Ultimate Dubai Travel Guide: What to Know Before You Land

Get ready to discover a city where gleaming skyscrapers rise from the desert, centuries-old souks meet futuristic malls, and luxury lives side by side with culture. Dubai is one of the most exciting destinations in the world—and with a little preparation, you'll be able to enjoy every moment of it. Here's everything you need to know before your plane touches down.

Best Time to Visit: November to March

Dubai is known for its sunshine, but if you want to explore the city comfortably, the best time to visit is between November and March. During these months, the weather is pleasantly warm, making it perfect for sightseeing, beach days, and outdoor adventures like desert safaris or rooftop dining. This is also peak season, so expect a vibrant atmosphere and bustling events calendar—just make sure to book accommodations early!

Dubai skyline at sunset — The stunning Dubai skyline offers breathtaking views day and night

Visa and Entry Requirements

Your visa requirements will depend on your nationality. Citizens from the EU, UK, USA, Australia, Brazil, and several other countries are eligible for a visa on arrival (valid for 30 or 90 days, depending on your passport). Other travelers may need to apply for a tourist visa in advance. It's essential to check the latest requirements with your airline or the UAE embassy before you travel.

Also, make sure your passport is valid for at least 6 months from your date of arrival.

What to Wear: Respectful Yet Modern

Dubai is a cosmopolitan city, and you'll see a mix of styles—from designer outfits to traditional abayas. While there's no need to cover your head or wear traditional clothing, modesty is appreciated, especially in malls, public areas, and during visits to mosques.

Traditional Dubai architecture — Traditional and modern architecture coexist beautifully in Dubai

For women, this means covering shoulders and knees in public spaces. Men should avoid wearing shorts in formal settings. At the beach or pool, normal swimwear is acceptable, but cover up when leaving these areas.

Currency and Tipping

Dubai uses the UAE Dirham (AED). Credit cards are widely accepted, but it's handy to keep a bit of cash for taxis, small shops, or tips.

Tipping isn't mandatory, but it's appreciated:

Restaurants: 10–15% (some may include a service charge)
Taxis: Round up to the nearest note
Hotel staff or delivery: AED 5–20, depending on the service

Getting Around: Transportation Tips

Dubai has an excellent public transportation system that's both affordable and efficient:

Dubai Metro: Clean, air-conditioned, and connects most major areas
Taxis: Readily available and reasonably priced
Buses: Extensive network covering areas not served by the metro
Water taxis: A scenic way to cross Dubai Creek

The Nol card is your key to public transportation—it works on metro, buses, and water taxis.

Where to Stay: Neighborhood Guide

Dubai offers diverse neighborhoods, each with its own character:

Downtown Dubai: The heart of the city, home to Burj Khalifa and Dubai Mall
Dubai Marina: Modern waterfront living with stunning views
Palm Jumeirah: Luxury island resort experience
Old Dubai: Authentic cultural experience with traditional souks
Jumeirah: A relaxed yet elegant neighborhood along the coastline, known for its chic villas, beach clubs, and cafés. It offers easy access to public beaches and iconic resorts like the Burj Al Arab.
Dubai Creek Harbour: One of the city's fastest-growing waterfront communities, and where most of our Luxe City Rental apartments are located. It's a serene, upscale area with stunning skyline views, peaceful promenades, stylish cafés, and easy access to Downtown Dubai—just 10–15 minutes away. You'll find Lagoon Creek Beach, Vida Hotel amenities, and beautifully designed walking paths perfect for families, couples, or business travelers looking for modern comfort away from the bustle.