Travel Tips for Dubai: Practical Advice for a Safe & Fun Visit

If you’re heading to Dubai, you probably picture sky‑high towers, endless sunshine, and luxurious malls. The reality is just as exciting, but it comes with rules you need to know. Below is a quick, no‑fluff guide that covers money, safety, and everyday etiquette so you can focus on having a great time.

Budget & Money Tips

Dubai looks pricey, but a smart budget keeps you in control. A 50,000 AED salary is comfortable for a single expat; for tourists, aim for 400‑600 AED per day for meals, transport, and modest attractions. Use local grocery stores for snacks—your breakfast coffee will cost less than 15 AED instead of 30 AED at a hotel cafe. When it comes to transport, the Metro is cheap and reliable; a daily pass costs about 20 AED, while taxis start at 12 AED and add roughly 2 AED per kilometer.

Travel apps like Careem and Uber are safe, but double‑check the license plate before you hop in. For evenings, the best value meals are at food courts in malls like Mall of the Emirates—expect a full plate for 35‑45 AED. Remember to factor in a 5 % tourism tax on hotel bills and a 20 % service charge on restaurant tabs.

Local Laws & Etiquette

Public decency rules are strict. The middle finger, loud arguments, or overly affectionate PDA can lead to fines or arrests. Kissing in public is tolerated for married couples, but unmarried couples should keep it low‑key. If you’re a solo woman, dress modestly in public areas: shoulders and knees covered is the safest bet, especially in malls and religious sites.

Smoking is allowed only in designated zones. Vaping follows the same rule—look for “smoking area” signs in malls and airports. If you’re unsure, ask staff; most will point you to the right spot. Also, flushing toilets after 10 pm is a myth—nothing illegal there, but keep noise to a minimum in residential areas.

When it comes to dating apps, Tinder isn’t banned, but the government blocks some VPN traffic. Use a reputable VPN if you want unrestricted access, and always respect local customs when meeting someone for the first time.

Unmarried couples can share a hotel room, but be ready for a short questionnaire at check‑in. Some hotels may ask for a passport copy to confirm identities. Same‑sex couples face more scrutiny, so choose upscale international chains that are accustomed to diverse guests.

Finally, avoid common tourist pitfalls: don’t drink alcohol in public, don’t bring pork products into the country, and don’t post pictures of government buildings on social media. A quick check of local regulations saves you from unwanted attention.

Follow these tips, and you’ll get the best out of Dubai without any nasty surprises. Enjoy the skyline, the beaches, and the world‑class service—just stay aware, respect the culture, and keep an eye on your budget.