Dubai Travel Tips – Your Quick Guide to a Safe, Fun Visit

Planning a trip to Dubai? You’ll find stunning skylines, great food and endless things to do, but a few local quirks can trip up first‑timers. Below are the basics you need to move around, stay comfortable and avoid common pitfalls.

Getting Around and Staying Safe

Use official taxi apps like Careem or Uber – they’re cheap, reliable and track your ride. The metro is clean and fast; just remember it’s gender‑segregated, so follow the signs for men’s or women’s carriages. Dress modestly in public areas – keep shoulders and knees covered, especially in malls or traditional neighborhoods. A light scarf or long‑sleeve shirt solves most dress‑code issues without compromising style.

Cash is handy for small purchases, but most places accept credit cards. Avoid handing money to street hawkers; instead, buy from reputable shops or markets that have clear pricing. If you rent a car, stick to major roads and obey speed limits – fine‑tuned cameras monitor violations and fines are steep.

Nightlife, Culture and Legal Must‑Knows

Dubai’s nightlife is vibrant but regulated. Bars and nightclubs are inside hotels or licensed venues – no open‑air drinking. Alcohol is allowed only if you’re over 21 and have a personal alcohol licence (most tourists don’t need one, just a hotel bar tab). Public intoxication can lead to hefty penalties, so pace yourself.

Photography is popular, but avoid snapping pictures of government buildings, police or military sites. Even a quick snap can get you questioned. When visiting mosques, enter only during visiting hours, remove shoes and dress conservatively – women should cover hair with a scarf.

Scams target tourists with fake “WhatsApp groups” for companions or discounted tours. Always verify a service through official websites or trusted travel forums. If someone asks for money upfront via obscure payment apps, walk away.

In case of an emergency, dial 999 for police, 998 for ambulance and 997 for fire. Keep a copy of your passport and a note of your hotel address in your phone – it speeds up any assistance you might need.

Food lovers will enjoy the mix of flavors – from street‑side shawarma to upscale brunches. Stick to restaurants with good reviews; tap water is filtered, but many visitors prefer bottled water for peace of mind.

Shopping is a highlight. The Dubai Mall and Mall of the Emirates offer tax‑free purchases, but always ask for a receipt. If you’re bargaining at a souk, start low and be ready to walk away; it’s part of the fun.

Finally, be respectful. A friendly “please” and “thank you” in Arabic (min fadlik, shukran) goes a long way. Dubai welcomes visitors who follow the rules and show courtesy, and you’ll leave with great memories, not a police report.