Intro to Dubai
Destination Specialist
Know Before You Go
Meet Our Destination Specialist
Laura Coughlin
Laura, our Dubai expert. Covering Dubai for over a decade. Let her guide you on the best sights, experiences, dining, shopping and nightlife.
Laura, our Dubai expert. Covering Dubai for over a decade. Let her guide you on the best sights, experiences, dining, shopping and nightlife.
Know Before You Go
Getting Around
Local Transport Options:
- Metro: Modern, efficient, and covers major areas (fares from AED 3–7). Check timings—some lines close by midnight.
- Buses: Extensive network, air-conditioned, integrated with Metro using the same card system.
- Taxis: Safe, metered, widely available. Fares start around AED 12 plus distance/time charges.
Travel Cards:
- Nol Card: Used for Metro, buses, trams, and even some water taxis. Available at stations and select outlets.
Ride-Hailing Apps:
- Careem, Uber: Both widely used; slightly more expensive than regular taxis.
Google Maps:
- Very accurate for driving and public transport routes.
Payments
Credit Cards:
- Accepted almost everywhere—hotels, restaurants, taxis, and malls. Visa and Mastercard are standard; American Express also widely used.
Cash:
- Good to have for local markets (souks), small cafés, or tips.
BoldATMs / Money Exchanges:
- Easy to find in malls, hotels, and commercial areas. Exchange rates are competitive in official exchange houses.
Tipping
Not mandatory, but rounding up taxi fares or leaving 10–15% in restaurants is common for good service.
Safety
- Dubai is very safe with low crime rates.
- Respect local laws—public intoxication and inappropriate behavior are strictly penalized.
Local Etiquettes
- Dress modestly in public areas—shoulders and knees covered, especially during Ramadan or in traditional places.
- Public displays of affection are discouraged.
- During Ramadan, avoid eating or drinking in public during daylight hours.
Weather
October–April:
- Mild to warm (20–30°C), peak tourist season. Pack lightweight clothes and a light jacket for cooler evenings.
May–September:
- Extremely hot (can exceed 45°C). Stay indoors during midday, use sunscreen, and stay hydrated.
Connectivity
SIM Cards:
- Etisalat, Du, Virgin Mobile.
- Buy at the airport or malls with passport ID.
Wi-Fi:
- Widely available in hotels, malls, and cafés. Speeds are generally high
Health
- Stay hydrated—heat can be intense.
- Drink bottled water; tap water is safe but may taste chlorinated.
- Carry sunscreen and wear hats outdoors.
Scams
Counterfeit Products:
- Be wary of too-good-to-be-true deals
Tour Offers:
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Book desert safaris or city tours with reputable agencies.
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Generally, scams are rare due to strict regulations.
Welcome to Dubai, the Middle East’s ultimate cosmopolitan hub where futuristic skyscrapers, ancient souks, and luxury experiences meet in dazzling harmony. Famed for its iconic skyline, world-class shopping, and desert adventures, Dubai offers something extraordinary for every traveler.
The best time to visit Dubai is between November and March, when cool breezes and clear skies make it perfect for exploring the outdoors, beach clubs, and desert safaris. However, thanks to its endless indoor attractions, Dubai remains a year-round destination.
From must-sees like the Burj Khalifa, Dubai Marina, and Museum of the Future, to lesser-known gems tucked away in Deira or Jumeirah, there’s much more than meets the eye. Through TravJoy, discovering Dubai is effortless — explore our handpicked Top Picks, immersive Things to See & Do, trendiest Eat, Shop & Party spots, and reliable Transfers & Car Hire options.
And while these highlights grab attention, TravJoy’s curated collection uncovers even more: think hidden beach cafés, heritage walking tours, and VIP rooftop lounges you’d otherwise miss. Whether it’s your first visit or a city-break favorite, Dubai surprises you with more every time — made easy with TravJoy.