dubai trip 2024

Expedia Rewards is now One Key™

Dubai Vacations & Trips from $1,186

Book a hotel + flight or car together to unlock savings.

• Things to do

I only need accommodations for part of my trip

Your Dubai Vacation

For a glitzy, glamorous vacation package deals, Dubai it is. This glossy desert oasis is the perfect stopover en route to Asia and an incredible destination all on its own. Start building your perfect vacation package to Dubai by choosing a luxurious hotel in the city—maybe a spot on The Palm or high in the iconic Burj al Arab, or a resort along Jumeirah Beach. Each one has activities galore: dune buggying in the desert, shopping in the Gold Souk, or dancing at a rooftop bar—and that’s just scratching the surface.

Top destinations in Dubai

The Latest Dubai Vacation Packages

Address Beach Resort

Reviewed on Mar 20, 2024

C Central Resort the Palm

Reviewed on Apr 22, 2024

FIVE Palm Jumeirah Dubai

Reviewed on Apr 8, 2024

ME Dubai by Meliá

Reviewed on Jan 5, 2024

JA The Resort - JA Palm Tree Court

Reviewed on Mar 18, 2024

Where to stay in Dubai

Palm Jumeirah

Discover an archipelago of artificial islands featuring recently opened destinations like The Pointe, Club Vista Mare, and Nakheel Mall. Enjoy various hotels, resorts, and hotel residences, while exploring retail and dining options, all connected by the Palm Jumeirah Monorail.

Downtown Dubai

Home to iconic landmarks like Burj Khalifa and The Dubai Mall, this mixed-use complex offers luxury shopping, an Olympic-size ice rink, and a variety of dining options along Sheikh Mohammad bin Rashid Boulevard.

Dubai Marina

Artificial canal city boasting the world's largest human-made marina, featuring Dubai Marina Mall with 140 retail outlets, and The Walk at JBR for dining. Enjoy Marina Promenade views and access Al Sufouh Tramway for easy transport.

Jumeirah Beach Residence

Waterfront community in Dubai Marina, Jumeirah Beach Residence boasts 40 towers, The Beach retail complex, and a 1.7-km strip called The Walk. Enjoy views of Ain Dubai on Bluewaters Island and easy access to Dubai Marina, Dubai Tram, and Dubai Metro.

Historically significant, this district boasts centuries-old gold and spice souqs, ancient forts, and iconic structures. Shop at City Centre Deira mall, explore the Waterfront Market, or take a boat across Dubai Creek.

Dubai Essential Information

Prepare for your dubai vacation with our essential travel info, dubai hotel deals.

Reviewed on Apr 27, 2024

Reviewed on Apr 30, 2024

Reviewed on Apr 28, 2024

Explore other types of vacation packages

All Inclusive Vacations

Beach Vacations

Kid Friendly Vacations

Golf Vacations

Luxury Vacations

Romantic Vacations

Ski Vacations

Where to go when

Frequently asked questions, discover the most popular places to visit in dubai, burj khalifa.

The tallest man-made structure on earth is a city in the sky that houses luxury apartments, offices and a hotel.

Browse, shop, play and dine at one of the largest shopping and entertainment malls in the world.

Marina Beach

Nothing says vacation like spending a lazy day at Marina Beach, a popular beach in Dubai. Stroll along the marina or attend a sporting event in this family-friendly area.

What to do in Dubai

Dubai: desert safari with bbq dinner & quad biking options, dubai: desert safari with vip bbq and optional quad bike, atlantis dubai: aquaventure waterpark & lost chambers aquarium combo ticket, other vacations you might like.

• Top cities in Dubai
• Vacations and getaways similar to Dubai
• Best vacation destinations by month
• Expedia's Latest Trends
• Hatta Vacations
• Murqquab Vacations
• Al Awir Vacations
• Abu Dhabi Vacations
• Fujairah Vacations
• Umm al-Quwain Vacations
• Ajman Vacations
• January Vacations and Deals
• February Vacations and Deals
• March Vacations and Deals
• April Vacations and Deals
• May Vacations and Deals
• June Vacations and Deals
• July Vacations and Deals
• August Vacations and Deals
• September Vacations and Deals
• October Vacations and Deals
• November Vacations and Deals
• December Vacations and Deals

Traveling to Dubai for the First Time (2024): 19 Tips & Tricks

By Author Jurga

Posted on Last updated: March 26, 2024

Traveling to Dubai (United Arab Emirates) for the first time  and not sure where to start? Indeed, planning a trip to Dubai might be overwhelming, even more so if this is your first time in this rapidly growing and continuously changing city!

When is the best time to visit? How much time do you need in Dubai? What are the best areas to stay in and how to travel around? Do you need to pre-book tickets or can you just go with the flow? How to save time and money and still see the best that Dubai has to offer?

Dubai is a city of contrasts, a place where modern extravagance and traditional values go hand in hand. From its towering skyscrapers to its pristine beaches and bustling souks, visiting Dubai is like stepping into a different world…

To help you plan your first trip to this dynamic and unique city, in this guide we share some of our top travel tips for visiting Dubai .

We have visited Dubai several times and all the information and tips in this article are based on our personal experience. Some of these tricks we only learned after several trips…

This practical guide includes all the info I wish we had known before planning a trip to Dubai. These tips will not only help you plan your trip, but will also show you how to make the best of your visit, time, and budget. Find out!

Top 5 Experiences in Dubai:

• Burj Khalifa (book in advance + opt for the level 148 ticket for priority access).
• Desert Safari.
• Museum of the Future (book well in advance!).
• Luxury Yacht Tour .
• Abu Dhabi Day Trip .

Here are our top travel tips for visiting Dubai:

1. Avoid Traveling in Summer

Dubai is known for its scorching temperatures, especially during the summer months. To give you an idea, average daytime temperatures during June, July, and August are well over 40°C (104°F). Even in April or November, Dubai temperatures usually still exceed 30°C (86°F).

The best time to visit Dubai is during the winter months – between December and February. The daytime temperatures at this time of the year are usually around 25°C (77°F). So it’s still warm enough to enjoy beaches, pools, and waterparks, but the temperatures are also pleasant for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

Good to know: Winter is also the peak tourist season in Dubai. So expect accommodation prices to be higher and more crowds at the main attractions. However, with some advance planning and preparation, you can still have a very enjoyable visit, more than in the summer.

The shoulder season – the months of March-April or October-November – can be a good time to visit Dubai as well. If you don’t mind temperatures of around 30-35°C (86-95°F), you can take advantage of somewhat lower prices and fewer crowds than in the winter.

In addition, you may want to check when Ramadan is. During this month, most Muslims do not eat from sunrise to sunset, so many restaurants will be closed during the day. This may might impact your experience, depending on the places you visit.

TIP: No matter when you visit Dubai, be prepared for the heat by wearing lightweight, breathable clothing, using sun protection, and staying hydrated. Plan outdoor activities for the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the peak heat.

READ ALSO: What It’s Like to Visit Dubai in February

2. Book Attraction Tickets in Advance

One of the biggest mistakes you can make when planning a trip to Dubai is not to plan/book attraction tickets in advance.

Booking in advance means more time slots to choose from, better prices, and less time wasted queuing.  After all, you want to make the most of your trip to Dubai and not spend all your precious time standing in lines.

Good to know: Tickets to many popular attractions in Dubai are often sold out at least a few days in advance. Furthermore, many tickets are cheaper if booked online. In addition, some attraction tickets, e.g. Atlantis Aquaventure , cost less if you book at least a week before your visit.

For some places, not reserving in advance means that you won’t be able to visit at all.  For example, the Museum of the Future is so popular that all tickets are usually sold out at least 2-3 weeks upfront. If you want to be able to choose the time slot that fits you best, you need to book at least a month in advance.

If you want to visit observation decks at Burj Khalifa or Dubai Frame , you also need to book ahead. In most cases, a few days in advance is sufficient, but it really depends on the period when you travel and how flexible you are. Also, consider visiting these attractions early in the morning or late in the evening for smaller crowds and better photo opportunities.

PRO TIP: For Burj Khalifa, we recommend getting a ticket that includes Level 148 . Not only you get to visit another level which is not included with standard tickets, but you also get skip-the-line access through the security check and at the elevators, and it includes some snacks and drinks. It’s well worth it.

Overall, we always recommend booking tickets and tours at least a month before your trip. But keep in mind that for many popular destinations worldwide booking a month or even two upfront is not sufficient anymore.

Tickets don’t get cheaper and there’s less availability the longer you wait. Plus, if you use GetYourG u ide for all attraction tickets and tours like we do, you can take advantage of their very flexible cancelation policy.

Good to know: Booking tickets/tours via websites like GetYourGuide , Viator , or Tiqets also saves you money on exchange rates. The exchange rate they use is the official rate and transactions are in your currency. Whereas if you pay on the spot, it will usually cost you quite a lot more (not only because many tickets are more expensive at the counter, but also because of credit card fees, exchange rate deviations, etc.).

Plus, booking and paying ahead makes it easier to budget for your vacation and keep your credit card’s spending limit available for other expenses during your trip.

READ ALSO: Top Places to See & Things to Do in Dubai

3. Foresee Enough Time & Plan Wisely

There is one thing that you may not realize as a first-time visitor to Dubai and that’s how huge the city is. It’s not a place that you can compare to cities like Rome or London , or even New York City where you can still walk between many attractions and see a lot in a short time…

Dubai is totally different! It’s big, not really walkable (except in some areas), and the attractions are spread out all over the enormous and ever-growing city.

Plus, road works and traffic jams turn every ride into an expedition. The same trip that takes 20 minutes at night or early in the morning can take you an hour or even longer during the day. And yes, public transport can be a good option, but it also has its limitations – more about it further below.

Good to know: When planning your sightseeing itinerary, you will see that most Dubai attractions work with timed entry slots. Be sure to foresee plenty of extra time everywhere though! Even with timed entry tickets, you will often be standing in line for an hour or even longer, not to mention the time that it takes to actually visit the place or get from one attraction to the other.

TIP: So while planning what to see and do, foresee enough extra time between the sights and don’t try to do too much in a single day. Also, group the attractions based on their location, and go for a mix of top attractions with some lesser-known ones. That way, you don’t have to rush from one queue to another and your trip will be much more relaxed.

This brings us to the next tip – see below.

4. Don’t Try to See Everything

There is so much to see and do in Dubai that you could easily stay here for a few months and still not experience everything the area has to offer. So resist FOMO and the urge of having to see ‘everything’. It’s simply impossible, especially if you are only traveling to Dubai for just a few days or a week.

TIP: Choose a few places, attractions, and experiences that interest you the most and focus on those rather than ticking off boxes just because some guidebook told you that one or the other place is ‘a must’.

If you absolutely want to go to the top of Burj Khalifa, well – just do it and tick it off your bucket list. After all, how often will you get a chance to visit the world’s tallest building… In that case, book tickets in advance and be prepared to queue, or save time and avoid the crowds with priority access .

On the other hand, maybe you are perfectly content just seeing the building from the outside and rather spend your time visiting other viewing platforms like Sky Views , the View at The Palm , or Dubai Frame …

Or maybe you don’t care about any of these at all and much rather spend a day at a water park , exploring the old town souks (markets), or enjoying the views from a luxury yacht …

Dubai has so much to offer to all types of travelers. So personalize your itinerary based on what you really want to do, taking into account the time that you have, your interests, and your budget. If you are visiting Dubai with the family, try to incorporate some fun activities for the kids in your itinerary as well, even if it means that you’ll have less time for sightseeing.

READ ALSO: Dubai Itinerary (detailed guide for a week in Dubai)

5. Consider Tours & Private Drivers

If you want to see a lot of Dubai in a short time or you don’t know where to even start deciding where to go, consider booking tours or private guides/drivers .

Sometimes, a private driver can also be cheaper than taking a taxi between all those places, and often, you can also find cars that can take up to 6 passengers (vs 4 in most taxis).

Just to be clear, I am talking about quickly seeing multiple places all over the city in a single day. If you want to spend more time exploring the sites, you better go on your own.

There are tons of different ‘city highlights’ tours that bring you to many of the main landmarks of Dubai in (half) a day. Keep in mind that in most cases, your ‘visit’ will be just a quick photo stop, so it’s not comparable to actually visiting the sights. But it’s a good way to get an introduction to Dubai and catch a glimpse of the top spots.

PRO TIP: If you do a city highlights tour, do it at the beginning of your trip! That way, you can later come back to some of the places that you like the most. An ideal way to explore Dubai is to take an introductory city tour first as you arrive and then thoroughly visiting some of the main landmarks and attractions on your own later.

Abu Dhabi day trip tip: One of the best guided tours we recently did in Dubai was this highly-rated tour. If you want to see the top sights of Abu Dhabi in a day, this tour has by far the best itinerary (I compared many tours before we chose this one and it didn’t disappoint).

READ ALSO: Best Abu Dhabi Tours from Dubai (+Review of the Tour We Chose)

6. Save Time & Money with Combination Tickets

Dubai is expensive, there is no arguing about it. But with some smart planning, you can save some money on some of the main attractions.

One of the best ways to do this is by opting for combination tickets and/or city cards that include several popular places.

Here are some of the most popular deals:

• Burj Khalifa + Dubai Aquarium (+-$20 savings per person).
• Atlantis Aquaventure + Lost Chambers Aquarium (+-$25-30 savings per person).
• GoCity Explorer Pass (up to 50% savings, depending on the attractions you visit).

Good to know: Some tickets cost more during the most popular times. For example, Burj Khalifa around sunset. So if you want to save money, be sure to check prices for different time slots/days when making reservations.

7. Stay Longer

You might be wondering how much time you need to see the best of Dubai. Well, there is really no straightforward answer to this and so much depends on your interests.

That being said, I recommend planning at least a week for a first visit to Dubai. But if you have time and your budget allows it, stay longer. You won’t get bored!

With a week in Dubai, you will be able to visit most of the top landmarks, explore several different parts of the city, and also find some time to relax and unwind. If you want to spend more time at the beach or by the pool, visit a water park or a theme park with your kids, or make a day trip to Abu Dhabi, ideally, you plan at least 10-12 days for Dubai.

But don’t worry if your trip is shorter and you can’t extend it. You can have a perfectly enjoyable visit and see a lot even if you only have a day or two in Dubai. Via the link below, you can find plenty of ideas for planning a shorter visit.

LEARN MORE: Dubai Stopover: How to See The Best of Dubai in 1-2 Days

8. Choose the Location of Your Hotel Wisely

Deciding where to stay in Dubai might not be as straightforward as you may think, especially if the main purpose of your visit is to explore the city.

There is not one perfect place to stay in Dubai – it’s simply much too big and too spread out for that.

However, some areas are better than others and some are really a disaster for commute. If you pick the wrong location, you might be stuck in traffic for hours every time you want to go anywhere and do some sightseeing. On the other hand, that same spot might be perfect for those who are mainly interested in swimming and dining, and are just looking for a relaxing vacation with maybe one or two excursions that include a pick-up and drop-off at the hotel…

TIP: I strongly recommend that you look at the map and the location of the places that you want to visit before deciding where to stay in Dubai. Also, consider how you will travel around.

For example, staying within walking distance of a metro station might save you a lot of time and money on commuting if you plan to do lots of sightseeing. Whereas staying in a nice walkable area with lots of shops and restaurants will be ideal if you like to go out at night.

Here are two of the very best areas to stay in Dubai:

• Dubai Downtown (the area around Dubai Mall – Burj Khalifa) is very central and is perfect for those who want to do a lot of sightseeing, but also for shopping and dining. Sofitel Dubai Downtown is a great choice in this area, close to Dubai Mall and just near a metro station. Remember, however, that this is the heart of the city, so very busy and far from the sea.
• Dubai Marina in the south of the city is another popular area to stay in Dubai. It’s a great choice for those who are looking for a more relaxing vacation, boat trips, water parks, dining, shopping, etc. The beach is not too far from here, however, it will take at least 45-60 minutes to reach the city center. Millennium Place is a very popular hotel not too far from the main Marina area and close to the metro. On a somewhat higher budget, JW Marriott Hotel Marina is a wonderful choice if you want to be in the heart of the Marina.

TIP: On our most recent visit to Dubai, we stayed at Rove La Mer Beach Hotel . It’s close to the downtown area, so quite convenient for sightseeing, but also with direct access to a private beach – the best of both worlds. We loved this hip modern hotel, also because it’s much smaller and more intimate – a kind of place where you don’t have to worry about losing your kids at breakfast. It also offers great price/quality for Dubai. The only downside is that the area around the hotel is still developing with lots of construction going on, but it will only get more attractive in the future.

9. Beware of Tourism Taxes

Hotel stays (including hotel apartments, guesthouses, holiday homes, etc.) in the United Arab Emirates are taxed with various fees, surcharges, and taxes. These amounts might vary depending on the hotel, but it’s not abnormal that these taxes add over 20-25% to your room rate.

For example, our recent hotel invoice in Dubai showed a 10% service charge, 7% municipality fees, 5 % VAT, and an additional 10 AED (+-$3) Tourism Dirham Fee per night.

Altogether, we paid about 24,4% on top of the official room rate. The good thing is that we knew in advance how much we had to pay. Otherwise, this could be a very unpleasant surprise…

So when looking for accommodation in Dubai and comparing prices, make sure that you are actually comparing the same thing!

Many hotel websites show prices without (some/any) taxes, so you may think that booking directly with them is cheaper. Often, it’s not the case at all!

TIP: We always use Booking.com for our accommodation bookings, also in Dubai. With them, you see the total price, including all fees and taxes, so you know exactly how much you will spend. (Depending on booking conditions, you may have to prepay for the stay in advance whereas the taxes are charged separately when you arrive at the hotel, but the total amount you see when making a reservation is correct).

10. Use Public Transport & Local Taxis

Dubai’s public transport system is efficient and inexpensive. Depending on where you are staying and traveling to, it might be very convenient to use the Dubai Metro, Tram, Monorail, or even local buses.

However, this depends on the exact trip you are planning to make and also on the size of your group. Sometimes, public transport is the best way to get around the city quickly and affordably. But there are also many situations when it’s a real hassle and doesn’t make your trip faster or much cheaper.

In those cases, you will be glad to know that taxis are rather affordable in Dubai . The most expensive taxi ride we recently took in Dubai was 25 kilometers, it took over 50 minutes, and it cost us 76 AED (+-$21).

However, be careful that you only use official taxis! Because e.g. Uber is often quite a lot more expensive. Not even to mention that they sometimes charge twice the price during peak times of increased demand. We learned this the hard way, after taking a few overpriced Uber rides…

Also, unlike in many other countries where we use Uber all the time, in Dubai, you never really know how much you will pay until the end of the ride. The price you see in the beginning is usually just an approximate indication.

TIP: Install Careem app on your smartphone and use it to request ‘Hala Taxi’. That’s the best way to get an official taxi in Dubai. If you request ‘Rides’, it works similar as Uber and is more expensive. We learned this from a local taxi driver after a few very unpleasant experiences with Uber and private drivers randomly offering their services at the main tourist spots, and it saved us a fortune.

To give you an idea, we were quoted 120 AED ($33) by Uber and 150 AED ($40) by random ‘kind strangers’ for a ride that in the end cost us 22 AED ($6) by official taxi. When it comes to busy times and popular tourist hotspots, getting a taxi ride in Dubai can feel like navigating the Wild West…

LEARN MORE: Tourist Guide to Dubai Public Transport

11. Start Your Days Early

One of the best ways to make the most out of your trip to Dubai is to start your days early.

There’s much less traffic in the morning, so you can get everywhere much quicker. But the main advantage is that there are hardly any other people, even at the most popular attractions. In addition – if you are visiting Dubai in the warmest months – getting up early is the best way to avoid the biggest heat.

Good to know: Be sure to check opening times of the places you want to visit. While some attractions don’t open until noon, many others are open from 9-10 AM. There are also places – like e.g. Burj Khalifa – that you can visit at 7 AM, and on some days even earlier if you like…

For example, we recently went to the Aquaventure Water Park at Atlantis around opening time. There were no lines at the entrance and we could also do many popular slides without any wait. A few hours later, people were queuing for 45-60 minutes at the same rides…

In addition, the taxi ride to get there in the morning took us just 22 minutes. That same ride to get back to our hotel in the evening was over 50 minutes, not counting more than 10 minutes for a taxi to arrive… So yes, it really pays to explore Dubai in the morning!

READ ALSO: Tips & Tricks for Visiting Atlantis Aquaventure

12. Stay Connected

While pretty much all public places and tourist attractions in Dubai offer free Wi-Fi, we highly recommend getting a local SIM card for your visit to UAE. There are so many situations when it’s just much easier to stay connected. For example, if you need to book a taxi ride, or book some tickets on the go, etc.

Depending on your data plan, roaming can cost a fortune in Dubai. My provider sent me an sms saying that using data in UAE will cost me 15 euros per megabyte (ouch! and no, thank you!). So the first thing I did after landing in Dubai was disconnect roaming.

There are several ways to approach this:

• Pocket Wi-Fi. One of the easiest ways to stay connected on the go is by renting a pocket WiFi at Dubai airport . This is a very convenient option if you don’t want to change anything on your phone. It’s also convenient if you are traveling with a family/friends since you can connect up to 10 devices to it.
• Local SIM card. Alternatively, you can opt opt for a physical SIM card, which is also available at the airport . With this option, you will need to place this card into your phone. If you want to keep your ‘own’ phone number working as well, see if your phone has a dual SIM option – then you can use both. Otherwise, you may want to bring an old phone to use with this local card.
• eSIM. There are many providers available (just search online), but what’s included and the prices vary a lot. Depending on which one you choose and also on your device, this can be a very easy and simple process, but it’s also not very straightforward if you have never done it before. Also, not all phones allow eSIM – so be sure to double-check if your smartphone has this capability.

13. Respect Local Culture

While Dubai is a very cosmopolitan city, it’s also a place with different cultural norms and traditions. Overall, UAE is very ‘Western’ and Dubai in particular is very laid back and relaxed. With over 200 nationalities living in Dubai, it’s a true melting pot of different cultures. Still, remember that you are a visitor here, and be respectful.

Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites or public places. Also, avoid public displays of affection, as these can be considered disrespectful.

If you’re visiting during Ramadan, be mindful of local customs and traditions. Keep in mind that many traditional restaurants and cafes will be closed during the day but will come to life after sunset. If you are visiting during Ramadan and are planning sightseeing during the day or a day trip to e.g. Abu Dhabi, it’s advisable to pack your own lunch.

One of the most common questions we get is what to wear when traveling to Dubai. Well, you will see people wearing all kinds of clothing – from burkas that cover the entire body to revealing summer clothes that hardly cover much at all. However, while a lot is tolerated, it’s not always appreciated.

So when in doubt, remember that it’s always safer to cover your knees and shoulders. See-through clothing is also not the best idea, unless on a beach.

TIP: Wear loose light clothes – not as much for religious or cultural reasons, but also because of the heat. Long skirts/dresses or wide summer pants will be much more comfortable than tight clothes.

LEARN MORE: What to Wear in Dubai

14. Use Credit Cards

The official currency in Dubai is the United Arab Emirates Dirham (AED) and all the prices are displayed in this currency. All regular businesses accept cash and electronic means of payment, such as credit cards or smartphone payments.

We haven’t encountered a single place in Dubai that wouldn’t accept a credit card. So if you want to make it easy and simple for yourself, you don’t even need to exchange money and can simply use cards everywhere.

Important! Inform your bank about your visit so that they don’t block your cards for ‘suspicious activity’. And even then… Despite precautions, one of my cards got blocked by a credit card company after a random payment at a restaurant in one of the main malls in Dubai. We had to call the bank to get them to unblock it again and they say that this happens when ‘the systems’ suspect anything suspicious, despite us having notified our bank in advance…

If you want to leave a tip to someone or purchase something small, you may want to have some local currency at hand. In that case, you can get some cash from local ATMs which you will find in malls all over the city. I strongly encourage you to only use ATMs attached to local bank offices as some others might charge additional fees and/or give the worst exchange rates.

PRO TIP: When using ATMs to withdraw money or paying by card, you always get an option between local currency (AED) and your own currency. Always choose local currency (AED) – that way, your bank will do the exchange and you will always get a better rate than the one offered by ATMs or pay terminals.

Good to know: We heard it on quite a few occasions that money is king in Dubai and it doesn’t matter in which currency you want to pay – they will accept it. Indeed, this is the case at the markets (souks) and some smaller private businesses. On a recent trip to Dubai, I could use Euros at the souk. The sellers also told us that they accept credit cards (just make sure to haggle – see below).

15. Shop Smart

Dubai is a shopper’s paradise, but prices can vary a lot depending on where you shop. The prestigious locations like the Dubai Mall are home to some of the most expensive brands in the world and the prices here are usually very high. You will be able to find much better deals at the Dubai Outlet Mall, for example.

Also, if you go to various local markets (souks), be sure to shop around for better deals. Also, don’t forget to haggle – and not a little! Many sellers take advantage of tourists asking ridiculously high prices. Often, 3-4 times higher than what you should pay, and likely even more… Don’t be shy, offer the price that seems correct to you, and be prepared to walk away.

On a recent trip, I got intrigued by a perfume someone put on me while walking through the Dubai Spice Souk (this is common practice – people will (try to) put all kinds of stuff on you – from scarfs to perfumes etc.). So I asked how much it was. The prices depend on the size and the design of the bottle, they said, and so we settled on a medium-sized simple bottle and they told me it was 280 AED (+- 70 euros).

No way I would pay 70 euros for a tiny bottle of perfume at a market! And so we started the negotiations. In the end, I paid 20 euros in cash which – to me – felt like a correct price. The seller was telling me that this was way too low and he was only willing to do it because it was our last day in Dubai and my kids were cute… 😉

After that, I saw similar perfumes at Dubai Airport souvenir store and indeed, most of them were about 20-25 euros for about the same size I got. So don’t be afraid to negotiate and if you don’t feel comfortable with the price or the quality, simply walk away.

16. Explore Beyond the Glitz

While Dubai is best known for its skyscrapers and extravagant landmarks, don’t miss out on its cultural gems as well.

One of the best places to catch a glimpse of authentic culture is Old Dubai. Visit the historic Al Fahidi neighborhood, explore the spice and gold souks, and take a traditional abra ride along Dubai Creek. These experiences are also quite touristy, but they are also totally different from the main attractions in Dubai.

TIP: There are many excellent guided tours that visit Old Dubai . They all take you to the same area, do the traditional boat ride on Dubai Creek, and visit the same local markets. Most tours also include local coffee and dades, and some also food tasting. While you can just visit the area on your own, these tours are really affordable and give you a somewhat deeper insight and insider tips.

On our recent visit, we chose this walking/food tour . It started with some traditional food tasting at a local restaurant, followed by a visit to the old town, a boat ride, and ended at the gold and spice souks. A nice way to spend a few hours and get to know a different side of the city.

READ ALSO: Best Tours in Dubai

17. Avoid Weekends

If you think Dubai is busy on a weekday, try to imagine it on a weekend or on public holidays.

So if you can adjust your plans, avoid visiting the most popular attractions on weekends (Friday afternoon, Saturday, and Sunday).

If you are in Dubai for more than a few days, this is really not difficult to do. Visit the most popular places such as Burj Khalifa, Dubai Mall, Global Village , Miracle Garden , or theme parks and water parks on weekdays.

On weekends, you can do more relaxing activities such as a sightseeing a yacht trip , a speedboat tour , spend time at the beach or by the pool, go parasailing or jetskiing , or take a desert tour – see below.

18. Experience the Desert

No trip to Dubai would be complete without experiencing its desert. Book a desert safari tour for an adrenaline-pumping ride over the dunes, followed by a traditional Bedouin-style dinner under the stars. It’s an unforgettable experience!

There are many desert tour options , but when you look closely, they are very similar in what they offer. Depending on the option you book, you have one main activity – usually, dune bashing in a jeep, quad, or camel ride. Afterward, you spend time in a desert camp where you can partake in all kinds of different experiences.

Some of these experiences include taking pictures with falcons and camels, sandboarding, various shows (traditional dance, belly dance, fire show), henna tattoos, etc. There is always lots of local food and it’s surprisingly good.

Our experience: We have done two desert tours in Dubai (on different trips) and they were both very similar and both excellent. The first time we went on this dune safari tour and on a recent trip, we opted for this highly-rated tour that includes a longer camel ride . In both cases, the second part of the tour was quite similar, the main difference was that the first tour included an exhilarating jeep ride through the dunes, and the second one – a 45-minute camel ride.

The whole family really enjoyed these tours and I couldn’t say which one is better. All I can tell you is that it’s a nice experience that will make your trip to Dubai even more memorable.

Vacations in Dubai

Search hundreds of travel sites at once for vacation package deals in dubai.

Let KAYAK do the searching

Save on your next vacation

Search and compare hundred of travel sites at once for vacation packages in Dubai

We’re completely free to use - No hidden charges or fees

Filter by free cancellation, free breakfast and more

Cheap Dubai package deals

Most popular dubai flight and hotel deals, all inclusive vacation packages to dubai, last minute vacation packages to dubai, search by stars, search by review score, search by board, search by price, search by freebies, when to book a vacation in dubai, tips for finding dubai package deals.

• There are loads of types of vacations in Dubai and the cost will depend on what type of trip you’re taking and for how long you’d like to stay. Here are the latest prices for a 3 night trip for 2 travelers: Top vacation $666; Family vacation $593; Romantic vacation $805; Luxury vacation $759; Budget vacation $462.

Why should you book a vacation package to Dubai?

With a good Dubai vacation package, you can experience this Persian Gulf emirate's famous 4X4 Desert Safaris and races, visit the Burj Khalifa, skydive over the world-famous Palm Jumeirah Island or take your kids to the Dubai Sky Polar pass or Dubai Atlantis Aquaven

When should you book a vacation package to Dubai?

The winter season in Dubai is the perfect time to take a vacation on the white sands of the Persian Gulf. From November to March it's the rainy season, which is the only cool period. The rains are short lived, however. Book your stay in advance to get the best Dubai package deals.

Where should you stay in Dubai during your vacation?

For any vacation type in dubai:.

Rove Downtown Dubai "is made for social media." The special hang out lounge features comfy sofas, a wall full of artworks and an eclectic collection of bric-a-brac. Many of the spacious rooms feature interconnecting doors perfect for families, 48-inch interactive TV screens, sofa beds for extra guests, a mini fridge, secure safe and in-room coffee and tea stations.

Located at the further end of Dubai Marina, Grosvenor House is a sophisticated twin tower hotel designed with marble floors, plush carpets, and mahogany furnishings. It's famous for offering the best Asian spa, heated pools, free spacious parking, a superb club lounge, airport transfers and shuttle bus services, and more.

For family vacations in Dubai:

The JA Jebel Ali Beach Hotel is a family-friendly resort located on the shores of the Persian Gulf. It offers a 9-hole golf course and horse riding. The breakfast-inclusive stays give your family access to temperature controlled swimming pools, shuttle bus services, and airport transportation.

Popularly known as the "House By The Sea," the Beit Al Bahar stand-alone villas offer complete privacy for your family. The hotel offers bed and breakfast, shuttle bus services, dry cleaning services, WiFi and room service, and is located in Jumeirah St next to the Wild Wadi Waterpark.

For romantic vacations in Dubai:

Located at the entrance to Jumeirah Island, the FIVE Palm Jumeirah Dubai Hotel is the perfect hideout for couples who want to reignite their passion and create their own epic stories at the beach while sharing inspiring moments. The hotel has a contemporary architectural design, has shuttle bus services, airport transfers, hot tub and air conditioning in all rooms, as well as plenty of parking space.

Atlantis, the Palm Hotel is a gem of sheer beauty located off Crescent Road. Atlantis provides breakfast, airport transportation, and dry cleaning services. The award-winning chef restaurants, aquarium and waterpark, and the Ocean Deluxe rooms are a must experience for couples.

For luxury vacations in Dubai:

With rotating beds that have a view of the city, the Burj Al Arab is the most luxurious hotel in Dubai. The opulent interiors are designed with towering golden pillars and stairs made of marble and gold. The hotel's Dubai travel package gives you the opportunity to arrive by helicopter, experience VIP services and have a 24-hour private butler.

The one and only Palm Dubai offers peace and tranquility in Dubai's breathtaking western portion of the Palm. Enjoy the bed and breakfast, Moorish and Andalusian design terraces and balconies or a suite with a private plunge pool.

For budget vacations in Dubai:

City Max Hotel Bur Dubai offers value for money comfort with breakfast, in-room refrigerators, access to an outdoor pool and free parking included in its Dubai vacation packages

Located a few meters from Dubai Creek, the 4-acre Arabian Park Hotel offers free and ample parking, an outdoor pool, bar/lounge, quiet surroundings, a shuttle bus service, and transport to and from the airport.

Where to stay in Dubai

Dubai vacation information, other popular package vacation destinations.

• Boston package vacations
• Bermuda package vacations
• Saint Lucia package vacations
• San José del Cabo package vacations
• Phoenix package vacations
• Atlanta package vacations
• Dublin package vacations
• Saint Thomas Island package vacations
• Belize package vacations
• Nashville package vacations

APRIL SALE Extended:   Book now for   up to 60% off!

Dubai Tours & Trips

Find the right tour for you through Dubai. We've got 230 adventures going to Dubai, starting from just one day in length, and the longest tour is 59 days. The most popular month to go is September, which has the largest number of tour departures.

230 Dubai tour packages with 239 reviews

Magical Dubai

My sister and I had a wonderful tour through UAE with Wingbuddy. The tour is quite busy but we liked that as we probably won’t be back and wanted to see as much as possible. Also recommend the day trip to Oman, which was really nice!

• Christmas & New Year

Dubai Escape

It was a great experience. Everything was organized nicely.

The UAE Complete - Escorted Tour in 4* Hotels – Full Board Plan

I wish I could give more stars greater than 5. It was a wonderful, exhilarating, amazing experience. It exceeded up and beyond my expectations. Everything was great, the accommodation, food, transportation, varied activities, the knowledgeable tour guide(Ayaz Ahmed), PCR, pick up to and from the airport, and more. I have recommended this tour to my friends who saw our pictures on Facebook. Keep up the good work. Thank you very much. Myrna Amadora Feb. 20-26, 2022

The UAE Essentials - Escorted Tour in 4 Stars Hotels – Full Board Plan

The guides and drivers were all excellent, 5-star rating. The only improvement would be to: - educate about basic pricing for most purchased items (Gold was explained, but e.g. a Thawb outfit price should be closer to 100 Dirham and not over 200 Dirham - give some hints what good prices for customers are). - hence the routing would make more sense in the other direction (for shopping less expensive first instead of most expensive). But I will not deduct any stars over that.

• In-depth Cultural
• Sightseeing

Explore Dubai & Abu Dhabi 4 Nights 5 Days

Fabulous tour exploring all the highlights of Dubai. We started with a tour of the Burj Khalifa the Worlds tallest building, unbelievable views from the top. We also had a very nice tour of Abu Dhabi which is famous for their delicious dates and sparkling blue waters of the Persian Gulf. We were also treated to a stunning cruise on Dubai Creek with its fantastic buffet and out of this world views. Very talented entertainment was also included. The grand finale of our tour was the Desert Safari with a tasty barbecue and thrilling entertainment including a fire breathing dancer. I just cannot express how grand this tour was. Thank You

Dazzling Dubai

Small group tour of Egypt was outstanding. Although I don't remember the various guides names, they were all awesome and very personable people. Their knowledge of the history of Egypt was exceptional and made the trip a memorable experience. We did most of the optional excursions and they were worthwhile as well. Some long days in there, but highly worth it. Traffic is very slow in Egypt and it takes a bit of time to get anywhere. This is not Indus' fault-it's part of the total experience. I highly recommend this trip to anyone who is interested in the 3000 year history of this fantastic and mysterious country.

Dubai Luxury Holidays Package 6 Night 7 Days

Great tour! Well organised and stress free! I would really recommend JTR Holidays! Thank you!!

Amazing Abu Dhabi and Dubai

We were met at the airport by the local representative company, Arabian Adventures, and we’re fast tracked through immigration and quickly taken to our hotel. The desert tour was exceptional, racing over dunes, watching the setting sun, camel riding and a wonderful BBQ under the stars. The guides on the city tour of Dubai, Abu Dhabi and East Coast were very knowledgeable. There was a perfect balance of free time and tours. The Howard Johnson was very clean, offered buffet breakfast and was a great location close to the old cultural centres, souks and public transit

Stars of Dubai - 6 days

All of the tour guides were excellent and very knowledgeable. My only issues were that we paid for a 5 star hotel and we got a 4 star hotel. I let a representative know about this hotel discrepancy and nothing was done or corrected. It was never addressed. Also, we were not informed that we would not be seeing certain listed sites until I asked why we didn't see them. I was then told they were closed due to Covid. Those sites are still listed in the online brochure and thus included in the price.

Customized Private Dubai & Abu Dhabi Vacation with Daily Departure

• Book With Flexibility This operator allows you to rebook your dates or tours with them for free, waiving change fees.

Dubai and Burj Khalifa - 5 days

This tour was well-run, as described, friendly and efficient. I was lucky in that all the various other people I met on these excursions were really nice, but equally so were the various guides. I happily recommend this company.

09-Day Dubai Family Explorer tour

Tailor-Made Private Dubai with Desert Resort & Abu Dhabi, Daily Departure

DUBAI – Skyscrapers Desert Abu Dhabi with Oman Highlights

Best of Dubai Tour - 7 Days Luxury Tour

Some thing I didn’t like being at the mall for so long. Sea aquarium can see that at home. Loved the tallest building still there at the mall to long. loved shopping at Gold souk and going to the Mosque. Hated Aaya universe like something for kids. The Museum was a joke while we was there they argued about money between themselves. Didn’t get to see the culture until we went to mosque and gold souk market .

What people love about Dubai Tours

Sehr viel gesehen, sehr gute Organisation, gutes Essen, ausgezeichneter Reiseleiter, insgesamt sehr zufriedenstellend. Allerdings: Beworben wurde die Reise mit einer maximalen Gruppengröße von 20 (!), was ein wesentliches Motiv für die Buchung war. Tatsächlich war die Gruppengröße 39 - 41, also doppelt so groß!!!! Wie vertrauenswürdig sind eigentlich die Angaben zur Reise? Wäre die Gruppengröße mit max 40 Personen angegeben gewesen hätten wir diese Reise NICHT GEBUCHT!

Tour bus audio system wasn't working properly so couldn't hear what tour guide was talking about.

Tours starting from Dubai

• for 7 Days (65)
• for 2 Weeks (20)
• for 10 Days (19)
• for 3 Days (6)
• to Asia (107)
• to United Arab Emirates (91)

You can unsubscribe at any time. Please see our Privacy Policy .

COUNTRYPICKERWESELECTEDHEADERMESSAGE

COUNTRYPICKERWESELECTEDMESSAGE click here

Cookies: We use cookies to improve your experience on this website. By continuing to browse our website, you are agreeing to use our site cookies. Please read more here

Choose your country and language

• The Americas
• The Middle East
• Asia & South Pacific
• All Inclusive Offers
• Athens Vacations
• Early bird offers

Dubai Vacations

• Last Minute Escapes

Maldives Vacations

• Milan Vacations
• Upgrades & More

Featured Destinations

Middle east.

• Ras Al Khaimah

Indian Ocean

• Philippines
• South Korea
• South Africa
• All-Inclusive Vacations
• Beach Vacations
• Business Class Vacations
• Family Vacations
• Ultimate Luxury
• Wellness Vacations
• Egypt - Splendours of the Nile
• India - Golden Triangle Tour
• Italy - Milan and Lake Como
• Jordan - Jordan Explorer Tour
• South East Asia
• Sri Lanka - Serendib Explorer
• COVID-19 Hub
• Pay My Balance
• 1-855-358-1505
• Flight + Hotel

Search Holidays

• Manage My Booking

Introduction

At a glance, when to visit, what to pack, areas of dubai, attractions.

The speed of Dubai’s metamorphosis is unparalleled, creating a thriving metropolis in the heart of the desert in less than half a century. Many people are likely to be dazzled by the whiteness of the sand and the scale of the skyscrapers, but it’s also still possible to step back in time with a desert safari or boat trip on the creek.

Dubai vacations are even more memorable, when you are soaking up the sun on the beaches of Dubai or enjoying limitless culinary delights in award-winning Michelin starred restaurants, some with awe-inspiring iconic views of the city or watching your sporting heroes take part in some of the most prestigious international sporting events around the year. Alternatively, shop till you drop in any one of Dubai's 96 malls or souks. Be there in Dubai for the vacation of a lifetime.

If you're looking to relax completely, knowing that everything is taken care of even before you travel, we recommend a Dubai all-inclusive vacation! With all your meals and drinks paid for, when you book these offers with Emirates Vacations, you can look forward to a stress-free holiday in the sun.

Book today and enjoy guaranteed savings , low deposits from $199, complimentary upgrades and many more extras to make your next vacation truly unforgettable. Call us on 1-855-358-1505 for further details and to book.

Emirates gateway: Dubai International Airport

Time zone: GMT + 3 hours

Currency: Emirati Dirham. Currency is easily exchangeable beforehand. ATMs are plentiful and credit cards widely accepted

Languages: Arabic, with English is widely spoken

Dialing code: +971

Religion: Islam

Plug sockets: 240 volts AC, 50Hz. British-style plugs with three pins are standard

Transfers from Dubai Airport to Dubai City: 20 to 30 minutes

Transfers from Dubai Airport to Jumeirah Beach/Jumeirah Beach Residence: 40 to 50 minutes

Transfers from Dubai Airport to Palm Jumeirah, Jebel Ali or desert: 50 to 60 minutes

From beaches that fringe the warm waters of the Arabian Gulf bathed in year-round sunshine, to the architectural marvels that punctuate the skyline and define the destination, Dubai is irresistibly dynamic, with some of the world’s most unique and modern attractions.

• Wander the laneways of the atmospheric gold and spice souks of old Dubai, piled high with aromatic and glittering treats.
• Check out super-cool Kite Beach if you’re into watersports.
• Have hours of laughs and squeals while cooling down at Dubai’s water parks.
• Visit Downtown Dubai, packed with incredible sites, including an actual dinosaur skeleton inside a shopping mall and the highest building on the planet, Burj Khalifa.

Expect year-round sunshine – it’s just a case of exactly how hot you like it. October to April provides the most pleasant option (small potential of rain and wind in January and February), with temperatures around 25-28C. From May, these temperatures really rocket between June and September (upwards of 40C) but Dubai offers plenty of incentives to visit then, such as shopping festivals in air-conditioned malls, indoor attractions and fantastic value offers.

These high temperatures require light, breathable clothing, but always have a cover-up for when you hit the air conditioning. Whilst a liberal and popular holiday hotspot, it’s still good to bear in mind that Dubai is a Muslim destination, so dress respectfully outside of your resort (for example, women should wear clothing that covers the shoulders and the knees in shopping malls, and if entering a mosque, hair must be covered). Desert trips are best in comfortable safari-type clothing.

Palm Jumeirah

This ambitious artificial archipelago, created using land reclamation, was one of many projects that put Dubai on the map, with its crescent-like “fronds” extending out from a “trunk” that runs the length of the central section – all the way from the mainland up to Atlantis The Palm. The 5.4km Palm Jumeirah Monorail also runs from the Gateway Towers at the base to Atlantis The Palm and is home to many thousands of private homes, and numerous hotels by some of the world’s leading brands, such as Fairmont, Sofitel, Jumeirah, One&Only, Waldorf Astoria and Anantara.

Jumeirah Beach

One of the original homes of tourism here in the emirate, Dubai’s main beach area is washed by the warm waters of the Arabian Gulf and lined with excellent hotels, such as the iconic wave-like Jumeirah Beach. Also here is Wild Wadi WaterparkTM, which will keep everyone amused for hours, while Jumeirah beach park is a great public space that’s also popular with local families.

Downtown Dubai

The anchor of this futuristic district is the Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building, which took five years to build and opened in 2010, boasting a staggering 828 metres to its name; from the viewing area at its upper levels, other buildings below seem like crumbs. Inside the Burj Khalifa is the first-ever Armani hotel, while other attentiongrabbing attractions of this area include Dubai Mall and Dubai Fountain - both the world’s biggest - where jets of water shoot up to 150 metres high, and seem to “dance” in time to music as they are illuminated by more than 6,000 lights.

Sitting on the south side of Dubai Creek, the oldest part of the city dates to the 1900s, with sandy-coloured buildings, museums and minarets. Here you’ll see Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood with its charming car-free, narrow streets and houses topped with wind towers, or barajeel. The area was previously known as Bastakiya after the Iranian town of Bastak, where the original Iranian settlers came from across the Gulf to take advantage of free land and low taxes. You can find out more about Dubai’s history with a look inside Dubai Museum or browse the rainbow of fabrics, clothes and slippers in the Textile Souk.

Sheikh Zayed Road

Named for the much-revered first president of UAE, this is where life has spread out to from the Creek, and has been the epicentre of development, amassing a collection of skyscrapers each more audacious than the next, such as Emirates Towers. Technically, it’s just part of the highway running across the whole of UAE, but it’s also where you’ll find many of the city’s hotels, restaurants and shops. For example, just some of the junctions off here will take you towards Mall of the Emirates, Gold & Diamond Park, Madinat Jumeirah, Burj Al Arab, Wild Wadi Water Park™, Downtown Dubai, Burj Khalifa, Dubai Mall and Dubai Marina.

Wander one of the city’s oldest districts, dating to around 1841. Once just a sleepy waterside village, Deira soon took over the original settlement of Bur Dubai in scale and is still a cornucopia of ethnicities mixed with tourists, here to check out the souks, where gold is among the cheapest in the world. You can cross Dubai Creek between Deira and Bur Dubai in an ‘abra’ (water taxi) for just AED2 (approximately 40p).

Dubai Marina

Sophisticated, skyscraping, and buzzing – Dubai Marina is designed to evoke Riviera-style living in a contemporary setting. This attractive and central place to play and stay in Dubai is a waterfront development built around a 3.5km canal. Along its banks are Dubai Marina Mall (with around 140 stores); The Address Dubai Marina hotel; Pier 7 Dubai Marina - which boasts seven restaurants, each on its own floor and with a unique atmosphere; and Dubai Marina Yacht Club.

Mall of the Emirates/Al Barsha

Now 11 years old, this place changed the face of shopping in Dubai forever. Billed as the world’s first shopping “resort”, it is a destination in its own right, home to Ski Dubai, hundreds of shops, two hotels including Kempinski Mall of the Emirates, Magic Planet for family entertainment, a 14-screen VOX Cinema, Dubai Community Theatre and Arts Centre and more than 90 dining options. Al Barsha the residential area surrounding the mall offers affordable accommodation and local dining options close to many of Dubai’s key attractions.

No trip to Dubai would be complete without a desert safari. Hop into a 4x4 and leave the city behind as you head into the wilds of the desert - go dune ‘bashing’ or camel-riding before sunset, then enjoy remote Bedouin-style camps with fireside tales and delicious dinners, or even spend the night sleeping out in tents before returning to Dubai after breakfast.

Jumeirah Beach Residences

This area combines casual outdoor living with top-notch shops, restaurants and the beach. The Walk at JBR, which was Dubai’s first outdoor promenade, has a 1.7km stretch of shops and restaurants and more recently has also been joined by The Beach, with even more dining and leisure options formed around a pedestrian esplanade.

Jebel Ali is the thriving commercial port area of Dubai, around 35km southwest from the city, and given its historic establishment, can also boast one of the most longstanding and largest resorts in the emirate – the JA Jebel Ali Beach Resort, which has a lovely private beach, golf course and a myriad of other leisure attractions. Jebel Ali is also the new home of a dazzling new attraction - Dubai Parks & Resorts. This is the first integrated resort destination in the region, opening in late 2016, and home of LEGOLAND® Dubai, LEGOLAND® Waterpark, motiongate™ Dubai and Bollywood Parks™, as well as Riverland™.

International restaurants and top global chefs are in abundance, but if you want to try Emirati cuisine, you’ll sense a range of regional influences. Most likely, you will find roast lamb with rice and nuts (ghuzi), stuffed vine leaves (warak enab), chickpea and sesame paste (hummus), bulghur wheat with mint and parsley (tabbouleh), spit-cooked meat in pitta bread with garlic sauce (shawama), cooked balls of chickpeas with herbs (falafel) and plenty of fish. Goat may also be on the menu, but no pork, in accordance with Muslim beliefs. Alcohol is tolerated and drinking is possible in the plentiful hotel bars and restaurants.

Culture in Dubai is rooted in Islamic traditions. Emirati men tend to dress in traditional dishdasha or khandura (long white shirt-dress), with ghutra (a white headdress) and agal (a rope worn to keep the ghutra in place), while women tend to wear an abaya (a long black cloak), with a sheyla or hijab (a scarf used to wrap around the face and head). The most religious time of the year is Ramadan, when Muslims fast for approximately a month and a festival atmosphere can be found in the evening when the locals break their fast. But as well as the minarets of mosques, you will also see temples and churches. A new opera house is also set to open this year.

Hares and lizards - such as the spiny-tailed lizard - may scamper around the desert but you would be hard pushed to see much natural wildlife in Dubai these days. However, there are many excellent reserves and conservation projects you can explore – which provide the thrill of seeing the iconic oryx, an Arabian leopard, mountain gazelle, sand gazelle or caracal. In the waters, you might have the chance of spotting the biggest fish of the ocean, a whale shark.

The human history of Dubai dates back to the bronze age (2500BC) when nomadic cattle herders are first thought to have settled in the area. A couple of millennia later and Dubai was still little more than a small fishing settlement until members of the Bani Yas tribe, led by the Maktoum Family, settled at the mouth of the creek in 1833. The creek was a natural harbour and Dubai soon became a centre for the fishing, pearling and sea trade. The population was later buoyed by the lure of tax-free living attracting traders from the Indian subcontinent. Oil was discovered in the 1950s and the first cargo left Dubai in 1969. In 1971, the six emirates agreed a Federal Constitution, gained independence from Britain becoming the United Arab Emirates, with Ras Al Khaimah joining the following year to form the UAE as it is today.

Aquaventure Waterpark

This adrenaline-pumping waterpark set within Atlantis The Palm includes the chance to take the Leap of Faith or zoom through the darkened tunnels of Shark Attack; as well as an invite to tackle Aquaconda, the world’s largest water slide. Or, perhaps you prefer to just sit and mind everyone’s towels as you relax on 700 metres of private beach. Ticket prices from E£ 1,253 per person.

At The Top, Burj Khalifa

This attraction is spread across levels 148 and 125 of Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building. The experience starts with the lift up to level 125, where you can marvel at the view from the 380-degree enclosed observatory. Then it’s up a little more, to the 148th floor at 555 meters, where you step onto the world’s highest outdoor observation deck. After all that sightseeing, visit Level 122 which is home to the restaurant and bar, At.mosphere. Ticket prices from E£ 797 per person.

IMG Worlds of Adventure

Dubai’s first mega themed entertainment destination will be the largest temperature controlled indoor park in the world and will wow guests with its four epic adventure zones. Two are created with global adventure brands Cartoon Network and MARVEL, while IMG Boulevard and the Lost Valley – Dinosaur Adventure are original concepts from the IMG Group. Think rollercoasters, thrill rides and attractions – all based on popular characters and hair-raising dinosaurs. Combine with the amazing array of retail temptations and exclusive dining venues and you have a day of fun for the whole family.

The brilliant KidZania® is a super-interactive and educational attraction inside The Dubai Mall where children play grown-ups as they try on various careers for size. There are more than 80 roles to choose from including firefighters, radio hosts, jewellery designers and mechanics. Ticket prices from E£ 683 per person.

Wild Wadi Waterpark™

One of the best family days out in Dubai, Wild Wadi Waterpark™ is set in front of the iconic Burj Al Arab Jumeirah, and offers 30 watery rides and attractions. Themed around the tale of Juha, a character from Arabian folklore, the rides range from sedate “lazy rivers” where you can bob along in a rubber ring, to the Jumeirah Sceirah, which has two tandem slides you zip down from a 32 metre high tower.

Dubai Aquarium

The 270-degree acrylic walkthrough tunnel takes you under one of the largest tanks in the world so you can see some of the 33,000 animals - representing more than 85 species including 400 sharks and rays. You can also just stroll past it from The Dubai Mall, with one of the world’s largest viewing panels to gaze through to the aquarium. Ticket prices from E£ 456 per person.

Seawings Seaplane Tours

There’s only one way to really get to grips with the scale of things here - from the air and these tours by seaplane do just that. Giving the finest views over Dubai, these comfortable little planes can use 27 different water landing strips and runways across UAE, so any combinations can be arranged. The 40-minute Dubai Silver Air Tour flies you over all the Dubai classics, taking off from either Dubai Creek or Jebel Ali Resort, then cruising along the coastline, giving you a bird’s-eye view of The World, Burj Khalifa and Burj Al Arab Jumeirah. Ticket prices from E£ 8,109 per person.

Situated within the Mall of the Emirates, this made the world sit up and take notice of Dubai’s many ambitious projects when it first opened – and still does. It was the Middle East’s first indoor ski resort and today offers a snow park, Ski School, Penguin Encounter and Snow Bullet. Ticket prices from E£ 615 per person.

SEGA Republic

One of the many attractions inside The Dubai Mall, SEGA Republic is a high-adrenaline, indoor family theme park, featuring 15 attractions and more than 170 games, from cutting-edge motion simulators to virtual experiences. Ticket prices from E£ 820 per person.

Dubai Parks and Resorts

Calling all adventure seekers, Dubai Parks and Resorts opened its doors in October 2016 and should be at the top of your must-visit list. Home to three world-class theme parks, one water park and over 100 attractions ranging from rollercoasters and waterslides to cinematic rides and live shows, Dubai Parks and Resorts is sure to delight guests of all ages. Lapita, a four star Polynesian style hotel is located within the parks and offers guests the convenience of a night’s rest only a few minutes from the rides. Located on Sheikh Zayed Road, opposite Palm Jebel Ali, a trip to this fun-filled resort is a great option for guests staying in Dubai or Abu Dhabi.

More To Discover

If you want to do more than “fly and flop”, you’ve come to the right place. One way to get the measure of Dubai is to catch it from the air – whether that be via an adrenaline-fuelled skydive over The Palm Jumeirah, or a scenic seaplane ride. Other aerial options include a sunrise hot air balloon experience, which will lift you off the ground 1,200 metres above the desert as you spot oases and the occasional wandering camel below. Kite surfers will love Kite Beach, one of Dubai’s best stretches of sand, and one where watersports operators aplenty await to help you pick up a new skill or hone your talent. Meanwhile at Dubai Mall, you can try a snorkeling cage experience within the huge tank at Dubai Aquarium, or even swim with sharks.

Explore more Indian Ocean Holidays

Mauritius Vacations

Seychelles Vacations

Sri Lanka Vacations

Join the emirates vacations community.

Sign up to receive exclusive offers and new holiday inspiration direct to your inbox.

We're always looking for new ways to inspire your next holiday - fascinating destinations, unique hotels and all the little things that come together to create unforgettable moments for you and your family.

Why Emirates Vacations?

• Personalised holidays
• Support at every step
• Get more for your money
• Fly Better with Emirates

For more information, please click here

• Recent Hotels 0 You do not have any recently viewed hotels.
• Shortlist 0 Your hotel shortlist is empty!
• Recent Searches You do not have any recent searches

Please refresh this page

This page is not showing your most up to date flight and/or hotel selection. You have made an update to your flight and/or hotel selection on another page.

Text Us at (770) 232-6483 

Dubai & Abu Dhabi

NO ONE DOES DUBAI BETTER THAN US... NOBODY!

Don’t worry if your girlfriends can’t make it, because, as always, Travel Divas will match you with a fabulous roommate who’ll become your next travel buddy.

Besides, when you get to Dubai, we promise you’ll forget all about back home with the decadent food, the sky lounges, revolving restaurants, 7-star hotels (yes, 7!), grand landmarks, all-gold-everywhere souks, massive shopping malls and glam high tea.

Of course, the all-white yacht parties and the beach day brunches make traveling to Dubai with us an unforgettable experience. You’ll eat, sip, dance, cry, get your breath taken away and have more fun than ever while dune bashing, gazing at world-class flower sculptures and eating lunch like a bawse at the Emirates Palace.

If there’s one place you have to go in your entire life, make it Dubai!

TESTIMONALS

Full package includes:.

• Roundtrip, economy class flight from JFK to Dubai (full package)
• 7 Nights at Habtoor Palace Dubai or similar
• Breakfast Daily
• Travel Divas Welcome Dinner
• The View at Palms
• Modern Dubai City Tour
• Shopping at Spice and Gold Souks
• Old Dubai City Tour
• Dubai Frame
• Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque
• Lunch at Emirates Palace
• Souk Madinat Jumeirah
• Glam Tea Party
• All White Yacht Party
• Beach Day with Brunch
• Traditional Desert Safari activities including: Camel riding, henna tattoos, water pipes, and much more
• Travel Divas Signature Gift Package
• Travel Divas Staff will travel with the group

WATCH SOME OF OUR DUBAI EXPERIENCES

Accommodation details, habtoor palace dubai.

Step into a world of elegance at Habtoor Palace Dubai, LXR Hotels & Resorts. Centrally located in the landmark lifestyle development on the banks of Dubai Water Canal, this Beaux-Arts inspired palace offers 182 guest rooms and 52 suites. Butler service, fine dining, sprawling gardens, and three sparkling pools are just the beginning.

DELUXE ROOM

From sleek modern guest rooms to expansive residential-style suites, Habtoor Palace Dubai effortlessly blends sophistication with premium comfort and convenience.

A residential-style retreat awaits in this contemporary deluxe room with two double beds. Start your day with a fresh cup of coffee from the espresso machine. Stay connected throughout your stay with complimentary WiFi. Other amenities include a 48-inch HDTV, minibar, and safe.

CHECK OUT: 12:00 PM

• Free Parking
• Fitness Center
• Room Service
• Business Center
• EV Charging
• Private Beach
• Outdoor Pools

Reserve Your Trip Now

Book your spot, full package with flight from jfk.

SINGLE:  $9599 per person   |   DOUBLE:  $7599  per person

LAND ONLY PACKAGE

SINGLE: $6799  per person   |   DOUBLE: $4799  per person

Dubai 2024 - October 5

Dubai 2024 - November 2

Dubai 2024 - December 7

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Meals included:.

• Welcome Dinner (Food Only)
• Afternoon Tea Party
• Light Lunch on Yacht
• Friday Brunch
• BBQ dinner during Desert Safari

AUTOMATIC BILLING PLAN:

You can enroll in our automatic billing , and relax knowing that your future payments will be made automatically. When you book, we’ll calculate an evenly divided automatic billing plan for you and you will know in advance the day of every month that your payment will be processed. Your initial deposit is due at the time of booking, and your future payments will be charged according to the schedule you see on your invoice. Automatic billing is available at no charge.

WHAT’S NOT INCLUDED:

• Gratuities for Driver and Tour Guide
• Travel Insurance
• Suggested Gratuities for Tour Guide (suggested $10-$20 per day)
• Suggested Gratuities for Driver (suggested $5-$8 per day)
• Items of a personal nature
• Meals except where noted
• Land Only package does not include airport transfers

TRAVEL INSURANCE:

Missing a vacation is bad enough. Losing the money you paid for your vacation is even worse. Trip insurance is therefore highly recommended. Please purchase travel insurance on your Dubai Travel Package and read this important information regarding travel insurance.  Suggested travel insurance companies are below:

• Travel Guard
• TravelEx Travel Insurance

  TRAVEL NOTES:

• Men and children are allowed to travel at the same rate.
• Traveling abroad require a passport valid for six months beyond travel dates. Refunds will not be provided for invalid passports so please ensure your passport is up to date.
• All prices are based on the rates of exchange in effect at the time of price quotation. In the event that the US dollar devalues, Premier Travel One and Travel Divas reserve the right to increase prices accordingly. Your final invoice will reflect increases resulting from currency devaluation.
• Roommate Match is offered for this tour. You will select “double occupancy” on the order form.  On the reservation notes form, you will select “yes” for roommate match.  Roommates will not be matched until after 75% of your reservation total has been made on your invoice.
• Currently, US Passport holders will receive VISA upon entry into Dubai. No fee is required at this time. If changes happen, we will alert you via email.
• If you select the  LAND ONLY PACKAGE , you are required to make your own flight arrangements and airport transfers. When making your own flight arrangements, you must pay close attention to the dates. The start date listed is the date that the group flight will leave the US for Dubai. The hotel check-in date is the next day.  
• Airline flight schedule for the full package will be released days prior to the trip .
• At check-in, a credit card will be required for check-in to cover anticipated room incidentals.
• A full day-by-day itinerary will be provided 30 days before travel, if not earlier.
• A private Facebook group will be created 30 days before travel.

IMPORTANT LINKS

Terms and Conditions    |    FAQs of Automatic Billing Option    |    Travel Divas Private Member’s Only Group

P.O. Box 16676 Atlanta, GA 30321

Text Us: (770) 232-6483 [email protected]

Client Support

© 2024 TRAVEL DIVAS. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

Submit details to get a Call Back

Dubai Travel Guide & Tips 2024

The beginning of a new year calls for a splendid trip and dubai is more than the best place for that. plan a visit to dubai and fill your 2024 with exceptional memories. .

Planning Tool Kit

Plan your travel most appropriately. Find out how you can make your travel time memorable.

What To Wear

As Dubai is a desert climate region, it's better to wear loose-fitting clothes to keep yourself cool. Do not forget to keep sunscreen, SPF moisturizer, sunglasses, and a scarf to protect your skin from the sun.

What are common Arabic Phrases

Arabic phrases like shukran (thank you), La (no), min fadik (please), ahlaan (hi), and ahlaan vasahlaan (welcome) can help ease your communication in Dubai.

What Are the Tips

Avoiding intense social drinking and possession of no drugs can help you not turn a trip into a prison sentence when in Dubai.

When in Dubai How to Get Around?

• Trams:  Trams and metros are considered the same thing at times but they are completely different altogether.
• Metro is a transport system working on pre-planned specified routes via different lines. Whereas trams let the passenger travel to a few particular places only. When visiting Palm Jumeirah and Al Sufouh via Dubai Marina, the Dubai Tram is your go-to option.
• Metro:  Dubai Metro’s Red Line and Green Line cover Dubai International Airport to UAE exchange and Etisalat to Al Qusais Creek. Ease your Dubai travel with these routes.
• Abras:  Ever traveled in a water taxi? It’s Dubai’s proud tradition. It is a reasonable but exciting ride with a half boat and raft structure. 
• Bus:  Dubai’s buses are a combination of comfort and economy. With the usability of NOL cards, you can tour the whole city for a few bucks.
• Taxi:  Dubai’s regular cabs can be a true-blue mode of transport for you.

Best Time to Visit Dubai in 2024

• January and July are for tourists  who love shopping  and exploring different markets
• March, April, September, and October for people who long for  scenic beaches
• January, February, March, April, November, and December for  outdoor activities  and nature lovers
• May, June, July, and August for  cheaper travel
• December, January, and February for  couples or families  on a holiday
• The Dubai Mall
• Mall of the Emirates
• The Walk at Jumeirah Beach Residence
• Textile and Gold Souks  

There is a saying, ‘ When in Rome, do as the Romans do ’. 

• Burj Khalifa
• Dubai Frame
• Museum of the Future
• Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo
• Miracle Garden
• Desert Safari
• Dubai Autodrome
• Hot Air balloon

Things to Do in Dubai for free

• Kite Beach:  Playing with sand reawakens the hidden child in us, right? With a sheet of white sand on the ground, Kite Beach is well known for its pretty picture view. Beach walks, pleasing nature and sightseeing are free of cost here. Additional activities like kitesurfing, kayaking, beach volleyball, and beach tennis are paid for.
• Dubai Fountain:  The Dubai Fountain combines colours and synced music into a more than beautiful view. It should not be missed by anyone present in Dubai.
• Jumeirah Public Beach:  Yearning for vivid photographs? Jumeirah Public Beach is the place for you. Clear as crystal water and clean as pure white beach make it one of the best places to see in Dubai for free. 
• Gurunanak Darbar Sikh Temple:  Sikh temples are famous for their cultural traditions, holy ponds, peaceful surroundings and artistic architecture. Needless to mention, these temples are free of cost. Delicious langar food of such places is their highlight.  
• Jameel Arts Center:  A survey says that most people travel to explore new places, new art, and new people. Are you one of them? If yes, do pay a visit to Jameel Arts Center. You will find more than amazing contemporary works from artists across the world in the gallery spaces. 

Things to Do in Dubai at Night

• Dhow Cruise Dinner - Creek:  Two sides of Dubai Creek, Deira and Bur Dubai both behold one’s eyes for countless moments. On top of that, you get to live these scenes on Dubai’s traditional Dhow Cruise. Do not miss a chance to dine right in the middle of the city floating upon the sea. Experience this life-remembering dinner at the best price,  starting from AED 1088.49 .
• Helicopter City Tour:  Rise above the Dubai skyline with a helicopter city tour. Dubai night attractions are incomplete without seeing the shiny city from up above the sky. 
• Glow Garden:  Recyclable items can do wonders and treat our eyes with their beauty. Glow Garden is live proof of the same. Its ‘Art by day and Glow by night’ perspective will fascinate you like nothing else. You can book a show to catch this breathtaking sight  starting from AED 1575.44
• Burj Khalifa Sky View:  Imagine how the city would look from  the top of 163 floors  i.e. Burj Khalifa. Live this imagination once and you will be awestruck.

Tips for Visiting Dubai, UAE

• Although debit and credits are accepted across Dubai, few currency notes will never hurt when traveling. Importantly, keep the  money in the AED, United Arab Emirates Dhiram .
• Love shopping at malls? A  Friday visit to Dubai malls  will get you great discounts.
• It is widely known that  water is overpriced in Dubai . A smarter move here would be consuming water from your hotels and keeping a stock when checking out as well.
• Bored of eating restaurant food?  Dubai’s Deira, Bur Dubai, and Karama  will treat your mouth with flavoursome eatables at meagre costs.
• Hotels can make a major dent in vacation finances. No worries, you can  book your hotel in advance  to get the best deal and we are here to help you with that.
• Try to stock yourself with  linen and cotton clothes  to be on the safer side in case of extreme weather conditions.
• Your Passport
• Your Return Ticket
• Your Visa 

Plan a Trip to Dubai

Recent blogs.

Islamic New Year 2024: Celebrating Al Hijri in UAE

0 Views 8 min read

Dining at Dubai Mall: Top Restaurants in Dubai Mall 2024

99 Views 8 min read

Celebrate Eid-Al-Adha in Dubai 2024

177 Views 8 min read

Abu Dhabi Tour 2024: Best Tourist Places in Abu Dhabi

187 Views 8 min read

20 Best Rooftop Bars in Dubai

159 Views 8 min read

Ras Al Khaimah Travel Guide 2024: Unveiling the UAE's Most Diverse Emirate

161 Views 8 min read

Top Beaches in Dubai for Ladies: For Perfect Ladies Day Out in 2024

179 Views 8 min read

A Guide to the Dubai Food Festival 2024

Follow us on :.

Take a NEXT step towards your NEXT HOLIDAY with our easy-to-understand portal at an affordable price. Got any queries? We are here to solve everything for your adventure.

1210-1211, The Regal Tower, Business Bay Dubai, U.A.E.

[email protected]

+971 56 507 1346

You can unsubscribe at any time. Please see our Privacy Policy .

COUNTRYPICKERWESELECTEDHEADERMESSAGE

COUNTRYPICKERWESELECTEDMESSAGE click here

Cookies: We use cookies to improve your experience on this website. By continuing to browse our website, you are agreeing to use our site cookies. Please read more here

Choose your country and language

• The Americas
• The Middle East
• Asia & South Pacific
• Festive Offers
• Holidays 2024

Dubai Holiday Offers

• Last Minute Escapes
• Atlantis The Palm Offers
• Ras Al Khaimah Holidays

Middle East

• Ras Al Khaimah

Indian Ocean

• All-inclusive Holidays
• Beach Holidays
• Business Class Holidays
• Family Holidays
• Luxury Holidays
• Winter Sun Holidays
• London Heathrow
• London Gatwick
• London Stansted
• Additional Services
• In-Resort Service
• Opening Hours
• Pay My Balance
• 020 8972 8951
• Flight + Hotel

Search Holidays

• Manage My Booking
• London - All Airports
• London Gatwick (LGW)
• London Heathrow (LHR)
• London Stansted (STN)
• Birmingham (BHX)
• Manchester (MAN)
• Newcastle (NCL)
• Glasgow (GLA)
• Edinburgh (EDI)

Dubai is home to a world of wonders for those adventurous to discover it. With something for every kind of traveller, Dubai is perfect for your next holiday. For those looking for a relaxing retreat, you will find some of the world’s best resorts, whether on the iconic Palm Jumeirah , bustling Downtown Dubai , the world-famous Jumeirah Beach or enjoying cafe culture along The Walk . Thrill-seekers will be in their element, with a plethora of high-octane theme parks and water parks, such as Dubai Parks and Resorts, Aquaventure Waterpark, IMG Worlds of Adventure, Wild Wadi Waterpark and so much more. It doesn’t stop there though; you could be racing down the slopes of Ski Dubai , reaching the dizzying heights of the world’s tallest building at the Burj Khalifa or soaring high above Dubai on a Seawings Seaplane Tour . Experience this and so much more on your next getaway. Find out more about a tantalising holiday in Dubai here .

Beyond that, Dubai is also home to the world’s largest shopping mall, The Dubai Mall , with more than 1,000 designer stores and boutiques where you’re guaranteed to find presents for all the family (or yourself). Aside from the largest mall in the world, Dubai also has a variety of bustling, traditional souks and shopping centres to cater for everyone’s shopping needs.

View our Dubai holiday offers below and book today to enjoy guaranteed savings, low deposits from £100, complimentary meal and room upgrades and many more extras to make your next Dubai holiday truly special. Book online or call us for more information on 020 8972 8951 .

• Three complimentary sessions at Atlantis Explorers Club and The Zone

Atlantis, The Palm, Dubai

• 5 nights from £2,049pp
• Ocean Room Queen
• Travel on selected dates from 24 to 30 October 2024
• Return Emirates flights from London Gatwick
• Price based on 2 adults and 2 children

Supplements may apply for other departure airports. Valid for new bookings only and subject to availability.

• Kids Eat and Stay Free

The Ritz-Carlton Dubai

• 5 nights from £1,629pp
• Half Board Dine Around
• Deluxe Room
• Return Emirates flights from London Heathrow

• Unlimited access to Wild Wadi Waterpark

Jumeirah Beach Hotel, Dubai

• 5 nights from £1,929pp
• Deluxe Room Ocean with Balcony
• Return Emirates flights from Manchester

• Complimentary Half Board upgrade

Anantara The Palm Dubai Resort

• 5 nights from £1,195pp
• Deluxe Lagoon View Room
• Travel on selected dates from 01 to 30 October 2024
• Return Emirates flights from Birmingham

• Access to Jungle Bay waterpark

The Westin Dubai Mina Seyahi Beach Resort & Marina

• 5 nights from £1,219pp
• Deluxe Skyline
• Return Emirates flights from Glasgow

• Kids Eat Free

Lapita, Dubai Parks and Resorts, Autograph Collection

• 5 nights from £939pp
• Half Board Plus
• Deluxe Twin Room Resort View with Park access
• Return Emirates flights from Newcastle

Dubai Family Holidays

Luxury Dubai

Desert Escapes

Downtown Dubai

Explore Dubai

All-inclusive Dubai

Dubai Beach Holidays

Dubai City Breaks

Join the emirates holidays community.

Sign up to receive exclusive offers and new holiday inspiration direct to your inbox.

We're always looking for new ways to inspire your next holiday - fascinating destinations, unique hotels and all the little things that come together to create unforgettable moments for you and your family.

Why Emirates Holidays?

• Personalised holidays
• Support at every step
• Get more for your money
• Fly Better with Emirates
• Enjoy rewards with Emirates Skywards

For more information, please click here

• Recent Hotels 0 You do not have any recently viewed hotels.
• Shortlist 0 Your hotel shortlist is empty!
• Recent Searches You do not have any recent searches

Please refresh this page

This page is not showing your most up to date flight and/or hotel selection. You have made an update to your flight and/or hotel selection on another page.

Dubai Calendar of Events 2024

Doesn’t every year in Dubai promise to be bigger and better than the last? 2024 is no exception, with a huge range of sporting, entertainment and local cultural events already starting to fill the Dubai calendar.

We share on our website a guide to what to do in every month in Dubai, but to help you plan out your future visit, we’ve summarised for you here everything we expect to see in 2024.

Dubai Events January 2024

Dubai events february 2024, dubai events march 2024, dubai events april 2024, dubai events may 2024, dubai events june 2024, dubai events july 2024, dubai events august 2024, dubai events september 2024, dubai events october 2024, dubai events november 2024, dubai events december 2024, ongoing events throughout the year in dubai, venue guide in dubai.

You may also want to check out our guides to:

• The best time of year to visit Dubai  – weather and other religious events that may impact your Dubai trip explained
• Dubai’s Sporting Calendar for 2024
• Dubai Public Holidays 2024  – plan your travels around known long weekends and national celebrations
• If you are heading to the capital, don’t miss our complete guide to Abu Dhabi events in 2024

We have included links where possible to platforms such as TicketMaster and  Platinumlist , which are major ticket sellers in the UAE authorised to sell tickets for the mentioned events. We may earn an affiliate commission on qualifying purchases you make after clicking on these links. This does not change the price you pay .

• The Dubai Shopping Festival continues through until mid-January at venues across the city. Don’t miss the nightly DSF Drone Light Show between JBR and Bluewaters Island (7:00 PM and 10:00 PM) and all the action happening at D3 (Dubai Design District) for Etisalat MOTB open-air market, from 5 – 14 January 2024 .
• The final major event of DSF is 321 Festival on 13 January ; expect A-list Arab performers, entertainers including dancers, acrobats and drummers, and a spectacular closing drone show – Skydive Dubai
• The   Hankook 24H Dubai   is the second largest grid race in the world, taking place from  12 to 14 January – Dubai Autodrome
• One for the juniors, from 12 to 28 January get set for Paw Patrol Fest with meet and greets and a live stage show- Festival Bay at Dubai Festival City
• Singer Majid Al Mohandi will be entertaining the crowd with his brilliant vocal skills on 12 January – Coca-Cola Are na
• Comedy lovers, don’t miss the Michael McIntyre World Tour on 13 January – Coca-Cola Arena
• KPop fans? Don’t miss Kpop Overdose , an epic concert with well-known KPOP band EXO – Chanyeol, Xiumin and Chen performing live on stage 14 January – Coca-Cola Arena
• Pluma by Cirque du Liban is making its debut at the big top this winter starting from 17 January – Circus Tent, Dubai Festival City
• Dubai Desert Classic golf tournament will take place from 18 to 21 January – Emirates Golf Club
• Ed Sheeran: + − = ÷ x Tour will be taking place on 19 and 20 January – Sevens Stadium
• A fabulous, fun family event, Bubble Run 2024 will take place on 20 January , with various race lengths from 4km to 8km- Expo City
• Grammy Award Winning One Republic will be bringing their Artificial Paradise Tour to Dubai on 25 January – Bla Bla (over 21’s only)
• Football fans keep an eye out for the Dubai Challenge Cup taking place from 26 to 28 January , with leading teams from the Arab world playing for glory – Al Maktoum Stadium
• Break the Block , an ultrasonic dance party is hitting Al Forsan stage on 26 January – Expo City
• Bringing live music, art exhibitions, dance shows and more – the Quoz Arts Festival is expected to return 27-28 January 2024 – Alserkal Avenue, Al Quoz
• Comedian Shane Todd brings his hilarious show to the stage for a one-night performance on 27 January – Theatre by QE2
• The World’s largest Urdu language Festival, Jashn-e-Rekhta Festival Dubai 2024 , will take place from 27-28 January – Zabeel Park
• Families with Marvel fans get set to join The Avengers and Guardians of the Galaxy on stage for Marvel Live on Stage – an epic battle to save the universe from 31 January to 4 February – Coca-Cola Arena
• Emirates LitFest kicks off on 31 January and will run through to 6 February – InterContinental Hotel and Mohammed Bin Rashid Library
• Dubai Polo Gold Cup will take place over February and until March 2024 – Al Habtoor Polo
• Valentine’s Day – Let’s not forget 14th February 2024 – Expect popular rooftop bars and romantic restaurant hotspots over the city to book out (or cost you a lot more!)
• Electronic music fans get set for UNTOLD Festival Dubai , taking place 15-18 February with headliners Armin Van Buuren, Hardwell, Timmy Trumpet, Ellie Goulding, G-Eazy, Major Lazer, Beba Rexha, Don Diablo and Paul Kalkbrenner – Expo City
• Smash-hit stage sensation The Phantom of the Opera will be returning to Dubai for a season running from 22 February to 10 March – Dubai Opera
• Taste of Dubai , Dubai’s largest culinary event, is scheduled for 23-25 February – Skydive Dubai, Dubai Marina
• Taking us back to the 80s, Scottish rock band Simple Minds will be gracing the stage for a one-night performance on 27 February – Coca-Cola Arena
• Dubai DutyFree Tennis Championship – Expected from late February to early March 2024 – Dubai DutyFree Stadium
• US Comedy sensation Kevin Hart brings his Comedy act to town on March 4 – CocaCola Arena
• Art Dubai – educational workshops through to incredible installations – March 1 to 3 2024 – Madinat Jumeirah
• What’s On Awards 2024 – prestigious awards night for the UAE’s food and entertainment industry – Media City Amphitheatre
• Dubai Challenge Cup (Polo) will take place from 11 to 18 March 2024 – Al Habtoor Polo
• Holi Festivities for the Hindu community take place during the month. Although the official date will be 25 March 2024 , many day time events are taking place early this year before Ramadan
• Expect St Patrick’s day celebrations to be widely marked at Irish pubs across the city after dark on 17 March 2024 – various venues
• The  Holy Month of Ramadan   will commence on or about 11 March 2024 and lasts approximately 29 days. Most live entertainment stops at this time.
• Non-Muslims should be aware of daylight fasting over Ramadan, but why not locally join in with an  Iftar for breaking of the fast  or overnight  Suhoor  to mark the occasion?
• Easter , although not formally marked as a holiday, is widely celebrated in the retail and hospitality industry (Easter Sunday, 31 March 2024 )
• Locally, many schools have a Spring term break from the end of March to early April, so look out for special term break camps and events that may be running – and expect the city to be much busier despite it being Ramadan.

NB some events scheduled mid-April may be postponed or cancelled due to the extreme weather conditions experienced in Dubai on 16 April 2024.

• The end of Ramadan is marked by  Eid-al Fitr celebrations  across the city with special deals through to fireworks 10-12 April 2024 .
• To mark Eid, Kuwaiti singer Nawal Al Kuwaiti will be performing live on April 10th – Dubai Opera
• Holi Music Mantra – if you missed some of the earlier-than-usual events in March, this is a great Holi Family Day during the Eid break – Thursday 11 April – Zabeel Park Amphitheatre
• Immerse yourself in Afroworld on April 11th, where Nigerian rapper Reema headlines the playlist – Coca-Cola Aren a
• Elrow XXL – One of the city’s biggest techno and house dance parties of the year is due to take place on Saturday 13 April – Dubai Media City Amphitheatre
• Philippino stars, Sarah Geronimo and Bamboo promise an epic concert on 14 April – Coca-Cola Arena
• The Dubai Comedy Festival takes centre stage from 12 to 24 April 2024 with acts including, Frank Skinner, Mo Gilligan, Amer Zahr, Chris Distefano, Al Murray, Gad Elmaleh (in French) and Anubhav Singh Bassi (in Hindi) – Dubai Opera
• Get upbeat with celebrated international DJs at the White Festival on April 20th – Dubai Harbor
• Pub in the Park Music Festival will be a spectacular outdoor event held 20 & 21 April – JA the Resort, Jebel Ali
• Feel the rhythm come alive with the internationally acclaimed Incognito on the 25th April – Dubai Opera
• See three Arab musical superstars – Elissa , Haifa Wehbe , and Saif Nabeel perform live in one night on April 25th – Coca-Cola Arena
• Award-winning Indian singer Arjit Singh , known as the ‘King of Playback Singing’ will be charming audiences on 27 April – Coca-Cola Arena
• Rat Pack – Swingin’ At The Sands will have you on your feet for an engaging and entertaining night out on 27 April Zabeel Theatre, Jumeirah Zabeel Saray
• See Grammy award-winning R&B group Boyz II Men on 28 April – Coca-Cola Arena
• Dubai Food Fest is the perfect post-Ramadan event for foodies, with immersive experiences across the city from 26 April to 12 May 2024 – various venues
• You can catch the popular Latino band, The Gipsy Kings , on May 2nd , with their Catalan-flamenco vibes – Dubai Opera
• Award-winning Lebanese singer Najwa Karam will be enchanting the audience with her tuneful melodies on May 3rd – Coca-Cola Arena
• American Singer-Songwriter Jason Derulo will perform on the final concert of his Earthsoul World Tour on the 4th of May – Coca-Cola Arena
• Jewellery & Bride Arabia is one of the largest and most elaborate B2C events on the exhibition calendar from 10 to 13 May 2024 – Dubai World Trade Centre
• The 11th of May sees reggae artist and DJ Shaggy alongside R&B band Blackstreet – Coca-Cola Arena
• R&B lovers are in for a treat at the R&B Beach Festival on the 11th of May . This outdoor event celebrates music from the nineties and noughties. Promising lots of glitter, glam and confetti, at snazzy venue, Zero Gravity, this is likely to be one of the best nights of the year – JA The Resort
• Film enthusiasts can enjoy Star Wars: A New Hope alongside a live orchestra on May 11th – Dubai Opera
• Jazz master Chris Botti will be wooing audiences with his trumpet on May 19th – Dubai Opera
• On May 24th, award-winning English singer-songwriter James Blunt will serenade the crowd – Coca-Cola Arena
• Audiences will be mesmerised by the elegant pirouettes of the Rome Opera Ballet in their version of Les Deux Nuits on May 25th – Dubai Opera
• Pakistani legend Abida Parveen will be performing her Sufiyana live on May 25th – Coca-Cola Arena
• Epic music lovers are in for a real treat as legendary composer and musician Hans Zimmer takes to the stage on May 31st (and June 1st) to perform pieces from some of his most famous film scores (Gladiator, Pirates of the Caribbean, Dune, Harry Potter) – Coca-Cola Arena
• Eid Al Adha celebrations  and public holidays – est 16 to 19 June 2024.
• We will be adding more concerts and events once they are announced!
• Locally, most schools will break up for the months of July and August – when the local expat families head away, the tourists are still coming in!
• Hijri New Year (1 Muharram*) is expected to fall on 7 July 2024, with a public holiday likely observed
• August lineup of events still to be confirmed for 2024
• The Prophet Mohammed’s birthday will fall on approximately 17 September 2024 – sometimes a public holiday is observed
• September lineup of events still to be confirmed for 2024
• Dubai Fitness Challenge is always a great way to work off those summer days spent inside – running late October and through November 2024; there’s always a huge variety of events to get involved with across the city.
• Halloween   always makes a great family and friends event to enjoy across the city – 31 October 2024.
• Diwali  is always widely celebrated with the local expat community, so expect plenty of dancing and fireworks – late Oct/early Nov 2024, with celebrations over the surrounding week.
• Thanksgiving is another international celebration that has firmly made its way into the regular events calendar for Dubai expats, enjoying gatherings with family and friends over turkey and cranberry sauce! – Thursday 28th November 2024
• Commemoration Day and  National Day  are fixed public holidays from 1 to 3 December , with lots of celebratory events to be found across the country.
• Dubai Rugby 7s is one of the city’s most anticipated international sporting events of the year, bringing local and international sporting talent together in early December 2024 – Rugby 7’s Stadium
• Christmas  – Despite being a Muslim country, the occasion is widely marked on 25 December, and you’ll find many festive celebrations occur across the city
• New Year’s Eve  – one of the most exciting spots in the world to ring in the new year, with the Burj Khalifa taking centre stage and many fireworks displays across the city.
• Some events are more regular, such as the best Sunday brunches in town – though they may take a break over the hottest summer months.

We have highlighted here many of the most popular venues in the city for stage shoes and sporting events to help you get your bearings on the city:

Before you go… More important things you should know when planning a trip to Dubai

• Pop into our essential planning information page, it includes everything you need to know about getting around Dubai , a handy guide on what to pack , and top tips for first-timers on the do’s and don’ts, laws, and customs to be aware of.
• Check out this incredible list of 150+ places you should visit when you’re in Dubai .
• Pick up a Dubai Pass from iVenture or a Go City Dubai Pass to save up to 50% on top Dubai attractions.
• Don’t forget to pack your travel insurance !!!
• Discover the best areas to stay in Dubai , or bag a bargain on your accommodation here:

Take me back to the latest news and events in Dubai

Please note we are not a travel agency. This site is a travel blog to help newcomers to the UAE and transit passengers self plan their trip, we cannot book your flights, hotels, visas or connections for you. We may make a small commission if you click on any of our recommendation links . Dubai Travel Planner

You may also like

Sunshine & culture enjoy the best of dubai..., check out these exciting easter events in dubai..., 15 unforgettable dubai beach clubs to experience in..., understanding ramadan rules in dubai as a tourist..., ramadan cannon in dubai – where to see..., ramadan markets in dubai; events & nightlife during....

Nomadic Matt's Travel Site

Travel Better, Cheaper, Longer

Dubai Travel Guide

Last Updated: August 31, 2023

I found myself loving my first visit here so much that I extended my stay.

Dubai is a city trapped between worlds. It’s a place with a conservative culture and old-world customs while at the same time a Middle-Eastern Vegas where anything goes (so long as it’s behind closed doors). There’s a lot of partying that happens here.

But, beyond that, I was surprised at how much there was to do in this city. This city is more than just a flashy place to spend money. There’s a lot of cultural activities, museums, attractions, tours, and things to do here.

Dubai is a fascinating, multicultural city that deserves a lot more than a stopover. This travel guide to Dubai will help you plan your trip, save money, and make the most of your visit.

Table of Contents

• Things to See and Do
• Typical Costs
• Suggested Budget
• Money-Saving Tips
• Where to Stay
• How to Get Around
• How to Stay Safe
• Best Places to Book Your Trip
• Related Blogs on Dubai

Top 5 Things to See and Do in Dubai

1. Visit the Burj Khalifa

The tallest building in the world, which opened in 2010, boasts a whopping 163 floors. You can go up to the 125th floor for 169 AED for epic views of the city. And for 399 AED you can climb even higher to floor 148 and visit the exclusive lounge. From there, you get panoramic views of the city and desert. Towering 555 meters (1,820 feet), the iconic tower contains a hotel, private residences, corporate offices, and a bar/lounge. At night, the building is illuminated by a spectacular light show of fish, palm trees, and other scenes while the fountain below dances to music. Get your tickets in advance here .

2. Take a desert safari

If you want to get a taste of the desert, head out on a day-long safari . You’ll be able to explore the desert, watch for birds and other wildlife, eat some traditional food, and take in the sweeping vistas. Tour offerings include desert jeep tours, camel riding tours, and horseback riding excursions. A day-long excursion starts at around 439 AED per person.

3. Visit Global Village

This is a massive entertainment extravaganza, with shopping, dining, and live performances all coming together to create an incredible cultural experience. It’s like Epcot Center at Disney World, except it showcases the different cultures of the Middle East. Enjoy ice-skating at Snowfest Ice Rink, visiting Ripley’s Believe It or Not, or taking a thrilling ride at Carnaval amusement park. Admission is only 18 AED.

4. Explore the Dubai Miracle Garden

This quirky and colorful garden opened in 2013 and is spread over 72,000 square meters (775,000 square feet), making it the world’s largest natural flower garden. It’s home to over 150 million flowers and all kinds of flower and plant sculptures. In addition to the natural beauty, you can experience various performances that change each week, and a daily flower parade with live music and choreographed dancers in full flower garb. If you get hungry during your visit there are more than 30 food and beverage options including cafes, candy shops, and healthy juice bars. Admission is 75 AED.

5. Have fun at Kite Beach

If you’re into kitesurfing or water sports, this is a cool place to catch some waves. The artificial beach is one of the most popular in Dubai and features lots of sugary white sand, kids’ activities, food and beverage vendors, fitness areas, and even a library. The winds pick up in the afternoon, making it a good time to hit the water or just sit back and watch others do it. If watersports aren’t your thing, come here to catch some rays and relax as it’s free and open to the public.

Other Things to See and Do in Dubai

1. wander the marina.

The marina area is surrounded by tall buildings and is composed of a beautiful scenic boardwalk. Here you’ll find lots of fancy boats, beautiful condos, and bars and restaurants overlooking the harbor. Be sure to check out Pier 7, which is seven floors of restaurants and bars on the water. Personally, I liked Asia Asia, with its gaudy Asian theme.

2. Hit the mall

Malls in Dubai are not like malls anywhere else in the world. There are over 65 malls in the city with more on the way. People love going to malls here! Between the Dubai Mall and Mall of the Emirates, you’ll find a ton of amazing things to see and do. There’s luxury shopping, nightly fountain shows, an aquarium inside the Dubai Mall (which has a 270-degree underwater tunnel you can walk through), and even indoor skiing at the Mall of the Emirates (the Mall of the Emirates also has over 650 stores and 100 restaurants). You can also visit the world’s largest themed mall, the Ibn Battuta Mall. It has a Moroccan theme and is named after the eponymous explorer (it has over 270 stores and 50 restaurants too). Be sure to dress appropriately and avoid tank tops, shorts, or mini-skirts.

3. Visit the Grand Mosque

Located in nearby Abu Dhabi, the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is definitely worth a half-day trip. Built between 1996-2007, the mosque and its surrounding gardens span over 30 acres. It’s almost all white too, giving it a very majestic look. It’s a 90-minute drive from Dubai (about 290 AED each way in a taxi or 25 AED on the bus). You’ll want to make sure you wear appropriate clothing since it is a place of worship (they have cover-up items available for anyone without suitable attire). During Eid, upwards of 41,000 people visit the mosque each day. Admission is free.

4. Explore Old Dubai

This is Dubai as it used to be. Markets (like the famous gold market) pepper the area, small shops line the streets, and you can get lost in a dizzying maze of alleyways. Take a boat across Dubai Creek to Deira (you can ride an abra, a traditional wooden boat) and wander aimlessly around the streets, eat at some of the traditional restaurants, explore the art district, and see Dubai as it is away from the glitz of the malls and high-rises. Don’t miss the Dubai Frame (a landmark offering the best views of the city), the gold market (which has upwards of 10 tons of gold at any time), and the spice souk (a large spice market you can browse).

5. Tour the Jumeirah Mosque

Opened in 1979, this beautiful mosque is one of two in the city you can actually visit. Built in the Fatimid style, it consists of one large room and there is a guided tour every day at 10am and 2pm (except Fridays). It’s 35 AED and comes with a great breakfast spread. If you don’t know much about Islam or the role it plays in the UAE, it’s a pretty interesting and educational tour.

6. Go deep-sea fishing

It’s quite easy to book a spot on a boat and head out to sea if you want to try your hand at deep-sea fishing. Tour operators cater to all ages and levels of experience, and most packages even include lunch. Prices vary depending on what sort of vessel you book and how long you go but expect to pay 1,500 AED for a 4-6-hour trip.

7. Relax at Jumeirah Beach

This white-sand beach is a fantastic place to sunbathe and stroll along the boardwalk. Located along the coast just south of the city’s historic district, there are lots of shops to visit, and there is even an outdoor movie theater. Not only is this a great place to visit, but it’s a great area to stay because you’re surrounded by so many things to do. There are playgrounds here for kids as well as areas to BBQ. It’s perfect for picnics but gets super busy on the weekend so try to enjoy it during the week to beat the crowd.

8. Wander the Palm Islands

On this famous man-made palm tree-shaped island , you’ll find a large shopping walkway, the Atlantis resort, the Aquaventure waterpark, and a host of fancy restaurants, bars, and clubs. It’s beautiful to walk around and explore during the day (at night, it’s pretty boring!).

9. Visit the Souk Madinat Jumeirah

This souk (market) is in a modern building designed to look like something out of Aladdin but it’s actually home to some incredible restaurants. There’s a beautiful inner courtyard pond in this complex, too. Come here if you want to splurge if you’re a foodie! Don’t miss Al Makan for local dishes, Anar for Persian cuisine, and The Noodle House for tasty Asian eats.

10. Binge at brunch

Brunch is a tradition among locals and expats. Every Friday, everyone flocks to a midday buffet of unlimited drinks and food. As the day goes on, it often turns into debauchery that would make Nero proud. However, brunch is not a cheap affair, costing as much as 700 AED. Ask your hotel/hostel staff where the cheapest brunches are. You can usually find some for under 200 AED.

Dubai Travel Costs

Budget hotel prices – Budget two-star hotels start at 285 AED in peak season. In the off-season, budget rooms cost around 90 AED. Expect basic amenities like a TV, tea/coffee maker, and AC.

There are lots of Airbnb options in Dubai. A private room starts around 100 AED per night though you should expect to pay double (or even triple or quadruple) if you don’t book early. Enrire homes/apartments start around 250 AED per night, however, they average triple that price so book early.

Food – Emirati cuisine takes influences from its Middle Eastern neighbors. More recently, as an international hub, you can find all kinds of internal flavors here as well. Popular dishes in Dubai include hummus, shawarma, shish tawook (grilled kebabs), and knafeh (a sweet cheese pastry topped with rose syrup and pistachios). Dates and fish are common staples, with camel milk being a more traditional addition to the diet. Popular spices include saffron, cinnamon, and turmeric.

In Dubai, a meal out costs around 65 AED while dinner for two with drinks usually averages 190-300 AED. For fast food like McDonald’s, expect to pay around 30 AED for a combo meal.

A large pizza costs around 45 AED while Chinese food is around 50 AED. A beer is about 45 AED while a latte or cappuccino is 19 AED. Bottled water is around 2 AED.

If you cook your own food, expect to pay around 500 AED per week for groceries including pasta, vegetables, meat or fish, and other basic staples.

Backpacking Dubai Suggested Budgets

On a backpacker budget of 260 AED per day you can stay in a hostel, cook all your meals, take public transportation to get around, skip drinking, and do mostly free activities like enjoying the beach and visiting the malls and mosques. If you plan on drinking, add 40-80 AED extra per day.

On a mid-range budget of 870 AED per day, you can stay in a cheap hotel or Airbnb, eat out for a few meals, enjoy a couple drinks, take the occasional taxi to get around, and do more paid activities, such as a desert safari.

On a “luxury” budget of 1,425 AED, you can stay in a hotel, eat out for every meal, drink as much as you’d like, go out for a brunch, take paid tours, visit the Burj Khalifa, and rent a car for some day trips. The sky is the limit here!

You can use the chart below to get some idea of how much you need to budget daily, depending on your travel style. Keep in mind these are daily averages — some days you’ll spend more, some days you’ll spend less (you might spend less every day). We just want to give you a general idea of how to make your budget. Prices are in AED.

Dubai Travel Guide: Money-Saving Tips

Dubai is an expensive city. If you’re hanging out in the malls and restaurants that cater to expats, you’re going to spend a lot of money. That said, there are a few things you can do to cut costs so you don’t blow your budget. Here are some quick tips to help you save money in Dubai:

• Use Groupon – Groupon is huge in Dubai and you can find tons of discounts, 2-for-1 specials, and deals on the website. If there is something you want to do, check there first as there is a high chance you’ll find a discount.
• Get The Entertainer – The Entertainer is a magazine and app that offers discounts and specials on restaurants, hotels, and activities. Pick up a copy when you arrive in Dubai. It’s not cheap but sometimes you can find the app 50% off or get a free trial. There are monthly subscriptions starting at 35 AED per month and a “lite” version that is free. If you plan to see and do a lot, it’s worth the price.
• Find happy hours – Dubai is full of happy hours. Plan your drinking accordingly to avoid the city’s high-priced booze.
• Skip the booze – Outside the happy hours and all-you-can-eat brunches, drinking is expensive so I would go easy on the drinking during your visit — or skip it altogether if you’re on a budget.
• Eat in Old Dubai – Step away from the hotels, malls, and fancy souks meant to make you think you are in Aladdin and head into Old Dubai for cheap eats.
• Pick accommodation near the metro – Make sure your accommodation is near a metro stop. You don’t want to be walking around unnecessarily when it’s scorching hot and public transportation is much cheaper than taxis.
• Bring a reusable water bottle – The tap water is safe to drink in Dubai so bring a reusable water bottle to reduce your single-use plastic usage. LifeStraw makes a reusable bottle with a built-in filter so you can ensure your water is always clean and safe.

Where to Stay in Dubai

Dubai doesn’t have a lot of hostels so you’ll want to book in advance if you plan to stay in a hostel. Here are my suggested places to stay in Dubai:

• Green Sky Apartments
• Bombay Backpackers DXB
• Bohemian Backpackers

How to Get Around Dubai

Public transportation – Dubai’s metro consists of nearly 50 stations. You can get to wherever you need to go, or close to it, with public transportation. Hours of operation depend on the day but both lines start operating from around 5:30am until about 1am. On Fridays, however, the trains don’t start running until 10am.

You’ll need a Nol Card to get around and you can buy the card at any of the ticket offices at the metro stations for 25 AED.

Fares depend on which of the zones you are traveling to. A standard ticket for one zone is 4 AED, for two zones it’s 6 AED, and if you are traveling through 3 or more zones it’s 8.50 AED.

If you can’t get to where you’re going by subway, the bus will get you there. Like the metro, the bus has different zones, and the Nol card is used as payment.

Ferry – The ferry in Dubai runs daily from three different terminals in the marina. Evening trips on the ferry are much busier, so be sure to get to the terminal 30 minutes early. Tickets range from 15-50 AED for silver class (seats in the main section of the boat) and 25-75 AED for gold class (more comfortable seats at the front of the boat).

Taxi – Taxis start at 12 AED and go up by around 2.50 AED per kilometer. Skip them if you can. They add up quickly!

Ridesharing – Uber and Careem are the two main ridesharing apps in Dubai. They aren’t usually cheaper than a standard taxi but they tend to be a lot more convenient.

Bicycle – Bikes can be rented from Nextbike for around 20 AED per hour or 80 AED per day.

Car rental – If you’re leaving the city, cars can be rented for around 190 AED per day. I would only rent one if you’re leaving the city. Otherwise, just use public transportation to get around. It will be much faster!

When to Go to Dubai

The most popular time to visit Dubai is between November-April. The weather is cooler and perfect for desert safaris, with daily highs averaging around 27°C (80°F). Flights and accommodation will be more expensive during this time though so plan accordingly.

May-August is the low season as Dubai just gets too warm. Daily highs average around 41°C (106°F) and make exploring the city unbearable. I visited in August and it was brutal. Skip the summer if you can!

The shoulder season between September and October is when the sea becomes perfect for swimming and water sports. It’s much less busy during this time so you’ll find fewer crowds and cheaper prices too.

How to Stay Safe in Dubai

Dubai is a very safe city. Violent crime is incredibly rare here. Petty theft and pickpocketing can occur, though they’re quite rare too. As long as you keep your valuables secure while you’re out and about you likely won’t have any issues.

Be aware that many activities that are legal in other countries are not legal in Dubai, such as displays of public affection between unmarried or LGBTQ partners, drunken behavior, dressing immodestly, swearing, photographing people without their permission, and criticizing UAE’s government.

You’ll need to dress and act conservatively here. All the wild and crazy stuff in the city happens behind closed doors. It’s a see no evil kind of thing. Don’t push the limit in public or you’re likely to get into serious trouble. Be extra cautious about being wild or “immodest” here.

Solo female travelers should generally feel safe here. However, the standard precautions apply (never leave your drink unattended at the bar, never walk home alone intoxicated, etc.) when you’re here. For an extra layer of safety, use the female-only cars on the metro. For more information, check out one of the many solo female travl blogs on the city to help you out.

Scams here are rare. If you’re worried about getting ripped off, you can read my post on common travel scams to avoid .

If you experience an emergency, dial 999 for the police, 998 for an ambulance, and 997 for the fire department.

The most important piece of advice I can offer is to purchase good travel insurance. Travel insurance protects you against illness, injury, theft, and cancellations. It’s comprehensive protection in case anything goes wrong. I never go on a trip without it as I’ve had to use it many times in the past. You can use the widget below to find the policy right for you:

Dubai Travel Guide: The Best Booking Resources

These are my favorite companies to use when I travel. They consistently have the best deals, offer world-class customer service and great value, and overall, are better than their competitors. They are the companies I use the most and are always the starting point in my search for travel deals.

• Skyscanner – Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine. They search small websites and budget airlines that larger search sites tend to miss. They are hands down the number one place to start.
• Hostelworld – This is the best hostel accommodation site out there with the largest inventory, best search interface, and widest availability.
• Booking.com – The best all around booking site that constantly provides the cheapest and lowest rates. They have the widest selection of budget accommodation. In all my tests, they’ve always had the cheapest rates out of all the booking websites.
• HostelPass – This new card gives you up to 20% off hostels throughout Europe. It’s a great way to save money. They’re constantly adding new hostels too. I’ve always wanted something like this and glad it finallt exists.
• Get Your Guide – Get Your Guide is a huge online marketplace for tours and excursions. They have tons of tour options available in cities all around the world, including everything from cooking classes, walking tours, street art lessons, and more!
• The Man in Seat 61 – This website is the ultimate guide to train travel anywhere in the world. They have the most comprehensive information on routes, times, prices, and train conditions. If you are planning a long train journey or some epic train trip, consult this site.
• Rome2Rio – This website allows you to see how to get from point A to point B the best and cheapest way possible. It will give you all the bus, train, plane, or boat routes that can get you there as well as how much they cost.
• FlixBus – Flixbus has routes between 20 European countries with prices starting as low 5 EUR! Their buses include WiFi, electrical outlets, a free checked bag.
• SafetyWing – Safety Wing offers convenient and affordable plans tailored to digital nomads and long-term travelers. They have cheap monthly plans, great customer service, and an easy-to-use claims process that makes it perfect for those on the road.
• LifeStraw – My go-to company for reusable water bottles with built-in filters so you can ensure your drinking water is always clean and safe.
• Unbound Merino – They make lightweight, durable, easy-to-clean travel clothing.
• Top Travel Credit Cards – Points are the best way to cut down travel expenses. Here’s my favorite point earning credit cards so you can get free travel!

Dubai Travel Guide: Related Articles

Want more info? Check out all the articles I’ve written on backpacking/traveling Dubai and continue planning your trip:

How to Save Money in Dubai (and 9 cool things to do there!)

Dubai: The Las Vegas of the Middle East?

Get my best stuff sent straight to you, pin it on pinterest.

• Where To Stay
• Transportation
• Booking Resources
• Related Blogs

DET to bring together Dubai’s tourism ecosystem at Arabian Travel Market 2024

D UBAI, 1st May, 2024 (WAM) – Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) will showcase the emirate’s innovative and diverse destination offering by bringing together 129 key partners and stakeholders to demonstrate the city’s collaborative spirit at the 31st edition of the Arabian Travel Market (ATM), taking place from 6-9 May 2024 at the Dubai World Trade Centre.

With this year’s ATM taking place under the forward-looking theme of ‘Empowering Innovation – Transforming Travel Through Entrepreneurship’, DET will highlight how Dubai’s tourism industry has cultivated innovation, entrepreneurship and sustainability to create new pathways for growth beyond traditional tourism. This strategic approach is inspired by the ambitious goals of the Dubai Economic Agenda D33 to further consolidate Dubai’s position as one of the top three global cities for business and leisure, and the best city to visit, live and work in.

At the event, DET will be joined on the Dubai stand by partners and representatives from government entities, hotels, destination management companies and tour operators. Key partners include the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA-Dubai), Dubai Culture, Dubai Holding, Dubai Health Authority, and more.

Issam Kazim, CEO of Dubai Corporation for Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DCTCM), said: “As a longstanding destination partner of the Arabian Travel Market, Dubai is privileged to host the 31st edition of one of global tourism’s most anticipated events. The industry gathering is a testament to our city’s position as a world-leading travel destination, achieved under the visionary leadership of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, through innovative strategies and robust public-private partnerships. In keeping with the transformative theme of this year’s show, Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism and our partners will highlight the pivotal role that entrepreneurship and innovation have played in driving tourism growth, aligned seamlessly with our D33 Agenda, the city’s 10-year roadmap for economic development.

“As we showcase the diverse and compelling destination proposition of Dubai at ATM, we eagerly anticipate the opportunity to engage with top industry experts and executives to share our blueprint for success, as well as explore the emerging themes and trends that will contribute towards industry sustainability. We remain committed to navigating the future of tourism with foresight and collaboration with our stakeholders and the international travel community, ensuring Dubai remains a beacon of innovation and excellence in the global tourism landscape.”

Dubai welcomed a record 17.15 million international overnight visitors in 2023 – a 19.4% YoY growth over the 14.36 million tourist arrivals in 2022 – and continues to build on this momentum, with 3.67 million international tourists having already visited the city in January and February this year.

The stellar performance further validates Dubai’s recognition as the No.1 global destination for an unprecedented third successive year in the Tripadvisor Travellers’ Choice Awards, the first city to achieve this. The milestone is also a testament to the emirate’s vibrant and diverse offerings, supported by world-class infrastructure, exceptional service at all touchpoints, and continuous collaboration between the government and private sectors. Dubai is expanding its range of experiences for visitors, captivating them with its unparalleled blend of modernity and culture including heritage sites and immersive attractions that highlight the city’s history and vibrant culture.

Committed to investing in human capital and developing a skilled workforce to support the growth of the city’s tourism and hospitality sectors, the Dubai College of Tourism, part of DET, will use ATM as an opportunity to drive awareness of its full-time programmes and ‘Dubai Way’, an innovative training and engagement platform for government and private sector staff engaged in tourist-facing roles.

Dubai also recognises the importance of prioritising sustainability initiatives to preserve its natural resources and further improve the overall visitor experience. With the UAE’s Year of Sustainability extending into 2024, DET will release the inaugural ‘Dubai Sustainability Report’ during ATM, and highlight the city’s ongoing initiatives such as the Dubai Sustainable Tourism Stamp, and the citywide Dubai Can movement, which has contributed to the reduction of over 18 million 500ml single-use plastic water bottles in just two years since the launch of its ‘Refill for Life’ campaign. A new Dubai Can initiative, Dubai Reef, was inaugurated in April with the launch of pilot reef modules for the world’s largest marine reef development project. Dubai’s position as the cruise hub of the region will also be showcased following the recent formalisation of the Cruise Arabia alliance – a strategic regional partnership that promotes the Arabian Gulf as a cruise ship destination globally.

This year, DET will again organise the ATM Hosted Buyers Programme across Expo City Dubai, Real Madrid World, and Dubai Creek Harbour, promoting Dubai’s unparalleled hospitality and offerings to 600 buyers from 46 different markets and countries. Among the attractions for visitors at the Dubai stand will be ‘Dubai Pinball’, an interactive and engaging gaming experience promoting Dubai’s iconic landmarks, where players can win prizes and contest to get their names on the leaderboard.

DET will also put the spotlight on the city’s diverse gastronomy scene and its year-round calendar of events, including the ongoing Dubai Food Festival held alongside ATM, which will continue until 12 May, as well as the family summer extravaganza, Dubai Summer Surprises, which is set to launch in June.

Your Ultimate Dubai Travel Guide for 2024

Dubai is a dazzling destination that offers travelers a magical experience of both the old world and the new. Between luxury shopping, five-star hotels, and thrilling attractions–Dubai is guaranteed to exceed all your expectations. You can plan for the trip of a lifetime by checking out this brilliant Dubai travel guide for 2024.

Dubai is the most populous city in the United Arab Emirates and lies directly within the Arabian Desert. This sprawling metropolis attracts visitors intrigued by its modern amenities set against a sandy desert backdrop. Dubai brings in travelers and nomads from all over the world, and the city ambitiously aims to be the most visited city by 2025.

Whether you prefer a slow-paced vacay on the beach or shopping till you drop at a luxury mall, Dubai has everything you could want in a vacation. Check out this Dubai travel guide to pick attractions for your vacation itinerary, learn some important Dubai travel tips, and discover the best time to visit Dubai. Don’t hesitate to plan a trip to Dubai that could be your next favorite vacation of 2024!

Best Dubai attractions for couples

Dubai desert safari.

This epic adventure is one of the coolest things you can add to your Dubai travel guide. Book a thrilling escape with an off-roading experience in the Arabian desert, also known as dune bashing. Enjoy an exhilarating Arabian Desert experience with camel rides, sandboarding, henna painting, Arabic tea, and a lavish BBQ spread of Arabian delicacies. You may even get to meet a camel! Enjoy the sun-kissed dunes with your significant other and watch as the stars fill the night sky. These tickets include hotel pick-up for easy travel to the desert.

The Dubai Frame

The Dubai Frame has become one of the most popular attractions in Dubai, especially for those who like to test their fear of heights! The Dubai Frame is a massive structure that was developed to link the UAE’s past to its present. As you enter the frame, you’ll see immersive 3D projections that portray the magic of ‘Old Dubai’ and explore a deep dive into the city’s evolution from a humble fishing village to its modern-day metropolis. As you catwalk the glass floor on the Sky deck level, you’ll see panoramic views of both ‘Old Dubai’ in the north and ‘New Dubai’ in the south. It’s the perfect outing for couples looking to experience one of Dubai’s iconic landmarks and enjoy a heart-pounding thrill!

Best Dubai attractions for families

Img: worlds of adventure.

Plan a trip to Dubai for the whole family by spending a day at IMG: Worlds of Adventure. There are over 1.5 million square feet of non-stop thrills and fun at the world’s largest indoor theme park. The theme park has five different zones with exhilarating rides like the Lost Valley Dinosaur Adventure Zone, where you may get lost in prehistoric times! Or, the kiddos can meet their favorite characters from both Cartoon Network and the Marvel Universe. Plus, the CN Live Stage Show features acrobatics, live music, and dancing. Your family trip to Dubai is incomplete without a visit to the IMG theme park in Dubai.

Museum of the Future

The Museum of the Future is one of Dubai’s newest attractions and the perfect addition to your Dubai travel guide for 2024. The city’s latest masterpiece encourages its guests to explore the world of tomorrow. Your family will enjoy the immersive experiences that set off all five of your senses as you learn about futuristic discoveries. The Museum of the Future was developed by some of the world’s leading designers to create a thoughtful exhibition of science, technology, and spirituality. It’s an inspiring experience that you and your family won’t soon forget.

Best landmarks to visit in Dubai

Burj khalifa.

As you plan a trip to Dubai, the Burj Khalifa should be at the top of your list of unmissable landmarks in Dubai. You quite literally cannot miss it! Burj Khalifa is the tallest tower in the world and is visible from anywhere in Dubai. You can see it from any street, but to truly get the full Dubai experience, you’ll have to journey to the top. You can purchase a ticket to the world’s highest observation deck for an otherworldly view of Dubai from the 125th floor. But if you want to tempt fate even more, check out the outdoor terrace on the 148th floor. Plus, the VIP experience puts you even higher up in the world’s highest lounge on the 154th floor. There are high-speed elevators, so it’s a quick trip to the top!

Dubai travel tips for visiting Burj Khalifa :

Be careful not to miss out on world-class views by visiting the tower on a hazy day. If you want to secure the best view, try to book your time slot right before sunset. The sky will be clearer right at the end of the day, so it’s your best shot at a fantastic view.

Burj Al Arab

One of Dubai’s most iconic landmarks is the Burj Al Arab, a sail-shaped hotel that represents the UAE’s futuristic ambitions. The Burj Al Arab is jokingly called “the world’s only ‘seven-star’ hotel” for its astounding luxuries and special care and attention of its guests. You can take a guided tour of the hotel to gain a deeper understanding of Dubai’s humble beginnings and how far the city has come in terms of wealth and stature. Architecture lovers will especially appreciate the tour, and you can snap your own pics of one of the most photographed buildings in the world! Don’t forget to add the Burj Al Arab to your Dubai travel guide for 2024.

The Dubai Mall and the Dubai Fountain

Dubai is known for its numerous world records, including the record for the largest mall in the world. The Dubai Mall has more than 1,200 shops and attracts almost 100 million visitors each year. It’s perfect for travelers who prefer the finer things in life and love to shop at luxury brands like Valentino and Dior. You may even run into a few celebrities on a shopping spree!

The Dubai Fountain also holds the record for the tallest fountain in the world, making it a must-see on your Dubai travel guide. You can catch multiple fountain shows a day that shoot up 22,000 gallons of water nearly 500 feet in the air. If you don’t mind a little spray, then you can get on the floating viewing platform for a much closer look.

How to get around Dubai

Dubai is a modern city with modern transportation, so there are many ways to get around Dubai . It has the largest driverless train system in the world, including many modes of transportation that make for quick and easy travel to all of the city’s top landmarks.

As you plan a trip to Dubai, you’ll find there are many transportation options to choose from in the city. You can purchase the NOL pass to travel on public transportation. The subway cars and trams are sleek and elevated and even have women-only cars for safety and privacy reasons. The metro, tram, and buses are all air-conditioned, and there are over 1,500 buses running more than 100 routes. It is cheapest to travel via bus in Dubai.

If you prefer to have a driver, taxis are ubiquitous throughout the city. You can pre-book them or hail them from any popular city corner. The pink taxis are “Ladies and Families-only” cars with female drivers. You can also use the Uber app or the local Careem app to book a ride.

You can also rent a car in the city if you feel confident driving foreign cars. It’s the fastest way to get around and ideal for travelers doing day trips out of Dubai. However, traffic can be heavy during peak times, especially on the highways.

One of the coolest Dubai travel tips for getting around Dubai is to jump on board an abra. An abra is a traditional wooden boat that operates between the Bur Dubai and Deira areas. Add riding an abra to your Dubai travel guide to truly feel like a local. The boats can carry about 20 people at a time, and they’re a great way to avoid traffic in the city.

The best time to visit Dubai

Since Dubai is located in the Middle East, it’s notoriously known for being a hot city. So, many travelers plan their Dubai vacation during the winter months, November to March. It’s a very popular time to visit since the temperature is a bit cooler, running from the low 60s to the mid-80s Fahrenheit. However, the city can be a bit more crowded during this time, and hotels and flights can be more expensive.

If you want to avoid the crowds completely and benefit from the cheapest prices, then you should travel in the summer months from June to August. However, keep in mind that temperatures average around 105 degrees Fahrenheit during the summer.

The sweet spot for the best time to visit Dubai is in either September or April. It’s not too hot or crowded and makes for a pleasant time to visit Dubai. However, try to avoid visiting Dubai during Eid al-Fitr, the three-day festival that marks the end of Ramadan, since it can get very crowded in the city.

Dubai tips for tourists

Before visiting Dubai, it’s important to do your research on the local culture so you can be respectful of the country’s rules and regulations. Here are some important Dubai tips for tourists to help you plan your next big trip.

🪪 Do you need a visa to visit Dubai?

No, you do not need a visa for a short-term visit to Dubai, but you will need your passport.

🗣️ What language is spoken in Dubai?

Arabic is the official language of the United Arab Emirates. However, English is widely spoken and found on most signage in Dubai.

👫 Is PDA allowed in Dubai?

Minimal public displays of affection are allowed in Dubai, like holding hands and a kiss on the cheek. Also, keep in mind that in some areas of Dubai, photography is prohibited, so look out for signs and respect the rules.

💃 What should I wear while visiting Dubai?

As a tourist, you are not restricted to a dress code in Dubai. However, one of the top Dubai tips for tourists is to wear conservative clothing while dining out or visiting a religious center. If you are dining in a restaurant, then you should cover your shoulders and wear pants or long skirts and closed-toe shoes. You will be expected to cover your shoulders if visiting a religious center, like the Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi. If you prefer, you can wear a traditional hijab and abaya while visiting a mosque.

🍷 Can travelers drink alcohol?

Since Dubai has a largely Muslim population, alcohol is not widely served throughout the city, and it is illegal to drink in public. Alcohol is only served at officially licensed establishments, like hotels, restaurants, and bars specifically for tourists. If you see a restaurant with signs saying “dry,” they do not serve alcohol. It is also not polite to ask for alcohol if you don’t see it on the menu.

Looking to add more exciting experiences to your Dubai travel guide? Check out everything there is to do in Dubai.

Article link

Related Articles

6 of the most popular Pride events in Europe

Best Things To Do In Lake Garda In 2024

Privacy overview.

Advertisement

Supported by

Hot Oceans Worsened Dubai’s Dramatic Flooding, Scientists Say

An international team of researchers found that heavy rains had intensified in the region, though they couldn’t say for sure how much climate change was responsible.

• Share full article

By Raymond Zhong

Scenes of flood-ravaged neighborhoods in one of the planet’s driest regions stunned the world this month. Heavy rains in the United Arab Emirates and Oman submerged cars, clogged highways and killed at least 21 people. Flights out of Dubai’s airport, a major global hub, were severely disrupted.

The downpours weren’t a total surprise — forecasters had anticipated the storms several days earlier and issued warnings. But they were certainly unusual.

Here’s what to know.

Heavy rain there is rare, but not unheard-of.

On average, the Arabian Peninsula receives a scant few inches of rain a year, although scientists have found that a sizable chunk of that precipitation falls in infrequent but severe bursts, not as periodic showers. These rains often come during El Niño conditions like the ones the world is experiencing now.

U.A.E. officials said the 24-hour rain total on April 16 was the country’s largest since records there began in 1949 . And parts of the nation had already experienced an earlier round of thunderstorms in March.

Oman, with its coastline on the Arabian Sea, is also vulnerable to tropical cyclones. Past storms there have brought torrential rain, powerful winds and mudslides, causing extensive damage.

Global warming is projected to intensify downpours.

Stronger storms are a key consequence of human-caused global warming. As the atmosphere gets hotter, it can hold more moisture, which can eventually make its way down to the earth as rain or snow.

But that doesn’t mean rainfall patterns are changing in precisely the same way across every part of the globe.

In their latest assessment of climate research , scientists convened by the United Nations found there wasn’t enough data to have firm conclusions about rainfall trends in the Arabian Peninsula and how climate change was affecting them. The researchers said, however, that if global warming were to be allowed to continue worsening in the coming decades, extreme downpours in the region would quite likely become more intense and more frequent.

Hot oceans are a big factor.

An international team of scientists has made a first attempt at estimating the extent to which climate change may have contributed to April’s storms. The researchers didn’t manage to pin down the connection precisely, though in their analysis, they did highlight one known driver of heavy rain in the region: above-normal ocean temperatures.

Large parts of the Indian, Pacific and Atlantic Oceans have been hotter than usual recently, in part because of El Niño and other natural weather cycles, and in part because of human-induced warming .

When looking only at El Niño years, the scientists estimated that storm events as infrequent as this month’s delivered 10 percent to 40 percent more rain to the region than they would in a world that hadn’t been warmed by human activities. They cautioned, however, that these estimates were highly uncertain.

“Rainfall, in general, is getting more extreme,” said Mansour Almazroui, a climate scientist at King Abdulaziz University in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, and one of the researchers who contributed to the analysis.

The analysis was conducted by scientists affiliated with World Weather Attribution, a research collaboration that studies extreme weather events shortly after they occur. Their findings about this month’s rains haven’t yet been peer reviewed, but are based on standardized methods .

The role of cloud seeding isn’t clear.

The U.A.E. has for decades worked to increase rainfall and boost water supplies by seeding clouds. Essentially, this involves shooting particles into clouds to encourage the moisture to gather into larger, heavier droplets, ones that are more likely to fall as rain or snow.

Cloud seeding and other rain-enhancement methods have been tried around the world, including in Australia, China, India, Israel, South Africa and the United States. Studies have found that these operations can, at best, affect precipitation modestly — enough to turn a downpour into a bigger downpour, but probably not a drizzle into a deluge.

Still, experts said pinning down how much seeding might have contributed to this month’s storms would require detailed study.

“In general, it is quite a challenge to assess the impact of seeding,” said Luca Delle Monache, a climate scientist at the Scripps Institution of Oceanography in La Jolla, Calif. Dr. Delle Monache has been leading efforts to use artificial intelligence to improve the U.A.E.’s rain-enhancement program.

An official with the U.A.E.’s National Center of Meteorology, Omar Al Yazeedi, told news outlets that the agency didn’t conduct any seeding during the latest storms. His statements didn’t make clear, however, whether that was also true in the hours or days before.

Mr. Al Yazeedi didn’t respond to emailed questions from The New York Times, and Adel Kamal, a spokesman for the center, didn’t have further comment.

Cities in dry places just aren’t designed for floods.

Wherever it happens, flooding isn’t just a matter of how much rain comes down. It’s also about what happens to all that water once it’s on the ground — most critically, in the places people live.

Cities in arid regions often aren’t designed to drain very effectively. In these areas, paved surfaces block rain from seeping into the earth below, forcing it into drainage systems that can easily become overwhelmed.

One recent study of Sharjah , the capital of the third-largest emirate in the U.A.E., found that the city’s rapid growth over the past half-century had made it vulnerable to flooding at far lower levels of rain than before.

Omnia Al Desoukie contributed reporting.

Raymond Zhong reports on climate and environmental issues for The Times. More about Raymond Zhong

Dubai plans to move its busy international airport to a $35 billion new facility within 10 years

Dubai International Airport, the world’s busiest for international travel, will move its operations to the city-state’s second, sprawling airfield in its southern desert reaches “within the next 10 years” in a project worth nearly $35 billion, its ruler said Sunday.

Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum’s announcement marks the latest chapter in the rebound of its long-haul carrier Emirates after the coronavirus pandemic grounded international travel. Plans have been on the books for years to move the operations of the airport known as DXB to Al Maktoum International Airport at Dubai World Central which had also been delayed by the repercussions of the sheikhdom’s 2009 economic crisis.

“We are building a new project for future generations, ensuring continuous and stable development for our children and their children in turn,” Sheikh Mohammed said in an online statement. “Dubai will be the world’s airport, its port, its urban hub and its new global center.”

The announcement included computer-rendered images of curving, white terminal reminiscent of the traditional Bedouin tents of the Arabian Peninsula. The airport will include five parallel runways and 400 aircraft gates, the announcement said. The airport now has just two runways, like Dubai International Airport.

The financial health of the carrier Emirates has served as a barometer for the aviation industry worldwide and the wider economic health of this city-state. Dubai and the airline rebounded quickly from the pandemic by pushing forward with tourism even as some countries more slowly came out of their pandemic crouch.

The number of passengers flying through DXB surged last year beyond its total for 2019 with 86.9 million passengers. Its 2019 annual traffic was 86.3 million passengers. The airport had 89.1 million passengers in 2018 — its busiest-ever year before the pandemic, while 66 million passengers passed through in 2022.

Earlier in February, Dubai announced its best-ever tourism numbers, saying it hosted 17.15 million international overnight visitors in 2023. Average hotel occupancy stood at around 77%. Its boom-and-bust real estate market remains on a hot streak , nearing all-time high valuations.

But as those passenger numbers skyrocketed, it again put new pressure on the capacity of DXB, which remains constrained on all sides by residential neighborhoods and two major highways.

Al Maktoum International Airport, some 45 kilometers (28 miles) away from DXB, opened in 2010 with one terminal. It served as a parking lot for Emirates’ double-decker Airbus A380s and other aircraft during the pandemic and slowly has come back to life with cargo and private flights in the time since. It also hosts the biennial Dubai Air Show and has a vast, empty desert in which to expand.

The announcement by Sheikh Mohammed noted Dubai’s plans to expand further south. Already, its nearby Expo 2020 site has been offering homes for buyers.

“As we build an entire city around the airport in Dubai South, demand for housing for a million people will follow,” Dubai’s ruler said. “It will host the world’s leading companies in the logistics and air transport sectors.”

However, financial pressures have halted the move in the past. Dubai’s 2009 financial crisis, brought on by the Great Recession, forced Abu Dhabi to provide the city-state with a $20 billion bailout.

Meanwhile, the city-state is still trying to recover after the heaviest rainfall ever recorded in the UAE , which disrupted flights and commerce for days.

• Environment
• Road to Net Zero
• Art & Design
• Film & TV
• Music & On-stage
• Pop Culture
• Fashion & Beauty
• Home & Garden
• Things to do
• Combat Sports
• Horse Racing
• Beyond the Headlines
• Trending Middle East
• Business Extra
• Culture Bites
• Year of Elections
• Pocketful of Dirhams
• Books of My Life
• Iraq: 20 Years On

Dubai seeks faster travel at new terminal in Al Maktoum Airport with emerging technology

Solutions from ai to electric aircraft will redefine future of travel at new facility.

The new passenger terminal at Al Maktoum International Airport is expected to be ready within 10 years. Photo: Dubai Airports

Cutting-edge aviation technology from AI to electric aircraft will help to reimagine passengers' journeys through Dubai's new $35bn passenger terminal at Al Maktoum International Airport.

A “massive leap” in aviation technology at the new terminal will dismantle the old ways of processing passengers through airports and get rid of choke-points through the hub for faster travel, Paul Griffiths, chief executive of Dubai Airports, told The National on Monday.

“Airports have a habit of legacy processes but we're determined to engineer this out. There will be huge investments in automation to make the customer service ethos better and to improve the quality of what we deliver. We've only scratched the service of what AI will deliver in this,” he said.

“Watch this space. The operating model of the airport will be very different from what we have seen.”

A surge in demand for air travel is placing “extraordinary pressure” on existing and new airports, national borders and airline resources, according to an April white paper on biometrics by Sita, an IT provider for the air transport industry.

The existing paper-based and manual travel infrastructure and legacy processes “simply won’t be able to cope”, according to the paper.

The solution is to leverage the power of facial and fingerprint biometrics to create a smoother and safer air travel experience, it said. Advanced technology will also help to solve other aviation industry challenges such as space constraints, specialist staff shortages and evolving passenger wants.

The global demand for travel is rising and biometrics is at the “forefront of this transformation” as the number of air travellers is set to double to eight billion annually by 2040, up from four billion in 2019, according to projections by the International Air Transport Association (Iata).

Dubai Airports has already made investments in biometric technology to funnel more people through Dubai International Airport faster, with the aim of increasing its capacity to 120 million passengers annually.

The first phase of the new passenger terminal at Al Maktoum Airport is expected to be ready within 10 years, with the capacity to accommodate 150 million passengers annually.

The new airport terminal, spread across 70 square kilometres, will feature 400 aircraft gates, five parallel runways and new aviation technology.

That technology will focus on “the ability to eliminate legacy processes that we've had to endure for so long,” Mr Griffiths said.

“I can't think of another commodity that makes you book and then you go to the airport and reaffirm that you want that product.”

The Dubai government has approved designs for a new passenger terminal at Al Maktoum International Airport and has started construction at a cost of Dh128 billion. Photo: Dubai government via AP

Future-proofing the new airport

Operator Dubai Airports is now in the detail design phase of the project during which decisions must be made on the hub's final configuration, operations, relationship with ground transport, customer service plan, F&B and retail strategy.

“With the design process, it is imperative that we rethink what the fundamentals of airports are: they are a way of ensuring the smooth and seamless transition from ground to air, that’s the whole rationale of having an airport,” Mr Griffiths said.

“We are taking a long, hard look at that in the design process.”

This also means that internal and external rail networks, road transport, electric aircraft technology, executive jets and budget airlines will be “incredibly important” elements for the efficiency of the new terminal, he said.

Dubai has signed an agreement with US-based electric aircraft maker Joby Aviation to launch passenger air taxi services in the emirate, which Joby expects to start as early as next year.

Built into the new airport terminal design is the flexibility to incorporate technology currently available today and emerging tech that develops over the years.

“Flexibility, imagination and collaboration are what we need to make it work effectively,” Mr Griffiths said.

The new terminal design, despite its ability to accommodate more runway movements, will take into account sustainable operations, the Dubai Airports boss said.

“We are all learning from climate change and there’s an acceptance that you cannot regard heavy rain as a minor event. We need to invest in systems and infrastructure to deal with climate change,” he said.

This will entail major investments in sustainability in terms of solar power, waste treatment, biofuels and a “huge number of initiatives” to combat the impact of climate change, Mr Griffiths said.

Dubai International Airport (DXB), the world's largest hub by international traffic for 10 consecutive years, struggled to clear a backlog of flights after a record-breaking rainstorm in the UAE earlier this month.

DXB resumed normal operations days after the storm flooded taxiways, forcing flight diversions, delays and cancellations.

Checking In

Travel updates and inspiration from the past week

Change location

• Call us tomorrow from 9am 01993 838 925 01993 838 763 or
• REQUEST A QUOTE

Dubai stopovers

A ski slope in the desert, ATMs that dispense gold bars, palm-shaped artificial archipelagoes… Dubai doesn’t shy away from excess. But there’s more to this flourishing city than glitz and glamour. You might come for the endless sun, sweeping gold-sand beaches and the glittering blue waters of the Persian Gulf. There’s the lure of the surrounding desert, which stretches to the heat-hazed horizon. Or, in areas of the city less touched by glass and metal, you can find traditional Bedouin buildings, maze-like souqs and foods that reflect the breadth of Middle Eastern cuisine .

Our specialists have visited Dubai and can offer first-hand advice on how to uncover the culture that’s often hidden in the shade of skyscrapers like the Burj Khalifa. They can arrange for a guide to help you explore spice-scented souqs and sample elusive local dishes. You can also leave the city for a driving safari in the Arabian Desert . And, if you want to spend your Dubai holiday simply lounging by the water with a cocktail, they’ll be happy to suggest resorts with the best private beaches and most attentive service.

• Make an enquiry
• Request a brochure

Suggested tours for Dubai

These tours give you a starting point for what your holiday to Dubai could entail. Treat them as inspiration, as each trip is created uniquely for you.

Luxury Dubai: beach & desert

8 days from £6,995pp

Cocoa Island & Dubai

11 days from £5,600pp

Constance Moofushi & Dubai

11 days from £5,200pp

Velassaru & Dubai

12 days from £4,200pp

Suggested activities for Dubai

Whatever your interests, our specialists will build activities into your trip that connect to how you want to experience Dubai.

Old Dubai evening walking tour

Look beyond Dubai’s gleaming glass-and-steel skyscrapers to discover the historic side of the city on this walking tour of the Dubai Creek area. Browse spice-scented souqs, explore Al Fahidi District and ride in an abra (water taxi).

Middle East food pilgrimage

Dubai is known for its world-class restaurants, but authentic Middle Eastern food can be surprisingly hard to find here. Get an insider’s glimpse into the cuisine on this guided walking tour, which includes sampling baklava, saffron ice cream and cardamom-scented coffee.

Sundowner desert safari with dinner

Explore the desert with this evening tour that will give you the chance to ride a camel, go dune bashing in a 4x4 and enjoy a traditional feast under the star-lit sky. You may even glimpse some of the desert’s elusive wildlife.

Why travel with Audley?

• 100% tailor-made tours
• Fully protected travel
• Established for over 25 years
• 98% of our clients would recommend us

Best time to visit

Our specialists advise on the best months to visit Dubai, including information about climate, events and festivals.

Request our brochure

Covering all seven continents, The World Your Way shows you how you can see the world with us. It features trip ideas from our specialists alongside hand-picked stays and experiences, and introduces our approach to creating meaningful travel experiences.

Useful information for planning your holiday in Dubai

The official language of Dubai is Modern Standard Arabic, but in casual conversation, Emiratis speak a local dialect called Khaleeji (Gulf Arabic). However, most people living in Dubai are from other countries, so English is commonly spoken and most signs are written in both Arabic and English.

The currency of Dubai is the United Arab Emirates dirham (AED). ATMs are widespread and cash is the primary means of payment throughout the city, though credit cards are widely accepted everywhere except the souqs.

Tipping in Dubai is completely discretionary and down to personal preference. Only food and drinks outlets in hotels are legally allowed to add service charges to your total but they’re often not passed on to serving staff, so you may want to add an additional tip. Independent restaurants don’t typically add service charges, so leaving a 10% tip is appreciated.

For the latest travel advice for Dubai, including entry requirements, health information, and the safety and security situation, please refer to the  Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office website .

In Dubai, you can unwind on sandy beaches, visit lavish shopping malls, peruse traditional bazaars, go on a desert adventure, and sample cuisines from across the globe. It’s also the kind of place where you can zip-line across the marina, visit coffee and pearl museums, and get a gold-leaf facial. In other words, Dubai is a city of excess.

For a more traditional take on the city, why not take a walking tour through Old Dubai  to see its gold and spice souqs, wander down narrow lanes lined with mosques and minarets, and see the original fishing village that blossomed into the glittering modern city? You can also get an introduction to Middle Eastern culinary traditions on a guided food tour  or venture outside the city to explore the sea of endless dunes on a desert safari .

Dubai offers a huge range of places to stay from five-star beachfront properties to family-friendly resorts, intimate guesthouses, and hotels in restored historic buildings. You might like to stay in a Moorish-style retreat  with opulent suites and a Michelin-starred chef, an adults-only escape  with a private golf course, or a palatial hotel in downtown Dubai  with a palm-lined pool and manicured gardens. Alternatively, you could leave the bustle of the city behind and stay in a Bedouin-style villa  in a desert conservation area. To get some ideas, browse our collection of places to stay in Dubai .

Dubai has a variety of distinct districts, and you’ll find different experiences in each from the super-sized shopping malls in the heart of the city to the traditional architecture of Al Fahidi, and the waterparks of the Palm. Downtown Dubai is where you’ll find some of Dubai’s best shopping along with the aquarium, opera house, Museum of the Future, and the Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building.

Jumeirah is one of the city’s most fashionable addresses and has an array of smart restaurants to choose from, nearby Dubai Marina is another good spot for dining and nightlife. For a more traditional take on the city, head to historical Al Fahidi to wander meandering lanes lined with artists’ workshops, traditional wind towers, cafes, galleries, and small gift shops, or hop across Dubai Creek to visit the gold souq. Beyond the city lies the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve, a rippling blanket of dunes with a surprising array of wildlife.

It takes around seven to eight hours to fly to Dubai from the UK. There are direct flights from various UK cities, including London, Birmingham, Manchester, and Glasgow.

The time zone in Dubai is UTC+4 hours. The clocks don’t change during the year.

The best way of getting around Dubai is by public transport because it’s clean, efficient, and easy to use. You can take the metro or tram to most places of interest, and there’s also a monorail that will take you to Palm Jumeirah and the Atlantis hotel. The Dubai Ferry runs along the coast, and you’ll find taxis everywhere. They can be booked in advance or hailed on the street. Taxis with a pink roof are driven by women and take female passengers or families only.

If you’re a British citizen, you will need to get a 30-day visa on arrival in Dubai. UK passport holders who are British subjects rather than British citizens may require a visa, so you should contact the UAE Consulate before travel.

Your doctor can provide you with vaccine advice for Dubai, but you should also ensure you’re up to date with the recommended vaccinations for your home country. You can also check the suggested vaccinations on the  Travel Health Pro website .

You’ll need to check that your passport is valid for a minimum of six months from your date of entry to Dubai.

You can take medication into Dubai, but some medications require a permit. You should check with your doctor before you travel to see if your medication requires one. If it doesn’t, you’ll just need to carry your prescription with you. However, if your medication is on the controlled list, you’ll need to apply in advance for a permit to import medicines for personal use . Applications are normally processed within five working days.

In Dubai, you should wear long, loose clothing that covers your shoulders and knees in public areas including shopping malls. Cotton or linen clothing is most comfortable in hot weather, and everyone is expected to dress modestly regardless of gender because the United Arab Emirates is an Islamic country.

If you’re visiting a mosque or religious site, you should wear full-length sleeves and trousers or an ankle-length skirt. Women will also need to bring a scarf to cover their heads. It’s a good idea to carry an extra layer in case you need to cover up or just feel cold in the air-conditioned shopping malls.

On the beach and at hotels, you can wear regular swimwear including bikinis, but you should always cover up when leaving the beach.

You can travel to Dubai during Ramadan and shouldn’t encounter any significant changes to your experience. Non-Muslims are not required to fast and there are no specific restrictions for visitors during Ramadan. Most restaurants, including those in hotels, operate as normal during the day, but you may find there are different opening hours at some on-site dining options in hotels.

It’s strictly prohibited to take photographs of military or government buildings, ports, aircraft, or in the airport in Dubai. You must also ask for permission before taking a picture with anyone else in it and you should never take photos of women or families in public areas.

Dubai is part of an Islamic country, so the customs and traditions may be very different from your home country. For example, it’s illegal to drink alcohol or be drunk in a public place, though you can still drink alcohol in a licensed hotel, and its restaurants or dedicated lounges.

Out of respect you shouldn't use your right hand for opening doors, greeting people, or for eating. Excessive public displays of affection are prohibited, and swearing, fighting, or using rude gestures in public can land you in a lot of trouble. It’s also worth knowing that the weekend is Friday and Saturday.

Dubai in pictures

Our expert guides to travelling in Dubai

Written by our specialists from the viewpoint of their own travels, these guides will help you decide on the shape of your own trip to Dubai. Aiming to inspire and inform, we share our recommendations for how to appreciate Dubai at its best.

Dubai travel guide: our highlights

Though it’s known for dizzying skyline, man-made islands and vast malls, Dubai has plenty to offer besides. Specialist Matt shares his recommendations, from its best beach areas to discovering the hidden traditions of this desert city in its souqs and bazaars.

Other popular destinations

Still looking for ideas? If Dubai has captured your interest, we think you might also like these destinations.

Dubai Airports CEO Suggests Current Hub Could Become Obsolete

Josh Corder , Skift

April 30th, 2024 at 7:53 AM EDT

With a new $35 billion facility on the way, Paul Griffiths says the city doesn't need two airports.

Josh Corder

Dubai is no stranger to building things and tearing them down, and one day, its global airport could meet the same fate.

On Sunday, Dubai’s ruler announced a $35 billion expansion for DWC (Dubai World Central — Al Maktoum International Airport), with hopes of turning it into the world’s biggest airport within the next decade.

Once complete, DWC will have five runways, five terminals, and capacity for 260 million passengers. The scale of the new project could render the existing hub – Dubai International Airport (DXB) – obsolete.

Speaking on local radio , Dubai Airports CEO Paul Griffiths said: “If you look at the size of the city, [the new airport] is actually closer for those living on Palm Jumeirah. We’ve got to look at journey time. Journey time will get lower and lower. All of the expansion in Dubai is to the south.”

“I really don’t think we need two airports. The proximity of the new airport will make it very clear, one airport, with the sort of capacity and proximity to the center of new Dubai, will be enough.”

The Importance of Air Travel to Dubai

DXB is one of the busiest airports in the world and the base for Emirates – a successful airline credited with helping put Dubai on the proverbial and literal map.

In 2023, Dubai International Airport received 86.9 million passengers. Its annual traffic in 2019 was 86.3 million. DXB expects to receive 88.8 million guests this year, close to its 2018 all-time high of 89.1 million passengers.

DXB doesn’t post its financials, but we know its Duty Free business had $2.16 billion in sales turnover last year.

Griffiths said “Dubai absolutely needs” the new airport as DXB will run out of space in the next decade.

He said: “Although we are doing incredibly well at DXB, with the two runways, we are limited on aircraft movements. We do need those additional movements as the average size of aircraft is going down. I’m just so relieved this has been announced.”

“The contribution to the economy [in Dubai] from aviation is enormous. With a new home, we will be able to generate greater levels of revenue both directly and indirectly from more people in the city. That will boost the coffers and help cover the cost of the airport.”

“It’ll be very challenging to move a hub in a short space of time, it’ll be a phased move.”

Watch Paul Griffiths, CEO of Dubai Airports at Skift Global Forum East:

The Daily Newsletter

Our daily coverage of the global travel industry. Written by editors and analysts from across Skift’s brands.

Have a confidential tip for Skift? Get in touch

Tags: airlines , airports , dubai , dubai airport , dwc , dxb , emirates , uae tourism

Photo credit: Emirates airliners are seen on the tarmac in a view of Dubai International Airport in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. Dubai Airports

• Election 2024
• Entertainment
• Newsletters
• Photography
• Personal Finance
• AP Investigations
• AP Buyline Personal Finance
• AP Buyline Shopping
• Press Releases
• Israel-Hamas War
• Russia-Ukraine War
• Global elections
• Asia Pacific
• Latin America
• Middle East
• Election Results
• Delegate Tracker
• AP & Elections
• Auto Racing
• 2024 Paris Olympic Games
• Movie reviews
• Book reviews
• Personal finance
• Financial Markets
• Business Highlights
• Financial wellness
• Artificial Intelligence
• Social Media

Dubai plans to move its busy international airport to a $35 billion new facility within 10 years

This artist’s rendering provided by the government of Dubai shows plans for Al Maktoum International Airport at Dubai World Central in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. Dubai International Airport, the world’s busiest for international travel, will move its operations to the city-state’s second, sprawling airfield in its southern desert reaches “within the next 10 years” in a project worth nearly $35 billion, its ruler said Sunday, April 28, 2024. (Dubai government via AP)

This satellite image from Planet Labs PBC shows Al Maktoum International Airport at Dubai World Central on Friday, April 26, 2024. Dubai International Airport, the world’s busiest for international travel, will move its operations to the city-state’s second, sprawling airfield in its southern desert reaches “within the next 10 years” in a project worth nearly $35 billion, its ruler said Sunday, April 28, 2024. (Planet Labs PBC via AP)

• Copy Link copied

Dubai International Airport, the world’s busiest for international travel, will move its operations to the city-state’s second, sprawling airfield in its southern desert reaches “within the next 10 years” in a project worth nearly $35 billion, its ruler said Sunday.

Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum’s announcement marks the latest chapter in the rebound of its long-haul carrier Emirates after the coronavirus pandemic grounded international travel. Plans have been on the books for years to move the operations of the airport known as DXB to Al Maktoum International Airport at Dubai World Central which had also been delayed by the repercussions of the sheikhdom’s 2009 economic crisis.

“We are building a new project for future generations, ensuring continuous and stable development for our children and their children in turn,” Sheikh Mohammed said in an online statement. “Dubai will be the world’s airport, its port, its urban hub and its new global center.”

The announcement included computer-rendered images of curving, white terminal reminiscent of the traditional Bedouin tents of the Arabian Peninsula. The airport will include five parallel runways and 400 aircraft gates, the announcement said. The airport now has just two runways, like Dubai International Airport.

The financial health of the carrier Emirates has served as a barometer for the aviation industry worldwide and the wider economic health of this city-state. Dubai and the airline rebounded quickly from the pandemic by pushing forward with tourism even as some countries more slowly came out of their pandemic crouch.

The number of passengers flying through DXB surged last year beyond its total for 2019 with 86.9 million passengers. Its 2019 annual traffic was 86.3 million passengers. The airport had 89.1 million passengers in 2018 — its busiest-ever year before the pandemic, while 66 million passengers passed through in 2022.

Earlier in February, Dubai announced its best-ever tourism numbers, saying it hosted 17.15 million international overnight visitors in 2023. Average hotel occupancy stood at around 77%. Its boom-and-bust real estate market remains on a hot streak , nearing all-time high valuations.

But as those passenger numbers skyrocketed, it again put new pressure on the capacity of DXB, which remains constrained on all sides by residential neighborhoods and two major highways.

Al Maktoum International Airport, some 45 kilometers (28 miles) away from DXB, opened in 2010 with one terminal. It served as a parking lot for Emirates’ double-decker Airbus A380s and other aircraft during the pandemic and slowly has come back to life with cargo and private flights in the time since. It also hosts the biennial Dubai Air Show and has a vast, empty desert in which to expand.

The announcement by Sheikh Mohammed noted Dubai’s plans to expand further south. Already, its nearby Expo 2020 site has been offering homes for buyers.

“As we build an entire city around the airport in Dubai South, demand for housing for a million people will follow,” Dubai’s ruler said. “It will host the world’s leading companies in the logistics and air transport sectors.”

However, financial pressures have halted the move in the past. Dubai’s 2009 financial crisis, brought on by the Great Recession, forced Abu Dhabi to provide the city-state with a $20 billion bailout.

Meanwhile, the city-state is still trying to recover after the heaviest rainfall ever recorded in the UAE , which disrupted flights and commerce for days.

• Ground Reports
• 50-Word Edit
• National Interest
• Campus Voice
• Security Code
• Off The Cuff
• Democracy Wall
• Around Town
• PastForward
• In Pictures
• Last Laughs
• ThePrint Essential

Dubai [UAE], May 1(ANI/WAM): Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) will showcase the emirate’s innovative and diverse destination offering by bringing together 129 key partners and stakeholders to demonstrate the city’s collaborative spirit at the 31st edition of the Arabian Travel Market (ATM), taking place from 6-9 May 2024 at the Dubai World Trade Centre.

With this year’s ATM taking place under the forward-looking theme of ‘Empowering Innovation Transforming Travel Through Entrepreneurship’, DET will highlight how Dubai’s tourism industry has cultivated innovation, entrepreneurship and sustainability to create new pathways for growth beyond traditional tourism.

This strategic approach is inspired by the ambitious goals of the Dubai Economic Agenda D33 to further consolidate Dubai’s position as one of the top three global cities for business and leisure, and the best city to visit, live and work in.

At the event, DET will be joined on the Dubai stand by partners and representatives from government entities, hotels, destination management companies and tour operators. Key partners include the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA-Dubai), Dubai Culture, Dubai Holding, Dubai Health Authority, and more.

Issam Kazim, CEO of Dubai Corporation for Tourism and Commerce Marketing (DCTCM), said: “As a longstanding destination partner of the Arabian Travel Market, Dubai is privileged to host the 31st edition of one of global tourism’s most anticipated events.

The industry gathering is a testament to our city’s position as a world-leading travel destination, achieved under the visionary leadership of Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, through innovative strategies and robust public-private partnerships.

In keeping with the transformative theme of this year’s show, Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism and our partners will highlight the pivotal role that entrepreneurship and innovation have played in driving tourism growth, aligned seamlessly with our D33 Agenda, the city’s 10-year roadmap for economic development.

“As we showcase the diverse and compelling destination proposition of Dubai at ATM, we eagerly anticipate the opportunity to engage with top industry experts and executives to share our blueprint for success, as well as explore the emerging themes and trends that will contribute towards industry sustainability.

We remain committed to navigating the future of tourism with foresight and collaboration with our stakeholders and the international travel community, ensuring Dubai remains a beacon of innovation and excellence in the global tourism landscape.”

Dubai welcomed a record 17.15 million international overnight visitors in 2023 a 19.4 per cent YoY growth over the 14.36 million tourist arrivals in 2022 and continues to build on this momentum, with 3.67 million international tourists having already visited the city in January and February this year.

The stellar performance further validates Dubai’s recognition as the No.1 global destination for an unprecedented third successive year in the Tripadvisor Travellers’ Choice Awards, the first city to achieve this.

The milestone is also a testament to the emirate’s vibrant and diverse offerings, supported by world-class infrastructure, exceptional service at all touchpoints, and continuous collaboration between the government and private sectors. Dubai is expanding its range of experiences for visitors, captivating them with its unparalleled blend of modernity and culture including heritage sites and immersive attractions that highlight the city’s history and vibrant culture.

Committed to investing in human capital and developing a skilled workforce to support the growth of the city’s tourism and hospitality sectors, the Dubai College of Tourism, part of DET, will use ATM as an opportunity to drive awareness of its full-time programmes and ‘Dubai Way’, an innovative training and engagement platform for government and private sector staff engaged in tourist-facing roles.

Dubai also recognises the importance of prioritising sustainability initiatives to preserve its natural resources and further improve the overall visitor experience. With the UAE’s Year of Sustainability extending into 2024, DET will release the inaugural ‘Dubai Sustainability Report’ during ATM, and highlight the city’s ongoing initiatives such as the Dubai Sustainable Tourism Stamp, and the citywide Dubai Can movement, which has contributed to the reduction of over 18 million 500ml single-use plastic water bottles in just two years since the launch of its ‘Refill for Life’ campaign.

A new Dubai Can initiative, Dubai Reef, was inaugurated in April with the launch of pilot reef modules for the world’s largest marine reef development project. Dubai’s position as the cruise hub of the region will also be showcased following the recent formalisation of the Cruise Arabia alliance – a strategic regional partnership that promotes the Arabian Gulf as a cruise ship destination globally.

This year, DET will again organise the ATM Hosted Buyers Programme across Expo City Dubai, Real Madrid World, and Dubai Creek Harbour, promoting Dubai’s unparalleled hospitality and offerings to 600 buyers from 46 different markets and countries.

Among the attractions for visitors at the Dubai stand will be ‘Dubai Pinball’, an interactive and engaging gaming experience promoting Dubai’s iconic landmarks, where players can win prizes and contests to get their names on the leaderboard.

DET will also put the spotlight on the city’s diverse gastronomy scene and its year-round calendar of events, including the ongoing Dubai Food Festival held alongside ATM, which will continue until 12 May, as well as the family summer extravaganza, Dubai Summer Surprises, which is set to launch in June. (ANI/WAM)

This report is auto-generated from ANI news service. ThePrint holds no responsibility for its content.

Subscribe to our channels on YouTube , Telegram & WhatsApp

Support Our Journalism

India needs fair, non-hyphenated and questioning journalism, packed with on-ground reporting. ThePrint – with exceptional reporters, columnists and editors – is doing just that.

Sustaining this needs support from wonderful readers like you.

Whether you live in India or overseas, you can take a paid subscription by clicking here .

LEAVE A REPLY Cancel

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Most Popular

Why vizag, financial capital powering andhra pradesh’s economy, hasn’t realised its potential, bollywood lines, ai anchor & young faces — how cpi(m) is trying to rebuild itself in west bengal, twitter aiding probe into doctored video of amit shah, efforts on to track source handle, say police.

Required fields are marked *

Copyright © 2024 Printline Media Pvt. Ltd. All rights reserved.

• Terms of Use
• Privacy Policy