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Dubai (UAE)
Dubai is a city of ultramodern luxury, iconic landmarks, and cultural treasures. Visit the Burj Khalifa, explore vibrant souks, and enjoy desert safaris, world-class shopping, and endless Middle Eastern adventures.
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Summary
Neighboring Countries
Did you know?
World’s Tallest Building – Dubai is home to the Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building, standing at a height of 828 meters (2,717 feet).
Overview
Months
10. October, 11. November, 12. December, 01. January, 02. February, 03. March, 04. April, 05. May
Vacation type
Beach, Couple, Family, Party, Sightseeing, Nature
Expenses
<150€, <200€, Over 200€
Temperature
25-30°C, Over 30°C, 20-25°C
Rainfall
0-50mm
Safety
Very safe
Continent
Middle East, Asia
Currency
UAE dirham
Languages
Arabic, English
Currency Converter
When to visit
November to April
- Temperatures are comfortable, ranging from 17°C to 30°C (63°F to 86°F), making it the busiest season with heavy crowds at major attractions.
May to October
- Temperatures soar to 41°C (106°F) or higher, with extreme humidity. Crowds are sparse, but the city’s indoor attractions remain active and less crowded.
Climate Data
Peak Season (November to March)
Average Sunny Hours per Day: Approximately 8 to 9 hours.
Rain Frequency: Rain is infrequent, with occasional light showers.
Rainy Hours per Day: Less than 1 hour.
Intensity: Rain is generally light and brief.
Duration: Showers usually last less than an hour.
Off-Peak Season (April to October)
Average Sunny Hours per Day: Approximately 10 to 12 hours.
Rain Frequency: Rain is extremely rare.
Rainy Hours per Day: Less than 1 hour, if any.
Intensity: Rare and light.
Duration: Any rain that occurs is brief and short-lived.
Climate Chart
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Data Source: Global Historical Climatology Network
ClimateCharts.net
Weather, Crowds and Costs
Per one person
Tourist Season: November-March (Winter)
Dubai is most popular during the cooler months with ideal conditions for outdoor activities. Prices are at their highest.
Budget Vacation ($40-$110/day)
Accommodation: $27-$54/night (hostels, budget hotels).
Food: $5-$14/day (local eateries, food courts).
Activities: $5-$14/day (free attractions, cultural sites).
Transportation: $3-$5/day (metro, public transport).
Other Costs: $3-$5/day (snacks, souvenirs).
Mid-Range Vacation ($110-$330/day)
Accommodation: $81-$216/night (mid-range hotels, serviced apartments).
Food: $14-$54/day (restaurants, casual dining).
Activities: $14-$54/day (Burj Khalifa, desert safaris, theme parks).
Transportation: $5-$14/day (taxis, car rentals).
Other Costs: $5-$14/day (shopping, additional experiences).
Luxury Vacation ($330+/day)
Accommodation: $216+/night (luxury hotels like Atlantis, Burj Al Arab).
Food: $54+/day (fine dining, upscale restaurants).
Activities: $54+/day (private desert safaris, helicopter tours, yacht rentals).
Transportation: $14+/day (private chauffeurs, luxury car rentals).
Other Costs: $14+/day (exclusive experiences, high-end shopping).
Off-Peak Season: April-October
Extremely hot summers with great discounts on accommodations and activities, ideal for budget travelers.
Budget Vacation ($27-$81/day)
Accommodation: $22-$41/night (budget hotels, discounted rates).
Food: $5-$14/day (cafeterias, food courts).
Activities: $3-$9/day (indoor attractions, free beaches in the evening).
Transportation: $1-$4/day (metro, public transport).
Other Costs: $3/day (basic expenses, small items).
Mid-Range Vacation ($81-$216/day)
Accommodation: $54-$162/night (discounted mid-range hotels).
Food: $14-$41/day (casual dining, buffets).
Activities: $9-$27/day (indoor attractions, discounted theme parks).
Transportation: $4-$11/day (car rentals, taxis).
Other Costs: $5/day (souvenirs, small activities).
Luxury Vacation ($216+/day)
Accommodation: $162+/night (luxury hotels with off-season discounts).
Food: $41+/day (fine dining).
Activities: $27+/day (luxury spas, exclusive experiences).
Transportation: $11+/day (luxury car rentals, private transportation).
Other Costs: $14+/day (designer shopping).
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You can find accomendations that fit your trip and budget on Booking.com and Hotels.com or plan the whole vacation, including flights, transportation, hotels and tours with Expedia *
Best Regions to visit
Cities
Dubai is a city-state and doesn’t have multiple cities within it since it is part of the emirate of Dubai. However, here are some key districts and neighborhoods within Dubai that are must-visit:
1. Downtown Dubai
- Home to the iconic Burj Khalifa, Dubai Mall, and the stunning Dubai Fountain.
2. Dubai Marina
- Known for its modern skyline, waterfront dining, luxury yachts, and the vibrant JBR (Jumeirah Beach Residence).
3. Deira
- A historic area with traditional souks like the Gold Souk and Spice Souk, offering a glimpse into Dubai's past.
4. Jumeirah
- Famous for its beautiful beaches, the iconic Burj Al Arab, and high-end dining options.
5. Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood (Bastakiya)
- A cultural treasure showcasing traditional Emirati architecture, museums, and art galleries.
Downtown Dubai
Did you know?
Artificial Islands – Dubai has created artificial islands, like the Palm Jumeirah, in the shape of a palm tree.
Islands
1. Palm Jumeirah
- The iconic palm-shaped island, home to luxury hotels, Atlantis The Palm, beaches, and high-end dining.
2. The World Islands
- A collection of man-made islands shaped like a world map, with exclusive resorts like Anantara World Islands.
3. Bluewaters Island
- Known for Ain Dubai (the world's largest observation wheel), dining, and vibrant entertainment.
4. Deira Islands
- An emerging destination with shopping, entertainment, and beachfront resorts.
5. Burj Al Arab Island
- Home to the iconic Burj Al Arab hotel, offering luxury and stunning views.
Palm Jumeira
Things to see
Natural Attractions
1. Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve
- Explore the vast sand dunes, enjoy camel rides, or try dune bashing and stargazing in the protected desert area.
2. Dubai Miracle Garden
- A vibrant floral wonderland featuring over 150 million flowers arranged in artistic displays.
3. Jumeirah Beach
- A pristine coastline ideal for sunbathing, swimming, and watersports with a stunning view of the Burj Al Arab.
4. Hatta Dam and Hatta Mountains
- A picturesque escape offering kayaking, hiking, and breathtaking views of turquoise waters surrounded by rugged peaks.
5. The Dubai Fountain and Burj Lake
- A dazzling water and light show set on an artificial lake near the iconic Burj Khalifa.
Historical and Cultural Attractions
1. Al Fahidi Historical District (Al Bastakiya)
- A charming neighborhood showcasing Dubai’s heritage with traditional wind-tower architecture, art galleries, and museums.
2. Dubai Museum
- Located in Al Fahidi Fort, this museum offers insights into Dubai’s history, culture, and transformation from a fishing village to a global city.
3. Jumeirah Mosque
- A stunning example of Islamic architecture, open to non-Muslim visitors for guided cultural tours.
4. Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding
- Learn about Emirati culture, traditions, and religion through interactive programs and traditional meals.
5. Gold and Spice Souks
- Explore vibrant traditional markets to experience Dubai’s trading heritage, featuring gold, spices, and textiles.
The best way to explore major cities and must-see attractions is by booking guided tours.*
They offer convenience, local insights, and often save time when visiting popular sights.
Dubai Miracle Garden
How to get around
1. Metro
- The Dubai Metro is a fast, affordable, and efficient way to travel across the city. It has two main lines (Red and Green) connecting key areas, including major malls, airports, and the Dubai Marina. It’s automated, air-conditioned, and easy to navigate.
2. Taxis
- Taxis are widely available and can be hailed on the street, booked via phone, or through apps. They are metered, comfortable, and reasonably priced, but can be expensive during peak hours or long distances.
3. Buses
- Dubai has an extensive bus network that covers the city and suburbs. It’s a budget-friendly option for getting around, though it may take longer than the metro or taxis.
4. Water Taxis and Abras
- For a more scenic experience, water taxis (called water taxis or abras) are available to cross Dubai Creek or travel along the coastline. Abras are traditional wooden boats offering short rides at an affordable cost.
5. Car Rentals
- Renting a car is a good option for more flexibility and exploring places outside of the main city. Dubai has modern roads, but parking can be difficult and expensive in some areas.
6. Ride-hailing Services
- Services like Uber and Careem are available for convenient door-to-door transport throughout Dubai.
7. Bicycles and Scooters
- In some areas, such as Dubai Marina or Jumeirah Beach, you can rent bikes or electric scooters for short-distance travel.
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You can find great car rental deals for your vacation on Expedia *
Did you know?
Ski Resort in the Desert – Dubai has a ski resort called Ski Dubai, located inside a mall, despite its desert climate.
What to eat
1. Shawarma
- A popular street food made of seasoned meat (usually lamb, chicken, or beef) wrapped in pita bread with vegetables and tahini sauce.
2. Al Harees
- A traditional Emirati dish made with wheat, meat (usually chicken or lamb), and a pinch of salt, slow-cooked to a creamy consistency.
3. Machboos
- A flavorful rice dish cooked with meat (often chicken or lamb), vegetables, and a mix of aromatic spices.
4. Falafel
- Deep-fried balls made from ground chickpeas or fava beans, served with pita bread and tahini sauce.
5. Luqaimaat
- Sweet, deep-fried dumplings drizzled with date syrup and sprinkled with sesame seeds, a popular dessert during Ramadan.
Shawarma
Flights
Flight prices are approximate and vary by departure city, airline, and booking time. Check airlines or travel platforms for the latest details.
Main Airport: Dubai International Airport (DXB)
Flight Prices and Seasons:
From Europe
- Average Round-Trip Cost: €250 to €600.
- Cheapest Months: January to March, September to November.
- Peak Prices: December holidays and summer (June to August).
From North America
- Average Round-Trip Cost: $500 to $1,200.
- Cheapest Months: January to March.
- Peak Prices: December holidays and summer (June to August).
From Asia
- Average Round-Trip Cost: $200 to $500.
- Cheapest Months: January to March, September to November.
- Peak Prices: December holidays and summer (June to August).
From Australia
- Average Round-Trip Cost: $700 to $1,400.
- Cheapest Months: January to March, September to November.
- Peak Prices: December holidays and summer (June to August).
From Africa
- Average Round-Trip Cost: $300 to $700.
- Cheapest Months: January to March, September to November.
- Peak Prices: December holidays and summer (June to August).
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You can find the best flight deals with Skyscanner or plan the whole vacation, including flights, transportation, hotels and tours with Expedia *
Airport Location
Visa
1. Visa-Free Entry
- Citizens of many countries, including the UK, EU, US, Canada, Australia, and several GCC countries, can enter Dubai visa-free for stays ranging from 30 to 90 days, depending on nationality.
2. Visa on Arrival
- Some countries, including India, South Africa, and several others, are eligible for a visa on arrival in Dubai for stays of up to 30 days, which can sometimes be extended.
3. Tourist Visa
- If you're not eligible for a visa-free entry or visa on arrival, you can apply for a tourist visa through an airline (e.g., Emirates or Etihad), a hotel, or travel agencies. These visas typically last 30 days but can be extended for an additional 30 days.
4. Business Visa
- For business travelers, a short-term business visa or a long-term employment visa may be required. Companies based in the UAE can sponsor business visas.
5. Transit Visa
- If you are transiting through Dubai and staying for 48-96 hours, you may qualify for a transit visa, typically offered by airlines like Emirates or Etihad.
6. Required Documents
- Visa applicants usually need a valid passport (with at least 6 months of validity), passport-sized photos, and proof of onward travel (return ticket). For long-term visas, additional documents may be required, such as an invitation letter or employment contract.
7. Visa Fees
- Fees vary depending on the type of visa. Tourist visas are typically around 100-250 AED, but this can vary.
8. Online Visa Application
- Some types of visas, including tourist visas, can be applied for online through the UAE government portal or approved third-party agencies.
Important things to know
1. Payments
- Credit and debit cards (Visa, MasterCard, etc.) are widely accepted. Cash is also used, primarily AED (Dirhams).
2. Tap Water
- Safe to drink, as it’s desalinated and treated, though bottled water is commonly consumed.
3. Electricity
- 230V, 50Hz with British-style 3-pin plugs.
4. Tipping in Restaurants
- 10-15% is typical, though service charge is often included.
5. SIM Cards
- Available at airports, shops, and kiosks. Popular providers include Etisalat and Du.
6. Driving Side
- Drive on the right side of the road.
Souveniers
1. Gold Jewelry from the Gold Souk
- Dubai is famous for its high-quality gold jewelry, sold at competitive prices. The designs range from intricate Arabic patterns to modern styles.
2. Arabic Perfume (Oud & Bukhoor)
- Oud, a rich and smoky fragrance derived from agarwood, is one of the most luxurious scents in the world. Bukhoor, aromatic wood chips burned as incense, is another popular choice.
3. Dates & Date-Based Sweets
- The UAE produces some of the finest dates, often stuffed with almonds or coated in chocolate. Brands like Bateel offer premium varieties that make for a delicious souvenir.
Perfume
Location
You already visited this country? Share your experiences with others! Tell us what’s worth seeing, what to skip, the things you wish you knew before your trip, what surprised you, what do you wish you knew earlier? Leave a review and help others plan smarter. Thanks in advance! :))
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