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Destination:

Dubai


Travel Tips

Arriving in Dubai
Though construction has slowed down somewhat in the current economic climate, there is still a lot of building going on in Dubai. On first approach from the airport, the sight of all the cranes can be a little disheartening, but it’s much less evident once you’re in the heart of the city.

Planning Your Days
Even during the spring and fall months, midday in Dubai can be unpleasantly hot. Like Mediterranean cultures, Dubai residents observe a kind of siesta, taking a break during hottest parts of the day. Souks and small shops are often closed between the hours of 1pm-4pm. To stay comfortable and make the most of your time, we recommend planning an activity in the morning, spending midday by the pool or indoors at a museum or mall, and then venturing out again in the early afternoon before the rush-hour traffic begins. Evening is the most active and vibrant time of day in Dubai – dinner happens late, usually after 8:30pm. Friday is the Muslim holy day – most shops are closed in the morning and open at around 2pm.

Traffic can be horrific, especially during peak periods (roughly 7-10am and 4:30-7pm). It’s best to stay off the roads as much as possible during these times. Either head to your evening destination before rush hour begins, or find a scenic place to watch the sunset and wait out the worst of the traffic.

Customs & Etiquette
Travelers to Dubai should keep in mind that social norms are very different for women in a Muslim country than in the west. Women should dress modestly – nothing too tight or revealing. Shirts should cover the tops of the arms and skirts should be knee-length or longer. Western bathing attire is allowed on Dubai beaches.

Public gestures of affection are considered offensive. Never sit in such a way that you are showing someone the soles of your feet.

Alcohol is available in hotel and club restaurants and bars. Restaurants outside hotels are not allowed to serve alcoholic beverages. It is against the law to drink or be intoxicated in public.

Ramadan
Ramadan might seem like a time to avoid Dubai, because of the restrictions on eating and drinking during daylight hours. However, non-Muslims can still eat and drink behind closed doors at hotels and bars catering to visitors, so it’s not that great an inconvenience. And Dubai really comes alive after sunset during Ramadan. The evening meal, Iftar, is a memorable experience, with Muslims and non-Muslims enjoying Arabic dishes and traditional music together in big tents. Parks are filled with families having picnics, playing games and telling stories well into the wee hours.

Shopping
Dubai is the Duty-Free capital of the world, and a shopper’s dream – many people come here just to shop. For an authentic and memorable experience, be sure to visit the traditional Gold, Silk and Spice souks near Dubai Creek. The Madinat Jumeirah resort also has its own traditional-style souk, and Dubai’s enormous malls offer thousands of shops and boutiques of every description. Bargaining is expected, even in the malls (ask for a discount). If it’s your first time in Dubai, I recommend hiring a guide to help you find the best shops.

Coupon Books
Many of the resorts will provide you with a thick book of coupons good for discounts at their hotels and clubs. Often they are trying to encourage guests to dine early (which you might do anyway, if you’re traveling with kids, so you may as well take advantage).

Horse Riding
If you are considering a horseback ride for one of your activities, be warned – most of the horses here are former racehorses, and should be ridden by expert riders only. Horse jumping has been my favorite hobby for years, and I still decided against riding in Dubai.