Dubai moves fast. The city that rose from the desert in a generation is now one of the world's most visited destinations. Here's what every first-timer should know before landing in the UAE.
1. Dress Modestly in Public Spaces
Dubai is a Muslim city. While you'll see all kinds of attire in tourist zones, it's respectful (and legally required in malls and souks) to cover shoulders and knees. Swimwear is fine on the beach and at hotel pools — but cover up when you leave the beach.
2. The UAE Dirham is Your Currency
The Dirham (AED) is pegged to the USD at roughly 3.67 AED to $1. Credit cards are accepted almost everywhere. ATMs are abundant across the city. Tipping is appreciated but not compulsory — 10% in restaurants is the norm.
3. Alcohol Exists but Has Rules
Alcohol is served in licensed hotels, restaurants and bars — and Dubai has excellent options for all budgets. You cannot drink in public spaces or buy alcohol from regular supermarkets. In practice, this won't affect most tourists.
4. The Metro is Your Best Friend
The Dubai Metro is clean, air-conditioned, frequent and extremely cheap. It connects the airport to Downtown Dubai, the Marina and beyond. Taxis and Uber/Careem are plentiful and affordable. You don't need a car.
5. The Heat is Real — Plan Around It
From May to September, outdoor temperatures regularly exceed 40°C. Everything indoors is heavily air-conditioned. Plan outdoor activities — desert safaris, souks, beach time — for early morning or late afternoon. October to April offers ideal weather.
6. Book Attractions in Advance
The Burj Khalifa At the Top (especially sunset slots) sells out days in advance. Desert safari operators book up in high season. Levine Adventures pre-books all attractions as part of our Dubai packages so you never miss out.
7. Dubai is Extremely Safe
Dubai is consistently rated one of the world's safest cities. Violent crime is extremely rare, the rule of law is firmly enforced, and solo female travellers consistently report feeling very comfortable. It's a well-ordered, welcoming city.
8. Friday is the Weekend
The UAE working week runs Sunday to Thursday. Friday is the primary holy day — expect quieter shops in the morning and prayer calls from mosques. Saturday is also a day off. Most tourist attractions are open seven days a week.
9. Respect Ramadan
During Ramadan (dates shift annually), eating, drinking and smoking in public during daylight hours is illegal. Many restaurants reduce hours or close for daytime service. The atmosphere after iftar (sunset) is magical and worth experiencing.
10. The Best Things Are Free
The Dubai Fountain show (every 30 min from 18:00, nightly) is world-class and free. The Gold Souk and Spice Souk are free to browse. The beach is free. Much of Dubai's spectacle can be enjoyed without spending a dirham.
Ready to Make This Happen?
Talk to the Levine Adventures team — we handle every detail so you can focus on the experience.