Dubai attracts over 17 million international visitors a year, with countless visitors flocking to its luxury shopping playgrounds, resorts and electrifying attractions. Plan the ultimate getaway to the most populated city in the UAE, and arm yourself with essential tips and tricks for navigating your metropolitan adventure.
Packing For Your Desert Paradise
Situated in the Arab peninsula and surrounded by desert, Dubai’s hot and dry climate calls for light and breezy clothing, as well as sun protective gear – make sure to pack a hat, sunscreen and a pair of sunglasses. While Dubai is a cosmopolitan city, modest clothing is recommended for religious sites and older areas. For evenings, pack a light jacket or shawl as nights in Dubai tend to be cooler, particularly when out in the desert.
Best Times to Visit (And Where to Stay)
The shoulder seasons (October to November and March to May) offer pleasant weather and manageable crowds. Dubai is home to an abundance of luxury hotels, as well as budget-friendly options, and those suitable for families. Consider your location – hotels close to Burj Khalifa offer proximity to downtown attractions, while beachfront hotels provide a relaxing escape. For a unique stay, Paramount Hotel Midtown is themed with Old Hollywood flare, a nod to its namesake studio giant.
Travelling Around the City
Dubai’s efficient metro system is a breeze to navigate, even for tourists, and connects most major attractions, however, for a more private journey, taxis are readily available, and ride-hailing apps offer another convenient option. Experience a different side to travelling around Dubai by hopping on a traditional wooden abra boat across Dubai Creek.
Top Attractions Inside City Limits
Image via Wikimedia Commons – Lyonerov, Museum of the future, Dubai, CC BY-SA 4.0
Dubai’s rich culture is displayed at the Dubai Museum, as well as the traditional, bazaar-style Gold Souk. Alternatively, stroll through the Dubai Mall, one of the world’s largest shopping malls, fitted with a colossal indoor aquarium. Man-made islands jutting off the coast offer family-friendly beachside activities, waterparks and even skydiving for the more adventurous tourist.
Bonus Attractions Just Outside City Limits
Take a thrilling desert safari and experience the magic of the Arabian desert. For a different climate and terrain, head to Hatta, a scenic mountain town with ancient forts and stunning scenery. If you have time, a day trip to Abu Dhabi, the capital of the UAE, is well worth it, with its iconic Grand Mosque, and world-class cultural attractions.