Discover the best things to do in Dubai

Dubai in Spring

Dubai in Summer

Dubai in Autumn

Dubai in Winter

• For Sightseers: If you’re looking to sightsee and explore Dubai at your own pace without having to worry about large tourist crowds and queues everywhere you go, it’s generally a good idea to head there during the summer months as tourists avoid the city altogether or prefer to enjoy indoor attractions while they’re there.
  
• For Festival-Goers: Those looking to absorb the city’s rich culture by partaking in its many festivals can head there during the months of March and April, as you’ll have the opportunity to witness Dubai in the midst of Ramadan and also the chance to get yourself some delectable iftar feasts in the evening. This is also a great time to visit Dubai as most tourists, again, avoid traveling there during Eid and Ramadan.
  
• For Travelers: For those who simply want to stop at Dubai for a short while before going on to other locations can find the months of April through October particularly appealing, as these months are characterized by low flight ticket prices and hotel room rates.

Wi-Fi and SIM Card

• UAE laws permit only one sim per passport for tourists. You need to be at least 18 years of age. 
• Du sim cards and packages are relatively cheaper while travelers prefer Etisalat as it offers better coverage and is the country’s oldest network provider. 
• You can choose a plan ranging from a timeframe of 10 days to 30 days, depending on how long you’re planning to stay in Dubai.
• Choose between the Regular Pack, Mega Pack, Pro Pack or Ultra Pack that offers talktime ranging from 30 minutes (local and international incoming) to 525 minutes depending on your choice and 2GB to 25GB worth of data depending on your choice. 
• If you don’t foresee yourself using the internet all that much except for some basic requirements, then it is generally a good idea to get a cheaper plan with a low mobile data limit, as you can access free public Wi-Fi in almost all establishments in the city.
• If you need a SIM card in Dubai urgently, the quickest way to register for and receive one is at the airport after you land - however, this service is only available at the Dubai International Airport.

Daily Budget

• Average: You can expect to spend around 350 AED (US$95) on an average while you’re in Dubai.
• Budget: Cost-conscious folk can expect to spend around 291 AED (US$79) while in Dubai without missing out on integral experiences there.
• Luxury: If budget isn’t a concern, you can expect to spend as much as 1916 AED (US$522) for a truly grand and luxurious trip to Dubai.

Visa

Public Transportation in Dubai

• Getting a Nol card in Dubai is almost indispensable if you’re planning to take public transport at any point of your stay in Dubai. A Nol card ensures that you get around the city at discounted rates without having to buy tickets every time.
• Taking the bus is a good idea for shorter trips around the city when you’re hopping from one attraction to the next, however, if you’re looking at longer trips in your itinerary then feel free to take the metro for only 3 - 4 AED per zone (or the monorail if you’re not on a tight budget).
• Paying with cash might not be an option for most means of public transport. Thus, don’t forget to top up your Nol card when frequently using the bus or metro to travel.

Things to know:

• It is important to be mindful about the way you’re dressing when you’re in Dubai, owing to the largely conservative population of the Middle-East in general. To be cautious and respectful, make sure that your outfit when you’re in public is not too revealing.
• Tipping is a prevalent custom in Dubai, and it is usually considered uncommon if you do not tip for the services you’ve availed of. Keep around 10 to 15% of the total amount as a tip, preferably in cash.
• Acts of affectionate display in public are usually frowned upon, while smoking, drinking, and eating in public during Ramadan is considered disrespectful, as it is the month of fasting for Muslims.

Budgeting tips to know:

• Affordable and Accessible Public Transport: When in Dubai, don’t shy away from opting for public transport. Well-connected, comfortable and cheaper, it’s a sure-shot way of saving up some additional bucks to spend on something better. 
• Pocket-friendly accommodations: You can still enjoy a luxuriously comfortable stay in Dubai without draining your wallet. Along with budget-hotels, keep an eye out for hotel apartments, and apartment rentals should you find yourself staying for an extended period of time. 
• Make Street food your BFF: Dining in Dubai can be an experience regardless of the ambience. Opt for the comfort of street food and enjoy some Middle Eastern fare while touring the city. It’s a treat for your tastebuds and your pocket!
• Tipple Tips: Look out for happy hours and if you’re a girl, Ladies Night at various bars is the way to go, or enjoy a bottomless brunch, the choice is yours.
  
  These are some of the few Dubai travel tips that you might find helpful to amp up your experience.

• 1 day Itinerary
  Looking to explore the City of Gold in 24 hours? Opt for a curated 1 day Dubai itinerary that begins with a View At The Palm followed by a some retail therapy, and sightseeing at the Dubai Mall (explore the world’s largest suspended aquarium at the Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo, ice skate or experience AR and VR at the VR Park Dubai). Enjoy the local fare before beginning your afternoon with a Dubai Dhow Cruise or a Dubai Creek Dhow Cruise. Mark the end of your day in Dubai by beholding the glimmering Burj Khalifa and the musical Dubai Fountain.
  
• 3 days Itinerary
  If you’ve got an average of 3 days, begin with exploring one of the numerous observation decks in Dubai for a glimpse of the sunrise before soaring the skies with a ziplining adventure or any other outdoor or indoor adventure activity. End your evening with an added dose of thrill by heading out for a Dubai Desert Safari. Your 2nd and 3rd day would primarily include exploring the streets of Dubai, cruises in Dubai, a theme park of your choice before hitting up downtown Dubai and experiencing all that the Dubai Mall has to offer along with nearby attractions such as the Museum of the Future, Burj Khalifa and/or the Dubai Fountain. This and more with your 3 day Dubai itinerary. 
  
• 5 days Itinerary
  Got an additional two days? Do all that you can with the above 3 day itinerary and then take a trip to Abu Dhabi and experience the thrill of Ferrari World or Yas Waterworld before ending your stay exploring souks, and taking a dip into Dubai’s nightlife and of course, soaking in one last view of the city with your Sky Views Observatory tickets. If you plan your 5 day Dubai itinerary right, you’ll be more than happy with all you’ve covered.