Why Visit Dubai

The city of Dubai is truly tailor-made to ensure you have the best experience, whatever your interests. The Gulf state may be small in size, but it is enormous in scope with activities for all ages. If you are looking to relax on a beach or party the night away, Dubai has it all. The city is also an excellent learners paradise for kids. Bring your little ones to one of the various zoos and aquariums to create fond memories for a lifetime!

Like most of its ultra-modern attractions, you have to see Dubai to believe it. Pack your bags and slather on some sunscreen to an Arabian oasis you'll never forget.

New Attractions in Dubai

1. Museum of the Future

Contemporary Museum
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2. Ain Dubai

Observation Wheel
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3. Skywalk Dubai

City View | Sightseeing
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4. Mohammed Bin Rashid Library

Exemplary Library
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5. Topgolf Dubai

Sports | Golf Course
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6. Zombie Apocalypse Park

Themepark
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7. The Arch

Outdoor Adventure Park
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8. Palm Tower

City Landmark | Tourist Hotspot
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9. Infinity des Lumières

Digital Art Center
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10. Jungle Bay Waterpark

Waterpark
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Top Things to do in Dubai

1. Burj Khalifa

City Landmark | Must-See

The Burj Khalifa is a must-visit in Dubai for many reasons. At a height of 828 meters, it holds the title of being the tallest building in the world.

2. Dubai Safari Park

Zoo | Learning Experience

The Dubai Safari Park is one of the biggest zoos in the UAE with over 3,000 species of animals from four distinct global ecosystems.

3. Dubai Desert Safari

Cultural Experience | Adventure

The Desert Safari is one of the best ways to explore the expansive Arabian desert and try your hand at thrilling adventure activities.

4. Dubai Aquarium

Aquarium | Learning Experience

The Dubai Aquarium is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Dubai with thousands of aquatic animals like sharks, rays, and turtles.

5. Dhow Cruise

City Experience | Must-See

The Dhow Cruise is a great way to experience Dubai's skyline while enjoying a delicious meal. The cruise is also a great way to unwind after a day of sightseeing or shopping.

6. Miracle Garden 

Botanical Garden | Learning Experience

The Miracle Garden is a beautiful floral garden in Dubai with over 100,000 plants and flowers. The garden is a must-visit for nature lovers.

7. Wild Wadi Waterpark

Waterpark | Recreational Attraction

The Wild Wadi Waterpark is a great place to cool off in the Dubai heat with numerous rides, dives, and water activities.

8. Dubai Dolphinarium

Aquarium | Learning Experience

The Dubai Dolphinarium is a must-see indoor attraction for animal lovers.

9. IMG Worlds of Adventure

Themepark | Recreational Attraction

IMG World is a theme park that offers visitors a variety of excitement and thrills in themed rides and attractions.

10. Dubai Frame

City Landmark

The Dubai Frame is a popular tourist attraction in Dubai that offers visitors a unique view of the city.

11. VR Park Dubai 

Themepark | Recreational Attraction

VR Park Dubai is a new and unique attraction in Dubai that offers visitors the chance to experience virtual reality.

12. Dubai Ice Rink

Ice Rink | Recreational Activity

The Dubai Ice Rink is open all year round and is the perfect place to go ice skating in the middle of the desert.

Dubai Travel Essentials

Seasons in Dubai

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Know Before You Visit Dubai

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Explore Dubai

How to Save Money in Dubai

  • Eat at local restaurants instead of tourist traps.
  • Find out where the free attractions are and visit them instead of paying for admission to a tourist attraction.
  • Take public transportation instead of renting a car or using taxis.
  • Stay in budget accommodation rather than spending money on a luxury hotel.
  • Stay away from international brands while shopping as they tend to be more expensive in Dubai.
  • Water is expensive in Dubai. Drink and carry water from hotels as most management offers free water.

Know The City Neighborhoods

Downtown Dubai

Tourist Hotspot | City Center

Downtown Dubai is a great neighborhood known for its world-famous attractions, nail-biting entertainment, and high-end dining options.

Things to do:

  • Visit the Burj Khalifa
  • Shop at the Dubai Mall
  • Kayak on the Burj Lake
  • View the Dubai Fountain

Marina Bay

City Walk | Tourist Hotspot

The neighborhood is also conveniently located near the water, so visitors can enjoy the views of the harbor and the lit-up Dubai skyline.

Things to do:

  • Shop by the bay
  • Stargaze at night
  • Take a jog
  • Dine at the cafes

Dubai Harbour

Harbour | Nightlife

The Dubai Harbour is home to a variety of sprawling malls, fancy restaurants, and exciting nightclubs, so you'll never run out of things to do.

Things to do:

  • Spot luxury yachts
  • Enjoy fine dining
  • Party at night
  • Take a Catamaran cruise

Jumeirah Bay

City Area | Tourist Hotspot

The Jumeirah Bay is home to several high-end structures, including the Jumeirah Beach Residence and the Palm Jumeirah.

Things to do:

  • Splash around Laguna Waterpark
  • Visit the Jumeirah Mosque
  • Visit the Jumeirah Beach
  • Shop at Mercato Mall

Dubai Creek

Creek | Sightseeing Cruises

There are a number of restaurants and cafes located on the banks of the creek, and it is a popular spot for sightseeing and photography.

Things to do:

  • Take a Dhow Cruise
  • Enjoy a walk by the creek
  • Visit the Creek Park
  • Enjoy street-food options

Dubai Internet City

Global Office Area

Dubai Internet City is one of the newest neighborhoods in Dubai. It is full of trendy restaurants, cafes, and shops.
Things to do:

  • Take a stroll through the park
  • Sightsee offices of leading companies like Google and Microsoft
  • Take a ride on the Palm Monorail

Palm Jumeirah

Tourist Hotspot

The Palm Jumeirah is known for its luxury hotels, heavenly resorts, and beautiful beaches.

Things to do:

  • Visit Aquaventure Waterpark
  • View dolphins at Dolphin Bay
  • Visit the Lost Chambers Aquarium
  • Fine-dine at upscale restaurants

Dubai Sports City

Sports Zone

Dubai Sports City is a world-class sporting destination that offers residents and visitors an unrivaled experience.

Things to do:

  • Visit the Dubai International Cricket Stadium
  • Visit the Dubai Tennis Stadium
  • Take a peaceful stroll

Getting Around Dubai

By Metro

Dubai's two metro lines; Red and Green run throughout the city connecting most neighborhoods and major tourist attractions. The Dubai Metro functions on weekdays between 5 AM and 1:15 PM with fares ranging from 3 - 4 AED for one zone.

Fare: 3 - 4 AED for one zone

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By Bus

The city's fleet of 1,518 public buses is one of the most budget-friendly ways to get around Dubai. The PTA (Public Transport Agency) operates a comprehensive bus network of 119 internal routes out of which 35 lines link to metro stations.

Fare: Starts at 4 AED for one zone

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By Taxi

The DTC (Dubai Taxi Corporation) provides a wide range of taxi services at all hours of the week. The starting fare for a taxi in Dubai is 5 AED and it costs around 1.8 AED/km, and all taxis are equipped with controlled meters to prevent manipulation.

Fare: Starts at 5 AED

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By Tram

The Dubai Tram is one of the most cost-effective options for getting around Dubai. It connects the city's public transportation system and is operational on weekdays from 6 AM to 1 AM. Dubai trams come with a fixed fare of just 3 - 4 AED per trip.

Fare: Starts at 3 - 4 AED per trip

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By Dubai Abras

The Dubai Abras (meaning - ‘to cross’), has been the city's most popular method of transportation for centuries. The motorized abras costs 1 AED per person to cruise in the 14-kilometer Dubai Creek stretch.

Fare: Starts at 1 AED per person

By Boats

Apart from Dubai Abras, the city of Dubai offers a range of on-water services on the numerous canals and creeks running through the city. The Dubai Water Bus takes you across the Dubai Marina with four stops for just 3 AED.

Fare: Starting at 3 AED

Grab a Nol Card

Dubai Travel Guide - nol card

The nol Card is a payment card that is used to pay for transportation and other services in Dubai. The card can be used on the Dubai Metro, buses, and water taxis. The card can also be used to make purchases in stores and restaurants. You can top up your nol Card at metro stations and other authorized outlets.

Types of nol cards:

  • nol Silver Card
    Cost: AED 25
  • nol Gold Card
    Cost: AED 25
  • nol Blue Card
    Cost: AED 70
  • nol Red Card
    Cost: AED 2

Know Before Driving in Dubai

  • The most essential thing to remember while driving in Dubai is that the driver sits on the right, rather than the left as is typical in other countries.
  • To drive in Dubai, you'll need a local driving permit or an international driving permit. Your home driver's license is not valid here. Violating this rule will result in detention of 6 months or a hefty AED 6,000 fine.
  • You may drive in Dubai at the age of 18 but you must be 21 years or older to rent a car.
  • Remember to maintain lane discipline while driving in Dubai. Fast-moving vehicles stay in the left lane, and slow-moving cars must stay to the right.
  • Keep an eye out for the permitted speed limits. Breaking them can result in fines and in some cases, arrests.
  • Parking in Dubai can be a bit of a challenge, as most parking lots are paid. The best way to avoid getting fined is to always look for a spot where you can see the parking meter, and make sure to pay attention to the signs.

What and Where to Eat in Dubai

Dubai is a city that is known for its luxurious hotels and fine dining. However, several affordable restaurants in the city offer delicious food at a fraction of the price.

Arabian

  • Al Mallah: This restaurant is known for its traditional Lebanese cuisine. The restaurant offers a variety of dishes, including falafel, and shawarma.
  • Lebanese Village: This authentic Lebanese restaurant gives you an insight into the country's rich history while you enjoy traditional cuisine.
  • Madinat Jumeirah The Walk: This indoor market offers a variety of authentic Arabic cuisines, including kabsa, mansaf, and traditional desserts.
  • Mado Cafe: This authentic Turkish cafe offers a menu full of Mediterranean delights designed to tantalize your taste buds.
  • Mohammad Al Baghdadi: This restaurant is one of the oldest Arabic restaurants in Dubai with a selection of authentic Arabian dishes.

Oriental

  • Bamboo China: This Chinese restaurant offers an array of Chinese dishes, including Peking duck, Sichuan chicken, and lo mein.
  • Chopsticks: This Chinese restaurant offers a variety of Asian dishes, including sushi, soba noodles, and kimchi soup.
  • Coral: This Japanese restaurant offers the finest cuts of meat and seafood, as well as a selection of sushi options.
  • Noodle House: This Chinese restaurant specializes in Cantonese cuisine, as well as other traditional Chinese dishes.
  • The Palace Downtown Dubai: This hotel offers guests a range of exquisite oriental restaurants, including a Thai restaurant, and a Chinese restaurant.

International 

  • L'Atelier de Joel Robuchon: This French restaurant offers a menu filled with innovative French cuisine that is designed to offer customers an exclusive fine dining experience.
  • Asha's: This Indian restaurant offers a variety of Indian dishes, including chicken tikka masala, lamb biryani, and naan bread.
  • Paradiso: This restaurant is part of the Madinat Jumeirah and offers authentic Italian dishes, including pasta, pizza, and seafood.
  • Pappa Roti: This bakery has three locations throughout Dubai and offers an international menu filled with South Asian cuisine.
  • Puerto Rico Sports Bar & Grill: This restaurant specializes in traditional Mexican dishes that are designed to tantalize your taste buds.

Where to Stay in Dubai

When it comes to finding a place to stay in Dubai, there are a variety of options to choose from, including hotels, apartments, and villas. The cost of accommodation can vary depending on the type of accommodation you choose and the location.

Budget Hotels

There are many budget-friendly hotels in Dubai, including the Ascott Hotel Dubai, the Arabian Courtyard Hotel & Spa, and the Coral Dubai Deira Hotel. These hotels offer basic amenities and services, and prices start from around 100 AED per night.

  • Ascott Hotel Dubai
  • Arabian Courtyard Hotel & Spa
  • Coral Dubai Deira Hotel

Mid-Range Hotels

Mid-range hotels are a great option for tourists who are looking for a comfortable and luxurious place to stay in Dubai. There are a number of mid-range hotels in Dubai that offer modern amenities and services, as well as luxurious rooms. Prices start from around 200 AED per night.

  • Premier Inn Dubai Silicon Oasis Hotel
  • Grandeur Hotel
  • Holiday Inn Dubai - al Barsha

Luxury Hotels

For those looking for a luxurious and high-end experience, there are various luxury hotels in Dubai to choose from. These hotels offer 5-star services and amenities, as well as stunning views of the cityscape or the Arabian Gulf. Prices for luxury hotels in Dubai start from around 500 AED per night.

  • Atlantis, The Palm
  • Burj Al Arab
  • The Ritz-Carlton, Dubai

Apartments

If you're looking for more space, then renting an apartment is a great option. These apartments are fully furnished and come with internet access and a kitchen where you can prepare your own meals. Prices start from around 300 AED per night for an apartment with one bedroom.

  • Dubai Towers
  • The Lagoons
  • Atrium Villas

Villas

If you're looking to accommodate a larger group while in Dubai, then renting a villa is a perfect choice. Like apartments, Dubai villas come fully furnished and equipped with a kitchen and Internet access. Prices start from around 600 AED per night for a three-bedroom villa.

  • Dubai Marina Beachfront Residence
  • Le Mirage Tower D
  • Burj Al Arab Jumeirah

Where to Shop in Dubai

Shopping at Malls in Dubai

When it comes to shopping, Dubai is a paradise for tourists. The city boasts some of the world's most prestigious shopping malls, which offer a range of luxury brands and high-end stores. Some of the best shopping malls in Dubai include:

The Dubai Mall: This is the largest mall in the world and offers shoppers over 1,200 stores to choose from. It's the perfect place for luxury shopping, live entertainment, and good food.

City Centre Deira: If you're looking for a bargain, this is the mall for you. This mall boasts 350 stores, including a large number of local brands.

Wafi Mall: One of the oldest malls in Dubai, the Wafi Mall opened its doors in 1991 as a luxury shopping mall that offers shoppers a range of high-end stores and brands to choose from.

The City Walk, Dubai: This outdoor shopping complex is perfect if you're looking for a great place to spend an evening, and it's also affordable, making it a great option for budget-conscious travelers.

Shopping at Souks in Dubai

The traditional souks of Dubai offer shoppers a unique shopping experience. The souks are home to a range of local and international brands and are a great place to find a bargain. Some of the best souks in Dubai include:

Gold Souk: One of the most-visited souks in Dubai, the Gold Souk offers around 300 gold shops where you can buy gold jewelry at the best prices.

Spice Souk: The Spice Souk contains over 60 spice shops and is the perfect place to buy spices from all over the world.

Textile Souk: With over 50 textile shops, the Textile Souk presents a unique opportunity to buy fabrics and clothes at highly affordable prices.

Clothes Souk: This souk is home to over 50 clothes shops and is the perfect place to buy cheap but well-made clothes.

Dubai Gold and Diamond Park: This souk offers around 150 shops, including some of the world's leading brands in gold and diamonds, in one convenient place for shoppers.

Best Tours in Dubai

Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tours 

Dubai offers a range of Hop-On Hop-Off bus tours that allows you to explore the city at your own pace. They are easy to use, as they require no planning or advance booking, and are also highly affordable.

The City Sightseeing tour: This tour offers visitors a tour of all the main sights in Dubai, including the Dubai skyline, the Burj Khalifa, and the Sheikh Zayed road. These buses come with onboard commentary and English-speaking guides to make your visit informative and fun.

Big Bus Tour: The Big Bus Dubai is similar to a Hop-on Hop-off bus tour. You can expect the same English-speaking guides and onboard commentary as the bus takes you through the city high-rises. You can choose between 1-Day or 2-Day passes according to your convenience and explore Dubai with no frills.

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Boat Tours 

You can also tour Dubai on one of the luxury yachts and boats that offer tourists a unique way to explore the city. Some of the best yachts in Dubai include:

The Dubai yacht: This yacht is perfect for those who want to explore the city in style. It offers a range of luxury amenities, including a Jacuzzi, sun loungers, and a bar.

Speedboats: These tours are a great way to explore the city and see all the sights that Dubai has to offer in a fun-filled adventure.

Dhow Cruise: The Dhow Cruise is a must-see for anyone visiting Dubai. The cruise is a great way to see Dubai's impressive architecture and learn about its history and culture. In addition, the cruise offers delicious food and drinks, making it a perfect way to spend an evening in Dubai.

Aerial Tours 

Few sights in the world come close to the sheer magnificence of witnessing the ‘City of Gold’ from the bird’s view. Take a helicopter or airplane tour and be prepared for an undoubtedly memorable experience.

The Palm Atlantis helicopter tour: This tour offers visitors a unique view of the Atlantis hotel and the Dubai coastline.

The City Sightseeing tour: This tour offers visitors a tour of all the main sights in Dubai, including the Dubai skyline, the Burj Khalifa, and the Sheikh Zayed road.

The Desert Safari tour: This tour offers visitors a unique view of the desert landscape and visits some of the most popular tourist spots in Dubai, including the camel farm and the fort.

Know more about helicopter tours

Walking Tours

Dubai is perfect for exploring on foot. Check out some of the world's most impressive architecture and enjoy a range of activities as you stroll the streets at your leisure.

Dubai Marina: This walking tour takes tourists on a walk along Dubai Marina, which is home to some of the city's most impressive skyscrapers.

Gold and Spice Souks: This walking tour takes tourists through the narrow streets of the Gold Souk and Spice Souk, where they can shop for souvenirs from all over the world.

The Old City: This walking tour takes tourists on a walk around the heart of Dubai, where they can see some of the city's oldest buildings and landmarks.

Day Trips from Dubai

Dubai to Jebel Jais

162 Km | 2 Hours by Road

Consider taking a day trip to Jebel Jais, the highest mountain in the United Arab Emirates, for an outdoor adventure.

Good for: Adventure Activities

Best Time to Visit: Nov - Feb

Things to do:

  • Hiking
  • Kayaking
  • Mountain-biking
  • Rock-climbing
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Dubai to Abu Dhabi

139 Km | 1.5 Hours by Road

Visit Abu Dhabi, the capital of the United Arab Emirates, for some of the most impressive architecture in the region.

Good for: Exploring Traditional UAE

Best Time to Visit: Sep - Apr

Things to do:

  • The Sheikh Zayed Mosque
  • The Ferrari World Theme Park
  • The Yas Marina Circuit
  • The Al Forsan Sports Resort
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Dubai to Fujairah

123 Km | 1.2 Hours by Road

This city is known for its beautiful beaches, dramatic mountain scenery, and traditional souks.

Good for: Sightseeing the countryside

Best Time to Visit: Oct - Apr

Things to do:

  • The Fujairah Fort
  • The Heritage Village
  • The Fujairah Museum
  • Explore the Beaches
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Dubai to Sharjah

28 Km | 20 Min by Road

Sharjah is located in the northeast part of the country, just a short drive from Dubai.

Good for: Exploring Traditional UAE

Best Time to Visit: Nov - Apr

Things to do:

  • The Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilization
  • The Blue Souk
  • Corniche Beach
  • The King Faisal Mosque
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Dubai To Al Ain

146 Km | 1.5 Hours by Road

Al Ain is located about two hours away from Dubai, making it a great spot for road trippers.

Good for: Exploring Traditional UAE

Best Time to Visit: Sep - Mar

Things to do:

  • Al Ain Oasis
  • Camel Market
  • Hili Archaeological Park
  • Al Ain Zoo
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Dubai to Hatta

135 km | 1.5 Hours by Road

Hatta is best-known for its natural scenery and breathtaking mountain landscape.

Good for: Exploring Traditional UAE

Best Time to Visit: Oct - Feb

Things to do:

  • The Hatta Dam
  • The Hatta Heritage Village
  • The Hatta Fort
  • The Hatta Coffee Museum
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Dubai With Kids & Family

Dubai is a safe city for both families and kids. In fact, it's one of the safest cities in the world. The Dubai police department is well-equipped to deal with any situation, and there are plenty of family-friendly activities and attractions to keep kids entertained.

Dubai has plenty of interactive theme parks and waterparks. From learning about intrepid creatures of the ocean to building a Lego house, your little ones will never bore at some of the best kid-friendly attractions in the world.

Tips To Visit Dubai With Kids

Dubai Travel Guide - Dubai with Kids
  • Dubai is fairly hotter than most countries. Remember to consistently hydrate your children with water or energy drinks.
  • Make sure to sunscreen! The sun is very strong in Dubai and you can easily get sunburned.
  • Ensure your kids wear comfortable clothes and shoes - Dubai is a very walkable city and you'll be doing a lot of walking.
  • Dubai offers a plethora of water activities from beaches to waterparks. Pack appropriate swimwear for your little ones and they'll thank you for it.

Art, Culture & Entertainment in Dubai

Art & Culture in Dubai

Dubai is a city that is constantly evolving and this is reflected in the city's art scene. Explore the city’s eclectic and diverse influences at some of the best art museums in the world. You can dive into some of the most prominent global art pieces at these museums:

  • Theatre of Digital Art: The Theatre of Digital Art in Dubai is a unique and innovative art space that showcases digital art from around the world. The theatre features new and exciting exhibitions from artists all over the world. 
  • The Dubai Museum: This museum offers an insight into Dubai's past, present, and future. It also features several heritage galleries that showcase the history of Dubai.
  • Dubai International Art Centre: This center is dedicated to contemporary Arab art, and features an impressive collection of paintings, sculptures, and installations from artists from the Middle East.
  • Jameel Arts Centre: This gallery is dedicated to Indian contemporary arts and features a collection of paintings, installations, and sculptures from India as well as other Asian countries.
  • Visit the Jumeirah Mosque: This mosque is a great example of Islamic architecture and offers a unique opportunity to learn about different cultures from all over the world.

Entertainment in Dubai

World-renowned for its captivating attractions, interactive zoos and aquariums, and amusing waterparks, Dubai offers the most impressive entertainment shows in the world. From belly dancers in desert bedouin camps to live fire shows on Dhow cruises, the city is teeming with enjoyable entertainment everywhere you go. Be sure to check out these magnificent shows:

  • Cirque du Soleil: This unique show offers a mix of circus arts and street entertainment, and is perfect for families with children.
  • The Phantom of the Opera: This timeless classic tells the story of a masked figure who haunts the Paris Opera House.
  • The Lion King: This award-winning musical tells the story of Simba, a young lion who must reclaim his kingdom from his evil uncle.
  • Dubai Opera: This brand new opera house offers a variety of operas, ballets, concerts, and plays to choose from.
  • Dubai Fountain: This musical fountain is one of the most impressive attractions in Dubai and features a water, light, and music show every night.
  • La Perle: This musical takes audiences on a journey through time as it tells the story of a small girl who finds herself swallowed by an oyster shell.

Travel Tips 

  1. Dress conservatively: In Dubai, it is important to dress modestly and wear clothing that covers your shoulders and knees.
  2. Respect local customs and traditions: Dubai is a Muslim city, so it is important to respect the local customs and traditions.
  3. Be aware of your surroundings: Dubai is a safe city, but it is always important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions against pickpockets and thieves.
  4. Drink responsibly: Dubai has strict laws against drinking alcohol in public, so it is important to drink responsibly.
  5. Carry identification with you at all times: In order to avoid any problems with the authorities, it is always a good idea to carry some form of identification with you at all times.
  6. Avoid walking alone in isolated areas: It is important to avoid walking around the city alone in isolated areas, as this can put you at risk of being a victim of street crimes.
  7. Tread with caution on roads: Traffic rules are strictly enforced in Dubai. It is important to drive cautiously and take extra care when crossing roads.
  8. Seek advice from the tourist police: If you ever find yourself in trouble or need advice about anything regarding your stay in Dubai, it is always a good idea to ask for help from the tourist police who are known for their friendliness, helpfulness, and impartiality.
  9. Use reputable taxi companies: Dubai has many reputable taxi companies that offer safe, reliable, affordable services.

Dubai Travel Tips & Hacks

Frequently Asked Questions About Traveling to Dubai

Dubai is one of the best vacation destinations in the world with tailored tourist attractions to attract guests of all ages.