Things to Do in Dubai

Attractions 

• Take in the sights from ‘At The Top’, Burj Khalifa, which at 828 metres is currently the world’s tallest building
• Palm Jumeirah is one of the world’s largest man-made islands and looks like a stylised palm tree from above. Sail around this astounding archipelago or hop on the Palm monorail that runs to the Atlantis Resort
• See water dance at the Dubai Fountain, the world’s largest choreographed fountain display, where powerful jet streams soar into the sky and sway in rhythm with musical numbers
• Sip a high tea in style at the Skyview Restaurant in the Burj Al Arab and savour the incredible views of Dubai’s coastline
• Walk along the historic Dubai Water Canal which has effectively made parts of the city into an island

Dining Out  

You can taste a word of flavours in Dubai from authentic street food to fine dining including Michelin-worthy restaurants. From family-friendly cafes, to casual dining to gourmet bistros and celebrity restaurants to traditional Emirati cuisine, Dubai’s restaurant scene is very impressive like so much else!

For Families 

There is so much on offer for all the family in Dubai. Children will love Dubai’s thrilling theme parks which include IMG Worlds of Adventure with its scary Velociraptor; Dubai Parks & Resorts and its labyrinth of magnificent theme parks including Motiongate, Legoland Dubai and Legoland Waterpark. Wild Wadi Waterpark is one of the world's best water parks and its Tantrum Alley ride will leave children screaming for more.

Shopping

From high-end shopping malls to traditional souks, Dubai is a shopper’s dream. Dubai has a multitude of malls with something for every kind of visitor. The biggest of all is the Dubai Mall with over 1,200 stores and family-focussed attractions including an indoor ski resort! Other shopping highlights include Dubai Festival City, City Walk and Mall of the Emirates.

Best Time to Go 

Dubai has a coastal location on the Arabian Peninsula and enjoys a warm climate year-round. The winter months last from October to May and are a pleasant time to visit Dubai to with temperatures ranging from 20 to 35 degrees. The summer season runs from June to September with hotter temperatures that can reach into the mid-40s. The city’s wide range of facilities and attractions, both indoor and outdoor, ensure Dubai is a year-round destination.

Local Info

Currency 

Dubai’s currency is the dirham which is shortened to AED (United Arab Emirates Dirham). The dirham has been pegged to the US dollar since 1997. One Euro is worth AED4.35.

Time Zone

Dubai is on Gulf Standard Time (GST) which is +3 hours ahead of Ireland.

Getting around 

On arrival, the Dubai Metro is a good option for travelling to your destination. This is the world’s largest driverless train system and has 2 lines that run that from the airport to the busiest areas of the city. You simply buy a Nol card and keep it topped up or purchase a single-use ticket at the station. Alternatively, there are clear signs pointing you towards airport taxis in the terminal building and you can also grab a taxi from almost anywhere in the city. Cycling, boats and scooters are other forms of available transport for getting around.

Dress Code

Dubai is a cosmopolitan city and a cultural melting pot but it is a conservative country. While swimwear is permissible at beaches, waterparks and spa areas, it is not considered appropriate in shopping malls and business districts. 

Greetings & Etiquette

Public displays of affection should be kept to a minimum. Holding hands is fine but kissing and hugging in public areas is not permitted. Alcohol is served in licensed venues such as hotels and bars to those over 21 years of age. However, drunk and disorderly conduct is not acceptable.

Language

Dubai is home to hundreds of nationalities but the 2 main languages are Arabic and English which are spoken across the city.

Tipping

There are no rules when it comes to tipping. While it’s not compulsory to tip, it is customary in most cases but how much is down to personal preference.