Dubai First-Time Visitor Guide: Everything You Need to Know
Visiting Dubai for the first time? This comprehensive guide covers visa requirements, cultural etiquette, money tips, and essential local knowledge to ensure your trip goes smoothly. Already know the basics? Jump straight to our Dubai Trip Planner to start building your itinerary.
Updated: January 2025•8 min read
Dubai at a Glance
🌡️ 20-45°C
Temperature Range
🕌 Arabic
Official Language
💵 AED
Currency (Dirham)
🔌 G-Type
Power Outlets (UK)
Essential Tips for First-Time Visitors
🛂Visa & Entry Requirements
- ✓90+ nationalities get visa-on-arrival (UK, US, EU, Australia, etc.)
- ✓Passport must be valid for 6+ months from entry date
- ✓Free 30-day tourist visa for many countries
- ✓Check the UAE ICP portal for your specific nationality
👔Dress Code & Cultural Etiquette
- ✓Modest dress in public areas (shoulders and knees covered)
- ✓Beachwear is fine at beaches, pools, and resorts
- ✓Remove shoes when entering mosques or homes
- ✓Public displays of affection should be minimal
- ✓Photography: always ask permission before photographing locals
💰Money & Payments
- ✓Currency: UAE Dirham (AED). 1 USD ≈ 3.67 AED
- ✓Credit cards widely accepted (Visa, Mastercard)
- ✓Cash useful for souks, taxis, and small vendors
- ✓ATMs available everywhere with reasonable fees
- ✓Tipping: 10-15% at restaurants, round up for taxis
🚇Getting Around
- ✓Dubai Metro: Fast, clean, affordable (get a Nol card)
- ✓Taxis: Metered, safe, and air-conditioned
- ✓Uber & Careem: Widely available throughout the city
- ✓RTA buses: Extensive network, very affordable
- ✓Avoid driving during rush hours (7-9am, 5-8pm)
📱Connectivity
- ✓Free WiFi in malls, hotels, and many cafés
- ✓Buy a local SIM: Du or Etisalat at the airport
- ✓Tourist SIM packages start from AED 55 for 1GB+
- ✓VoIP calls (WhatsApp, FaceTime) work with most packages
- ✓Download RTA Dubai and Visit Dubai apps
⚠️Important Laws to Know
- ✓Zero tolerance for drink driving
- ✓Alcohol only in licensed venues (hotels, bars)
- ✓Public intoxication is illegal
- ✓No drugs – strict penalties apply
- ✓Respect Ramadan timings if visiting during the holy month