Dubai is the most exciting city in the Middle East, and you’ve just chosen to go there! How thrilling! However, organizing your first vacation to Dubai has you feeling a little lost. To avoid the mistakes many travelers make in Dubai, we will provide you with all the information you need before your first visit. Our comprehensive guide covers when to go, how to get around cheaply, must-see sights, and more. We also offer detailed Dubai travel packages tailored to your preferences. Alright, then, let’s get right down to business with the guide for first-time visitors to Dubai.
The Best Time to Visit Dubai
We mean it in literal and figurative aspects when we say that Dubai is a popular tourist destination. Not only is it all the rage at the moment, but summertime temperatures—particularly between May and August—are ridiculous. If you want to see Dubai at its most charming, we suggest you book your trip between November and March.
Plan your first visit to Dubai during January and February to participate in the world-famous Dubai Shopping Festival if you want your first vacation to be memorable. Airfares and hotel rates will likely go up during this time due to the high volume of tourists. The months of November through March are ideal for enjoying Dubai’s outdoor attractions throughout the winter season.
Time to get organized and plan your epic itinerary.
Hire a guide to show you around Dubai as soon as you land by doing so at the airport. These tours are a great way to see the city’s top sights, and some of them even cater to those using the subway.
There are a plethora of posh malls, eateries, amusement parks, souks, and museums in Dubai. Dubai is a one-stop shop for all your cultural and historical needs, as well as the most cutting-edge entertainment and technology. The top malls in Dubai provide an exciting mix of retail therapy, food, and entertainment, so you can unleash your inner shopaholic.
One of the top reasons to visit Dubai is the unforgettable Dubai Desert Safari. This experience offers exhilarating dune bashing, camel rides, and a taste of traditional Bedouin culture.
Bringing children to Dubai
There are a plethora of exciting amusement parks in the city that children will like, such as Dubai Parks and Resorts and IMG Worlds of Adventure. When you’re ready to relax after an exciting journey, visit Dubai’s historic souks to learn about the city’s past and find the ideal souvenir!
Plus, we have a list of free attractions in Dubai in case you find yourself with a little less disposable income than expected after your indulgence.
Visa requirements
There are three main groups into which you’ll fit when it comes time to apply for a UAE tourist visa:
- Travelers who are not required to show a visa
- Arrival Visa for Travelers
- Visitors needing a visa
A visit to the UAE Government website will enlighten you on the necessary visas for your journey to the UAE. To provide just one example, visiting the UAE does not require any kind of visa or authorization for nationals of GCC nations.
Citizens of certain countries have the right to apply for visas upon arrival in the UAE. These tourists may receive single-entry or multiple-entry 90-day visit visas, depending on the nation they’re visiting. However, those who need a visa before entering the UAE must apply before leaving. Tourist bureaus, hotels, and airlines located in the United Arab Emirates (such as Emirates and FlyDubai) are the places where visitors may apply for these visas.
Make your airline booking
Booking your flight in advance is the surest way to get a good deal! You shouldn’t anticipate finding any bargains while buying a ticket for a departure on the same day. Emirates and Etihad, both located in the United Arab Emirates, have recently gained international fame and should be considered when booking your tickets. Are you looking for a less costly option? You can fly to the UAE on a budget with inexpensive carriers like FlyDubai and AirArabia. For the lowest prices, purchase your plane tickets four or six weeks in advance.
To purchase plane tickets online, use services like Momondo and Skyscanner. If you want to save even more money on your plane ticket or get more checked bags (you never know when you’ll need them!) then look for promo codes.
On your first visit to Dubai, make sure nothing goes wrong. Acquire your tickets in advance.
Book your accommodations
During popular tourist seasons, hotels tend to fill up quickly, so it’s advisable to book at least a few weeks in advance to ensure a seamless stay. The hotels and resorts in Dubai are world-class, yet they cater to all types of budgets. Staying at a hotel close to Dubai International Airport is the simplest way to go. Downtown Dubai and Dubai Marina are the city’s most popular neighborhoods, so you could stay there.
Things to Leave Behind When You Visit Dubai
You should know that Dubai has stringent regulations prohibiting the import of pharmaceuticals from outside the nation before you begin packing. Always check the validity of your prescription before taking any medicine, and take your medication exactly as directed. Despite this, you strictly prohibit recreational drug use and are subject to heavy fines.
Be mindful that there are additional prohibited things when you visit Dubai. For a comprehensive list, see the official website of Dubai Customs.
Things to pack for Dubai
The majority of the year in Dubai is scorching; therefore, breezy summer attire is perfect. However, in preparation for the chilly winter nights in Dubai, a cardigan or jacket is a good idea. When you visit Dubai, dress modestly out of respect for the local culture. Save your short shorts, swimsuits, and other beachwear for the city’s private pools and beaches.
Dubai currency
The United Arab Emirates and Dubai both use dirham as their official currency. To convert your money into dirhams, you have two options: either at your home country’s currency exchange or at Dubai International Airport. To buy SIM cards and pay for transportation, it’s best to have some cash on hand when you arrive. Those who would prefer not to use the airport’s currency exchange services may find them in hotels and municipal exchange centers.
The majority of businesses take major credit and debit cards like Visa and MasterCard. Not all establishments take cards, particularly smaller ones, so it’s smart to have some local cash on hand at all times.
On arrival, you may purchase a SIM card
As soon as you touch down, you’ll want to keep your phone charged. A SIM card is a good investment to avoid costly roaming fees. After you get through airport customs, you’ll see several possibilities.
Three major cellular companies—Etisalat, Du, and Virgin Mobile—serve the Dubai area. There are a few companies that cater specifically to travelers by providing prepaid plans that include phone, SMS, and mobile data. Before deciding on a service provider, check out the extra deals and savings that come with the SIM card.
Getting around in Dubai
The good news is that there are many ways to navigate Dubai on your first visit. You have the option of taking a cab, riding the bus, or even trying out the Dubai Metro.
Dubai Metro
If you are seeking a cost-effective way to get through Dubai, the Metro is your best option. You may need to hail a taxi to reach some locations, but it does link to the majority of important sites and hubs. Despite the increased fee, taxis are readily accessible and a fast way to navigate Dubai. Another option for getting around the city is to utilize a ride-hailing service, like Uber or Careem, which is located in the United Arab Emirates. Or, there are several itineraries available on the city’s famous hop-on, hop-off bus excursions, so you may see all the top sights at your leisure.
A NOL card is required to ride the Dubai Metro and RTA buses. “Nol” is the Arabic word for fare. Prepaid NOL cards are available at authorized sales agents, RTA customer service centers, ticket offices, and bus and metro stations. You may load money onto your NOL card at several bus stops and Dubai Metro stations once you’ve bought it.
The fact that the Metro rail stops just outside the airport is great news for budget travelers.
Dubai’s traditional values
Despite its many cultural influences, traditional values persist in Dubai, making it a welcoming and accepting metropolis. To make the most of your stay, familiarize yourself with the local cultural and religious norms and practices. Make sure you know Dubai’s tourist rules to avoid breaking them.
The most crucial information for organizing your first vacation to Dubai is now at your fingertips! The most exciting city in the UAE is right here, and this will help you plan your ideal holiday there.
