Dubai City Guide

General Information / Guide

Dubai, once a small fishing village on the Arabian Peninsula, has transformed into a luxurious and well-known emirate within the United Arab Emirates. Famous for its skyscrapers and opulence, it's a hub for the world's largest companies and finest hotels. A destination for shopping for high-end brands and enjoying seaside leisure, it also attracts foreign companies due to relaxed policies. Though populated by 2 million people, only a small portion are native inhabitants. Dubai's growth into this lavish oasis symbolizes its development and wealth.

Climate / Weather / When to Go

Dubai's location on the Arabian Peninsula means hot weather throughout the year. Summers see over 40°C temperatures and high humidity, leading to nighttime shopping and midday breaks. Sunshine is consistent, with minimal winter rain. Averages of 25°C characterize winters, but day-night temperature differences are substantial due to the desert climate. Even January-February offers sea swimming comfort. April brings 30°C+, while summers can hit 45°C. Autumn hovers around 35°C. Winter spans 25-30°C.

How to Get There

Dubai has worldwide direct and connecting flights. Dubai International Airport is conveniently near the city center, accessible via bus, taxi, metro, or free shuttle. Just 4 km away, the airport permits 2 bags per person on the metro. Taxis are ideal for excess baggage. Alternatively, Abu Dhabi Airport is an option, linked by a wide highway. From there, car rental or taxis are necessary for Dubai travel.

Food / Restaurants / What to Eat and Drink

Dubai's diverse population translates to a global culinary scene. Arabic cuisine features felafel, fried chicken, or lamb. Italian options like pizza and burgers are available. Seafood is integral, along with Arabic dishes like fuul and hummus. Juice vendors are common, offering tropical flavors like pineapple and mango.

Important Places / Places to Visit

Burj Khalifa: The world's tallest building at 828 meters with 124 floors, featuring restaurants, cafes, and shops.

Jumeirah Mosque: Among Dubai's oldest structures, distinguished by its white color, dating back to medieval times.

Palm Islands: Recent notable creations, artificial islands on the sea with numerous constructed buildings.

Sheikh Saeed Al Maktoum's House: Birthplace of Dubai's Sheikh Al Maktoum, now a museum showcasing traditional architecture.

Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque: One of the world's largest mosques, located in Abu Dhabi, boasts a white façade, handwoven carpet, and massive chandelier.

Shopping Malls: Dubai's renowned shopping hubs house top global brands.

Burj Al Arab Hotel: An opulent hotel with a sail-like structure, situated on an island, offering guided tours.

Bastakiya Area: A district preserving traditional Dubai life, featuring historic houses.

What to Do

Dubai offers superb shopping, especially for electronics like iPhones and iPads, often at lower prices than in our country. You'll find renowned brands and can purchase new phones, tablets, computers, and more. Winter allows for sea swimming, with cozy beachside hotels and indulgent services like massages and spas. Desert safaris rank among the top Dubai experiences, featuring sand dune rides, tent meals, and glimpses of locals' weekend retreats.

Nightlife / Bars / Entertainment

Dubai's nightlife centers in hotels due to alcohol regulations, with clubs usually closing by 2:00 AM. Notable venues include People by Crystal for a 360-degree view and Nasimi Beach Club. Dubliner’s offers renowned beers, The Music Room features live music, and Cavalli Club is popular. Hotel bars are pleasant, but outdoor alcohol sales are restricted. Non-Muslims can buy alcohol by stating their faith. Desert night tours provide unique alternatives.

Shopping / What to Buy

Dubai is renowned for luxury brands and affordable cutting-edge tech, thanks to tax-free shopping. Expansive electronic markets beckon, urging you to compare prices. Shops close midday, and reopen from 4 PM to midnight. English is common, ensuring easy shopping. Gold Souk, Spice Souk, Dubai Mall, and Mall of the Emirates are musts. Exploring Dubai Mall in a day is daunting; its vastness is remarkable, featuring a stunning aquarium.

Festivals

January: Dubai Shopping Festival

February: Dubai International Jazz Festival

March: Dubai Lynx Festival

March: Dubai World Cup

December: Dubai International Film Festival

Holidays / Festivals / Important Days

January 1 - New Year's Day

Hijri New Year

Eid al-Fitr

Eid al-Adha

December 2 - National Day

Things to Pay Attention to / Important Information

Dubai embodies luxury, with upscale products prevalent. Be wary of excessive shopping. Avoid driving under alcohol influence; penalties are severe. Strict traffic rules necessitate public transport or taxis. Desert safaris: beware of sandstorms. Consume alcohol in permitted hotels/restaurants only. Dubai enforces strict Islamic rules. Alcohol is sold to foreign passport holders at specific sites. Shops close midday, and open until midnight due to desert climate. Fluent in English? Shopping's a breeze. For tech, skip Chinese products; choose originals. City hotels are an option if sea activities don't appeal.

Transportation

While Dubai has its airport, travelers also have the option to use Abu Dhabi Airport. Situated merely 4 kilometers from the city center, Dubai International Airport serves as a hub for flights from numerous countries across the globe. Upon arrival, you can choose between a bus, metro, shuttle, or taxi to access the city center. Opting for the metro allows you to avoid traffic congestion and conveniently reach the heart of the city; however, if you're unfamiliar with your hotel's location, a taxi is the recommended choice. The metro operates at intervals of 10 minutes. Alternatively, car rental is another viable option.