Quick facts
Daily budget
For a full category-by-category breakdown of accommodation, food, transport, and activity costs in Dubai, see the dedicated budget guide.
Practical info
Visa & Entry
- Most nationalities get 30–90 days visa-free on arrival — no advance application needed
- Passport must be valid for 6+ months from entry date
- Keep your boarding pass — you may need it for hotel check-in and duty-free purchases
Health & Safety
- No vaccinations required for entry. Tap water is safe but most people drink bottled
- Dubai is extremely safe — one of the lowest crime rates in the world
- Summer heat (Jun–Sep) is dangerous: 40–50°C. Stay hydrated, wear sunscreen, limit outdoor time
Getting Around
- Dubai Metro: clean, cheap (AED 3–7.50), covers major tourist areas. Get a Nol Silver Card (AED 25)
- Careem/Uber are reliable. Hala Taxi is cheapest. Avoid taxis during rush hours (7:30–9:30am, 5–7pm)
- Dubai Tram connects Marina to JBR. Water taxis and abras are fun alternatives along the Creek
Connectivity
- Tourist SIM cards at the airport: du or Etisalat, AED 55–100 for 1–2GB + local calls
- Free WiFi in malls, most cafes, and the metro. Hotel WiFi is generally fast
- VoIP calls (WhatsApp, FaceTime) are restricted — use a VPN or the Botim app (AED 50/month)
Money
- AED is pegged to USD (1 USD = 3.67 AED). Currency exchange offices in malls offer better rates than airports
- Cards accepted almost everywhere. Carry some cash for souks, street food, and abra rides
- Tipping is not mandatory but 10% at restaurants is appreciated. Round up taxi fares
Packing Tips
- Light, breathable clothing that covers shoulders and knees for public areas and malls
- Swimwear for beaches/pools only. A light scarf or shawl for mosque visits and over-air-conditioned malls
- Comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen (SPF 50+), sunglasses, and a refillable water bottle
Cultural tips
Dress Code
Cover shoulders and knees in malls and public areas. Swimwear is fine at beaches/pools but cover up when leaving. Mosques require women to cover hair, arms, and legs.
Alcohol Rules
Only at licensed venues (hotels, bars). Legal age is 21 — carry ID. Being visibly drunk in public is illegal and can lead to arrest.
Ramadan
No eating, drinking, or smoking in public during daylight hours. Nightlife is toned down. Iftar (sunset meal) is a beautiful cultural experience — join one.
Photography
Always ask before photographing people. No photos of government buildings, military, or police. Posting unflattering photos online violates UAE cybercrime laws.
Zero Tolerance
No drugs (even trace amounts = 4-year minimum sentence). No rude gestures or swearing. No public displays of affection beyond hand-holding for couples.
LGBTQ+ Travelers
Same-sex relationships are illegal in the UAE. Exercise extreme caution and avoid any public displays of affection.
