Dubai Guides 2025: Essential Tips for Travelers
If you’re planning a trip to Dubai this year, you probably have a lot of questions. Where should you stay? How much money do you need? What can you wear in public? This guide pulls together the most useful answers in plain language so you can focus on enjoying the city.
Budget and Money Tips
First thing – figure out your cash needs. A single traveler can get by on about $150‑$200 a day if you mix cheap eats, public transport, and mid‑range hotels. Families should budget closer to $250‑$300 daily for bigger rooms and more meals out. Use a mix of cash and cards: keep a small amount of dirhams for taxis or market stalls, but rely on credit cards for hotels and restaurants. Avoid changing money at the airport; banks or exchange offices in the city give better rates.
When you book accommodation, compare neighborhoods. Downtown and Marina are pricey but close to attractions. Deira and Al Barsha offer cheaper options and still have good metro links. If you’re on a tight budget, look for hotels near the metro line – the ride costs only a few dirhams and saves you on taxis.
Safety, Laws, and Everyday Etiquette
Dubai is one of the safest cities in the world, but it has strict public decency rules. Public displays of affection (PDA) like kissing or hugging can lead to fines. Holding hands is fine for married couples, but keep it low‑key. Dress modestly in public areas – shorts are okay in malls and beaches, but avoid overly tight or sleeveless tops when you’re not at a hotel pool.
Alcohol is allowed in licensed venues such as hotels, clubs, and some bars. You can’t drink in public places or be drunk on the streets. If you’re caught, you could face a fine or even a short detention. For medication, over‑the‑counter painkillers like ibuprofen are allowed, but bring a prescription for stronger drugs.
Talking about sex, hooking up, or using dating apps is not illegal, but public indecency is. If you’re staying in a hotel with a partner, you’ll be fine as long as you stay private. Same‑sex couples should be aware that public affection may attract attention, so keep it discreet.
Transport is safe and cheap. The metro covers most tourist spots, and a Nol card works on buses, trams, and water taxis. Taxis are metered and reliable; just avoid unlicensed rides. Ride‑hailing apps like Careem and Uber work everywhere.
Lastly, remember that the UAE’s legal system is based on Sharia law. Certain gestures, like showing the middle finger, are punishable by law. Keep your language and behavior respectful in public, especially during Ramadan when many locals fast.
With these basics covered, you can move on to the fun part: exploring Burj Khalifa, shopping at the souks, or relaxing on JBR beach. Keep this guide handy, and you’ll have a smooth, enjoyable stay in Dubai.
