Some of the boldest architecture on the planet, with the desert never far away. Dubai is where most first-time visitors begin, so it is where our guides begin too.
The United Arab Emirates is made up of seven emirates, from the record-breaking towers of Dubai to the capital, Abu Dhabi, and quieter corners most visitors never reach.
t is a young country that has grown at astonishing speed, and Dubai is its best-known face. Expect the tallest of towers and the glossiest of malls on one side, and an old town of creekside souks and sandy lanes on the other, with the desert waiting just beyond the ring roads. If it is your first time in the region, Dubai is an easy, comfortable place to land, with warm winters, short flights and something for every kind of traveller. It is where our guides start, and where we would suggest you do too.
Two guides from our own trips: one for what to see and do, one for the practical planning.
The fun of Dubai is the contrast: the Burj Khalifa and the mega-malls on one hand, Al Fahidi’s sandy lanes and the creekside souks on the other. Our guide helps you balance both sides of the city so you see past the glitz.
Everything you need to plan the trip itself, from the best time to go and where to stay to getting around and what to budget. The practical companion to your Dubai visit.
A quick orientation to get you started. For the full planning detail, our Dubai essentials guide has you covered.
Very. It is safe, easy and set up for visitors, with excellent transport, warm winters and English widely spoken. Dubai makes a gentle introduction to the region.
Three to four days is enough for a first taste of Dubai. A week lets you slow down, add the desert and still have pool or beach time.
The cooler months from November to March are the most comfortable. Summers are very hot, so plan indoor attractions and early starts. There is more detail in our Dubai essentials guide.
Dubai’s metro is clean, cheap and runs along the spine of the city, with plentiful taxis to fill the gaps. Distances are big, so allow for travel time. Our essentials guide covers this in full.
he UAE is relaxed by regional standards, but it is respectful to dress modestly away from the beach and pool.
Alcohol is served in licensed venues.
Many nationalities, including UK passport holders, can currently enter visa-free for short stays, but always check the latest rules before you book.
Stay near a metro station in or around Downtown or the Marina. You will save a fortune on taxis and skip a lot of traffic.
We think so. Beyond the skyline and the shopping there is a proper old town, world-class food and the desert right on the doorstep. It rewards you if you look past the glitz.
Yes. It is safe and clean, with theme parks, water parks, beaches and desert adventures that keep all ages happy.
Three to four days covers the highlights. A week lets you add the desert and slow the pace.
Not usually. The metro and cheap taxis cover most of the city. A car mainly helps for the desert or trips out of town.
It can be, but it does not have to be. Flights, top hotels and fine dining add up, while the metro, local food and many attractions are very reasonable.