Dubai Travel Guide 2025

Planning a trip to Dubai? You’re about to land in a city that mixes ultra‑modern skyscrapers with desert charm. Below you’ll find the basics you need to feel confident, keep your wallet happy, and avoid common pitfalls.

Budget & Everyday Costs

Most travelers wonder whether Dubai is cheap or expensive. The truth is you can make it work at any budget. A typical breakfast at a café costs around 30‑45 AED, while a mid‑range dinner for two is about 150‑250 AED. If you’re hunting for cheap eats, head to Al Ula Road or the food courts in malls – you’ll find meals under 25 AED.

Transportation is another big factor. The metro is fast, clean, and only 5‑8 AED per ride. Taxis start at 12 AED and add roughly 2 AED per kilometer. For short trips, the Uber and Careem apps often have promotions that bring the price down to metro levels.

Accommodation varies a lot. A decent 3‑star hotel in the city centre can be booked for 250‑350 AED per night, while a luxury resort on Palm Jumeirah starts at 800 AED. If you’re flexible, Airbnb listings for a week often range from 1,200 AED (budget) to 4,500 AED (premium). Whatever you pick, always check if the price includes cleaning fees and city tax.

Do’s and Don’ts for Visitors

Dubai is safe, but it has rules that catch many tourists off guard. Public displays of affection (PDA) like kissing or hugging are technically frowned upon and can lead to fines. A quick rule of thumb: keep it low‑key in public spaces, and save the romance for private settings.

Smoking is allowed in designated areas only. You’ll find signs in malls, airports and some outdoor terraces. Vaping follows the same rule – use it only where smoking is permitted, otherwise you could face a fine.

Dress modestly when you’re outside hotel resorts or private clubs. Men can wear shorts, but women should avoid very short skirts or low‑cut tops in public. In hotel pools and beach clubs, swimwear is fine, but walking around in just a bikini is not.

When it comes to alcohol, only licensed venues like hotel bars, nightclubs and private apartments (with a permit) can serve it. Drinking in public places or being visibly drunk can lead to a police visit.

If you’re looking to meet locals or other travelers, dating apps are popular, but some – like Tinder – sometimes face temporary blocks. Using VPNs can help, but always respect local customs and avoid aggressive approaches.

Finally, keep your paperwork handy. Carry a copy of your passport, visa, and travel insurance. Police may ask for identification, especially if you’re in a crowded area after midnight.

With these basics covered, you’ll be able to explore Dubai’s malls, desert safaris, and iconic landmarks without stress. Remember, the city rewards respectful visitors with unforgettable experiences – from the view at Burj Khalifa to a sunset dhow cruise around the Palm. Enjoy your trip!