Photo: Robert Bock, CC0 1.0 / Wikimedia Commons
About Dubai
Dubai is a genuine marvel of ambition regardless of whether you admire what it chose to build. The Burj Khalifa is the tallest building in the world and more vertiginous than any photograph prepares you for. The old Dubai — the Creek, the gold and spice souks, the abra water taxis — is the part most visitors miss and the part most worth finding. The food scene has become genuinely world-class, with every cuisine represented at extraordinary quality. Come November to March when temperatures are perfect and the desert can be explored comfortably. Ramadan is a fascinating time to visit if you prepare for adjusted hours and respect local customs.
Highlights
Burj Khalifa At The Top — book the 148th floor at sunset, overwhelmingly worth it Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood — wind towers and coral-and-gypsum walls, old Dubai Gold Souk and Spice Souk — take the abra water taxi from Deira, arrive before noon Dubai Frame — kitsch but the views are extraordinary, old city vs new in one shot Alserkal Avenue — industrial warehouse arts district, the city's creative quarter Desert safari — dune bashing, camel trekking, and Bedouin dinner at sunset
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Practical Info
Entry rules depend on your nationality. Check before you travel: Official entry information
UAE Dirham (AED). Cards are widely accepted, but carry cash for small vendors and taxis.
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory: in restaurants, for drivers and delivery staff, and rounding up in taxis.
Dubai is very safe with low crime, but be mindful of strict laws on public behavior, drugs, and alcohol consumption outside licensed venues.
Local SIMs from Etisalat or du are sold at the airport; eSIMs are also available.
Arabic is the official language, but English is widely spoken and used in business and tourism.
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