affordable hotels and a more traditional atmosphere.

Budget

• Luxury: Downtown Dubai, JBR, Palm Jumeirah.
• Mid-range: Al Jadaf.
• Budget: Bur Dubai, Old Dubai.

Type of Accommodation

• Hotels: Prices range from ₹5,000-6,000 per night for decent options.
• Airbnb: Costs about ₹7,000-8,000 per night, ideal for families and groups for cost-effectiveness.
• Hostels: For those on a tight budget, hostels offer a cheaper alternative.

Booking Tips

• Book in Advance: To get the best deals, especially during peak travel seasons.
• Check Amenities: Ensure your accommodation has the amenities you need, such as Wi-Fi, breakfast, airport transfers, etc.
• Read Reviews: Check reviews on platforms like TripAdvisor or Booking.com to gauge the quality of the accommodation.

Transport Options

Dubai offers a variety of transportation options to make your travel within the city smooth and efficient.

Metro

Dubai’s metro system is clean, efficient, and covers many of the major tourist spots. However, it doesn’t connect to all areas of the city.

• NOL Card: Available at metro stations for 25 AED, with 19 AED worth of credit. You can refund the remaining balance of 6 AED when returning the card.

Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tours

These tours are an excellent way to see all the major attractions in Dubai. The buses have stops at key tourist spots, and you can get on and off as you please.

Taxis and Ride-Sharing

• Kareem App: Use the Kareem app to book Hala or Dubai cabs.
• Minimum fare: 8-12 AED, with a charge of 1.8 AED per kilometer.
• Ride-Sharing Services: Uber is also available in Dubai for convenient rides.

Rental Cars

For those who prefer to drive, renting a car is a viable option. Ensure you have an international driving permit if required.

Tips for Transport

• Use Public Transport: It’s more cost-effective and can save you from the hassle of traffic and parking.
• Plan Your Routes: Use Google Maps or local apps to plan your routes and check transport schedules.
• Avoid Peak Hours: Travel during off-peak hours to avoid congestion and long waits.

Practical Advice

• Travel Insurance: Though not mandatory, it’s advisable to have travel insurance. It costs around ₹700-800 and can be purchased online.
• Currency: Carry some cash (AED) for emergencies, but use a forex card for most payments to avoid conversion fees.
• Sim Cards: Buy a local sim card at the airport for convenience. DU, Etisalat, and Virgin offer good data plans.

This concludes Part 2 of our comprehensive Dubai travel guide. In Part 3, we will explore the must-visit attractions in Dubai to help you make the most of your trip. Stay tuned!

Part 3: Places to Visit in Dubai

Dubai is a city that offers an incredible variety of attractions, from iconic landmarks to hidden gems. Here’s a detailed guide to the must-visit places in Dubai.

Iconic Landmarks

Burj Khalifa

• Overview: The tallest building in the world, offering stunning views of Dubai’s skyline.
• Tickets: Two types – levels 124/125 for a more affordable option and levels 154/155 for a premium experience.
• Dining: Options for lunch, dinner, or just a coffee with a view.
• Fountain Show: Visit during sunset to catch the mesmerizing Dubai Fountain show from the top.

The Dubai Mall

• Overview: One of the largest shopping malls globally, offering shopping, dining, and entertainment.
• Attractions: Dubai Aquarium, Underwater Zoo, VR Park, Ice Rink, and the Dubai Dino exhibit.

Palm Jumeirah

• Overview: An artificial archipelago, home to luxury hotels and resorts.
• The View at The Palm: Offers panoramic views of the Palm, the Arabian Gulf, and the Dubai skyline, best visited at sunset.
• Activities: Beach clubs, water sports, and the famous Atlantis The Palm resort.

Dubai Marina

• Overview: A vibrant district known for its skyscrapers, waterfront dining, and nightlife.
• Activities: Dhow cruise, walking along the Marina Walk, and shopping at Dubai Marina Mall.

Cultural and Historical Sites

Al Fahidi Historic District

• Overview: A glimpse into Dubai’s past with restored traditional houses and museums.
• Attractions: Dubai Museum, Coffee Museum, and Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding.

Dubai Creek

• Overview: The historic heart of Dubai, offering a contrast to the modern city.
• Activities: Abra rides across the creek, exploring the Gold Souk and Spice Souk.

Jumeirah Mosque

• Overview: One of the most beautiful mosques in Dubai, open to non-Muslims for tours.
• Tours: Conducted by the Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding, offering insight into Emirati culture and religion.

Modern Attractions

Dubai Frame

• Overview: A unique architectural landmark offering views of both old and new Dubai.
• Experience: Glass walkway, exhibitions on Dubai’s past, present, and future.

Global Village

• Overview: A seasonal cultural extravaganza featuring pavilions from around the world.
• Activities: Shopping, dining, entertainment shows, and a carnival.

La Mer Beach

• Overview: A trendy beachfront destination with restaurants, cafes, and shops.
• Activities: Sunbathing, water sports, and enjoying the vibrant atmosphere.

Adventure and Entertainment in Dubai

Desert Safari

• Overview: A quintessential Dubai experience offering dune bashing, camel riding, and desert camping.
• Activities: Sandboarding, quad biking, and enjoying a traditional Bedouin-style dinner with entertainment.

Ski Dubai

• Overview: An indoor ski resort located in Mall of the Emirates.
• Activities: Skiing, snowboarding, tobogganing, and interacting with penguins.

Aquaventure Waterpark

• Overview: Located at Atlantis The Palm, offering thrilling water rides and marine adventures.
• Highlights: The Tower of Poseidon, Shark Safari, and the private beach.

IMG Worlds of Adventure

• Overview: The world’s largest indoor theme park.
• Zones: Marvel, Cartoon Network, Lost Valley, and IMG Boulevard.

Additional Recommendations

Museum of the Future

• Overview: A futuristic museum showcasing innovations and technology.
• Architecture: Known for its unique design and immersive exhibits.

Dubai Opera

• Overview: A multi-format performing arts center in Downtown Dubai.
• Shows: A variety of performances including opera, ballet, theater, and concerts.

The Green Planet

• Overview: A bio-dome housing a tropical rainforest with over 3,000 plants and animals.
• Experience: Educational tours and interactive exhibits.

This concludes Part 3 of our Dubai travel guide. Next, in Part 4, we will discuss essential tips, dos and don'ts to ensure you have a smooth and enjoyable trip. Stay tuned!

Part 4: Dos and Don’ts

Dubai is a city that blends traditional culture with modernity, offering unique experiences for travelers. To ensure you have a smooth and enjoyable trip, here are some essential dos and don’ts.

Dos

Dress Appropriately

• Public Places: Wear modest clothing in public areas. Women should avoid revealing outfits and men should avoid walking shirtless.
• Beaches and Resorts: Swimwear is acceptable at the beach and pool areas.

Respect Local Customs

• Greetings: Use the right hand for greetings and eating.
• Ramadan: During the holy month, avoid eating, drinking, or smoking in public during daylight hours.

Plan Ahead

• Tickets: Book tickets for popular attractions like Burj Khalifa, Desert Safari, and theme parks in advance to avoid long queues.
• Reservations: Make restaurant reservations, especially for fine dining or popular spots.

Stay Hydrated

• Water: Carry a bottle of water to stay hydrated, especially during outdoor activities.
• Sunscreen: Apply sunscreen to protect yourself from the sun.

Use Public Transport

• Metro: Use the metro for a convenient and cost-effective way to travel around the city.
• NOL Card: Get a NOL card for easy access to public transport.

Carry Identification

• Passport: Always carry a copy of your passport and visa for identification purposes.
• ID: Keep your original passport safe in your hotel and carry a photocopy with you.

Learn Basic Arabic Phrases

• Greetings: Learn a few basic Arabic phrases like “Salam Alaikum” (Hello) and “Shukran” (Thank you) to show respect.

Be Mindful of Photography

• Permissions: Always ask for permission before taking photos of people, especially locals.
• Restricted Areas: Avoid taking photos in restricted areas like military installations and government buildings.

Don’ts

Public Displays of Affection

• PDA: Avoid excessive public displays of affection, as this is frowned upon and can lead to legal issues.
• Holding Hands: Holding hands is generally acceptable for married couples, but anything more intimate should be avoided.

Alcohol Consumption

• Public Spaces: Do not drink alcohol in public places. Consume it in licensed venues like hotels, bars, and clubs.
• Drunk Driving: Zero tolerance for drunk driving. Always take a taxi or use ride-sharing services if you’ve been drinking.

Drugs

• Illegal Substances: Strict laws against drug use and possession. Penalties are severe, including imprisonment.

Offensive Behavior

• Language: Avoid using offensive language or gestures.
• Arguments: Avoid getting into arguments or fights, as this can lead to legal trouble.

Eating and Drinking in Public

• Ramadan: During Ramadan, avoid eating and drinking in public during daylight hours out of respect for those fasting.
• Public Transport: Refrain from eating and drinking on public transport.

Littering

• Public Cleanliness: Maintain cleanliness and dispose of litter properly. Fines are imposed for littering.

Tipping

• Tipping Etiquette: While not mandatory, tipping is appreciated. Standard tips are 10-15% in restaurants.

Safety and Health

Emergency Numbers

• Police: 999
• Ambulance: 998
• Fire: 997

Medical Care

• Hospitals: Dubai has excellent medical facilities. Ensure you have travel insurance to cover medical expenses.

COVID-19 Guidelines

• Masks: Follow local guidelines regarding mask-wearing and social distancing.
• Testing: Be aware of testing requirements for entry and exit, as well as any quarantine protocols.

Practical Advice

Currency and Payments

• Currency: Carry some cash (AED) for small purchases, but use credit/debit cards for most transactions to avoid high fees.
• Forex Cards: Use a forex card with zero markup fees for convenience.

Connectivity

• Sim Cards: Purchase a local sim card at the airport for better rates and connectivity.

Shopping

• Receipts: Keep all receipts for tax refunds on eligible purchases.
• Bargaining: Bargain at traditional markets (souks), but not in malls or supermarkets.

This concludes Part 4 of our comprehensive Dubai travel guide. By following these dos and don'ts, you can ensure a safe, respectful, and enjoyable trip to this vibrant city. Thank you for reading, and we hope you have a fantastic time in Dubai!

Useful External Links

• Dubai Visa Application: Apply for UAE E-Visa
• Dubai Metro Information: Dubai Metro
• Dubai Airport Information: Dubai International Airport
• Currency Exchange Rates: XE Currency Converter
• Sim Card Options: DU Mobile and Etisalat
• Hotel Booking: Booking.com and Airbnb
• Public Transport Card: NOL Card
• Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tours: Big Bus Tours Dubai
• Dubai Attractions Tickets: GetYourGuide and Viator

These links will provide additional information and help you plan your trip more efficiently.