20 Things to Know Before Visiting Dubai
The currency is the UAE dirham, alcohol is only served in licensed venues, and Friday is part of the weekend. Here is the rest of what matters before you land.
Most of what surprises first-time visitors to Dubai is not about safety or rules -- it is about logistics and expectations. Here are the twenty things worth knowing before you land, grouped by what actually comes up.
Money and costs
- The currency is the UAE dirham (AED); cards are accepted almost everywhere, but keep small notes for tips and taxis.
- Dubai has no city sales tax added at checkout for most tourist purchases, but a 5% VAT is already built into most listed prices.
- Tipping is not mandatory but is appreciated -- 10-15% at restaurants if service is not already included, and a few dirhams for drivers and guides.
Dress and behavior
- Modest dress is expected in malls, mosques and government buildings; beachwear is fine at pools and beaches only.
- Public displays of affection beyond hand-holding are best kept minimal.
- Photography of people without consent, and of government or military buildings, should be avoided.
Practical logistics
- The weekend is Saturday-Sunday; Friday is a working day with shorter hours in many offices.
- The Dubai Metro is clean, cheap and covers most tourist areas -- see our metro guide for routes.
- Ride-hailing apps and metered taxis are both reliable and reasonably priced.
- Dubai to Abu Dhabi is about 90 minutes to 2 hours by road, making a day trip easy.
- English is widely spoken and used on most signage alongside Arabic.
Weather and timing
- Summer (June-September) is very hot -- plan outdoor activities for early morning or evening.
- Winter (November-March) is peak season with the most comfortable weather and the highest prices.
- During Ramadan, some restaurants close during daylight hours; attractions stay open.
Frequently Asked Questions
What currency does Dubai use?
The UAE dirham (AED), pegged to the US dollar at roughly 3.67 AED to $1. Cards are accepted almost everywhere; cash is still useful for small purchases and tips.
Do I need to cover my shoulders and knees in Dubai?
Not by law in most public places, but modest dress (shoulders and knees covered) is expected at malls, and required at mosques such as Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, where an abaya is provided free for women who need one.
Is alcohol legal in Dubai?
Yes, for tourists, but only in licensed venues -- hotel bars and restaurants, mainly. It is not sold in most supermarkets, and public intoxication is taken seriously.
What is the weekend in Dubai?
Saturday and Sunday, matching most of the rest of the world since a 2022 change. Friday is a working day with a shorter afternoon for many offices.
Do I need a visa to visit Dubai?
It depends on your nationality -- many countries get visa-on-arrival or a free 30-90 day visa. See our full UAE tourist visa guide for specifics.
Is tap water safe to drink in Dubai?
Yes, Dubai's tap water is desalinated and safe to drink, though many residents and hotels still prefer bottled water for taste.
