What You Should Know Before Traveling to Dubai: Ultimate Guide

A captivating cosmopolitan city, Dubai is also the capital of the Emirate of Dubai and a sought-after holiday destination. Home to many world-renowned attractions, it has a vibrant cuisine reminiscent of the different cultures that make up the population of Dubai. Many expatriate professionals live and work here along with the Emiratis. This has resulted in the visitor-friendly vibes you experience around this amazing city. As you prepare to experience all this the following insights will be quite useful.

When to visit Dubai

Dubai is endowed with a tropical desert climate; hence summer months are generally hot with winter months becoming milder with warm temperatures. There is hardly any rain during the year except in February.
The months from November to March are milder with temperatures ranging between 12 to 30 degrees Celsius. With no rain except in February, this period is ideal for exploring Dubai. Therefore, many visitors travel during this period and most of them tend to book a luxury hotel in Dubai for their stay. 
Summer months from June to August range between 26 to 38 degrees Celsius during the day while April and May range between 21 to 35 degrees Celsius. Plan your travel dates considering the type of things you like to do and the duration of your stay. 

Photo by Inna Mykytas via pexels

Pack wisely

Carry clothing and footwear suitable for this city. Though cosmopolitan Dubai is an Islamic Emirate hence modesty in dress (covering upper arms, shoulders and knees) is expected at Heritage Sites, religious places and public places. Public places where visitors hang out mostly are markets, malls, hotel foyer areas and restaurants. 
Pack light cotton clothing and practical footwear, keeping in mind to look smart and sophisticated as needed yet be modest. If you intend to travel during the milder months, carry lightweight warm clothing for going out in the evenings. A couple of shawls are always useful to carry if visiting religious sites.

Getting about in Dubai

Dubai has excellent taxi coverage within the Emirate, they are safe and comfortable, and charges are reasonable for the service offered. 
Public transport in Dubai provides good coverage with buses and the Metro service. Most of the attractions have a Metro station nearby or are covered by the bus service. These public transport services are much cheaper than taxis, and the service is reliable and comfortable.

Respect local etiquette

Despite having many expatriates and a relatively modern aura when you go about, like other Middle Eastern cities Islamic culture and Sharia Law prevails in Dubai. Hence as an astute visitor be mindful.
Kissing or showing affection in public is frowned upon. Swearing, using bad language and criticizing religious beliefs in public places is not tolerated. Eating in public places (except at eating establishments) is not encouraged. It is not permitted on Public Transport services. Non-Muslims and visitors are not prohibited to eat in public, however, as respectful visitors to Dubai it is best to refrain from doing it.
Enjoy capturing images during your explorations, however, refrain from taking photos of people without their consent. Similarly, don’t click on government buildings, military facilities etc.

Relish the cuisine

Apart from exploring the attractions of Dubai and doing mall hopping as enjoyed by guests using properties like Oaks Ibn Battuta Gate Dubai the next best thing is enjoying its cuisine. 
With a wide variety of choices, visitors are never disappointed. Whether you eat street food, dine at a trendy restaurant, visit an international chain like KFC or imbibe at the Global Village, which has a variety of dishes on offer, visitors come away feeling happy and sated. The food in Dubai irrespective of where it is made is hygienic and tasty. Shawarma, manakish, chapatti, and chicken saloona are just a handful of delicious dishes enjoyed by visitors in Dubai.

Other handy tips

• Carry an adequate supply of sunscreen with a high SPF, sunglasses and sun hat
•    Tipping the luggage carriers at the airport and bellboys at hotels is acceptable in Dubai
•    Restaurants usually add a service charge to the bill
•    Removing your footwear is required at mosques and upon entering a residence