Thinking of visiting Dubai? Good choice! Our site is full of helpful hints and tips, but if you want a very quick rundown of things to do and so before you travel, just take a look at this quick guide and hopefully you’ll have luxury Dubai holidays to remember!
You should always check the latest travel advice on the Foreign Commonwealth and Development Office website when planning to travel. https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/united-arab-emirates
Visa Requirements for Dubai
Holders of full British passports will be granted a free-of-charge visitor/tourist visa upon arrival in the UAE. No application in advance of travel is needed. Your passport will be stamped with the visa as you pass through immigration. The visa issued at the airport for British passport holders is valid for 30 days.
Local Laws and Customs in Dubai
UAE laws and customs are very different to those in the UK. Be aware of your actions to ensure that they don’t offend, especially during the holy month of Ramadan or if you intend to visit religious areas. There may be serious penalties for doing something that might not be illegal in the UK. You are strongly advised to familiarise yourself with and respect local laws and customs.
In 2023, the holy month of Ramadan is expected to start on the 22nd of March and finish on the 21st of April. See Travelling during Ramadan
Currency and Tipping
The official currency in Dubai is United Arab Emirates (UAE) dirham. The Federal Customs Authority has reiterated that there is no limit to the amount of cash travellers can carry while flying to or from the UAE. However, if passengers are carrying Dh60,000 or more or it’s equivalent in other currencies, they must declare the amount to customs officers.
In Dubai, you don’t have to tip as a service charge is already built into the prices (especially with restaurants). It won’t be considered rude if you don’t leave the staff any dirhams.
Best time to travel to Dubai?
Although Dubai is hot all year round, with highs of 31 degrees from November to March it seems like this is the best time to visit as you can bask in the warmth of the desert-like climate and avoid the peak of the heat. Should you wish to travel between April – October, you are looking at highs of 41 degrees, not the best for those looking to sunbathe.
Photography
You will undoubtedly be taking countless holiday snaps and photographing all the sites you visit during your stay but do note that due to strong sunlight, the best time for any photography in Dubai is at sunset.
Cuisine
As Dubai is a Muslim region, you will not find any pork dishes in the major restaurants. Cuisine in Dubai includes meat, fish, and rice, with lamb and mutton being the more favoured meats; tea and coffee are the preferred beverages, with spices like cardamom, saffron, and mint added to give it a distinctive flavour. The most popular Emirati dish, and common Arabic food, is the classic shawarma. A dish consisting of meat cut into thin slices, stacked in a cone-like shape, and roasted on a slowly turning, vertical rotisserie like a kebab. Usually, it’s made with lamb, mutton, or chicken.
If you’re looking for a luxurious and exciting holiday destination, Dubai is the perfect place for you. This city has something for everyone, from incredible shopping and dining experiences to world-class attractions and activities. Follow these tips and you’ll have a holiday to remember.
