DubaiTravel Guide

Dubai is relatively liberal by Gulf standards but dressing modestly in public is expected. In malls, souks, and on the street, avoid overly revealing clothing — shorts should be knee-length, and shoulders should be covered. At the beach, normal swimwear is fine on designated beaches. In mosques, both men and women must cover up fully (women need headscarves). On the Dubai Metro, a women-only carriage is available at the front of the train.

Alcohol is available in Dubai but only at licensed hotels, restaurants, and specific retail stores (like MMI and African+Eastern). You cannot drink alcohol in public spaces, on the beach, or in unlicensed restaurants. Drinking in public or being visibly intoxicated in public is a criminal offence. During Ramadan, alcohol service hours at licensed venues are restricted. Most tourists encounter no issues as hotel bars and restaurants serve freely.

October to April is the ideal time when daytime temperatures range from 20–30°C — perfect for outdoor activities, beach days, and exploring the city on foot. May to September is extremely hot (40°C+) and humid. The period from November to February is peak tourist season with Dubai Shopping Festival, outdoor events, and perfect beach weather. The Dubai Expo season (if running) also draws large crowds. Book accommodation 2–3 months ahead for the winter months.

Dubai has one of the lowest crime rates in the world and is extremely safe for tourists. The UAE has strict laws and enforcement. Solo female travellers consistently report feeling very safe. The main things to be aware of: laws around photography (avoid photographing government buildings, police, and people without permission), zero tolerance for drugs (even prescription medication quantities exceeding allowed limits), and public displays of affection can lead to fines.

Dubai has a wide range of price points. At the budget end, the Dubai Metro is very affordable (AED 1.5–7.5 per trip, ₹35–170), street food in Deira and Karama costs AED 10–25 (₹230–580), and there are hostels from AED 60/night (₹1,400). Mid-range travellers (AED 400–700/day, ₹9,000–16,000) can stay in good 3-star hotels and eat at proper restaurants. Luxury Dubai (Burj Al Arab, sky-high dining) is expensive by any measure. Free attractions include Dubai Creek, the Gold Souk, Jumeirah Beach, and the Dubai Frame views.

Top attractions: Burj Khalifa (book the 124th or 148th floor observation deck online in advance — much cheaper than at the counter), Dubai Mall (world's largest mall with an indoor aquarium and ice rink), Palm Jumeirah and Atlantis Hotel (visit the view deck), Dubai Creek and the traditional souks (Gold Souk, Spice Souk), Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood (Dubai's old city), desert safari at sunset (4x4 dune bashing, camel rides, and a Bedouin camp dinner).