So, you’re planning your next best holiday and want to try somewhere new, somewhere that defies expectations and offers a journey of discovery. How about taking a first trip to the beautiful city of Dubai?
Set in the Arabian Desert, this metropolis has everything and more. It’s an architectural marvel punctuated by iconic skylines such as the inspiring Burj Khalifa and Almas Tower that stand as a testament to the city's relentless pursuit of excellence. Yet, amidst the modern grandeur, Dubai remains anchored in its cultural roots. Traditional souks (markets) buzz with life, conjuring the essence of ancient trade routes and Arabian hospitality. Those looking for unmatched retail therapy on their next holiday are also in luck, as Dubai is a retail paradise with the mall alone housing a complete myriad of shops, restaurants, and experiences.
For first-time visitors to the opulent city however, there are a few key things to know and prepare for in advance in order to have the best holiday imaginable. To get you started, we have prepared this Dubai travel guide of things to know about the Middle East’s premier UAE Emirate when visiting for the very first time.
Dubai Travel Tip 1 – Picking the Best Time to Visit
While there are so many reasons and more to visit Dubai, the icing on the cake is probably the guarantee of warm weather. It’s important to realise however that Dubai in the summer isn’t just ‘UK warm’, it’s scorching. With temperatures in the city reaching up to 50 degrees Celsius, it might be quite a shock and perhaps unmanageable for those not used to the Middle Eastern climate.
With this in mind, our inaugural Dubai tip for first-time visitors is simply planning to go in the Autumn to winter months. From around November to March the temperatures of the area are much more manageable and sit around mid-20 to 30 degrees Celsius. One of the significant advantages of visiting Dubai during this period is the ability to explore without feeling overwhelmed by the heat. Unlike the summer, the milder climate provides the perfect backdrop for strolling through the city's iconic landmarks and taking a peaceful walk along the stunning coastline.
Furthermore, the winter months coincide with various cultural and entertainment events that add to the city's allure. From outdoor concerts and festivals to art exhibitions and sports events, Dubai's event calendar comes alive during this period. This makes Dubai a top wintersun destination to escape the bitter cold and rain often seen in the UK, and while this does make winter the peak season for tourists, travelling in the school term can help alleviate this.
Dubai Travel Tip 2–Plan Your Journey Around Dubai
With so much to explore across the city, the prospect of experiencing everything you want can seem a little overwhelming. This is further reinforced by the surprising size of Dubai and the oftentimes large distances between different attractions in the Middle Eastern Emirate. As such, a good Dubai travel tip is to research the sights and destinations you want to visit ahead of time and in relation to the number of days you want to stay. Doing this also avoids any disappointment should you arrive at an attraction that requires advanced booking, ensuring you don’t get any cost surprises while in the Emirate.
Another Dubai tip is to plan where you want to go around the local transport networks. While there are plenty of public transport options to choose from – buses, taxis, or Dubai Metro–not all of these travel across every part of Dubai. The Metro for instance provides the cheapest form of transport but doesn’t cover the whole of Dubai; therefore, you will have to either plan your days around walks or pay the more expensive taxi costs.
Dubai Travel Tip 3–Respect and Embrace the Local Culture
As an opulent city of the UAE, Dubai is a devoutly Islamic country with many practices of the religion playing a key part in day-to-day life for locals. This means that the local culture and social etiquette are very different from what we might see in the UK - with for instance a greater desire for politeness and modesty from citizens.
Embracing and respecting the local culture is not only a sign of courtesy but also a key to unlocking a more authentic and rewarding travel first-time travel experience in Dubai. The city's allure lies in its fusion of modernity and tradition and by understanding and respecting local customs, you can forge more meaningful connections and gain insights into the history of the city. Dressing modestly while in public is also a good Dubai tip as it is a sign of acknowledging and respecting the values of the local population.
Dubai Travel Tip 4–Buy a Local Sim Card
Let’s face it, roaming charges can be pretty expensive – especially when travelling as far as the UAE. Don’t make the first-time mistake of persisting with your current sim card and instead buy another locally. You’ll be greeted with sim card options practically from the moment you land. At the airport and across the city, you'll find several telecom providers offering prepaid SIM cards tailored specifically to tourists. whether you need data for browsing, calling minutes, or a combination of both, there are plenty of choices in Dubai.
Investing in a local SIM card during your Dubai trip gives you the freedom to navigate the city using maps, stay in touch with family and friends through calls and messaging apps, and share your unforgettable experiences on social media platforms. Having access to the internet on the go will also enable you to research nearby attractions and find the best dining spots. Whether you're capturing the stunning views from the Burj Khalifa or navigating the bustling streets of the Gold Souk, a local SIM card ensures that you're connected every step of the way, enhancing your overall travel experience in Dubai.
Dubai Travel Tip 5– Book Your Accommodation Far in Advance
While this might seem like an obvious Dubai travel guide tip, it’s one that can be easily ignored by those seeking the excitement of last-minute holidays. In Dubai however (especially during peak season)there is quick uptake of guests at some of the most desired hotels. By booking early you will have the complete choice of accommodation options and can best tailor a stay to your preferences (room, amenities etc) as well as your specific budget. Whether you're envisioning a luxurious stay in one of the city's iconic high-rise hotels, a cozy retreat in historic neighborhoods, or the convenience of a beachfront resort, reserving in advance allows you to secure your desired location and amenities.
Booking early is also a good Dubai tip as it ensures a better offering of All-inclusive and half-board packages at a much cheaper price. This gives first-time travellers increasing choice, better value, and more leftover cash to spend enjoying the holiday.
It's Time to Book Dubai!
Embarking on your inaugural journey to Dubai opens the door to a perfect blend of local and modern traditions. By embracing the city’s values with respect, timing your visit to align with the winter months and by delving into the city's diverse tapestry of experiences, you're poised to create memories that will forever be etched in your heart.
Our team here at Value Added Travel specialises in delivering unmatched holiday experiences that perfectly align with what you want. We have carefully put together this Dubai travel guide but know you might have some more questions before choosing the city as your next vacation destination. So if you’re looking to book a first-time holiday to Dubai, don’t hesitate to contact our expert team for a quote today.
