Dubai Services Guide: What Every Visitor Should Know
Planning a trip to Dubai? You’ll find everything from sleek taxis to luxury hotels, but the real trick is knowing which services work best for you. Below we break down the basics – money, transport, where to stay, and the must‑know legal quirks – so you can focus on the fun instead of the hassle.
Money and Payments
The official currency is the UAE dirham (AED). Credit cards are accepted in most restaurants, malls and hotels, but keep some cash handy for small shops or markets. You can exchange US dollars at the airport, banks or licensed exchange offices – just avoid street dealers. If you wonder whether you can pay with dollars, the short answer is no; you’ll need to convert them first.
ATMs are everywhere, and you’ll often get a better rate than a currency exchange desk. Remember to notify your bank before you travel to avoid blocked transactions.
Getting Around
Dubai’s metro is clean, fast and cheap. It connects the main tourist spots – Burj Khalifa, Mall of the Emirates and the beach. For anything beyond the metro, grab a taxi or use a ride‑hailing app like Careem or Uber. Taxis run on meters, but you’ll sometimes see flat rates for airport transfers.
If you prefer a more local vibe, the public bus network covers most neighborhoods, and the water taxis (abras) offer scenic rides across the creek. Just buy a Nol card and you’re set.
Parking can be pricey in downtown, so stick to public garages or hotel valet when possible.
Accommodation Rules
Unmarried couples can book a hotel room without any legal trouble. Hotels may ask for ID at check‑in, but they won’t question your relationship status. Same‑sex roommates are also fine, as long as public indecency is avoided. If you’re traveling with a friend of the opposite gender, just be aware that some conservative hotels prefer couples who are married.
Short‑term rentals like Airbnb are legal in Dubai, but they must be registered with the government. Check the listing for a registration number to avoid any surprise.
Legal and Cultural Etiquette
Dubai is modern, but it follows Sharia‑based public decency laws. Hand‑holding with your spouse is allowed, but excessive PDA – kissing, hugging in public – can attract fines. Showing too much cleavage or wearing shorts on the beach is fine; wear them in malls or government buildings and you might get a warning.
Gestures matter too – flipping the middle finger is a punishable offense. Vaping is allowed in designated areas, but not in hotels or public transport. Alcohol is legal in licensed venues, but you need a hotel bar card to order drinks.
For medication, over‑the‑counter painkillers like ibuprofen are allowed, but bring a copy of the prescription for anything stronger.
Following these simple guidelines lets you enjoy Dubai’s luxury without a hitch. Whether you’re here for business, a beach break, or to explore the nightlife, the city’s services are designed to make life easy – just know the basics and you’ll fit right in.
