Dubai Travel Guide 2026
The world’s tallest building, desert safaris, and some of the most ambitious architecture anywhere.
Search flightsWhy Dubai
Dubai built an entire ultra-modern skyline in a few decades, anchored by the Burj Khalifa, alongside desert safaris, world-class shopping, and a genuinely easy long-haul stopover experience with excellent airport infrastructure.
What to know before you go
Most Western passport holders can enter the UAE visa-free for up to 90 days. Dubai is more liberal than much of the Gulf region, but modest dress is still expected in public/religious areas.
Best time to visit
November-March is by far the most comfortable window — summer regularly exceeds 40°C, making outdoor activities genuinely difficult.
Getting there
Dubai International Airport is one of the world’s busiest hubs, with extensive global connections and easy stopover options.
Getting around
The metro covers many major areas efficiently and affordably; ride-hailing apps fill in the rest for anywhere the metro doesn’t reach.
Where to stay
Downtown Dubai for proximity to the Burj Khalifa and Dubai Mall; Dubai Marina for a more resort-like waterfront base.
eSIM & connectivity
Coverage is excellent throughout the city.
Travel insurance for Dubai
Worth confirming coverage for any desert excursions (dune bashing, camel trekking) if that’s part of the plan.
Everything else for your trip
Flights
Compare fares across airlines. Find the cheapest day, route, and fare class for your trip.
Search flightsHotels
One search across every major booking site. Same room, different prices — pick the lowest.
Compare hotelsCar Rental
Compare rental companies at your destination before you land. No counter surprises.
Find a rentalTaxis & Transfers
Pre-book an airport transfer. Fixed price, driver waiting, no haggling on arrival.
Book a transferTravel Insurance
Compare policies and coverage before you need one. Medical, cancellation, adventure.
Compare policieseSIM
Get mobile data the moment you land. No SIM counter, no roaming charges.
Get an eSIMPractical Info: Culture, Currency & Electricity
Top Attractions
- Burj Khalifa observation deck
- Dubai Mall and the Dubai Fountain
- Old Dubai: Al Fahidi district and abra ride across the Creek
- Desert safari and dune bashing
- Palm Jumeirah
Culture & Etiquette
The UAE is a Muslim country with generally liberal enforcement in tourist areas, but public modesty still matters — swimwear is for beaches/pools only, and shoulders/knees should be covered elsewhere, especially at mosques. Public affection is best kept minimal. Alcohol is available in licensed venues (hotels, some restaurants) but public intoxication is taken seriously.
Currency & Exchanging Money
Currency: UAE Dirham (AED)
AED is pegged to the US Dollar at a fixed rate, so USD conversions are the easiest to sanity-check. Licensed exchange houses (Al Ansari, UAE Exchange) throughout Dubai’s malls generally beat bank rates and hotel desks. Bank ATMs are everywhere and reliable.
Been here? Rate your currency-exchange experience below to help other travelers.
Electricity & Adapters
Voltage: 230V, 50Hz
Plug type: G (UK-style 3-pin rectangular)
If your home plug type doesn’t match, bring a universal travel adapter — it’s the one item worth packing regardless of destination.