Planning a 2025 visit to Dubai? You’re in for sunshine, skyscrapers, and a mix of modern flair with traditional rules. Below you’ll find the most useful tips that actually help you move around, spend wisely, and avoid accidental trouble.
First off, know how much cash to bring. A single traveler can comfortably cover meals, transport, and a few attractions with about AED 300‑400 per day. If you’re travelling as a couple or a family, aim for AED 500‑700 daily. Credit cards work everywhere, but keep a small amount of cash for markets, small cafés, and tips. Exchange rates are best at banks or official kiosks – avoid street dealers.
When it comes to clothing, Dubai is more relaxed than many think, but context matters. Shorts are fine at malls, beaches, and pools, yet you’ll want longer pants or skirts for mosques and government buildings. Women can show some skin, but keep tops modest – no plunge necklines in public spaces. Men should avoid sleeveless shirts in formal venues.
Public decency rules also cover gestures. Anything that could be seen as offensive – like the middle finger – can lead to fines or even a police report. Hand‑holding is allowed for married couples; unmarried couples should keep PDA low‑key, especially during Ramadan.
Alcohol is legal in licensed venues such as hotels, clubs, and private residences, but drinking in public is a no‑go. If you’re staying in a hotel, you’ll need a local ID to order drinks, and the legal drinking age is 21. Carry your passport handy; many venues ask to see it.
Dubai is one of the safest cities in the Middle East, but a few habits keep things smooth. Use reputable taxis or rides‑hailing apps rather than hailing random cars. The metro is clean, cheap, and runs on a predictable schedule – perfect for getting from the Marina to Downtown.
Scams are rare, but keep an eye out for overly‑friendly strangers offering “special deals” on tours. Always confirm the price before you board a boat or desert safari, and book through recognized operators.
Health‑wise, you’ll find toilet paper everywhere, but many bathrooms also feature a bidet spray. Bring a small pack of wipes if you’re unsure about cleanliness. As for medication, over‑the‑counter pain relievers like ibuprofen are allowed, but carry the original packaging and a doctor’s note for anything stronger.
Lastly, language isn’t a barrier. English is spoken in hotels, malls, and most restaurants, while Arabic signs are everywhere. Knowing a few Arabic greetings ("Marhaba" for hello, "Shukran" for thanks) earns you friendly smiles.
Wrap these tips into your itinerary and you’ll avoid most hiccups. Whether you’re budgeting for a week, figuring out what to wear at the Burj Khalifa, or navigating nightlife safely, the basics stay the same: respect local customs, plan your money, and use trusted transport. Enjoy the city’s glittering skyline, world‑class dining, and desert adventures – Dubai in 2025 is ready for you.
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