Things To Know When Traveling To Dubai
Introduction
Dubai is by far the biggest city in the UAE. It exemplifies a sophisticated lifestyle and is the pinnacle of luxury. Renowned buildings, high-end retail therapy, and exciting nightlife have made this city famous. But what should you pack and keep in mind when traveling to Dubai? Let’s find out in this Dubai travel guide.
Quick Things To Know When Traveling To Dubai
Dressing
As per the Dubai rules for visitors, almost any clothing and ethnic expression are welcome in Dubai’s multicultural metropolis. Commercial districts and retail malls do not permit swimwear, although beaches, waterparks, public pools, and spa areas do.
Traditional modest attire like Abayas is highly valued in Dubai’s ancient neighborhoods and houses of worship. Women must wear headscarves, while males must cover their shoulders, arms, and legs when entering a mosque.
Currency
The United Arab Emirates dirham, abbreviated as AED, is the currency used in Dubai. The exchange rate between the dirham and the dollar has remained the same since 1997 when it was set. Here are the top currency exchange rates you should know when traveling to Dubai.
| US Dollar | 0.272294 |
| British Pound | 0.213954 |
| Australian Dollar | 0.413549 |
| Indian Rupee | 22.739988 |
| Canadian Dollar | 0.374787 |
| Euro | 0.251817 |
Source: X-rates
Weather
Dubai has a pleasant climate year-round because of its beachfront position on the Arabian Peninsula. October through May is the “winter” season, when temperatures of 20–35°C (68–95°F) are common.
UAE, specifically Dubai, is a popular travel destination all year round because its many indoor and outdoor attractions are open from June to September. During this time, temperatures may reach the mid-40s (~110° F).
Internet
Being connected is essential, whether getting about town, reading reviews of local eateries, or keeping in touch with pals halfway across the globe. When you arrive at the airport, you will receive a complimentary prepaid SIM card from telecom operator Du. Etisalat, Virgin Mobile, and Du all offer competitive data and roaming packages that you might look at. All across the United Arab Emirates, you may find popular spots with secure public Wi-Fi. You can join and start surfing.
Emergency Contacts
Some of the emergency contacts to keep handy when traveling to Dubai are:
| Police | 911 |
| Ambulance | 998 |
| Coastguard | 996 |
| Fire Rescue | 997 |
| Dubai Health Authority | +971 800 342 |
| Tourist security issues | +971 800 4438 |
PDA
You can get arrested for public displays of love in Dubai, so don’t risk it. However, kissing on the cheek and holding hands are perfectly acceptable Dubai rules for visitors.
Essential Documents To Keep With You
To ensure your Dubai tour travel goes smoothly, have all the required paperwork ready before you arrive.
- Visa: If your country requires a visa, you must apply beforehand. With the introduction of the UAE e-Visa, the once laborious and time-consuming procedure of obtaining a visa from the embassy is now a thing of the past. Anyone may apply for this kind of travel permit online, and the process is fast and uncomplicated. It may be accessed online from any location globally and has a very low processing time (on average, approximately 23 hours).
- Passport: Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond the arrival date for entry into Dubai. To be safe, it’s a good idea to have both an electronic and physical duplicate of your passport on hand.
- Ticket for Flight: Do not lose sight of your itinerary or confirmation email. If your phone’s battery dies or there are connection problems, it’s wise to have digital and paper versions on hand.
Dubai Transportation
While private transportation is still the backbone of Dubai’s economy, the city’s transportation network has seen significant upgrades in recent years, making it an exciting alternative for getting about while traveling to Dubai.
Metro
The red and green lines make up the metro system. It may cover little ground, but it’s speedy, has plenty of stations near the major hotels, and runs often.
Bus
The network has over a hundred lines, including a nighttime route. You can also take the free tourist bus that stops at various landmarks across Dubai.
Cab
You’re likely to utilize taxis often, and they’re reasonably priced. Since many people do not have access to a dataphone, it is advisable to have cash in AED (dirham) currency.
Dubai Tourist Laws For Drugs and Alcohol
Unlike Abu Dhabi and Sharjah, Dubai travel guide do not have as stringent regulations regarding tourists. However, you should still exercise caution according to the Dubai rules for visitors since you might still get yourself in hot water if you act irresponsibly.
- You can buy alcoholic beverages from stores in addition to restaurants, hotels, and nightclubs. Plus, unlike in several Arab nations like Oman, you do not need permission to consume alcohol on Dubai tours.
- But if you’ve had a few too many, go straight for your hotel. Drunkenly strolling along the street is against the law.
- According to Dubai rules for visitors, a maximum of four years in prison and subsequent deportation await anybody found guilty of drug use, possession, or sale.
- Consequently, you should stay away from narcotics completely. Additionally, you may get a prison sentence for having difficulty with your system while having a prescription in it. Whether you take it in Dubai or any other nation makes no difference.
Travel Insurance
The healthcare system in Dubai is advanced, and the city itself is peaceful and secure. But if anything happens while you’re on Dubai tours and you don’t have health insurance, the costs of medical treatment may quickly add up.
Having health insurance before traveling to Dubai is a good idea to prevent unexpected medical bills that might ruin your vacation. But before you get travel insurance, read your bank’s fine print to see whether using their services to pay for your vacation already includes insurance.
Packing Tips
Packing efficiently is necessary unless you want to spend hundreds of AED buying basic essentials. Moreover, improving your packing skills can greatly enhance your experience traveling to Dubai. Here are a few things that should be on your Dubai packing list according to our Dubai travel guide:
- The three-pin plug used in the UK is standard for electrical devices in Dubai. If necessary, be sure to bring the Dubai travel essentials adapters and voltage converters. Keep in mind that you may need a universal travel adapter for a variety of gadgets. Remind yourself to pack portable battery packs and chargers for your electrical devices.
- Make sure you have plenty of prescription drugs on hand and keep a duplicate of your prescription. Also, be sure to have basic first aid supplies, like bandages, antiseptics, and OTC medications for common conditions like stomachaches and headaches.
- Basic amenities are easily accessible, but if you want to save some bucks, bring your shampoos and soaps from your home country. You should also consider airline restrictions, so be sure to include travel-size containers for liquids and gels.
- If you have any dietary concerns, pack some food for the journey and your first few days in Dubai. Snacks like dried fruits and granola bars are great choices.
- Always keep some loose cash on hand in Emirati Dirhams. Unless you have your ride from the airport booked before traveling to Dubai, you will need it.
Conclusion
Dubai represents hundreds of nationalities, and the city is fluent in Arabic and English. If you could learn some Arabic phrases before you go, it would be an experience you would never forget!
So, don’t worry, and get your Dubai tour visa ready with Your All-in-one Dubai Guide!
