Top 18 Dubai Travel Tips & Hacks | Best Time To Visit, Shopping Hacks, Where to Stay & More!
Widely known as the City of Gold, Dubai is the undisputed land of luxury. Home to ultra-modern architectural wonders, glitzy malls, and beautiful beaches, a trip to Dubai is on every tourist’s list. However, just like any other popular tourist destination, it’s easy to get misled into overspending or fall into sneaky tourist traps if you’re not careful. Here’s a comprehensive guide with the top Dubai travel tips & hacks to ensure you don’t get burned in this glitzy metropolis.
Top 18 Travel Tips & Hacks to Visit Dubai
Visit Dubai in the Winter Months
Best Time to Visit Tip
- The best time to visit Dubai is between the winter months of November and February when the weather is cooler.
- Although Dubai is most crowded during these months, you'll be thankful for the largely pleasant weather.
2. Pack Your Summer Clothes
Etiquette Tip
- Dubai is a hot, desert climate, so pack light clothes that will keep you cool.
- Sunhat, sunscreen, sunglasses, and appropriate swimwear is a must.
3. Dress Modestly
Etiquette Tip
- If you're a female tourist, opt for clothes that do not expose much cleavage and clothes that cover your shoulder and knees.
- On the other hand, men tourists can wear whatever they want as long as it's classy.
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4. Don’t Forget These Documents
Travel Tip
As a tourist in Dubai, you will need to carry certain documents with you at all times. These include:
- Your passport, visa (if required), and proof of your return ticket.
- All tourists heading to Dubai must have travel insurance that covers medical expenses and personal accident claims.
5. How to make Payments in Dubai?
Money Tip
- Dubai's currency is the United Arab Emirates Dirham (AED). While credit and debit cards are widely accepted in Dubai, it is always a good idea to have cash on hand for smaller purchases.
- Some useful money apps in Dubai include Google Pay, Emirates Digital Wallet, and Samsung Pay
6. Public Transport is Cheap & Safe
Transport Tip
- When it comes to getting around Dubai, there are many affordable and efficient options. The Dubai Metro is one such great way to get around the city, and it's also affordable.
- Taxis are another popular option, and they're relatively inexpensive as well.
7. Avoid Tourist Food Traps
Food Tip
- Eat Local: Make sure to try some of the local food – it's delicious and cheap! If you're looking for a good restaurant, ask a local for their recommendations – they'll know the best places to eat.
- Avoid eateries near tourist attractions as they are exuberantly priced.
8. Shopping Tips & Hacks in Dubai
Shopping Tip
- Many stores accept US dollars among other currencies too.
- If you're looking for bargains, then be sure to check out the Souk Al Bahar, which is a market located in the shadow of the Burj Khalifa.
- Head to the malls on a Friday when most stores offer discounts. Be sure to check out the Dubai Shopping Festival which takes place each year in January and February.
9. Save Money With These Tips
Budget Tip
- Your Dubai budget will majorly depend on your accommodation and eating expenses. However, you can plan your daily budget from anywhere between 400 - 750 AED per day.
- Shop Responsibly: While shopping, avoid purchasing international brands as they tend to be more expensive in Dubai.
- Drink Water at Hotels: Water is priced on the higher side in Dubai. Drink water for free at hotels as most managements stock up your room for free.
10. Beat The Heat With These Tips
Weather Tip
- Pack Light: Dubai is a very walkable city, and you'll likely be doing a lot of walking, so there's no need to pack heavy.
- Drink Fluids: The heat and humidity can quickly dehydrate you, so be sure to drink plenty of water, juice, and other fluids throughout the day.
11. Visit Dubai in Summer for Great Savings
Travel Tip
- Dubai can be quite hot and humid during the summer months between June-August. This is the low season in Dubai with the fewest tourists.
- While you can enjoy major savings on accommodation and airfare, be prepared to encounter broiling temperatures.
12. Explore the Best Free Things to do in Dubai
Sightseeing Tip
- View the Dubai Fountain shows at Dubai Mall.
- Visit the beaches and take an evening walk by the beautiful Marina Bay.
- Wander the local souks and explore the streets of Old Dubai.
13. Must-Know Arabic Phrases
Language Tip
- Naäam - Yes
- Laa - No
- min fadlik - Please
- Shukran - Thank you
14. Choose Your Accommodation Wisely
Accommodation Tip
- Location is Key: Be sure to choose a hotel or apartment that is centrally located, as this will make it easier to get around the city.
- Consider Your Budget: Dubai is an expensive city, so it is important to be mindful of your spending. Look for Airbnbs as they are the cheapest.
- Book in Advance: It is important to book your accommodation well in advance to ensure you get the best deal.
15. Dubai Comes Alive at Night
Leisure Tip
- Use Public Transit to get around: Most public transport facilities like taxis, buses, and metro are operational at late hours facilitating Dubai’s fervent vibes.
- Go on a Dhow Dinner Cruise: There are also romantic dinner cruises on Dubai Creek that shed an intimate light on the City of Gold.
- Know Before you Drink: Although the minimum age to buy alcohol in bars and clubs is 21 in Dubai, some establishments may refuse entry to anyone under 25 years of age.
16. Drink Resposibily and Avoid PDA
Etiquette Tip
- No PDA: Refrain from kissing, hugging, or touching in public places.
- Say no to Drugs: Dubai has zero tolerance for drugs, and possession of even a small amount of drugs can result in a long prison sentence.
- Drink responsibly: Dubai takes strict action against public intoxication which can result in fines and even imprisonment.
17. Set Aside an Entire Day For Desert Safari
Sightseeing Tip
- A desert safari in Dubai is a whole-day experience lasting around 6-7 hours. Try not to make other plans for the day that might tire you.
- An Evening Desert Safari is a great idea if you want to get some sightseeing done before you head out on your desert expedition.
18. It Can Get Chilly After Dark
Weather Tip
- Remember to wear layers if you plan to explore the city after dark as the temperatures drop significantly.
- A light jacket or blazer may help you stay warm and look dapper on your Arabian night out.
All Your Questions About Dubai Travel Tips & Hacks Answered
- The best time to visit Dubai is between the months of November & February.
- Pack light and try to stick with cotton and linen clothes.
- Dubai’s public transit network is a cheap and practical way of getting around the city.
Visit Dubai between the months of November & February for moderate temperatures and great weather.
The RTA, Roads and Transport Authority, has an extensive network of metro lines, buses, trams, and taxis. These means of transport are affordable and safe for tourists.
Various stores in Dubai accept US dollars and other foreign currencies too. Head to iconic Dubai souks like the Souk Al Bahar for great deals and bargains and remember to make time for malls on a Friday for attractive discounts.
You can expect to spend anywhere between AED 400 - 750 per day in Dubai. You can save money by using public transport and shopping responsibly.
You can use public transit to get around late at night. Go on a Dhow Dinner Cruise for an intimate evening and remember that some pubs and restaurants may refuse entry if you’re under 25.
Dubai's currency is the United Arab Emirates Dirham (AED). While credit and debit cards are widely accepted in Dubai, it is always a good idea to have cash on hand for smaller purchases.
- Opt for a hotel or apartment that is well-located from the happening places in the city.
- Always remember to book your stay in advance, especially in peak tourist seasons.
- Be wary of anyone who approaches you for help or to help you.
- Familiarize yourself with the exchange rate to avoid any scams during your currency exchange.
If you're a female visitor, avoid clothing that exposes a lot of cleavage and clothes that expose your upper arms and legs. On the other hand, men can pretty much wear want as long as it's reasonable.