DUBAI TRAVEL TIPS: DOS AND DON'TS
The Airport Queue - If you're landing in Dubai’s Terminal 1 between November and March, also known as tourism high season, have a game plan to avoid the queues. In 2024, 18.72 million visitors graced this desert jewel, and most of them apparently arrived right before you.
What does that mean for you? It means the immigration line can last anywhere from 15 minutes to an hour or more. Consider booking yourself a Marhaba Fast Track or Silver Meet & Greet service, a lovely little shortcut through all that airport busyness. Prices start at AED 105 when booked online.
Now, if you’re flying Emirates, you’ll arrive at Terminal 3, where lines move quicker, and the process is smoother overall.
The Dubai Duty Free - If you're planning to enjoy a drink or two during your stay, the easiest place to pick up alcohol is right at Dubai Airport Duty Free, located just by the baggage carousels. It’s convenient, quick, and perfect for grabbing a bottle or two for at-hotel consumption. Just keep in mind: there are specific allowance limits. If you prefer to shop later, you can also visit African + Eastern or MMI stores across the city. Just bring your original passport with you.
The Transit - Got a long layover and want to make the most of your time in Dubai? You can safely store your luggage at the airport and head out to explore, hands free.
24/7 baggage storage is available at Terminals 1, 2, and 3, with pricing based on bag size and location. For more info, visit the Dubai Airports page here.
The Tourist SIM - You can purchase tourist mobile packages from any of the 3 telecom providers: e& (Etisalat and), Du, or Virgin, all located at DXB Airport and in the city (easiest to find in the big malls). Browse their websites for their various data/voice plans. eSIMs are available with Du and Virgin and can be activated upon arrival.
The Cash - In few places around Dubai, cash is still king. Particularly in grocery stores, traditional souqs and some restaurants. Make sure to carry smaller denominations (20 and 10 Dirham bills) to avoid a credit card surcharge.
The Taxi Transportation - You can book a taxi in Dubai by either flagging one on the street or using ride-hailing apps like Careem or Uber. Careem offers the option to book public taxis through its ‘Hala Ride’ service, just select that category when booking. (Note: other options like Economy or Business are private cars and don’t follow public taxi rates.)
All public taxis in Dubai are beige, with colored roofs indicating their operating company. They're metered, with starting fares that vary depending on time and location. The minimum fare is AED 12, while airport pick-ups begin at AED 25. Payments can be made by cash or credit card, making it easy and convenient no matter how you book.
Tip: If you decide to use the Careem app to book Hala Rides, check out their list of available promo codes for first-time users.
For more tips on getting around, check out the full Taxis in Dubai guide.
The Dubai Metro Rules - The Dubai Metro has a few rules you should watch out for to avoid fines. 1) Eating and drinking inside the train is expressly forbidden. This includes chewing gum. 2) Entering cabins reserved for certain categories (For ex, women-only areas, or the Gold Class section) 3) Sleeping is not allowed anywhere in the train stations.
For more tips on getting around, check out the full The Dubai Metro guide.
The Light Jacket - Yes. It may be summer and what may seem like 100 degrees Celsius. But Dubai malls and the metro are oddly freezing.
The Haggle - Rule one: do your homework. Wander the market, check the prices, act like you're just browsing (even if you're secretly in love with that lamp). And when they hit you with “How much you wanna pay?”, don’t bite. Smile, shrug, and toss the ball back in their court.
The Clubbing Hours - Clubs are usually open from 10PM until 3AM when the music and lights go out. Prime time is 1AM onwards.
The Reservation - Table reservations are necessary to increase your chances of getting in to clubs! Make sure you call ahead (several days in advance) to get your name on a list. Also, do the same for restaurants as the popular ones are almost always fully booked.
The Unspoken Minimum - Clubs in Dubai can have 'minimum spends' for table reservations which you won't necessarily find on the venues' webpages. When you call, make sure to ask specifically if there are any. Also, be prepared for the bouncers to have a change of heart when you get there regarding minimums. P.S This bill is an exaggerated example.
The Female to Male Ratio - Some clubs will only allow entry for mixed groups. Ladies are at an advantage here. The cheerleader effect definitely outdoes the frat boys.
The ID - The drinking age in Dubai is 21+. For tourists, bouncers will typically ask to see your passports (not copies). Other international and recognized IDs may also work, such as driving licenses etc.
The Shoes That Fit - Ladies. Some bouncers around town can be selective in who they let in. Heels can be a dealbreaker. Gentlemen. Odds are not in your favor either. Sneakers can also be frowned upon. And 'Prada' sneakers don't count.
The Late Night Bites - For those unable tor resist a late night bite after an eve out, there are many great casual places to ask your cab to stop by that are open 24/7 or until 4AM.
The Entertainer - The Entertainer app offers fantastic discounts of 25% on total bills or 2-for-1 electronic vouchers for many of the UAE’s restaurants, attractions, and activities. For tourists, this can save you hundreds of dirhams especially if traveling in pairs or in big groups. Check out the Entertainer website for more info.
The Photography - There are some areas in Dubai where photography is prohibited. Those are usually embassies, airports, or security facilities. Just make sure you look out for signs or ask if in doubt!
The Sky Dive - If you plan on hugging the blue sky when you get here and have or have not done this before, make sure you book well in advance (1 to 2 months) as spots fill up quick. Also, if you plan on doing this solo, SkyDive Dubai has a minimum number of jumps (300 or 500 jumps) and a couple of other requirements you can find on their website here.
