The Basics
- Currency: UAE Dirham (AED). 1 USD ≈ 3.67 AED (fixed)
- Language: Arabic official, English widely spoken
- Weekend: Saturday-Sunday (Friday is busy)
- Timezone: GMT+4
- Tipping: Not required but appreciated (10-15%)
Dress Code
Dubai is liberal by Gulf standards, but respectful dress is appreciated:
- Beaches/pools: Swimwear fine at resorts and beach clubs
- Malls/public: Shoulders and knees covered (loosely enforced)
- Restaurants: Smart casual for upscale venues
- Clubs: No shorts, sandals, or sportswear
- Mosques: Full coverage required (usually provided)
Alcohol Rules
Alcohol is legal but regulated:
- Available in licensed venues (hotels, restaurants, bars)
- Legal drinking age: 21
- No drinking in public or being drunk in public
- Don't drink and drive (zero tolerance)
- Tourists can buy from licensed shops (MMI, A&E)
Getting Around
- Metro: Clean, cheap, covers main areas (no full city coverage)
- Taxi: Affordable, metered, widely available
- Careem/Uber: Both work well, often easier than taxis
- Driving: Easy with international license, but traffic is heavy
Money Tips
- Cards accepted almost everywhere
- ATMs widely available
- No need to carry much cash
- Bargaining expected in souks, not in malls
Cultural Notes
- Ramadan: Restaurants may close during day, no public eating
- Photography: Ask before photographing people, especially women
- PDA: Hand-holding fine, kissing not advised in public
- Respect: Dubai is tolerant but conservative values exist
Best Time to Visit
November-March: Perfect weather (20-30°C), peak season
April-May, Sept-Oct: Hot but manageable, fewer crowds
June-August: Extremely hot (40°C+), indoor activities only