Travel Guides for Dubai – Your Quick Start

Planning a trip to Dubai? You’re in the right place. This page gathers the most useful travel info you’ll need, from safety basics to budgeting hacks. Think of it as a cheat sheet you can read in five minutes before you pack.

Dubai is a city of glitz, deserts, and strict rules. Knowing what’s allowed and what’s not can save you time, money, and even a run‑in with the police. Below you’ll find bite‑size advice that works for solo travelers, couples, and groups alike.

Safety and Legal Tips

First off, Dubai is generally safer than many big U.S. cities. Crime rates are low, but that doesn’t mean you can ignore local laws. Public displays of affection (PDA) are okay in private venues but keep it discreet on the street – a quick kiss is fine, a hug might raise eyebrows.

Swearing in public can lead to fines or even jail time. The same goes for offensive gestures or harassing language online. If you’re unsure, stick to polite conversation and keep profanity out of public spaces.

Alcohol is only allowed in licensed hotels, bars, and private clubs. Drinking on the street is a no‑go, and driving under the influence is strictly enforced. Plan your evenings around venues that have a liquor licence, and always carry your ID.

Ramadan changes the game. From sunrise to sunset, eating, drinking, and smoking in public is prohibited. Restaurants will serve food in screened areas, and most bars will be closed. Respect the schedule, and you’ll avoid unwanted attention.

When it comes to dating, unmarried couples can share a hotel room without a problem. Just have your passports ready for check‑in. Same‑sex couples face more scrutiny, so it helps to book in advance and choose hotels known for being LGBTQ‑friendly.

Budget and Practical Advice

Money matters most when you’re figuring out how long you can stay. A realistic 7‑day budget for 2025 is about 3,500 AED (≈ $950) per person, covering mid‑range hotels, meals, transport, and a few attractions.

Cash is handy for markets and taxis, but credit cards are accepted everywhere else. The UAE dirham is pegged to the US dollar, so exchange rates stay stable. Avoid exchange kiosks at the airport – they charge higher fees.

Public transport is cheap and reliable. A Nol card costs 25 AED and you can top it up as needed. Metro, bus, and tram rides cost between 2 and 8 AED, depending on distance.

If you prefer private rides, use reputable taxi apps like Careem or Uber. They’re transparent about pricing and let you track the driver. Always check that the driver’s ID matches the app’s details.

For solo female travelers, Dubai is safe as long as you follow basic precautions: dress modestly (cover shoulders and knees), stay in well‑lit areas at night, and keep your phone charged. The city has women‑only sections in many spas and beaches, which can be a comfortable retreat.

Need a place to stay? Airbnb is legal and regulated, but make sure the host has the proper tourism permit. Hotels range from ultra‑luxury to affordable boutique options – book early if you’re traveling during peak season (Nov‑Feb).

Finally, remember that English is widely spoken, especially in tourist zones. You’ll get by just fine without knowing Arabic, but learning a few simple greetings shows respect and often earns a smile.

Use this guide as a launchpad, then dive into the individual articles on our site for deeper details on each topic. Happy travels, and enjoy the mix of modern luxury and desert adventure that only Dubai can offer.