Vacation with contrast in Dubai
Dubai is a fascinating city that offers its visitors a variety of contrasts, experiences and attractions. From luxurious shopping and noble restaurants to stunning architectural masterpieces and theme parks, there is something for everyone in Dubai.
Visitors can explore the city's rich culture and history by browsing markets and souks along Dubai Creek or visiting the Dubai Museum. Dubai is also ideal for a beach vacation in Dubai. With so many things to experience, it is no wonder that Dubai has become one of the most popular destinations in the world.
Whether you want to relax on Dubai's white sandy beaches, take advantage of the city's luxurious shopping and dining options, or explore its unique attractions, Etihad Holidays helps you plan an unforgettable trip to Dubai.
Best time to travel to Dubai
✓ between November and April
✓ hot and dry climate
✓ average 24°C to 26°C (75°F to 79°F)
✓ little rainfall
Important informations to know before travelling to Dubai
Weather and climate in Dubai
The best time to visit Dubai depends on the traveler´s preferences. The city is characterized by a warm and dry climate with high temperatures and plenty of sunshine. Overall, Dubai is a popular destination all year round and there are many activities and attractions for every season.
The winter months from November to April are the most popular ones for tourists, as the temperatures are slightly cooler, and the humidity is lower during this time. The summer months from May to October are the hottest ones in Dubai, when temperatures can rise to over 40 degrees.
Recommended length of stay in Dubai
For a short stay in Dubai, we recommend at least 5 days, so that you do not miss the main sights and attractions, such as the Burj Khalifa, the Dubai Mall or the Dubai Creek.
For a longer vacation, where you can explore the city more extensively and also enjoy Dubai's beaches and nightlife, we recommend a stay of at least two weeks. This will also give you time to visit the surrounding cities and islands or take part in activities such as desert safaris or skiing.
Transportation – Getting to and around Dubai
In Dubai, there are many transportation options available to get around the city and its surroundings. The most popular form of transportation in Dubai is by car. Since the city's road network is well developed, many visitors rent cars there. Alternatively, taxis, public transport and private transfer services are also available in the city.
Rental car
You can rent a car from one of the many car rental companies at the airport or at various locations throughout the city. It is generally recommended to book your rental car in advance to ensure availability and to get the best rates. When renting a car in Dubai, you will need to have a valid driver's license from your home country, and in some cases, an international driver's license may also be required. Furthermore, most rental car companies in Dubai have a minimum age requirement of 21 years.
Public transportation
The city also has a very well-developed public transportation network, which consists of buses and the metro. The metro is a convenient and inexpensive way to get around Dubai. It has two lines that connect the city center with the suburbs.
Transfer services
Another option is an organized transportation service offered by many hotels and tour operators. These services offer comfortable vehicles and experienced drivers and can either be booked in advance or requested at the airport.
Important information for your vacation in Dubai
Visa for Dubai
For many countries there is a visa-on-arrival for Dubai, which means that you will receive a visa upon entry that is valid for short stays of up to 30 days and can be extended if necessary. If you plan to stay in Dubai for longer than 30 days, or if you are coming from a country that does not offer a visa-on-arrival, you should apply for a visa before traveling. To ensure that you have the correct visa for your trip to Dubai, it is recommended to contact the Dubai consulate or embassy in your country beforehand. You can also check the official UAE website for the latest information.
Vaccinations
Travelers to Dubai are no longer required to present a COVID-19 vaccination certificate or PCR testing. Within Dubai, there are currently no restrictions on unvaccinated or untested people.
There is also no need or urgent recommendation for other vaccinations.
Security
Dubai is a very safe city in total. Given the high police presence and a low crime rate, this city is safer than many others. Nevertheless, as in any other city, you should proceed with caution and take the usual Dubai security measures for your own protection.
Dress Code
Dubai is an Islamic country and most of the inhabitants are very traditional. Tourists are therefore expected to dress appropriately out of respect for the local culture. It is advised to wear clothes that cover your body and are not too tight or too short. While visiting a mosque or other holy sites, women must cover their heads. If necessary, you may also be asked to cover yourself with an additional scarf before entering. On the beach and within your hotel grounds, you can wear your usual swimwear.
Language & Currency
Although Arabic is Dubai's official language, English is widely used in the business world as well as in everyday life. Due to Dubai's international nature and the large number of foreigners living and working there, many of them are multilingual.
The UAE dirham is used as currency throughout the United Arab Emirates, including Dubai. 1 dirham is currently (as of January 2023) equal to 0.27 US dollars. You can easily exchange your money into AED at the airport, your hotel, or a shopping mall. Alternatively, you can mostly pay with credit and debit cards if you wish.
Alcohol
In Dubai, alcohol is only allowed for sale and consumption in certain areas. In addition to supermarkets and retail stores, there are bars and clubs that serve alcohol. However, the consumption of alcohol in public is illegal. Selling or serving alcohol to anyone under the age of 21 is also prohibited. It is generally allowed to drink alcohol within your hotel or other tourist facilities in Dubai.
Interesting events in 2023 in Dubai
Concerts & comedy shows
Depending on the season, Dubai hosts different sporting events, performances and exhibitions. World-famous artists such as Tom Odell, Kylie Minogue and Hans Zimmer will perform live in front of a large audience in Dubai in 2023.
Emirates Airline Festival of Literature
The Emirates Airline Festival of Literature will take place from Wednesday, February 1, to Monday, February 6, 2023, in Dubai. This event will celebrate the 15th anniversary of the Literature Festival and feature more than 250 international authors. Among them are Brian Cox, Cecelia Ahern, Alexander McCall Smith, David Walliams or Ben Miller.
InClassica Festival
From February 12 to March 10, 2023, Dubai will host a big classical music festival. InClassica is the largest musical observatory in the world and will host some incredible orchestras. The turkisch orchestra “Cukurova State Symphony”, accompanied by soloist Fumiaki Miura and conducted by the famous Massimiliano Caldi, will be opening the festival. The evening's program will include works by Mozart such as Symphony No. 40 and the Overture to the Marriage of Figaro.
Dubai Airshow 2023
One of the biggest aerospace events of 2023 will be the Dubai Airshow in November. It is a great contribution to unite the sector and provide access to priceless market information, business opportunities as well as innovative products and technologies. Join the Dubai Airshow for world-class aircraft exhibitions and more.