Dubai Travel Advice: Real Tips for Costs, Rules & Fun

Planning a trip to Dubai? You’ll find the city exciting, but you also need to know what to expect. Below you’ll get straight‑forward advice on money, where to stay, and the rules that can surprise most tourists. Use this guide to avoid common mistakes and enjoy your time without hassle.

How Much Money Do You Need?

Dubai can feel both cheap and expensive. A daily food budget can be as low as 30 AED if you stick to local eateries, but a dinner at a beachfront restaurant will push you past 200 AED. Transportation is easy: the metro costs 4 AED for a short ride, while a taxi from the airport to Palm Jumeirah usually runs around 130 AED.

If you’re looking for a place to stay, Airbnb prices in 2025 range from 250 AED per night for a private studio to 900 AED for a luxury apartment. Hotels for unmarried couples may charge extra fees, so check the policy before you book. A quick tip – book your stay at least two weeks in advance to snag the best weekly discounts.

For a week‑long visit, budgeting 3,000–4,500 AED covers meals, transport and a mid‑range hotel. Add another 1,000 AED if you plan to hit popular attractions like the Burj Khalifa or a desert safari. Keep a little extra for unexpected fines – they can add up fast.

Know the Local Rules

Public affection is a common question. Kissing or holding hands is generally tolerated in private clubs, but doing it on the street can attract a warning or a fine. The law is stricter for unmarried couples sharing a hotel room. Some hotels will let you stay if you present a joint reservation, but many still enforce the “married only” rule. To stay safe, book a room with a “family” or “business” label and keep documentation handy.

Smoking and vaping have specific zones. You can smoke in designated areas of malls and hotels, but lighting up on the street is illegal and can cost you up to 2,000 AED. Vaping follows the same rules – only use e‑cigarettes in approved spots. If you ignore these signs, you risk a hefty fine and a possible delay at customs.

Dress codes also matter. Public places expect modest clothing – shoulders and knees should be covered. Swimwear is fine at beaches and pools, but not in city streets or restaurants.

Finally, remember that cultural respect goes beyond the law. Saying “please” and “thank you” in Arabic ("min fadlak" and "shukran") earns you smiles and smoother interactions. Tourists who follow local etiquette find the city more welcoming.

Use this advice to plan your budget, pick the right accommodation, and stay on the right side of the rules. Dubai is a mix of modern luxury and traditional values – knowing both will make your trip enjoyable and stress‑free.