Dubai guide

Best time to visit

November to March, when days are warm and evenings mild. June to September is very hot and humid, so plans move indoors, but hotel rates are usually at their lowest.

Where to stay

• Downtown DubaiNext to Burj Khalifa and Dubai Mall: central, walkable by Dubai standards and good for a first visit.
• Dubai Marina and JBRTowers on the water with a beach promenade, restaurants and an easy tram and metro link.
• Palm JumeirahResort hotels with private beaches, best when you plan to stay put and relax.
• Deira and Al FahidiOld Dubai by the Creek: souks, abra boats, heritage houses and good-value hotels.

From the airport

Dubai International (DXB) is about 15 minutes by road from Deira and 25 to 40 minutes from Downtown or the Marina. The metro Red Line stops at Terminals 1 and 3. Some long-haul flights use Al Maktoum International (DWC) in Dubai South, much further out.

Getting around

The metro is clean, cheap and air-conditioned; pay with a Nol card. Taxis and ride-hailing apps cover the rest of the city, and the tram links the Marina, JBR and the Palm monorail.

Don't miss

1. Burj Khalifa observation decks at sunset
2. The Dubai Fountain show in Downtown
3. Al Fahidi historical district and an abra ride across the Creek
4. A desert safari in the dunes outside the city
5. Museum of the Future and Dubai Frame

Good to know

• Dress modestly in malls, souks and public places outside the beach; cover shoulders and knees in religious sites.
• Alcohol is served only in licensed venues, mostly hotels.
• The weekend is Saturday and Sunday. During Ramadan, check opening hours, and avoid eating or drinking in public in daylight.
• Tipping is appreciated but not required; around 10% in restaurants is common when service is not included.