How to Plan a Trip to Dubai: The Complete Guide
Experience the city of future. Use our expert guide and AI trip planner to craft an unforgettable Dubai itinerary, from skyscrapers to desert dunes.
Discover the City of Gold
Dubai is a dazzling mix of traditional Arabian culture and futuristic innovation. Home to the world's tallest building, largest mall, and man-made islands, it offers experiences you can't find anywhere else. But to enjoy it fully without overspending, you need a plan.
Why This Guide?
Dubai can be overwhelming with its sheer scale and endless options. We'll help you navigate the logistics of getting around, respecting local customs, and maximizing your budget in what is often perceived as one of the world's most expensive cities.
Key Things to Know Before You Go
- ✓Weekend is differnet: Since 2022, UAE has shifted to a Saturday-Sunday weekend, aligning with the West.
- ✓Public Affection: Be conservative. Holding hands is fine for married couples, but kissing in public is not.
- ✓Alcohol: Available in licensed hotels and clubs. Drinking in public streets or beaches is strictly prohibited.
Timing & Budget
Timing is everything in the desert. Visiting in the right month can mean the difference between pleasant strolls and 45°C heat.
📅 Best Time to Visit
- ✓Winter (Nov-Mar): The "Golden Season". Temps 20-25°C. Perfect for beaches, desert safaris, and al fresco dining.
- ✓Shoulder (Apr-May, Oct): Getting hotter, but beach clubs are lively.
- ✓Summer (Jun-Sep): Very hot (40°C+). Best for indoor attractions (Malls, Ski Dubai, IMG Worlds). Hotel rates drop significantly.
💰 Budget Tips
- ✓Use the Entertainer App: Offers 2-for-1 deals on dining and attractions.
- ✓Ride the Metro: It's cheap, clean, and efficient compared to daily taxi rides.
- ✓Stay in Old Dubai: Areas like Deira and Bur Dubai offer authentic vibes at a fraction of the cost of Marina or Palm.
Pro Tip: Tourist Tax
'Tourism Dirham'
Hotels charge a small nightly fee (AED 7-20 per room) known as the Tourism Dirham. This is usually paid upon arrival at the hotel.
Shopping VAT Refund
Tourists can claim back 5% VAT on purchases over AED 250. Look for the 'Tax Free' tag and validate at the airport (Planet kiosk) before leaving.
Neighborhood Guide
1Downtown Dubai
The heart of the city. Home to Burj Khalifa, Dubai Mall, and Fountains. Upscale and central.
2Dubai Marina & JBR
Skyscrapers meet the sea. Great for nightlife, beach walks (The Walk), and dining.
3Palm Jumeirah
Luxury resorts (Atlantis), beach clubs, and exclusive living.
4Old Dubai (Deira/Bur Dubai)
Traditional souks (Gold, Spice), Abrams rides across the Creek, and history.
Choose Where to Stay
Where you stay defines your Dubai experience. Do you want beach access, mall convenience, or cultural immersion?
Tip: Distances in Dubai are large. Stay close to what you want to visit most often, or near a Metro station.
Must-Book Experiences
Dubai's top attractions are world-famous and can get busy.
Book 'At The Top' tickets online for sunset slots weeks in advance. It's cheaper and guarantees entry.
A must-do. Compare operators for dune bashing, BBQ dinner, and entertainment. Afternoon-evening is the standard timing.
Extremely popular and often sold out 2-3 weeks ahead. Book this as soon as you know your dates.
Frequently Asked Questions
Explore More Destinations
Planning a multi-country European tour? Combine Dubai with nearby destinations!
Plan Multi-Country Trip