✈️ Before You Come

📌 Visa Requirements

• Many nationalities can get a visa on arrival (including USA, UK, EU, Canada, Australia).

• Others may need to apply in advance or get a sponsored visa.

• Check the latest requirements at the UAE government portal.

💱 Currency

• UAE Dirham (AED)
  1 USD ≈ 3.67 AED

📱 SIM Cards

• Buy a tourist SIM from Etisalat, du, or Virgin Mobile at the airport.

• Free Wi-Fi is widely available in malls and hotels.

🕒 Best Time to Visit

• November to March: Ideal weather (20–28°C)

• June to August: Very hot (40–50°C), but good for hotel deals

🏙️ Top Attractions

🏛️ Modern Landmarks

• Burj Khalifa – World’s tallest building

• Dubai Mall – Largest mall in the world

• Dubai Fountain – Choreographed water shows

• Museum of the Future – Futuristic architecture and exhibits

🏝️ Beaches & Islands

• Jumeirah Beach – Family-friendly with views of Burj Al Arab

• Palm Jumeirah – Man-made island with luxury resorts like Atlantis

• La Mer – Trendy beachfront with cafes and shops

🐪 Cultural Experiences

• Al Fahidi Historic District – Traditional Emirati architecture

• Dubai Museum – Housed in Al Fahidi Fort

• Spice & Gold Souks – Traditional markets in Deira

• Desert Safari – Dune bashing, camel rides, and Bedouin-style dinners

🏎️ Activities & Experiences

• Ski Dubai – Indoor ski resort in Mall of the Emirates

• Ain Dubai – World’s largest observation wheel

• Skydiving – Over the Palm Jumeirah

• Global Village – Cultural theme park (seasonal)

🍽️ Food & Dining

🧆 Must-Try Dishes

• Shawarma & Falafel

• Mandi (Yemeni rice dish)

• Luqaimaat (sweet dumplings)

• Arabic mezze (hummus, tabbouleh, etc.)

🍴 Where to Eat

• Luxury: Nobu, Zuma, Pierchic

• Local: Ravi’s (Satwa), Al Ustad Special Kabab (Bur Dubai)

• Street Food: Try food trucks at Last Exit or JBR Walk

🛍️ Shopping

• Luxury: Dubai Mall, Mall of the Emirates

• Traditional: Gold Souk, Perfume Souk, Textile Souk

• Affordable: Dragon Mart, Karama Market

🏨 Where to Stay

🌟 Popular Areas:

• Downtown Dubai – Near Burj Khalifa

• Marina/JBR – Beach + nightlife

• Palm Jumeirah – Luxury resorts

• Deira/Bur Dubai – Budget-friendly and historic

🚕 Getting Around

• Metro: Clean, reliable, and affordable (NOL card needed)

• Taxis: Plentiful; Uber/Careem available

• Buses: Widespread, also uses NOL card

• Car Rental: Easy to get, but parking can be expensive

✅ Travel Tips

• Dress modestly in public places (especially malls, government buildings).

• Public displays of affection are discouraged.

• Alcohol is available in licensed venues (hotels, clubs).

• Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory (10–15%).

🛡️ Safety

Dubai is one of the safest cities in the world, with strict laws and low crime rates. Follow local customs and laws to avoid trouble.

🧳 Sample Itinerary (5 Days)

Day 1: Downtown Dubai (Burj Khalifa, Dubai Mall, Fountain show)
Day 2: Desert Safari + Cultural dinner
Day 3: Dubai Marina + Beach day + Dhow Cruise dinner
Day 4: Old Dubai (Souks, Creek, Al Fahidi)
Day 5: Palm Jumeirah + Atlantis + Aquaventure Waterpark