Dubai Lifestyle Guide: What Every Visitor Should Know
Thinking about spending time in Dubai? The city dazzles with skyscrapers, malls, and beaches, but everyday life follows its own set of rules. Knowing the basics saves you money, keeps you out of trouble, and makes your trip feel natural. Below you’ll find practical pointers on cash, safety, dress, and social etiquette – all written in plain language.
Everyday Essentials: Money, Safety, and Dress
First off, decide how much cash to bring. Most places accept credit cards, but a handful of markets, taxis, and smaller cafés still prefer cash. A good rule of thumb is to carry about AED 200–300 for small purchases and emergencies. If you’re planning fancy dining or hotel stays, budget an extra AED 500‑800 per day.
Safety in Dubai is high, but a few habits keep it that way. Stick to well‑lit streets after dark, especially in less crowded neighborhoods. Public transport—metro, tram, and buses—are safe and inexpensive. Avoid displaying large amounts of cash or flashy jewelry; it’s a simple way to stay under the radar.
Dress code matters more than you might think. Shorts are fine at the beach, pools, and most malls, but in government buildings, mosques, or traditional markets (souks) you’ll want to cover knees and shoulders. Women can wear skirts or dresses, but keep skirts above knees in religious sites. Men should wear shirts with sleeves; tank tops are acceptable at the beach but not inside indoor malls.
Bathrooms in Dubai use both toilet paper and a bidet spray. Pack a small travel pack of tissues if you prefer paper only. You’ll find the spray next to the toilet bowl, and most hotels provide a small hose for it. Knowing this avoids awkward moments, especially in public restrooms.
Local Etiquette: What You Can and Can’t Do
Public displays of affection (PDA) are limited. Holding hands with your spouse is generally accepted, but kissing or hugging in public can attract fines. During Ramadan, be extra careful—avoid eating, drinking, or smoking in front of others from sunrise to sunset.
Alcohol is legal in licensed venues like hotels, clubs, and private apartments, but it’s illegal to drink in public places. If you’re caught with an open bottle on the street, you could face a fine or even detention.
Using profanity or offensive gestures (like the middle finger) is a punishable offense. Even jokingly raising a rude hand can lead to a heavy fine. Keep language polite and gestures neutral, especially with strangers or officials.
Vaping is allowed in private settings, but many public areas, malls, and hotels have strict no‑vape policies. Look for signage; if you’re unsure, step outside before you inhale.
When paying, the official currency is the UAE dirham (AED). US dollars are rarely accepted, so exchange a small amount before you arrive or use ATMs. Credit cards are widely accepted, but some smaller shops prefer cash.
Lastly, respect local customs. Ask before taking photos of people, especially in traditional neighborhoods. Some places, like government buildings and certain religious sites, prohibit photography altogether.
By keeping these tips in mind, you’ll move through Dubai smoothly, enjoy the luxurious side of the city, and avoid unnecessary hassles. Have a great time exploring the vibrant lifestyle Dubai offers!
