Things To Remember

The United Arab Emirates, especially Dubai, is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world today. People from all over the world visit throughout the year and Dubai Airport hosts more than 12 million tourists a year.

Dubai, the most beautiful city in the United Arab Emirates, is home to the world's tallest skyscraper, Burj Khalifa, and the world's only seven-star hotel, Burj Al Arab. Not only this, Dubai is still expanding to become one of the most beautifully structured cities in the world, known for its rich cultural diversity and its popular festivals. However, Dubai is much more than its sky-rocketing superstructures and fancy malls.

Are you planning a trip to this Middle Eastern emirate for the first time and are a little worried? Not to worry! Here are some tips to ensure that your trip to the Gulf City is one you can cherish forever:

When To Visit?

Best Time: November to March is the best time to visit Dubai when the temperature ranges between 30°C to 12°C and the weather is quite comfortable. Also, the Dubai Shopping Festival is held during December, which is exquisite, and you get every product from brands around the world.

Avoid: However, it is better to avoid traveling in February due to torrential rains during this month.

Extreme Conditions:  Visiting Dubai in the months of April-October would be a wise decision as it would be almost impossible to go out due to the hot and humid weather and you would be stuck in air-conditioned malls and fancy spas.

What to Pack? Don't forget to pack big bottles of sunscreen for your luggage, just in case you forget something. The weather in Dubai is harsh, and you are advised to carry sunscreen with the highest SPF formula. Carry deodorant and body/face wipes, sunglasses, hat, water bottle, mosquito repellent etc.

Essential Documents: Thriving, this is the furthermost vital part. Double and triple check your documents, make photocopies of them and keep the photocopies with you at all times while keeping the originals locked in your hotel. Be sure to check with your local embassy about visa requirements, which are likely to change.

Respect Local Customs: The UAE is a conservative country with deep cultural values. Wear decent dress especially in public places and religious places. Esteem local levies and avoid public displays of affection.

Common Financial Hassles: However, carrying money in UAE is quite safe. The official currency of the country is the AED or United Arab Emirates Dirham, commonly shortened to DH. You can get your currency changed at many local shops, which actually offer better exchange rates. International credit and debit cards are also widely accepted. Theft is rarely a problem in the country due to strict laws. However, it is better to be safe than sorry.

Safety and Security: The UAE is generally safe for travelers, but it is always wise to take basic precautions. Keep your belongings safe, be cautious in crowded areas and use reputable transportation services.

Accommodation Research:  Don't be in a hurry to book an expensive hotel. Read and research your accommodation options while keeping your budget in mind, as Dubai has something to offer every traveller. However, book in advance to avoid chaos. Flight tickets and hotels are especially cheap during the summer, but you'll practically be broke if you choose that season to visit Dubai.

Dress Up, but Be Modest:  First of all, we need to remember that Dubai, no matter how modern, liberal or progressive it is, is an Islamic country where the locals respect their culture and traditional values. You can dress up as much as you want as the city is quite fashionable, but make sure not to offend the feelings of your host city. It is better to cover your shoulders and knees. Dubai is a tourist destination, and you traditionally don't have to wear an abaya or candor, but showing too much skin in public is generally frowned upon. Of course, it would be strange not to wear a swimsuit, shorts or bikini to the beach and you can dress the same as you would at any other beach.

Instead of hurting someone's sentiments, blend in and dress according to the occasion and the place you are going. Moreover, most of the time, the temperatures are scorching. So, unless you want your skin to get burned by harmful UV rays, it's best to keep it covered.

Equality is Dubai: As far as women are concerned, Dubai is a city where women are respected. Remove from your mind the misconception that women are treated badly in Dubai. But there are some unspoken rules that you should keep in mind when you're in an unfamiliar environment where there are few etiquettes. Don't extend your hand to a man you've just met, or anyone else for that matter, to shake his hand, because he is shunned until he does. It is better to nod or smile to show your respect or approval. If you are under 25, have someone you know accompany you when you go out. Yes, women's freedom is important, but life and safety take priority.

Capturing Memories: It's almost a sin to visit one of the most famous cities in the world and not take a photo! To all the photographers out there – yes, it's impossible to contain your enthusiasm, but it's also important to remember a few tips. If you want to take photos of someone please remember to ask permission. Avoid taking pictures of Muslim women. Also, avoid photographing government buildings, airports, docks, military or industrial establishments, etc.

Alcohol Regulations: Consumption of alcohol is permitted in licensed venues such as hotels, bars and restaurants. Drinking alcohol in public places or being drunk in public is strictly prohibited and may result in penalties.

Eating in Public is Offensive: Eating in public places, especially on public transport in Dubai, is considered rude. Although visitors and non-Muslims are not prohibited from doing so, it is considered polite not to drink water or eat food in public during the holy month of Ramadan.

Language and Communication: While Arabic is the official language, English is widely spoken and understood, especially in tourist areas. Communication should not be a major obstacle during your trip.

Plan for Mosque Visits: Visiting mosques can be a rewarding experience. Before you go, check the dress code and appointment times, and remember to be respectful and quiet while inside.

Foodies, Dubai is Your Haven!: Apart from shopping, the best part of Dubai is the food. Be it the Global Village featuring traditional cuisine from around the world, or the expensive and fancy restaurants or the mouth-watering street food, Dubai is a foodie's paradise. If you are a vegetarian, your choices may be limited, but if you are a non-vegetarian and take great pleasure in enjoying a variety of cuisines, then the streets of Dubai are the perfect places for you. This ranges from local cuisine to the finest Shawarma, traditional food from various countries including India, Lebanon etc. to KFC's finest grilled chicken. Don't worry about cleanliness. Emiratis, as well as expats in Dubai, take excessive pride in creating a healthy and safe environment.

Desert Ventures or Ocean Sunbaths: Last but not least, Dubai is much more than high-rise skyscrapers and shopping malls that offer you a variety of brands. Spend a day sunbathing along the Persian Gulf or go on safari across the red sands of the Arabian Desert. Don't miss Dubai Creek where the city began or the beautifully landscaped Palm Jumeirah.

Conclusion: By keeping these essential travel tips in mind, you will be well prepared to make the most of your trip to the UAE. Embrace rich cultural experiences, enjoy the modern wonders of the city and immerse yourself in the hospitality and charm that the UAE has to offer. Enjoy your visit to this charming destination with  www.dubaies.com