As a city in the United Arab Emirates, Dubai is a major tourist destination for people from all over the globe. Despite its reputation as a Dubai luxurious vacation spot, entering the city requires nothing more than a valid UAE tourist visa.
Attracting famous people who want to live it up while on vacation is a primary goal of Dubai’s tourism industry.
However, a trip to Dubai can be organised on a budget, which is something that many people don’t know. Travelers on a moderate budget will be able to afford hotels and other tourist services in the city.
If this is the your first trip to Dubai, or if you’re just starting to plan one, we have some advice that will make your time here more enjoyable.
1. Come between the months of October and April
There are only two types of seasons in Dubai: hot and hotter. From October through April, the city enjoys the clear skies and beach-friendly climate that makes it a popular destination for winter vacationers.
This is also the rainy season, but the showers usually don’t last too long, so you shouldn’t let that deter your travel plans.
2. Arrange a Tour to See the Sights and Save Time
You can save yourself a lot of time and stress if you plan ahead and book your travel arrangements with reputable tour operators.
Activities like visiting the traditional souks of Deira, living like a Bedouin in the desert, skiing, hot-air ballooning, zorbing, a dinner cruise, scuba diving in sand dunes, and desert safaris may be included in your Dubai vacation package.
Don’t miss out on the chance to see Dubai with SMT, go skydiving, or experience life in the desert like a Bedouin. Whether you’re visiting Dubai with your family, a large group, or a special someone, you can find the perfect vacation package to suit your needs.
3. Make smart decisions when riding the Dubai Metro
Taking advantage of Dubai’s underground system can help you save both time and money. And this is so even though taxi rides in Dubai are cheap compared to other costs you might incur while in the city.
You can also take the Dubai Metro from Dubai International Airport right into the heart of the city.
The Dubai Metro uses a contactless card system to track and manage fare payments. All you have to do is go up to a vending machine and select your desired destination and travel option (one-way or round-trip).
4. Go to Independent Restaurants Instead of Fast Food Chains
One of the most difficult things for a first-time visitor to a foreign country is getting used to the local food.
Eat in moderation in Dubai, or you might miss out on some truly delicious cuisine. Irani, Filipino, Yemeni, Bangladeshi, Ethiopian, Pakistani, and Afghani cuisines, to name a few, are just some of the many that can be found in the city.
Even though few people talk about it, the nightlife in Dubai is incredible. There is a great selection of places to eat, drink, and socialise, including restaurants, nightclubs, and bars.
The culinary scene in Dubai is unparalleled. You can get both regional specialties and international fare here. It is common for people to spend between 15 and 30 dirhams (about $4 to $8) on a lunch and 22 and 40 dirhams (about $8 to $14) on a dinner (6-11 USD).
5. Scientific Investigation of Lodging Facilities
Booking a hotel close to the Burj Khalifa will not guarantee you a discount. Find a hotel that is conveniently located near a Dubai Metro stop.
The time and money you spend travelling will be cut in half, respectively, if you do this. Additionally, there is a decent selection of hostels nearby.
When planning a trip on a tight budget, it’s important to establish your priorities and a reasonable spending limit before deciding where to cut corners.
6. Discretion in dress is urged
Making sure you adhere to the proper standards of dress and conduct when in Dubai is a must. Selecting clothes that are understated rather than revealing or extravagant is a good rule of thumb to follow when packing for a trip.
Clothing that is too short, too tight, or see-through for a woman is considered indecent. However, it is inappropriate for men to remove their shirts in public. One way to show respect for Muslims and avoid unwanted attention is to dress modestly.
7. No PDA
Public displays of affection are highly frowned upon in the United Arab Emirates. The PDA has led to the arrest and imprisonment of a large number of tourists in Dubai.
Holding hands in public or kissing your partner passionately in front of strangers are both risky behaviours.
Do not let the fact that Dubai has some strict regulations prevent you from visiting if you ever get the chance. There is no better way to spend your time than at this one-of-a-kind location, whether you’re travelling solo, with your significant other, or with the whole family.
8. Treatments and Meds
All drug-related offences carry the death penalty in Dubai, including possession, sale, and use. If you need to bring any prescription drugs with you, DO NOT FORGET TO BRING YOUR PRESCRIPTION!
Your best bet is to travel light, taking only what you’ll need for the duration of your trip. You should also know that the United Arab Emirates has banned poppy seeds because they can be used to produce opium.
While permitted in your home country, the United Arab Emirates has a zero-tolerance drug policy regarding certain substances. It’s possible this is due to the UAE’s more stringent legal system. The most well-known examples of these drugs include codeine and other opiate-based medications.
Before starting any new medication, it’s important to see your primary care doctor to go over the medication’s ingredients and, if necessary, get a new prescription.
9. Indoor and Bar-Only Alcohol Sales Restrictions
Given its status as an Islamic state, the United Arab Emirates is committed to upholding the tenets of Islam. Consumption of alcoholic beverages is restricted to licenced establishments only. It’s not okay for you to act drunk in public.
A wide variety of illegal drugs are also considered to be serious offences in Dubai. All tobacco products, including e-cigarettes, are confiscated from arriving passengers.
10. Is it expected that you will tip?
However, tipping is still commonly practised in Dubai, despite not being the norm. However, most people in the community will leave a small tip for someone who helps them with their luggage or bags of groceries, even though taxi drivers don’t count on tips.
11. Avoid Attending Any Political Events
It’s not worth risking a ruined vacation over something that isn’t strictly necessary, especially if you’re just passing through as a tourist.
It’s no secret that the Middle Eastern countries are having a tough time due to terrorism. Your safety is best served by staying away from political events like rallies and demonstrations, where violent individuals are likely to congregate.
What are the 10 rules in Dubai?
Important Rules:
Wear appropriate clothes:
Restrictions in the month of Ramadan:
Prohibition of loud music:
Reserve your tickets for Burj Khalifa