Dubai & UAE Travel FAQ

Dubai is generally considered very safe, with low street crime and a strong police presence, which is why it attracts millions of international visitors each year. Most issues tourists face are usually about not understanding local laws and customs rather than safety on the streets, so reading the rules before you arrive is important.

Visitors should be aware of rules on modest dress in public, respectful behaviour, restrictions on alcohol consumption, and strict penalties for drug possession. Knowing these basics helps you avoid problems and enjoy your trip without worrying about accidentally breaking the law.

There is no official strict dress code law for tourists, but malls and public places expect shoulders and knees to be covered, especially for women. At hotel pools, beaches, and many nightlife venues, normal swimwear and outfits are accepted, as long as you cover up when leaving those areas.

Tourists over 21 can drink alcohol in licensed hotels, bars, and restaurants, but drinking in public places like streets and beaches is illegal. Public drunkenness and drink-driving carry strict penalties, so drink responsibly and keep alcohol within licensed venues.

Visitors are expected to dress modestly in public, avoid public displays of affection, and be respectful during prayer times and Ramadan. Taking photos of government buildings or people without permission can cause problems. Learning basic Arabic greetings like "Shukran" (thank you) is appreciated.

Avoid public intoxication, drinking outside licensed venues, aggressive behaviour, and any drug-related activity (penalties are severe). Also avoid offensive gestures, swearing in public, and disrespectful social media posts about local people or institutions, which can be treated seriously under local laws.

Many solo female travellers visit Dubai and report feeling safe due to low street crime and good infrastructure. Following normal city safety habits and local dress expectations is usually enough to feel comfortable. Female-only taxi services and women's sections on public transport provide extra comfort.

Many nationalities including UK, EU, US, Canadian, and Australian citizens can get a visa on arrival for 30-90 days. The rules vary by passport, so check entry requirements before flying. Airlines and official UAE government travel pages show the latest visa list and allowed stay duration.

Yes, tourist visas can be extended through the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) or authorized travel agencies. Extensions are typically granted for 30 days at a time. The process requires your passport, current visa copy, passport photos, and payment of extension fees (600 AED plus 5% VAT). Apply at least one week before your visa expiration date.

Dubai has strict customs regulations prohibiting narcotics, pornographic materials, items that contradict Islamic values, certain medications without prescriptions, and communication equipment without proper authorization. E-cigarettes and vaping devices are also banned. Prescription medications should be accompanied by a doctor's prescription and should not exceed a 3-month supply.

No special vaccinations are required for most travelers visiting Dubai from North America, Europe, or Australia. However, routine vaccinations like Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, and Typhoid are recommended. If traveling from countries with yellow fever transmission, you must present a valid yellow fever vaccination certificate.

The most comfortable months are November to March, when daytime temperatures range from 20-30°C (68-86°F). This period is also peak season, so prices for flights and hotels are usually higher but the weather is perfect for sightseeing and outdoor activities. Summer (June-September) exceeds 40°C and is best for indoor attractions only.

Many first-time visitors choose 3-4 days to see the highlights, while those coming from further away often stay 5-7 days due to longer flights and jet lag. With 3 days you can cover Old Dubai, modern icons, and a desert trip; with 5 days you can add Abu Dhabi or extra beach and theme park time.

A classic 3-day plan: Day 1 - Downtown Dubai (Burj Khalifa, Dubai Mall, fountains); Day 2 - Old Dubai, the creek, and souks; Day 3 - Desert safari or Dubai Marina and Palm Jumeirah. This structure helps you experience both historic and modern sides of the city without feeling rushed.

Dubai suits travellers who want a busier, high-energy city break with big malls, nightlife, and lots of attractions close together. Abu Dhabi is quieter and more relaxed, with places like Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque and Yas Island, and often appeals to families or those wanting a calmer stay.

Yes, Abu Dhabi is about 90 minutes drive from Dubai on excellent highways. Popular day trip highlights include Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque (free entry), Louvre Abu Dhabi museum, and Yas Island theme parks. Organized tours and intercity buses make it straightforward to visit and return the same day.

Downtown Dubai is ideal for first-time visitors to be near Burj Khalifa and the mall. Dubai Marina and JBR offer a beach-plus-city feel. Families often prefer the Palm or beachfront resorts. Budget travellers may choose Deira or Old Dubai for lower prices and authentic atmosphere.

The Dubai Metro, trams, and buses cover many key areas, supported by plentiful taxis and ride-hailing apps like Uber and Careem. Get a Nol Card (25 AED including 19 AED credit) for public transport. For certain attractions and day trips, organized tours or private transfers are often easier than connecting local transport.

Dubai can range from moderate to luxury-expensive depending on choices. Budget travelers can manage on $75-100 per day with budget hotels, public transport, and casual dining. Mid-range visitors typically spend $150-300 per day. Luxury experiences can exceed $500+ per day. Alcohol and high-end hotels are the biggest expenses.

Daily budgets vary: Budget ($75-100) covers basic hotels, metro, street food. Mid-range ($150-250) covers 4-star hotels, taxis, restaurant meals. Luxury ($400+) covers 5-star hotels, fine dining, premium experiences. Add extra for attraction tickets (Burj Khalifa ~$50, desert safari ~$50-80) on top of daily spending.

Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory. Most restaurants add a 10% service charge to bills, but additional tips of 10-15% for excellent service are welcome. Rounding up taxi fares or leaving 5-10 AED for hotel porters is common. At spas and salons, 15-20% tip is standard for good service.

Beyond malls, explore Old Dubai's historic Al Fahidi district, take an abra across Dubai Creek, do a desert safari with dune bashing and BBQ dinner, visit Dubai Marina and Palm Jumeirah, enjoy beaches, or take a dhow cruise. Day trips to Abu Dhabi, Fujairah, or Ras Al Khaimah offer mountains and quieter beaches.

Burj Khalifa observation deck tickets start from 179 AED ($49) for non-prime hours. The 124th-125th floor "At The Top" costs 179-370 AED depending on time. The premium 148th floor SKY lounge costs 378-500 AED. Sunset slots are most expensive. Book online 2-3 weeks ahead for best availability.

Dubai is very family-friendly with theme parks (IMG Worlds of Adventure, Legoland, Motiongate), waterparks (Aquaventure, Wild Wadi), kid-friendly beaches, and hotels set up for families. Many families combine Dubai with Abu Dhabi's Yas Island attractions including Ferrari World and Yas Waterworld.