Dubai

A Comprehensive Guide to Travelling in Dubai: Unveiling the City of Gold

Dubai, a city known for its futuristic skyline, opulent shopping malls, and vibrant cultural scene, beckons travellers with a promise of luxury, adventure, and unforgettable experiences. From towering skyscrapers and world-class entertainment to traditional souks and desert landscapes, Dubai offers something for everyone.

This guide will help you navigate the wonders of Dubai and make the most of your trip:

I. Things to Know Before You Go:

• Visa Requirements: Most nationalities require a visa to enter Dubai. Check if you need a tourist visa based on your passport and length of stay. Many tourists can get a 30-day visa on arrival, but for longer stays, a pre-arranged visa might be necessary.
• Currency: The currency used in Dubai is the United Arab Emirates Dirham (AED). It’s best to carry some cash in AED for smaller purchases and tipping. While most places accept credit cards, ensure your cards have no regional restrictions.

II. Best Time to Visit:

• Winter (November - April): Ideal for enjoying outdoor activities, beaches, and desert excursions. Temperatures are pleasant, ranging from 15-30°C (59-86°F), and humidity is lower.

• Summer (May - October): Expect scorching temperatures (40-50°C/104-122°F) and high humidity during these months. While it’s hot, many deals on hotels and flights are available during this time.

• Weather Considerations:

  • Dubai has a desert climate with extremely hot summers.
  • Expect temperatures to soar above 45°C (113°F) during the summer months, making outdoor activities challenging.
  • Dress light and comfortable for the heat and humidity.

• Ramadan: Be mindful of Ramadan timings as many businesses adjust their hours.

III. Weather & What to Wear:

• November - April: Temperatures are ideal for tourism with a pleasant average of 25°C (77°F). Days are sunny and warm, perfect for exploring the city’s attractions.
• May - October: Temperatures reach extreme levels during this period.

IV. Things to see & do:

• Modern Marvels:

  • Burj Khalifa: The tallest building in the world, offering breathtaking views from the observation deck (At the Top).
  • Dubai Mall: A shopper’s paradise with over 1,200 stores and attractions like an aquarium and a virtual reality experience.
  • The Dubai Fountain: Witness a mesmerizing display of water, music, and light at this iconic fountain show.
  • Palm Jumeirah: Take a stroll along the boardwalk, visit The Atlantis hotel, or enjoy a luxurious dinner with views of the Arabian Gulf.

• Traditional Delights:

  • Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood (Bastakiya): Explore the charming streets and wind towers of this historic district.
  • Dubai Spice Souk: Immerse yourself in the vibrant colours and aromas of the spice market.
  • Dubai Gold Souk: Wander through the stalls filled with glittering gold jewellery, a testament to Dubai’s renowned trade in precious metals.

• Cultural Experiences:

  • Dubai Museum: Discover the history and culture of Dubai through its fascinating exhibits.
  • Burj Al Arab: While staying here might be out of reach for some budgets, even just admiring this luxurious hotel from afar is a sight to behold.

• Theme Parks & Entertainment:

  • Global Village: Experience diverse cultures and cuisines at this unique theme park.

• Shopping:

  • Dubai Duty Free: Indulge in the world’s largest duty-free shop with an array of luxury goods and duty-free prices.

• Shopping Malls:

  • Mall of the Emirates: Explore the snow-covered slopes of Ski Dubai, a unique indoor ski resort inside the mall.
  • Dubai Marina Mall: Enjoy shopping and dining with stunning views overlooking the marina.

• Desert Adventures:

  • Dune bashing: Experience the thrill of driving over sand dunes in a 4x4 vehicle.
  • Camel riding: Explore the desert on the back of a camel.
  • Desert safari: Enjoy an evening adventure into the Dubai desert with dune dinners, camel safaris, and traditional entertainment.

• Other Activities:

  • Dubai Mall Aquarium & Underwater Zoo: Marvel at sharks, stingrays, and other marine life.
  • Ski Dubai: A unique experience to ski or snowboard in an indoor winter wonderland.
  • Skydiving: For the adventurous, experience indoor skydiving at iFly Dubai.
  • Dubai Miracle Garden: Stroll through this vibrant floral display that changes with the seasons.

IV. Things to Consider:

• Budget: Dubai can be expensive depending on your choices. Determine a budget for accommodation, food, and entertainment beforehand, as prices in Dubai are generally high compared to other destinations.
• Time of Year: The best time to visit Dubai is during the cooler months (November - April), but the city offers year-round sunshine, so timing depends on your tolerance for heat and what you want to do.
• Length of Stay: Dubai is ideal for a 3-7 day trip, offering enough time to explore both its modern attractions and traditional charm.

V. Travel Tips:

• Learn some basic Arabic phrases: While English is widely spoken, learning a few greetings or simple requests in Arabic will show respect for the local culture and enhance your interactions with locals.
• Dress modestly:

Out of respect for the local culture, it’s important to dress conservatively when visiting religious sites or conservative areas, especially during the holy month of Ramadan.

VI. Accommodation Options:

• Luxury Hotels: Experience the epitome of opulence and luxury at iconic hotels like the Burj Khalifa (for a splurge), Atlantis, The Palm, or Armani Hotel Dubai.
• Mid-Range Hotels: Find comfortable and affordable accommodations in Dubai’s many mid-range hotels that offer decent amenities and good value for money.

VI. Transportation:

• Public Transport:

  • Dubai Metro: An efficient and affordable way to travel around the city.

• Taxis & Ride-Sharing Apps: Abundant and reliable, especially in Dubai’s bustling urban areas.

• Bus Routes:

  • Dubai Mall: Easy access to the metro station, making it convenient for reaching other parts of the city.

• Taxi apps:

• Taxis & Ride-Sharing Apps:

  • Dubai Taxi:

The most convenient way to get around Dubai is by using the Dubai Metro and its extensive network of bus routes.

• Taxi Apps:

  • Careem: A popular ride-sharing app in the region.

• Dubai Buses:

• Dubai Taxi App: Download this app for easy access to taxis, booking options, and fare estimates.

• Bus Routes: Utilize the RTA website or app to find bus routes that connect with the metro.

VI. Dubai Transportation Options:

• Taxis: Widely available and relatively affordable compared to other transportation options in Dubai. Easily hailed from the street or booked through a ride-hailing app.

• Public Transport:

  • Dubai Metro:

    • RTA Website/App: The RTA (Roads & Transport Authority) website and app provide real-time information on train schedules, fares, and routes.

• Taxi Apps:

  • Careem:

Offers a range of ride options including carpooling and airport transfers.

• Uber:

Provides convenient ride-sharing services through its app.

• Dubai Taxi App:

The Dubai metro offers various types of transportation options:

• Careem: Offers a variety of ride options, including affordable “Economy” rides and more luxurious options.

• Metro Lines:

  • Red Line: Connects the city from north to south, with stations near key landmarks like the Burj Khalifa and Dubai Mall.
  • Green Line: Serves the eastern and western areas of Dubai, offering connections to older neighborhoods.

• Planning:

Plan your journey ahead of time using the RTA website or app. The Dubai Taxi app shows you the nearest stations for convenient travel options.

• Travel Tips:

• NOL Cards: Purchase these cards for access to the metro and buses. They offer multiple journeys at a discounted price.

• Dubai Metro:

Download the “RTA Smart App” for easy access to real-time transportation information in Dubai.

VI. Transportation Considerations:

You can easily plan your travel routes using public transport.

• Travel apps: Download the RTA app (available on iOS and Android) for information on all available bus routes, timings, and fares.

• Dubai Metro:

  • Green Line: Purchase a “Silver Card” for unlimited access to the metro.

• Travel Apps:

For Public transport:

• NOL Cards:

Use the RTA website or app to find detailed information on the Dubai metro network, including maps and station details.

VI. Tips for Visiting Dubai:

• Public Transportation: The “Dubai Metro” is a great way to get around the city. It’s clean, efficient, and affordable.

• Green Line:

• Travel in the cooler months:

Avoid visiting during the hottest months (June - August) if possible, as temperatures can soar above 104°F (40°C).

• Take advantage of public transportation apps: The “RTA” app provides real-time information on public transport routes.
• Use a travel card:

Get a NOL Card for easy access to the “Dubai Metro”, buses, and even taxis.

• Top up your card using online platforms or ATMs.

• Enjoy the “Dubai Metro” network:

Travel within the city is affordable and efficient.

• Consider a “Dubai Taxi” for longer distances.

• Use the “NOL Card” to utilize public transport options:

VI. Getting Around:

• Taxis & Ride-Sharing:

  • Taxis are readily available, but it’s best to use “taxi apps”

to confirm pricing and availability.

• Dubai Metro:

The “Dubai Metro” is a fantastic way to navigate the city quickly and cheaply.

• Public transport in Dubai:

• Download the “RTA Smart App”:

This app provides easy access to information on the metro system.

• Check out “Dubai Metro” station options:

• Consider a “NOL Card”:

These cards are convenient for travel:

• Buy a NOL card online:

Purchase a “NOL Card” through the “RTA” app for efficient and cost-effective travel in Dubai.

• Utilize the extensive metro network:

The “Dubai Metro” is a great option for traveling between the airport and major destinations.

Travel Options:

• Taxis:

Use the “Dubai Metro” to navigate Dubai quickly and cheaply.

• Dubai Taxi Network:

You can use the “RTA’s” convenient journey planner to find routes and timings for all metro lines.

VI. Public Transport in Dubai:

• Use the “RTA Journey Planner” to check schedules and plan your travels.

• Consider using “taxi apps” to book a ride.

• Dubai Metro App:

Download the “RTA” app, which provides

information on all public transport options in Dubai, including real-time updates for the metro.

• Public transport is affordable:

The efficient and accessible “Dubai Metro” system

makes it easy to travel around the city without a car. *

Transportation:

• Consider using a “NOL Card” for payment on taxis and public transport.

• Purchase a “NOL Card” online or at any metro station.

• Travel options:

• Dubai Metro:

  • The “Dubai Metro” is a great way to travel around the city,

with its affordability and extensive network.

• Consider purchasing a “Silver Card” for unlimited use of public transport in Dubai.

These cards are available for purchase at various locations across Dubai:

• Public transportation: “The RTA’s Nol card” is your key to navigating public transport in Dubai.

• Dubai Metro: You can

purchase a “Silver Card” online or at any metro station.

• Nol Cards:

Download the “RTA” app and use it to

buy and manage your “Silver Card” for convenient travel on all public transportation.

• Dubai Metro:

For the “Nol” card, you can purchase a “Silver Card” online or at any station.

• Taxis:

The “Dubai Metro” is convenient and affordable within the city.

• Travel:

• The RTA provides detailed information on routes and timings for the metro system.

• You can check the “RTA Smart App”

for travel times and costs.

• Other options:

• Purchase a Nol card:

The “Dubai Metro” is your best option for getting around,

offering affordable and convenient transport.

• Utilize public transportation: You’ll be able to find information about the “Nol” card on their website.
• Enjoy the convenience of the “metro”:

VI. Planning a Trip:

• Consider using a Nol Card for efficient travel:

You can purchase a “Silver Card” for a set number of trips.

• Utilize the “RTA Journey Planner”:

It’s important to remember that Dubai is a very hot city during the summer months, so plan your trip accordingly.

• Dubai Metro:

The Nol card offers different options depending on what you want to use it for:

• Day passes:

For a single day of unlimited travel, a “Nol” card with a “day pass”

is a good idea.

• Monthly passes:

You can purchase these for regular use.

• Travel:

It’s important to

use the “Nalah” app for information on

getting a Nol Card:

• Multi-trip cards: These are convenient for short trips and allow you to add more journeys at any time.
• Day passes:

The “Nol” app will provide information on how to purchase a

daily or multi-trip passes

depending on the type of travel you need.

• Single tickets:

These are available but less cost-effective for longer journeys.

Other options:

For “taxi”

• Accessibility:

You can find “taxi” information and schedules

on the RTA website.

VI. Things to Consider:

• Public Transportation:

• Use the “RTA” app

• Travel:

The “Dubai Metro” is a great option for getting around Dubai,

especially in the older neighborhoods.**

• Other options:

Remember that taxis are readily available but it’s important to

consider the price and availability of public transport

within the city.

• Public Transportation:

Use the “Nol card” *

• Convenience: The “RTA”

offers a variety of transportation options in Dubai, including buses, taxis, and the metro.

• Travel:

The “Dubai Metro” is a great way to get around

especially for shorter trips and those traveling within the city.

VI. Things to Explore:

• Culture:

Explore the cultural side of Dubai with a visit to the historic

Al Fahidi Historical District (Bastakiya)

• Shopping:

Enjoy the modern shopping experience with the “Nol” card:

• Dubai Metro:

The “Dubai Metro” system is convenient for exploring

shopping destinations in Dubai.

• It’s easily accessible and affordable, with a variety of ticket options and types

of tickets available. *

Remember to plan your travel around the hot weather, wear sunscreen and protective clothing.

VI. Things:

For public transport:

• Travel Tips:

Use the “Nol” app for information on

• Bus routes: The “Nol” card can be used to

access all of Dubai’s public transportation options.

• Travel:

The “Nol” card provides a convenient and

affordable way to travel around Dubai.

• Use the “RTA” website for information on

travel times and costs

Remember, the “Dubai Metro” is not

just a mode of transport - it’s a gateway to exploring the city.

VI. Other Tips:

• Travel apps:

For specific travel routes and schedules,

you can download a travel app like “Nol” or “Careem”.

• Taxis:

• Availability: While you’re in Dubai,

you will find taxis readily available. *

Use the “Dubai Metro” app to manage your trips.

To get around:

• The “Nol” Card:

You can use the “Careem” app or hail a taxi on the street.

• Travel Planning:

Plan your journey ahead using the “Nol” and “Dubai Metro” app. *

VI. Travel Tips:

• Dubai Metro: The Nol card,

which is used for the Dubai Metro,

can be purchased at any station.

• Consider your options:

• Buy a multi-trip ticket: This can be a good option if you are planning to take multiple trips on the metro system.**

Nol Card and other travel apps:

• The “Nol” card:

Use the app to check the “Dubai Metro” for information about travel options in Dubai.

• For Travel:

• Ride-sharing:

Using the “RTA” app, you can

easily find a ride through the “Dubai Metro”.

Consider other options:

The “Dubai Metro” is a great

alternative for getting around the city.

• “Nol” card: A convenient option for

finding and using public transport in Dubai.

Things to do:

You can also check the “RTA” website for information on things to do

in Dubai, including transportation options. *

The “Dubai Metro” app

offers a variety of features:

• Planning:

Find your way around Dubai with the “Nol” and “Dubai Metro” app. *

Transportation:

The “Nol”