Why You Should Visit Dubai

If there is one city in the Middle East that is purposely developed for mass tourism, it would be Dubai! The city prides itself on having the best and the grandest.

At the moment it is home to the tallest man-made structure in the world – the Burj Khalifa. This is the tower that made history; a magnificent engineering achievement that Dubai and the UAE can be rightfully proud of!

For engineering and architecture fans, the Burj up close is enough reason to visit this Arabian city.
But the tallest building in the world is not the only thing that Dubai offers. The city is a tourism powerhouse that is ideally suited for families. Some of its most appealing attractions include:

-the magnificent Atlantis Waterpark.
-the Indoor skiing center in the Mall of Emirates
-the indoor aquarium in Dubai Mall
-the plush Dubai Marina

Although surrounded by desert, Dubai sits on the coastline of the Persian Gulf. It has a few well-maintained public beaches where kids can freely run and roam around.

It is also one of the more best cities to visit to get a taste of Arabian history and lifestyle because of its tourist infrastructure and openness to foreign visits.

What Dubai is NOT as a Travel Destination

Dubai is not a ‘party’ destination no matter what people say. While it’s true that it has clubs and bars, all attached to the hotels, this is not the best city to get drunk and party.

Despite its modernity and openness, the city still follows rigid Islamic civil laws.

In my opinion, it is best not to drink alcohol while here. Besides the fact that alcohol is expensive, there is a higher risk of drinking it here.
In general, the city implement laws restricting actions and behaviors that are otherwise tolerated in other parts of the world.

If you like beer, swearing in public, wearing skimpy clothes and openly showing physical affection, and you’re not ready to let go of these things during a holiday; then Dubai is not for you.

Fortunately, many people in the world don’t mind these restrictions. And these are the type of tourists who are well-suited for Dubai.

Best Time to Visit Dubai

The best time to visit Dubai is from the month of November to March because the weather is at its most ideal for sightseeing.  Winter is indeed a great time in Dubai, it is sunny most days but the temperature is nice and not humid.

In the months of May to August, the temperature rises and the heat can be too much to bear when outside.  This is the least busy time to visit Dubai but it’s highly advisable to spend most of your daytime indoors.

Plan your visit to Dubai keeping in mind the month of Ramadan. This is the holy month of fasting for the Muslims and it changes from year to year. During Ramadan, all restaurants in the city are closed until sunset. Take note that it’s not allowed to eat in public during the day even if you’re a non-Muslim.

How to Get to Dubai

The first step to getting to Dubai is by booking a flight . This is not going to be difficult as Dubai is a huge flight hub.

Dubai International Airport (IATA: DXB) is the main airport in Dubai. Based on international passenger traffic, it is the busiest airport in the world. DXB caters to about 80 million passengers per year.

Dubai is the ideal place to do a layover for a couple of days, before proceeding to another destination.

Find out how to book the cheapest flight to Dubai. 

Getting Around Dubai

Dubai Metro

The Dubai Metro is one of the most reliable and efficient public transport in Dubai. It will take you to many key attractions in the city like the Burj Khalifa (how to get to the Burj Khalifa). The Dubai Metro currently has two lines – the red and green. Eating and drinking are not allowed on the metro, and there are heavy fines for such violations.

Buses

Buses are useful if you want to get to places that are not served by the Metro. You can purchase a Nol Card and top it up so you can pay for your bus rides at a discounted rate. Jumeirah Beach is one of the attractions that are served by the bus but not the Metro.

You can also take a bus from (how to get to the Burj Khalifa)– the capital of the UAE

Taxis

Taxis are relatively cheap in Dubai, compared to other big cities like London. They are all metered and strictly regulated, so you don’t have to worry about being scammed. Most of the drivers are respectful and professional and can speak enough English to take you where you want to go.

Renting a Car

You can also conveniently ride car, provided you have an international driver’s license and credit card.

Things to Do in Dubai

The number of things to do in Dubai is quite extensive! After all, it is a city that has been purposely developed for tourism. These are  the Top 11 Things to Do in Dubai:

1. Go Up the Burj Khalifa – The current tallest man-made structure in the world.
2.  Visit the traditional and modern souks (markets) in Dubai.
3.  Explore the quaint and charming historical neighborhoods of Dubai. 
4. Crossing the Dubai Creek from Deira to Bur Dubai.
5. Stroll around the Dubai Marina.
6. Visit the luxurious 7-star Burj Al Arab hotel without booking a room – Find out how!
7.  Shop at the impressive Dubai Mall.
8. Watch the world go by at Dubai’s Sunset Beach 
9. Go for a desert adventure.
10. Tour around Dubai using the hop-on-hop-off service.
11. Go for an unforgettable Marina Ferry Cruise 

Do you want more ideas for activities in Dubai, here is the ultimate list of  35 Things to Do in Dubai for an Amazing Holiday.

Where to Eat and Drink

Dubai is a “foodie’s” paradise. The food here is absolutely marvelous!  It is known for its extensive list of restaurants. Downtown Dubai and the Dubai Marina has some of the best restaurants in the city.

But you don’t always have to pay a lot for a decent meal in Dubai. You can find mid-range’ restaurants ‘budget’ eateries in most neighborhoods, and the food is the good and the portions large.

International chains like Nando’s, Apple Bees and Tim Hortons tend to be pricey. If you are on a budget,  stick with Arabian meals offered by local chains, and they are often worth every penny.

What to Avoid, Security and Safety

Dubai is a very safe city in terms petty crimes like theft and mugging; You can walk anywhere with absolutely no worry about your safety.

However, as mentioned, Dubai implement strict Islamic laws and codes of conduct. There are acts prohibited here that are otherwise, unpunishable in other countries. Some of these prohibited acts include:

1. Drinking in public places that are unlicensed to sell alcohol.
2. Being drunk in public.
3. Showing physical affection in public (both for opposite sex or same sex couples).
4. Displaying rude behavior and acts in public, especially to a UAE citizen.

It is your responsibility as a tourist to learn the laws of the country you’re visiting and follow them, so as not to ruin your holiday.

For more information about traveling Dubai, read: 10 Things You Should Know When Traveling Dubai