Dubai is a top holiday destination for people around the world. Being a metropolitan city in the Middle East, Dubai offers the perfect blend of culture and modernism. The Emirate city of the UAE is home to some of the most unique attractions like the Burj Khalifa (the tallest building in the world), Ski Dubai (indoor ski resort), Dubai Miracle Garden (the largest natural flower garden in the world), the Dubai Frame (the tallest photo frame in the world), the Palm Jumeirah (the largest manmade island in the world), etc. But before you start making your plans, there are somethings that you need to know so that you have a stress-free holiday in Dubai. Here are the 10 things to know before going to Dubai.
1. Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Dubai is during the winter months, i.e. between November and March. The climate during these months is pleasant and perfect for beach holidays. Moreover, it is the best time to enjoy the city to the fullest, as several seasonal attractions open up during the winter season. You would also get to celebrate some amazing events, festivals, etc. during these months. However, Dubai is not only crowded but also expensive during this season. If you are looking forward to a budget-friendly travel to Dubai, the summer season would be a better option. The downside of this is the heat of the summer would make it impossible for you to explore the outdoor attractions during the day. However, Dubai has plenty of indoor attractions where you can spend a good time.
2. Dubai Visa
People travelling from India need to get a Dubai tourist visa (UAE visa) before they fly to the city. The good news is that you do not need to visit the UAE embassy or consulate to get this visa. The entire process happens online. You have to download the visa application form and submit it along with the soft copies of your essential documents like passport, photographs, bank statements, etc. as well as your visa fee. It takes around 3-4 business days to process when you apply Dubai visa from India. If everything is in order, you would receive your e-visa via email. You can take the help of a reputed visa or travel agency for applying for your Dubai visa online. You must apply for your visa at least 1-2 weeks before you plan to visit the city. Some agencies also offer express visa services, where you receive your visa within a day at an extra charge.
3. Dress Code
As Dubai is a part of the Islamic country of the UAE, many do not know what dress code to follow when in the city. The good news is that there are no strict dress codes in Dubai as compared to other Islamic countries or even its neighboring Emirate cities. You would see people wearing everything from shorts and jeans to dresses and gowns in Dubai. But it is important to be mindful about what you wear at certain places. It is perfectly normal to wear an evening dress or cocktail dress to a bar, nightclub lounge, and fine dining restaurant and even shorts while brunching in Dubai. However, it is better to avoid such clothes in public places like malls, metros, mosques, museums, etc. In such places, it is best to wear clothes that cover your knees, arms, and cleavage. On the other hand, you are free to wear a bikini or swimwear at the beach and the pool area as well. But you must cover yourself up while travelling or walking between your hotel and the beach/swimming area.
4. Alcohol Consumption
Most may think that alcohol consumption is prohibited in Dubai. But this is not the case. You can buy a drink at any licensed restaurant or bar in the city. However, you need to provide an ID that proves that you are at least 21 years of age. Moreover, some bars may not serve people under the age of 25 years. Another important point to remember is that drinking alcohol in public in Dubai is illegal. Same is the case with drinking and driving. If you are caught in either of the scenarios, you would be fined, jailed, or both.
5. Public Display of Affection
Dubai is known as a popular honeymoon destination. However, it is best to keep romance inside the four walls of your hotel room. This is because any sign of public display of affection, including kissing, hugging, cuddling, etc. is not only frowned upon but is also illegal in Dubai. In other words, you can land yourself in trouble if you indulge in public display of affection.
6. Rules during Ramadan
Ramadan, which is the holy month of Muslims, is generally not one of the best times to visit Dubai for tourism purposes. The main reason is that it happens during summer, when the temperature is extremely high. Moreover, several entertainment attractions remain closed during this month. However, if you want to learn more about the festival and the culture of Dubai, it would be great to visit Dubai during Ramadan. If you are visiting Dubai during Ramadan, you need to remember that you cannot eat or drink anything in public during the day. Yes, even if you are a non-Muslim. However, you are free to do so in the privacy of your rooms. Several restaurants also have an area where non-Muslims can eat during the day.
7. Shopping
Shopping is one of the best things to do in Dubai, as there are plenty of malls, boutiques, and traditional markets here. While shopping in Dubai is fun, you need to remember a few things. Shopping for international brands in Dubai can be expensive, as the prices include tax as well. While you cannot bargain at the malls, you can freely do so at the souks while buying clothes, shoes, souvenirs, spices, perfumes, and even gold. While indulging in street shopping, it is best to avoid buying counterfeit items like watches, phones, and other electronic items from street vendors. Remember that these are illegal and can land you in trouble. Always buy such items from shopping malls and trusted retailers. If you are looking for the best time to visit Dubai for shopping, you must visit in January when the city hosts the biggest shopping festival in the world, the Dubai Shopping Festival.
8. Sun Safety
Even if you are visiting Dubai during the winter months, it is important to protect yourself from the harmful effects of the sun. Dubai is sunny throughout the year, and long exposure to sun’s rays can cause several skin problems. Hence, applying a good sunscreen, with more than SPF15 is extremely crucial. Do not forget to apply sunscreen every 2 hours, especially if you are on the beach. If you are visiting Dubai during summer, avoid stepping outside between 10 am and 4 pm. On the other hand, you can explore the air-conditioned indoor attractions during this time. Another way to protect yourself from the sun is to keep yourself hydrated by drinking water and other liquids throughout the day.
9. Public Transportation
Travelling within the city is quite easy in Dubai. Cabs are aplenty and are quite inexpensive as well. Apart from cabs, you can also choose to travel by buses and metro, which are cheaper than cabs. Most major attractions of Dubai are walkable distance from metro stations and bus stops. In other words, you do not need to book a private car to travel within Dubai for sightseeing or any other purpose. You can easily save money by using public transportation, which is both efficient and affordable.
10. Social Etiquette
Apart from dressing appropriately (no tight or revealing dresses in public), there are some other social etiquettes that you should follow when in Dubai.
• Shaking hands with women is usually frowned upon, and it is best to not to offer your hand in greeting.
• Remove your footwear outside while visiting mosques or the houses of locals.
• Both men and women should cover their arms and knees while visiting mosques.
• You should not photograph the Emiratis without taking their permission. This is considered to be disrespectful.
• Do not speak ill about the Government or the King of Dubai to anyone.
Like every city in the world, Dubai also has certain etiquettes and rules that tourists should follow when visiting the place. This would prevent you from offending anyone and also have a great time exploring the city.