The city of Dubai is pretty unique place, lying as it does at the crossroads between the Middle East and the west. It can be a confusing place for tourists, so if you’re planning to visit, keep these tips in mind.
Weather
High season in Dubai is December to March, and with good reason: in winter the city is bearably warm, while in summer temperatures can be blisteringly hot. If you’re travelling during summer be prepared for humidity and constant heat (up to 40 degrees). Luckily, much of Dubai is air conditioned, but sun bathing will be pretty uncomfortable.
Opening times
Shops tend to be open all day and into the night. Traditional shops may open at 10am, close at 1pm and open again at 4pm till 9pm. However, most shops in Dubai will open at 10am and close at 10pm, while some supermarkets are open 24 hours.
Tipping
Dubai tipping practices are pretty similar to European practices. Restaurants will generally add 10 – 15%. Tipping taxi drivers, porters etc is at your discretion.
Food and water
Dubai is geared towards visitors and hygiene is always a priority. The water is perfectly safe to drink and food is prepared to very high standards.
Clothing
Even in winter Dubai is very warm, so take loose summer clothing. However, remember that Dubai is a Muslim country, and wearing swim suits away from the pool and the beach is frowned upon. Women are also expected to cover their arms and wear skirts of an appropriate length. Similarly, men are advised to cover up away from the beaches – going bare-chested in beach cafe or promenade is a no no.
Sex, drugs and alcohol
Dubai maybe a tourist playground, but it still a Muslim country and local customs should be respected. Dubai has a slightly conflicted attitude to alcohol. The rest of the UAE is strictly alcohol free and public drunkenness, or drinking in the streets, is an offense in Dubai. However, alcohol is freely available in restaurants and hotels, and tourists are free to drink as much as they like. Supermarkets, on the other hand, only sell alcohol to residents with alcohol licences. If you’re at all concerned about the rules regarding alcohol, keep it to your hotel or restaurant and don’t over do it.
Drug trafficking in Dubai carries very heavy penalties – as severe as places like Thailand – so don’t even consider carrying any illegal substances. Prescription drugs can also be a problem. If you’re caught with a controlled substance, even if it’s a freely available prescription drug in your homeland, you could end up with a lengthy prison sentence. Check which drugs are controlled, and if you absolutely have to carry them, only take enough for your stay (up to three months is allowed) and always take a doctor’s note. More information can be found at http://www.uaeinteract.com/travel/drug.asp.
Public displays of affection are frowned upon. If you’re travelling as a couple then remember that simple actions such as kissing can cause offence. Homosexuality is also illegal in Dubai.
Visas
Most nationalities can enter on a 60-day visa, but check requirements before you travel.
Byline: Rob Millard writes on behalf of Hotels.com, a leading accommodation website providing hotels in Dubai.
