Dubai, United Arab Emirates

Destination guide / United Arab Emirates

Dubai

Budget / Day

$150-300 per day

Currency

UAE Dirham (AED)

Language

Arabic, English (widely spoken)

Timezone

GST (UTC+4)

01 / Overview

About Dubai

Dubai is a city built on ambition. The Burj Khalifa, the world's tallest building, anchors a skyline that didn't exist fifty years ago. Man-made islands, indoor ski slopes, and underwater hotels showcase a relentless appetite for the extraordinary. Yet alongside the futuristic excess, the Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood and traditional souks in Deira reveal the city's heritage as a pearling and trading port.

Dubai has become a global hub for luxury travel, but it also offers plenty for budget-conscious visitors. Free beach access, affordable street food in areas like Al Karama, and the stunning desert landscape just beyond the city limits add depth to the glittering surface.

02 / Highlights

Don't miss these

01Burj Khalifa observation deck and Dubai Fountain show
02Dubai Mall and its aquarium and underwater zoo
03Palm Jumeirah and Atlantis The Palm
04Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood and Dubai Museum
05Gold Souk and Spice Souk in Deira
06Desert safari with dune bashing and sunset dining

03 / Timing

Best time to visit

November to March offers pleasant temperatures in the low 20s to 30s (Celsius). Avoid June to August when temperatures regularly exceed 45 degrees Celsius.

04 / Budget

What it costs

Expect to spend around $150-300 per day per person when visiting Dubai. This covers accommodation, meals, local transport, and entrance fees. Budget travelers can spend less by choosing hostels or guesthouses and eating at local spots, while luxury travelers should plan for considerably more.

05 / Field notes

Travel tips

01

The Dubai Metro is clean, air-conditioned, and connects major attractions affordably.

02

Friday is the holy day, some businesses close Friday morning but malls stay open.

03

Dress modestly in public areas outside beach clubs and pools, especially in older neighborhoods.

04

Alcohol is only served in licensed venues, typically hotels and designated restaurants.

05

Download the RTA app for public transport, or use the Careem/Uber apps for rides.

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