Over the past 30ish years the oasis in the desert, Dubai has grown into the popular destination it is today. However, it’s very much considered to be the Marmite of the Middle East. Some people love it, some people hate it. We fall very much on the love side and visit as often as possible. We think it’s the perfect winter sun destination when travelling from the UK and is a holiday destination in its own right. Many people pass through Dubai on the way to a further-flung destination without ever seeing what it has to offer for themselves. However, a layover in Dubai is a great way to sample a few things that make the city great. So, whether you visit on a layover, for a long weekend or even for longer holidays in Dubai, here are some Dubai travel tips you may find useful when making the trip.
Visa Requirements & Currency
Visas are required for people from certain countries in order to be granted access to the UAE. If you are travelling from one of those countries, the Embassy will issue visas for diplomatic and specific business trips. Sponsors can arrange other business travellers and tourist visas.
Visitor visas (if you need one) allow you to stay in the UAE for up to 55 days. It is imperative you have a copy of your visa prior to even boarding the plane to Dubai. You can extend the visa for one additional month for an additional charge.
There are however 19 countries where passport holders can have their passports stamped with a 30-day visit visa free of charge upon landing in Dubai. Together with an additional 51 countries (including the UK) where passport holders can have their passports stamped with a free of charge multiple-entry 90-day visit visa that’s valid for 6 months from the date of issue.
The official UAE currency is Dirham and Arabic is the official national language. However, because of the large ex-pat community within Dubai, a number of languages are widely spoken.
Culture & What You Should Wear
One of the main Dubai travel tips you need to take note of is that Dubai, in fact, all of the UAE follow Islamic law and culture. Therefore, all travellers should respect these, otherwise, you could land yourself in hot water.
Tourists in Dubai can wear mostly what they want. it has more of a western vibe then you may expect. However, modest dress is always recommended – cover shoulders, knees, midriffs etc. And we suppose it goes without saying that topless sunbathing is banned throughout the UAE. Also, public displays of affection or sexual acts, regardless of sexual orientation, could see you ending up behind bars.
There is the preconception that the UAE is dry, however, alcohol is widely available. Hotel bars and restaurants are usually extremely well stocked and offer a number of special nights and events. These include ladies night where ladies drink for free and Friday boozy brunches. Just don’t drink in public places or while driving and you won’t get in trouble.
Drugs are however a different kettle of fish and penalties are extremely harsh including the death penalty,
If you visit Dubai during the holy month of Ramadan, it’s important to note that non-Muslims are prohibited from eating, drinking or smoking in public.
Getting Around
There are a number of ways you can get around Dubai. The number one way is by taxi. They are a cost-effective way of getting from point a to point b. Plus you never have to wait too long for one. If you are staying at a hotel, the concierge will be able to arrange one for you. And if you are out and about at one of the numerous attractions, the likelihood is that there will be a taxi rank to grab one from.
You can hire and drive a car in the UAE only if you possess a valid International Driver’s Permit together with a national driving license. Dubai is quite a busy city, therefore it is important to stick to local laws and rules and also remember to drive on the right-hand side of the road.
A number of hotels also offer free shuttle services to local beaches and shopping malls. City Sightseeing and Big Bus Tours offer hop on hop off buses throughout the city, allowing you to visit all the major attractions. Dubai is also home to reliable metro, bus, water bus and tram networks.
When To Visit
Obviously, it depends how hot you like it, but the optimum time to visit is between the months of November and April. Again making it a great winter sun holiday destination if visiting from the UK. Visiting during the summer months may be too hot and uncomfortable for many.
We hope these Dubai travel tips help you if you are planning a visit to Dubai in the future.
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