Intro to Dubai
Local Expert
Know Before You Go
Meet Our Local Expert
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.