Visa & Entry
Visa requirements for entering the UAE vary by nationality - many travelers get a visa on arrival or a straightforward e-visa, while others need to apply in advance. Because these rules change over time, always confirm the exact requirement for your specific passport on the official Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security (ICP) website, or with your airline, before booking.
Your passport should be valid for a sufficient period beyond your travel dates - the exact requirement varies by nationality, so check it against the same official source.
Airport & Arrival
Most international flights land at Dubai International Airport (DXB), one of the world's busiest airports, with 3 terminals. Some airlines use Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC) at Dubai World Central instead. If you're flying into Abu Dhabi, you'll land at Zayed International Airport (AUH).
Terminals 1 and 3 at Dubai International connect directly to the Dubai Metro - the cheapest way into the city. You can also take an official taxi from the taxi rank outside arrivals, or arrange a private transfer in advance.
Transfers
Getting Around
The Dubai Metro covers key areas like Downtown Dubai, Dubai Marina and Deira across two lines (Red and Green), paid for with a rechargeable "Nol" card that also works on the tram and bus. Not every attraction sits next to a metro station, so you'll sometimes need a taxi or ride-hailing app for the last stretch.
Uber and Careem operate widely across Dubai, alongside official metered RTA taxis - easy to flag down on the street or book through an app.
Currency & Money
The UAE's currency is the UAE Dirham (AED), which has been pegged at a near-fixed rate to the US Dollar for many years. Credit cards and contactless payment are accepted almost everywhere, but it's worth carrying some small cash for local transport or smaller shops.
Good to know: there's no online payment on our site at any stage - every booking is confirmed and paid for directly with our team after you reach out on WhatsApp.
Weather & Best Time to Visit
Dubai summers (June-September) are very hot and humid, with daytime temperatures regularly above 40°C - outdoor activities like desert safaris shift to cooler hours such as sunset. Winter (November-March) is mild and pleasant, and it's the most popular season for tourism and outdoor events.
If you need exact conditions for your trip, check a reliable forecast close to your travel date rather than relying on general averages.
Custom Trip Plan
SIM & Internet
Two main operators cover the UAE: du and Etisalat by e&. You can buy a tourist SIM or eSIM right at the airport on arrival, or set up an international eSIM before you fly if your device supports it. Free WiFi is widely available in hotels, malls and cafes.
Safety in Dubai
Dubai is generally known for a high level of safety compared to other major cities worldwide. As with any travel destination, use normal common sense - keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places, and use official transport (RTA taxi, Uber, Careem) rather than unofficial offers.
Local laws are enforced seriously, particularly around drugs and public behavior - it's worth familiarizing yourself with the basics from an official source before you travel.
Dress Code & Culture
Dubai is an international, relatively relaxed city when it comes to dress in malls, restaurants and hotels, but it's respectful to dress a little more modestly in public areas and mosques - shoulders and knees covered is generally enough. Beachwear and swimwear are completely normal in designated areas like the beach or pool.
If you're visiting a mosque or a religious site, you'll usually be asked to dress more modestly - some sites provide a free abaya or head covering at the entrance.
