Dubai Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit in Dubai, things to do, where to eat, stay and shop, local customs, safety and health tips, and transportation options.


Introduction to Dubai

Dubai, located in the United Arab Emirates, is a modern and fast-developing city that seamlessly blends futuristic attractions with traditional Arabian culture. The city offers a variety of activities to do, great food and shopping, beautiful parks, stunning beaches, and natural outdoor adventures. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll take you through the best places to visit in Dubai, things to do, where to eat, stay, and shop, local customs, safety and health tips, and transportation options.

List of Places to Visit in Dubai

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Dubai Museum

The Dubai Museum, located in the oldest building in Dubai, is a great place to start your cultural tour of the city. The museum depicts the city’s past through interactive exhibits and showcases traditional Emirati life.

Sheikh Saeed Al Maktoum House

This historical building, now a museum, offers an insight into the life of the former ruler of Dubai, Sheikh Saeed Al Maktoum. The house displays unique sculptures, paintings, and photographs showcasing Dubai’s history and culture.

Jumeirah Mosque

The Jumeirah Mosque, built-in 1976, is a beautiful example of modern Islamic architecture. The mosque conducts tours for both Muslims and non-Muslims to educate them about the Islamic religion and culture.

Natural Attractions of Dubai: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Dubai Miracle Garden

The Dubai Miracle Garden is a beautiful oasis of nature amidst the skyscrapers and desert dunes. The garden features over 45 million flowers in various designs, patterns, and shapes, making it a perfect spot for photo enthusiasts.

Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve

The Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve is home to various species of wildlife, including Arabian oryx, sand gazelle, and desert fox. Visitors can take a guided desert safari, including dune bashing, sandboarding, and camel rides.

Palm Jumeirah

Palm Jumeirah is an artificial island, built-in in the shape of a palm tree with luxury resorts, hotels, and water parks.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Dubai

Dubai is a great place for outdoor enthusiasts, offering various hiking and biking routes. Hatta Mountain Biking is one of the recommended routes, featuring a 38 km-long trail that explores the Hatta mountains’ foothills.

Best Things to Do in Dubai: Activities and Tours

Burj Khalifa

Burj Khalifa, the tallest building globally, stands 828 meters tall and has an observation deck on the 124th floor, offering spectacular views of the city.

Dubai Mall

Dubai Mall is the largest mall globally, featuring over 1200 retail outlets, movie theaters, ice skating rinks, and an aquarium.

Dubai Fountain

The Dubai Fountain is a beautiful and breathtaking water show that shoots water up to 150 meters in the air, synced to music and lights. The show is visible from the Burj Khalifa observation deck and Dubai Mall.

Week-Long Itinerary for Dubai

Day Activity
Day 1 Visit the Dubai Museum and learn about the city’s rich history and culture
Day 2 Head to Palm Jumeriah, an artificial island where you’ll find the Aquaventure Waterpark and Lost Chambers Aquarium
Day 3 Take a guided desert safari in the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve in the morning and tour the Jumeirah Mosque in the evening
Day 4 Explore the many attractions at the Marina Bay including the Marina Walk, where you can enjoy shopping and dining
Day 5 Visit the tallest tower in the world, Burj Khalifa, and experience the views from the observation deck.
Day 6 Go shopping in Dubai mall and enjoy amazing delicacies from local and international cuisines.
Day 7 Visit the Miracle Garden, a perfect place for admiring nature’s beauty, and end your day with amazing views of the Dubai Fountain.

Food and Drink Scene of Dubai

Must-Try Dishes

Dubai has an exciting food scene offering traditional Emirati cuisine and international delicacies. Here are some must-try dishes:

Machboos

Machboos is a traditional Emirati rice dish cooked with meat, vegetables, and fragrant spices.

Shawarma

Shawarma is a popular Middle Eastern street food made with chicken or beef, wrapped in a pita bread with fresh vegetables, and topped with tahini sauce.

Luqaimat

Luqaimat is a traditional Emirati dessert made from a dough of flour, sugar, yeast, and saffron, and deep-fried until golden brown and crispy. The dough balls are then dipped in warm honey syrup and garnished with sesame seeds.

Local Beverages

Arabic Coffee

Arabic coffee is a traditional drink served in small cups, made from roasted coffee beans that are ground and brewed with spices like cardamom and saffron.

Jallab

Jallab is a refreshing drink made with dates, grape molasses, and rose water, served with ice and topped with pine nuts.

Where to Stay in Dubai: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Dubai offers a range of accommodation options, including luxury hotels, hostels, and guesthouses. Here are some options:

Burj Al Arab

The Burj Al Arab is a luxurious resort, known for its iconic sail-like design and five-star service.

Rove Downtown

The Rove Downtown is a trendy hotel within walking distance of Dubai Mall, featuring a pool, gym, and modern rooms.

Dubai Youth Hostel

The Dubai Youth Hostel is a budget-friendly option, offering dormitory-style accommodation with shared bathrooms and a shared kitchen.

What to Buy in Dubai: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Dubai is known for its luxury shopping, but it also has an array of traditional Emirati products perfect for souvenirs. Here are some recommendations:

Gold Jewellery

Dubai is famous for its gold and is often known as the “City of Gold.” Gold jewellery shopping is tax-free, and the quality is unbeatable.

Perfumes and Oud

Dubai is a hub for perfumes and oud, a traditional Arabian aromatic resin. The city offers a range of perfumes and oud, making it an excellent option for souvenir shopping.

Local Culture and Customs of Dubai

Dubai is a predominantly Muslim country, and visitors are required to follow some customs and etiquette in public areas. Visitors should dress modestly and should not openly display affection. Alcohol is allowed in designated areas, and visitors are required to obtain an alcohol license before consuming alcohol in Dubai.

Best Time to Visit Dubai

Dubai has a hot and humid climate, with temperatures exceeding 40°C in summers. The best time to visit Dubai is between November to March, when the weather is mild, and outdoor activities are more enjoyable.

Do’s and Don’ts of Dubai

Do:

  • Respect the culture and dress modestly
  • Follow traffic rules
  • Keep copies of important documents like passports and visas

Don’t:

  • Drink alcohol in public areas
  • Use foul language or make rude gestures
  • Do illegal drugs

Safety and Health

Safety in Dubai

Dubai is a safe city with low crime rates. However, visitors should be cautious of pickpocketing and bag-snatching in crowded areas. It is advisable to carry only essential belongings and keep them safe.

Health in Dubai

Dubai offers excellent healthcare services, and visitors should have insurance in case an emergency occurs. The tap water is safe to drink, but it is advisable to stick to bottled water.

Getting to Dubai: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Dubai

Dubai International Airport is the main airport in the city, and it offers numerous flights to different parts of the world.

Bus Stations Near Dubai

The city has a well-connected bus system, and visitors can take a bus to other emirates and nearby cities.

Other Options

Dubai has an extensive metro system, taxis, and car rental services, making it easy to travel across the city.

How to Get Around in Dubai

Dubai has an extensive public transportation system consisting of buses, metros, and taxis. The city also offers car rental services, making it easy to travel across the city.

Where to Go Next from Dubai: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi, the capital city of the United Arab Emirates, is located just an hour’s drive from Dubai, and it offers a variety of attractions, including the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque and the Emirates Palace.

Sharjah

Sharjah is located in the northern emirates and offers a blend of tradition and modernity. The city offers museums, traditional souks, and a beautiful beach.

Conclusion

Dubai is an exciting city that offers modern attractions, luxurious shopping, and natural wonders, making it a perfect destination for travelers. Visitors should respect the local culture, follow safety measures, and enjoy the unique experiences that the city offers.

Shoreline of Dubai as seen from space, with artificial islands. Shoreline of Dubai as seen from space, with artificial islands. Wild Wadi Waterpark and Jumeirah Beach Hotel Wild Wadi Waterpark and Jumeirah Beach Hotel Dubai Airport Dubai Airport Dubai Metro routes. The Red and Green lines are the operational routes while the rest are in planning/construction phase. Dubai Metro routes. The Red and Green lines are the operational routes while the rest are in planning/construction phase. Dubai Metro Dubai Metro Street signs that point to the direction of the Metro are found throughout the city. Street signs that point to the direction of the Metro are found throughout the city. Dubai Tram Dubai Tram An abra motoring across Dubai Creek from Bur Dubai to Deira. An abra motoring across Dubai Creek from Bur Dubai to Deira. Dubai Museum – al-Fahidi fort and a dhow Dubai Museum – al-Fahidi fort and a dhow Old Dubai. The Al Bastakiya neighborhood was once the major center of Dubai. The old buildings are now preserved as a cultural landmark and tourist site. Old Dubai. The Al Bastakiya neighborhood was once the major center of Dubai. The old buildings are now preserved as a cultural landmark and tourist site. Fossil cliffs near Dubai Fossil cliffs near Dubai China Pavilion in Global Village China Pavilion in Global Village All that glitters ''is'' gold at the Gold Souk. All that glitters ''is'' gold at the Gold Souk. Mall of the Emirates. Mall of the Emirates. Mezze selection commonly found in Arabic restaurants in Dubai. Mezze selection commonly found in Arabic restaurants in Dubai. Typical Emirati traditional food Typical Emirati traditional food Arabic coffee served with traditional Emirati sweets called ''Lugaimat''. Arabic coffee served with traditional Emirati sweets called ''Lugaimat''.


    Jebel Ali