Planning your first trip to the United Arab Emirates? Dubai and Abu Dhabi are incredible destinations, full of contrasts between the modern and the traditional. But before you embark, it’s worth knowing a few details that can make your experience here much smoother!
We’ve put together 5 essential tips for you to make the most of your trip with more comfort, convenience, and without any hitches.
1. What to Wear?
While Dubai and Abu Dhabi are modern cities open to tourism, the country still follows Islamic traditions. This doesn’t mean you need to cover yourself from head to toe, but it is important to respect local customs:
- 👗 Opt for light clothing that covers your shoulders and knees in public or religious places.
- 🏖️ At beaches and hotel pools, bikinis and swimwear are allowed!
- 🕌 Visiting mosques? Women need to cover their arms, legs, and hair. Men should avoid shorts above the knee.
Extra tip: Always carry a scarf or pashmina in your bag. It can be useful in different situations, including protecting you from cold air conditioning!
2. Transportation: How to Get Around
Transportation here is super organized, safe, and efficient. But it’s worth understanding your options:
- 🚕 Taxis are abundant and fairly priced.
- 🚇 Dubai Metro: Modern, air-conditioned, and with exclusive cabins for women and children. Great for exploring the city on your own.
- 🚗 Car rental: Excellent for those who want more freedom, especially to visit more distant places like the desert or Abu Dhabi.
- 📄 Attention: To rent a car, you’ll need to present your International Driving Permit (IDP) along with your valid driver’s license from your home country.
- 👟 Walking? Yes, but in moderation. Many tourist areas are pedestrian-friendly, but the heat (especially between June and September) can be intense.
3. Currency and Payment Methods
The official currency is the dirham (AED).
- 💳 Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, even for small purchases.
- 💰 Having a little cash on hand can be helpful in local markets, taxis, and small shops.
- 💱 Exchange offices are scattered throughout the city, including in shopping malls. The exchange rate is usually better than at airports.
Tip: Use apps like Wise or Revolut for international currency exchange and payments — practical and economical.
4. Language
The official language is Arabic, but English is widely spoken, especially in hotels, restaurants, tourist attractions, and with taxi drivers.
- 🗣️ You don’t need to be fluent in the language to travel, but knowing a few words in English will help a lot in your daily interactions.
And if you have any difficulties during your trip, our team is always available to help with translation and support 😉
5. How to Create a Balanced Itinerary
With so much to see and do, it’s normal to feel lost when putting together the ideal itinerary. Here’s the tip:
- 📍 Mix the classics with more authentic experiences. Combine famous attractions (like the Burj Khalifa and Sheikh Zayed Mosque) with traditional markets, cultural tours, and moments of relaxation.
- ⏳ Allow free time for unforeseen events and rest — the pace here can be intense.
- ☀️ Avoid outdoor activities during the hottest parts of the day. Opt for indoor tours in the early afternoon and save the late afternoon for viewpoints, fountains, and deserts.
- 👨👩👧👦 Traveling with family, seniors, or children? Customize the itinerary based on everyone’s interests and pace.
💡 And if you’re unsure where to start, we have two ready-made suggestions on our blog to inspire you:
And of course: count on us to create a tailor-made itinerary, with unique experiences and no headaches!
Shall we plan together?
Want a smooth, well-organized trip full of unforgettable experiences in Dubai and Abu Dhabi?
We’ll help you create a personalized itinerary with tours, accommodation, transfers, practical tips, and support before and during your trip.
📩 Contact us! We’ll take care of everything so you can focus on enjoying yourself.
