Dubai is among the most modern of tourist cities. Springing from the desert after the discovery of oil in the middle of the 20th century, it’s known for modern facilities, favourable tax breaks, and scorching temperatures.
If you’re planning a visit to the region, it’s worth setting out your expectations clearly. Let’s look at a few essential factors worth considering.
When to go and what the weather really feels like
Dubai is in a subtropical desert. As such, you can expect temperatures to peak in the forties during summer. Fortunately, the city offers an abundance of air conditioning, which makes life more than bearable. You’ll spend your time mostly in the shade or indoors.
During winter, the temperatures are relatively pleasant for outdoor walking, and there’s an occasional spell of rain. If you want a good balance, then October or May might offer a compromise.
Where to stay based on your priorities
The heart of the city is Downtown, where the most impressive skyscrapers and shopping malls are to be found. The marina is where you’ll find much of the nightlife and restaurants. There’s an impressive natural beach in the form of Jumeirah, which sits alongside an artificial island shaped like a palm tree.
The latter is home to a number of excellent hotels, including NH Collection Dubai The Palm, which might serve as a beachfront base from which you can access both the city and the shore.
How to move around without overspending
Getting around Dubai is quite straightforward, thanks to a vibrant gig economy and a fantastic public transit system. You’ll use something called a ‘nol’ card to pay for public transport, and there are cards available which offer concessions to older people and students.
Transport is quite affordable, in the main. You might spend the equivalent of around twenty pounds on a taxi between the Palm and Dubai Mall, for example.
What’s worth booking in advance – and what you can decide on the day
The availability and price of certain activities will depend on the demand for them. You’ll spend more if you’re travelling during peak times. This goes for water parks, skyscrapers, and brunches. There’s a vibrant scene for brunches in the city, and the best of them fill up fast. If you want to see the city from on high, then you’ll need to travel to the observation deck of the Burj Khalifa – the view can be breathtaking, especially at sunset. However, you’ll want to be sure that you book well in advance, as demand can be very high.
Dress codes, customs and common misunderstandings
Dubai is a fairly multicultural city, with people coming in from just about everywhere in the world. You can dress largely how you would in a Western city – but be sure to avoid swimwear if you’re not going to the beach. If you’re visiting a historical area or a mosque, you’ll want to dress conservatively.
If you’re twenty-one, you can drink alcohol. Be aware, however, that there’s a zero-tolerance policy when it comes to public drunkenness.
Sample day plans for different travel types
If you’re taking a family, you might spend time at the beaches and waterparks before moving to the desert and finally downtown. Couples might prioritise the nightlife and cultural riches, depending on their priorities.
Of course, for many visitors, Dubai is just a quick stopover, en route to a different destination. Make time for the Burj Khalifa, the Mall, or visit the beach. The more you plan, the better use you’ll make of limited time.
Final takeaway
Dubai might seem like a daunting and strange city, especially if you haven’t visited before. But the truth is that it’s extremely approachable. Develop a smart plan, and put it into action the moment you land.