Like a local | 17 Dubai travel hacks for first-timers

Dubai's meteoric rise as a travel hotspot is nothing short of remarkable. Once barely a blip on travelers' radars, the UAE now boasts two world-class destinations, with Dubai leading the charge. From the iconic Burj Khalifa to a constantly evolving array of attractions, this city caters to those seeking luxury and unforgettable experiences. Planning a trip to Dubai can be overwhelming given its many options. That's why we've put together this guide, packed with insider tips and money-saving hacks to help you make the most of your Dubai adventure.

Dubai Essentials

Starting with the essentials, here's what you must know before getting to Dubai.

Best time to visit Dubai

Timing your Dubai trip is crucial. The city's weather is a major factor - summers (May-September) are scorching hot, while winters offer pleasant conditions but come with tourist crowds and higher prices. November to March is ideal for outdoor activities, but expect peak season rates. The shoulder season brings milder temps and fewer tourists. Budget travelers might prefer May to October for deals.

In my opinion, the sweet spot for visiting Dubai is during the shoulder season, specifically in October or April. You'll dodge the worst heat and the biggest crowds, while still enjoying comfortable weather for exploring. Plus, you might snag some good deals on accommodations. Just remember, there's never a truly "off" season in Dubai - it's always bustling with visitors from around the globe.

Dubai Travel Tips 101 - A First Timer's Holy Grail

#1 Grab a Go Dubai Card with no second thoughts

Want to save big on Dubai's top attractions? The Go Dubai Card is your golden ticket. This nifty pass slashes admission fees by up to 50% at over 49 hotspots in Dubai and Abu Dhabi. Choose from 3, 4, 5, or 7-day options to fit your travel plans. The best part? It includes access to must-sees like the Burj Khalifa's top floor and city tours that would normally break the bank. With potential savings this good, grabbing a Go Dubai Card should be at the top of your to-do list when you touch down in the city.

Read all about creating a money-saving itinerary using the Go Dubai Card

#2 Be cash ready!

Plan ahead for your cash needs in Dubai. Order UAE dirhams from your bank well in advance, as they may not keep foreign currency on hand. While credit cards are widely accepted, cash is essential for tipping, haggling in souks, and shopping at smaller vendors. Avoid exchanging money at the airport due to high fees. Carry a mix of small and large denominations for convenience. Remember, haggling is common in markets, and you'll need cash for these transactions.

#3 Know the Dubai Airport well

Dubai International Airport (DXB) is massive, so allow plenty of time for navigation. Arrive early for departures and don't schedule activities immediately after arrival. DXB offers various transport options to the city, including taxis, metro, and shuttles. Research your preferred method in advance. For future trips, be aware of the upcoming Dubai World Central – Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC), which aims to be even larger.

Here's all you need to know about Airport transfers in Dubai.

#4 Dubai's not as conservative as you think

You may have heard horrific stories of foreigners being locked up for PDA, public inebriation and homosexuality. All that said, Dubai is way more liberal than most Islamic countries. There are no concrete laws in Dubai that forbid anybody from wearing any kind of clothes but being a country with conservative values, it is preferable and respectful to wear clothes that cover the shoulders and knees. The nightlife is quite happening and you'll find expats and tourists drinking and canoodling in the many bars and clubs in the city. There's even a healthy gay community in Dubai! As long as you steer clear of cultural insensitivities, you're good to go in Dubai.

#5 Make inquiries about your medications

There are some substances that may be legal in your country but are forbidden in the UAE. Most notable amongst them are medicines containing codeine or opiate ingredients. Visit your doctor beforehand to know the composition of your medications and change your prescription if required.

#6 Limit your liquor to bars & indoors

UAE being an Islamic nation follows the decrees dictated by the religion quite closely. Alcohol is not permitted outside the licensed restaurants and bars. You cannot be seen inebriated in public. A wide variety of drugs are also illegal in Dubai and their use is a punishable offense. Even electronic cigarettes are confiscated upon arrival.

#7 Check the calendar for Islamic events

During Islamic holidays like Eid, Ramazan etc, most happenings in the city are slim and limited. This may also affect the transport system within the city. In special cases, like during the holy month of Ramadan , food and beverage are not available before sunset. Plan your trip and daily sightseeing with these in mind.

#8 Don't forget to check out the Spas

Don't overlook Dubai's world-class spas, often hidden gems within luxury hotels. These oases of relaxation offer an array of treatments that will redefine your spa expectations. From massages to facials and holistic therapies, Dubai's spas provide a level of pampering that surpasses typical beauty clinics. Most operate from late morning to evening, giving you flexibility in scheduling. To ensure availability, especially during peak seasons, book your treatments in advance.

Check out the top rated spas in Dubai

#9 Malls have a lot more than just shops in Dubai

While malls are mostly earmarked as a place to grab some food and shop, Dubai’s malls are way beyond this limited identity. Most malls have fun activities like gaming zones, ski slopes, aquariums or something that is definitely worth sticking around for. Moreover, if you thought that shopping at a Dubai mall would be a routine experience, you are wrong.

Here's all that you can do in Dubai Mall with this all access Dubai Big Ticket.

#10 Know this about street photography in Dubai

While street photography is generally allowed in Dubai, exercise caution and respect local customs. Always ask permission before photographing individuals, especially Muslim men and women. Avoid capturing military zones, government buildings, and private properties. Be aware of signage indicating photography restrictions in certain areas. When shooting in public spaces, be mindful of including identifiable individuals or vehicle number plates in your frame. If you do capture images with recognizable people, obtain explicit consent before sharing or publishing.

#11 Here's one for the shopaholics!

The Dubai Shopping Festival (January) and Dubai Summer Surprises (July) offer incredible discounts across the city. Explore the Dubai Mall, the world's largest, with over 1,200 stores and attractions like the Dubai Aquarium. Don't miss seasonal sales with up to 70% off. For a more traditional experience, visit the Gold and Spice Souks, where you can haggle for unique finds. Balance your shopping between modern malls and authentic markets to get the full Dubai retail experience. Remember, prices in souks are negotiable, so brush up on your bargaining skills!

Read our complete guide to Dubai Shopping Festival and plan your shopping expedition better!

#12 Weekends in Dubai start on Friday

While the rest of the world powers through Monday blues, those in Dubai have Sunday blues. This is because weekends in Dubai are Friday & Saturday, with the weekday resuming on Sunday. So shift your sunday brunch plans to Friday brunch plans because that is how this part of the world works.

#13 Dubai's not a city for walking

Those who love exploring a city on foot will be disappointed because this is one city that is explored better in a car. For starters, the heat is unbearable and secondly, the city is not designed for pedestrians. While it is pedestrian friendly, you probably won't feel safe walking on a footpath flanked by cars swooshing past 120km/hr. The only places you'll feel safe and comfortable walking are the malls which make up for the lack of footpaths!

#14 Should you tip?

Tipping isn’t norm in Dubai, but it is a common practice. Taxi drivers don’t expect to receive a tip, but luggage carriers and supermarket baggers are given a small tip for their services by most locals.

#15 Nightlife in Dubai is actually LIT

While most people may be apprehensive about Dubai's nightlife, you must know that Dubai's nightlife is vibrant and happening with a top-notch choice of bars, nightclubs and restaurants to lounge in and party. Parties often go on till 3:00 AM, so put on your best heels and party the night away while in Dubai. Yacht cruises in Dubai are also a great way to drink, dine and party; a common extravagance among locals.

Check out these clubs for the most happening nightlife in Dubai.

#16 Discover Dubai beyond the skyscrapers

Dubai has a rich history, and the city's culture is absolutely fascinating if you scratch beneath all that gold. Make your way to the spice and gold souqs that fringe the Dubai Creek and haggle your way through turquoise trinkets from Iran, spices from Morocco and silver from Oman. Gold prices in Dubai are relatively cheaper, hence the gold souq is a great place to spend some big money if you're interested in buying some.

#17 Camel Races are a treat

Image Courtesy : Timeout Dubai

Camel racing is not so common in most parts of the world, but it Dubai's favourite sport and a real treat for one who has never seen camels racing before. Did you know there are no actual jockeys on these camels, but rather small robots that sit on top of the animals and are controlled by someone nearby!!! The camel-racing tracks are massive that you can barely see the participants from your grandstand perch, but this one makes for a great experience.

Tips for saving money on transportation in Dubai

• Book your flight tickets to Dubai tickets well in advance to get the best prices. Not to forget, searching for flights on incognito is a good tactic to avoid cookies marking up prices based on your previous searches.
• Take a flight to Abu Dhabi instead of Dubai as the flight rates to Abu Dhabi are cheaper. Direct buses are available from Abu dhabi to Dubai and you'll reach in less than 1.5 hours.
• Grab a NOL Travel Card soon after reaching Dubai as cash is not accepted on most public transport modes, except cabs. NOL Card also saves some money as it is a unified payment mode valid over a long period of time. Check out this steal combo - Dubai NOL Metro Card + SIM Card
• Metro is the cheapest and the fastest way of traveling through the city with tickets starting from AED 4.
• Buses are pricier than metros and take longer, but they have better connectivity.
• Refrain from using cabs in Dubai as they are extremely expensive and can run up your costs.
• Use the ferries to traverse through the Dubai Marina. This mode of transport adds an element of sightseeing to the experience, especially after sundown.
• Taking an abra ride across the Dubai Creek is a great way to experience the city's historic mode of transport. A one-way ticket per person costs only AED 50, economical and exciting!

Tips for saving money on food in Dubai

• After you've had your fill with the high-end bougie restaurants in Dubai, walk into the bustling alleys and devour a plate of shawarma and kebab. Not only is it cheaper, it promises an explosion of flavours and authenticity.
• Ordering takeout in Dubai is not an expensive affair. The online delivery market leaders are UberEats, Zomato delivery and Talabat so feel free to laze at home and order in food at no extra costs( except a nominal delivery fee)
• One of the cheapest and most delicious options for food available in Dubai is shawarma. It is available with different types of meat ( and vegetarian option of Falafel) and makes for a filling meal.
• Choose Dubai packaged tours from Headout that offer a bundled meal option to save some more money on your trip.

More tips to save money in Dubai

• Use online coupons for meals and other deals to save a considerable amount on the actual rate. Zomato Gold, Groupon, Headout Offers are a few you must consider.
• Choose a hotel close to a metro stop so that you can avail the cheapest and the fastest mode of transport in Dubai.
• Use the city’s couch-surfing community to save on accommodations.
• Skip drinking at restaurants and bars outside the happy hours as the normal price of alcohol at bars and restaurants are exorbitantly higher than the actual selling price.
• If you're staying in Dubai for longer than 3 days, a service apartment or Airbnb works out to be cheaper than a hotel. That way you can even cook your own food and save the hefty service charges that hotels levy.
• Use the Smart Palms that can be found in the streets of Dubai. These artificial structures that look like palm trees have charging ports and provide free WiFi.

FAQs