Travel to Dubai: What to Know Before Visiting

Dubai is the most tourist destination among the seven emirates of the United Arab Emirates. Followed by Abu Dhabi, located 140 km from the city. As an Arab and Muslim country, Dubai has some peculiarities among other international destinations. Which makes the emirate even more interesting to visit.

Dubai is more liberal compared to other emirates. It’s possible to walk in shorts on the streets and go to the beach in a bikini. Alcoholic drinks are prohibited, but there are several bars and restaurants that serve them, especially in hotels. Although the prices are relatively expensive, everything is luxurious and grand. Get ready for a unique experience that only Dubai can provide.

What is the Currency in Dubai:

The official currency of Dubai is the Dirham (AED). One US dollar is valued today (December 2022) at approximately 3.67 AED. Dubai has several exchange offices in malls, in Souks, and in some hotels. Also, credit cards are accepted everywhere. But it’s always worth making sure and carrying a few dollars in your wallet.

what is the language in Dubai:

Arabic is the official language of Dubai. However, if you know English, you can get by very well in tourist areas and even in transport. Road signs, for example, are written in both Arabic and English. Which makes it very easy for those who want to rent a car. In addition, several residents are immigrants and live in the city communicating only in English.

Visa to enter Dubai:

A U.S. citizen with a regular passport may obtain a no-fee visitor visa upon arrival. The stay is up to 30 days. For other nationalities, a visa must be obtained before boarding. To find out if you need a visa visit the Emirates website.

Emirates airlines, as well as hotels and travel agencies, offer a service for obtaining a visa. My Egyptian husband applied for the e-visa before the trip. We used the Trypium tourism agency and the visa price was 1,500 EGP (2021). The price varies according to the length of stay, which can be 96 hours, 30 days, or 90 days.

Covid restrictions and PCR:

PCR is mandatory for anyone visiting Dubai (2021 data). You must present the negative test before boarding. Depending on the country you are departing from, you will also be required to take a second PCR upon arrival at the airport for free. For some countries, it’s still necessary to carry out a quarantine period upon arrival. Check the Emirates website for updated information on the matter.

We did the PCR in Cairo through the same visa agency. We paid around 90 dollars for the test, with a digital result printed with a QR code. You can do it at home or go to one of the Al Mokhtabar clinic units around Cairo. For those who are looking for tests in Dubai to return to their country, the NMC hospital has a 50% discount for those who bring proof of purchase of an airline ticket. We paid half of the price that we paid in Egypt.

Travel insurance:

Due to Covid issues, it’s necessary to present health insurance to stay in Dubai. Some airlines and travel companies provide this insurance included in the service. In addition, for those who apply for a visa before arriving in Dubai, the e-visa already covers insurance. For any destination, it is always recommended to take out travel insurance to be calm in case of unforeseen events.

When to go to Dubai:

Dubai is extremely hot. At the peak of summer, especially between June and August, high temperatures scare away tourists, and hotel prices drop. For those who want to enjoy the beach and don’t mind getting over 40 degrees, this time is a good time to save money.

The high season in the Emirates is between October and April when temperatures are between 68°F and 86°F. This is the perfect time to explore outside attractions in the city and go on desert tours. Avoid this type of activity if you are going in the summer.

Transportation in Dubai:

Due to the intense heat, it’s very difficult to get around Dubai on foot. The city is made up of large highways and parking everywhere, which makes it perfect for car use. Rentals are affordable and you can pop into Abu Dhabi if you’re driving.

If you prefer, Dubai also has two metro lines and a tram. They connect all the main points of the city. This is a good way to save on shipping. The stations have air conditioning and using it is very practical, even for foreigners. You can also connect to bus lines using the same ticket.

Check here for a detailed post on how to get around in Dubai.

Where to stay in Dubai:

Dubai is divided into 4 main areas. Our tip is to choose accommodation in one of them according to your itinerary in the city. For example, the Jumeirah area is ideal for those who want to enjoy the beach. Dubai Marina is more residential. At Downtown Dubai you will enjoy the city’s iconic buildings, as well as being close to Dubai’s main attractions.

In this post, you can find more information about each area and hotel tips.

FAQ about Travel to Dubai