Practical information

Quick tips
Follow these essentials

Most nationalities can simply get a visa on arrival at the airport but visitors should check their visa requirements before arriving. Both Dubai International Airport (DXB) and Dubai World Central (DWC) have a range of helpful facilities and public transport options.

Money changing facilities and taxis are readily available, as well as car rental services, convenience stores and information desks for general queries.

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The currency in Dubai is the dirham, which is shortened to AED (United Arab Emirates Dirham). One dirham is divided into 100 fils. The dirham has been pegged to the US dollar since 1997, meaning the exchange rate never changes. One US dollar is worth AED3.67.

Small bottle of water: AED1.5 (50 cents)
Big Mac: AED16.75 (USD4.5)
Biryani: AED13 (USD3.5)
Shawarma wrap: AED5 (USD1.4)
Short taxi ride: AED12 (USD3.3)
Dubai Metro (3 zones): AED5.8 (USD1.6)
Cinema ticket (standard): AED35 (USD9.6)
Abra ride across Dubai Creek: AED1 (USD27 cents)

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With a coastal location on the Arabian Peninsula, Dubai enjoys a warm climate all year. The ‘winter’ months last from October to May with warm temperatures ranging from 20–35°C (68–95°F).

The summer season lasts from June to September with hotter temperatures reaching the mid-40s (~110° F) – and the city’s wide range of indoor and outdoor facilities and attractions ensure Dubai is a year-round destination.

Navigating around the city, reading restaurant reviews and checking in with friends around the world – we all need to stay connected. You will receive a free prepaid SIM card from telecom operator, Du, on arrival at the airport. You can also check out the competitive roaming and data packages from Etisalat, Du and Virgin Mobile. Safe public Wi-Fi is available across the UAE at many top destinations. Simply sign up and surf away.

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Nearly 100 foreign embassies are located in Abu Dhabi, the UAE's capital city, and Dubai is home to around 80 consulates. Embassies and consulates are typically open Monday to Friday (the UAE working week) and are closed on Saturdays and Sundays, as well as all public holidays of both the UAE and the embassy's home country. Opening times may vary so please check official websites, make appointments where possible, and arrive early with all the relevant paperwork.

In case of emergencies while on holiday in the UAE, call:

911 for Police
998 for Ambulance
997 for Fire Department
996 for Coastguard

Visitors may also find these numbers helpful:

+971 800 4438 for tourist security issues
+971 800 342 for the Dubai Health Authority
+971 600 545 555 for consumer-related concerns

What you need to know
Your questions, answered

Dubai is a cosmopolitan city and a diverse melting pot where almost all attires and cultural expressions are accepted. Swimwear is permissible at beaches, waterparks, public pools and spa areas but is not considered appropriate in areas such as business districts and shopping malls.

Dressing conservatively is appreciated in Dubai's historic neighbourhoods and places of worship. There are specific requirements for entering a mosque, like wearing clothing that covers shoulders, arms and legs – and headscarves for women.

Marhaba! Dubai is a warm and friendly city and you will come across many people who will greet you with a smile and wish you well. A handshake is customary, but do note it is typically accepted that this should be initiated by women.

Public displays of affection are best kept to a minimum. Holding hands is acceptable, but kissing and hugging in public areas is not permitted.

Alcohol is served in licensed establishments such as hotels, bars and specialised shops to those over 21 years of age. However, drunk and disorderly conduct and drunk driving are not acceptable. Use or possession of illegal drugs is also strictly prohibited.

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Dubai is home to hundreds of nationalities and both Arabic and English are spoken across the city. Learning a few Arabic words can certainly make the trip more memorable! As you explore the city you're very likely to hear Russian, Tagalog, Hindi, Urdu, Portuguese and many other languages. Follow our detailed guide for a list of handy phrases.

Useful Arabic phrases

Many medicines used worldwide are readily available in pharmacies and hospitals across Dubai, but as in most countries, there are some medications which are restricted or prohibited for use in the UAE.

The UAE Ministry of Health and Prevention (MOHAP) has full details of controlled or prohibited medications, plus information on what documents you need to carry with you if you need to bring a controlled medication into Dubai. MOHAP also issues a permit to import medicines into the UAE, which you can apply for on their website.

While the permit is optional, it is strongly recommended to obtain it prior to your trip as it will help ensure you have all the correct information and documents. You must also bring your official prescription from the issuing authority of where you are receiving treatment. Please note you can carry medicines for a maximum period of three months. If you have any questions, or want to check the status of a particular medication, contact your local UAE embassy, or get in touch with MOHAP.

Get information from MOHAP

To tip or not to tip? The short answer is, there are no rules when it comes to tipping in Dubai. How much you tip varies from profession to profession, and is also largely down to personal preference. It is customary to offer a little extra in most cases, but it certainly isn’t compulsory. Everyone arrives in Dubai with their own customs and expectations, but one thing that's always consistent is the high level of service.

See our tipping guide