Planning your first trip to Dubai? This practical guide covers the best areas to stay, the sights worth your time, how to get around and the local customs that make your visit easier — written by the CanalMarket team, with offices in Dubai and Panama.

In this guide

Best time to visit Dubai

Dubai has a desert climate. The most comfortable months are roughly November to March, when days are warm and evenings are pleasant for walking, beaches and outdoor dining. From June to September the heat and humidity are intense, so plan outdoor activities for early morning or after sunset and spend the middle of the day indoors — malls, museums and attractions are air-conditioned.

Many big events and festivals take place in the cooler season, so book hotels early if you travel between December and February.

Where to stay in Dubai

Downtown Dubai

Best for first-time visitors: you are next to the Burj Khalifa, The Dubai Mall and the Dubai Fountain, with a metro station close by.

Dubai Marina and JBR

Waterfront promenades, restaurants and a long public beach at JBR. Good for couples and travelers who want a beach-and-city mix.

Palm Jumeirah

Resorts with private beaches. Ideal for a relaxing stay; you will rely more on taxis to reach the rest of the city.

Deira and Bur Dubai (Old Dubai)

The historic heart of the city around Dubai Creek: traditional souks, heritage districts and a more local atmosphere, often with more budget-friendly options.

Business Bay

Modern towers next to Downtown along the Dubai Water Canal — practical for business travelers.

Top things to see and do

  • Burj Khalifa — the world’s tallest building; book observation deck tickets in advance, especially for sunset.
  • The Dubai Mall and the Dubai Fountain — shopping, the aquarium and the evening fountain shows on Burj Lake.
  • Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood — wind-tower houses, small museums and art galleries in Old Dubai.
  • Dubai Creek by abra — cross the creek on a traditional wooden water taxi, then explore the Gold Souk and Spice Souk in Deira.
  • Museum of the Future and Dubai Frame — two of the city’s most photographed modern landmarks.
  • Desert safari — dune drives, a desert sunset and a traditional camp dinner; choose a licensed operator.
  • Beaches — JBR Beach, Kite Beach and other public beaches along Jumeirah.
  • Jumeirah Mosque — one of the mosques in Dubai that welcomes non-Muslim visitors on guided cultural tours.

Looking for hotels, restaurants and activities? Browse places in the UAE on CanalMarket Travel Guide.

Getting around Dubai

  • Dubai Metro: the Red and Green lines connect the airport, Deira, Bur Dubai, Downtown and Dubai Marina. Buy a rechargeable Nol card at any station; it also works on buses, trams and some water transport. Each train has a Gold Class carriage and a section reserved for women and children.
  • Taxis and ride-hailing: official RTA taxis are metered and easy to find; ride-hailing apps also operate in the city.
  • Dubai Tram: links Dubai Marina and JBR with the Palm Jumeirah monorail connection.
  • Abras and water taxis: the cheapest and most scenic way to cross Dubai Creek.

Customs, dress and etiquette

  • Dubai is international and welcoming, but it is part of a Muslim country: dress modestly in malls, markets, government buildings and religious sites (shoulders and knees covered is a good rule). Swimwear is for beaches and pools.
  • Public displays of affection, rude gestures and offensive language can lead to problems — be respectful.
  • Ask before photographing people, especially women and families, and do not photograph government or military buildings.
  • During Ramadan, be considerate of people who are fasting; check the current guidance for visitors before you travel.
  • The local currency is the UAE dirham (AED). Cards are widely accepted.
  • The weekend in the UAE is Saturday and Sunday; Friday is a shorter working day.

Entry requirements

Visa and entry rules depend on your nationality and change from time to time. Always check the official UAE government and airline sources before you book. We do not give visa advice in this guide.

Turn this guide into a real trip

Our sister company CanalMarket Travel organizes tours in Dubai, the UAE and Panama. Questions? Ask Laura, our AI travel assistant, any time.

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Dubai travel FAQ

How many days do I need in Dubai?

Four to five days is enough for the main sights, a desert safari and some beach time. Add a day or two if you want to visit Abu Dhabi.

What is the best area to stay for a first visit?

Downtown Dubai, because you are next to the Burj Khalifa and The Dubai Mall and close to the metro. Dubai Marina is a good alternative if you want the beach.

Is the Dubai Metro easy for tourists?

Yes. Buy a Nol card at any station, top it up and tap in and out. Signs and announcements are in English and Arabic.

What should I wear in Dubai?

Light, breathable clothes. Cover shoulders and knees in malls, souks and religious sites; swimwear only at beaches and pools.