See how Dubai evolved into the modern destination it is today.
Dubai is not as expensive as it seems. There are plenty of attractions that don't cost a fortune and are great fun. For example, the famous abra ride across Dubai Creek costs only AED 1. If you want to take this one-dirham approach further, you can also enjoy some delicious choco dates, Chips Oman crisps or a hot cup of traditional karak chai, an aromatic spiced tea with milk, from a streetside cafe.
Dubai is as cheap or expensive as you want it to be. If you enjoy five-star-hotels, exclusive beach clubs and fine dining restaurants, you will need to pay accordingly. However, Dubai also offers a wide range of affordable options, from budget hotels and casual eateries to various reasonably priced (or even free) attractions, sites and entertainment options.
Yes, gold is cheaper in Dubai compared to many other places across the globe. The only tax placed upon gold in the United Arab Emirates is a five per cent value added tax (VAT), helping you to save money on your purchase. Tourists can also claim a VAT refund on all purchases made in the UAE, including gold. But it's not only the price of gold that makes Dubai so attractive for buyers, it's the quality as well. Regular inspections of jewellery shops carried out by Dubai Municipality ensure high standards and high quality products.
Yes, alcohol is available in Dubai. Tourists and residents over the age of 21 can drink alcohol at licensed venues in Dubai, such as hotels and restaurants, as well as dedicated lounges. However there is a zero-tolerance policy for drunken behaviour and drink-driving so visitors and residents are expected to be responsible.
Yes, shorts are allowed for women and men in Dubai. However, in enclosed public areas such as malls, tourists and expats are kindly asked to respect the local culture, making sure their legs are covered below the knee. If you are visiting a religious site, make sure to wear conservative clothing that covers your legs and shoulders.
Dubai is an open-minded and tolerant society where people from all over the world live harmoniously and respectfully. As with any destination, residents and tourists must abide by the local laws. It is important to note that the moral code is stricter in the United Arab Emirates than in some parts of the world. For example, it is prohibited to drink alcohol in public places other than licensed hotels and their restaurants, as well as in dedicated lounges. Furthermore, excessive public displays of affection are not allowed. The UAE has one of the lowest crime rates in the world and is widely recognised as being one of the safest places to live, work and visit.
As with all sunny holiday destinations, please make sure to bring your summer clothes, swimwear and flip-flops. If you are keen to explore Dubai's nightlife, smarter attire will come in handy. As for the formalities, please familiarise yourself with the visa requirements that vary from country to country. Please check our Dubai guide for plenty more
You can spend a week in Dubai in many different ways, depending on your interests, your reason for visiting and your budget. Families can check out Dubai's exciting theme and waterparks. Couples may wish to explore the emirate's cultural attractions, while adventurers can discover the various activities that the desert has to offer. For some inspiration,
If you're carrying cash, you will need to pay for goods and services in Dubai using dirhams, the official currency of the United Arab Emirates. You can change your euros to dirhams at exchange bureaus across the emirate. Several shops and establishments in tourist areas will accept global currencies such as US dollars and CHF. Credit cards and mobile payments are widely available and could even be considered the main form of payment across the city.
Your budget will depend on the nature of your honeymoon and the time of year (Dubai's off-peak season is May to October). There are plenty of leisure and entertainment options across the city, both simple and luxurious. For just AED 75 each, you can wander together through Dubai Miracle Garden, which contains 150 million blooming flowers. Or you can splash out on a six-course tasting menu at the ultra-romantic restaurant Pierchic for AED 650 each
Although Dubai is known as a luxury holiday destination packed with five-star hotels, there are many places in and around the emirate that cater to a smaller budget. Low-cost hotels can be found across the city, with brands such as Citymax, Ibis and Rove boasting multiple locations, and room prices can go down to about AED 150 per night during the summer months. Lots of attractions cost less than AED 100 per person, including the Dubai Frame (AED 50) and the Museum of Illusions (AED 80). Cheap eats are plentiful too – you can enjoy succulent shawarmas for as little as AED 10. Please check our budget traveller's guide for more information.
Many hotels, restaurants and tourist sites in Dubai are cheaper during the summer. The majority of tourists visit the emirate in winter, the high season of the year and when weather conditions are milder. Lots of venues offer special holiday packages during the hot summer months to attract tourists. For more information,
Your overall spend for a week in Dubai depends entirely on your interests and when you visit. The average room rate in Dubai until September 2022 was about AED 495 per night. Dubai has restaurants, tourist attractions and entertainment experiences for nearly all price categories. A street food meal could be AED 20, while a fine dining experience may cost upwards of AED 200 per person. There are many affordable tourist attractions to enjoy for under AED 100, such as Dubai Ice Rink. You can also purchase an attractions pass to save money when visiting the city's hotspots. For tips on budgeting for your holiday, refer to our detailed guide.
The Dubai Metro connects the main districts of the city with its fast and efficient network. Metro stations in Dubai are located near major attractions, sites, neighbourhoods and malls. There are currently two lines, Green and Red. While the Red Line starts near Dubai International Airport (DXB) and travels along the city's main highway, Sheikh Zayed Road, the Green Line travels from the Al Twar area to Dubai Creek. For more information