Is Dubai worth visiting – and other important questions answered

Before we flew to Dubai we had heard a lot of conflicting information about visiting. Some people seemingly love travelling to Dubai but so many others hated it calling it a waste of time. We were left with the question ‘Is Dubai worth visiting’?

Some people visit Dubai and are smitten the moment they land. It’s like a playground for adults where you have grand luxurious resorts, and giant skyscrapers, instead of swings and slides. Others enjoy the glitz and glamour that the largest Emirati city has to offer.

But there is also the darker side of Dubai. The side where strict rules come into play and prices are exuberant. With all this conflicting information you might be wondering Is Dubai worth visiting?

When we visited Dubai, it is fair to say that we were nervous when we boarded the plane, but now that the trip is over we are so glad that we did it. In this post we address some of the common myths and misconceptions about Dubai, and give you an honest response for each one.

Is Dubai worth visiting? And other common questions

Here we list some of the common questions about travelling to Dubai, and answer once and for all the question ‘Is Dubai worth visiting’? Please note that these responses are based on our own experiences so do your own research before you go, especially on local laws and customs.

Is Dubai expensive?

One question that we see being asked a lot is ‘Is Dubai expensive?’. Dubai kind of has this reputation of being a playground for the rich. And if you take one step into one of the over the top shopping malls the city is famous for, then you can see why.

There are a lot of reasonably priced tours you can do. The desert safari being one of them. For under £40 you can watch the sunrise in the desert, drive across the dunes, and settle down for a picnic breakfast.

We won’t lie and say that it is the cheapest destination that we have ever been to, but you can find cheap places to eat, as well as the super expensive places.

So Is Dubai expensive? Yes. If you aren’t into shopping or splashing the cash there are several other things you can do. It is possible to visit here without going completely crazy splashing the cash. Plan ahead, and book tours online for the best deals.

Do I need cash in Dubai?

Major credit cards are accepted almost everywhere in Dubai so you can get away with not carrying large wads of cash. You may want some cash though for things like tipping or even paying for items at souks.

Is Dubai safe?

Dubai is a really safe city. In fact crime rates are relatively low. The biggest issue you are going to have in regards to safety isn’t about being robbed or attacked, but about following the laws and customs. Which brings us onto the next point about how strict Dubai is.

Can you drink alcohol in Dubai?

There is a lot of conflicting information on alcohol consumption in Dubai. You can drink in hotels, but make sure you don’t act drunk in public places as this can get you into some serious trouble. Check your countries foreign travel advice website for more information.

What language do they speak in Dubai?

The official language in Dubai and the UAE for that matter is Arabic. In our experience though the large majority of people in Dubai do tend to speak English. Considering how multicultural it is, and the fact that it attracts tourists from all over the world, the common language tends to be English.

Is Dubai easy to get to ?

Dubai is a really easy destination to get to because the city is the home to the Emirates Airlines hub. You have flights coming into to Dubai International Airport from all around the world. In fact Dubai Airport is slowly making its way to the top of those ‘busiest airports in the world’ lists. Once you arrive at the airport the easiest way to get to your hotel is via taxi, and to be honest taxis are pretty cheap in Dubai so you will be lounging in your hotel room in no time.

How long should I spend in Dubai?

We spent 2 days in Dubai as we used it as a stopover between Brisbane and Manchester. This was a good amount of time to see some of the key attractions, but honestly we did feel a bit rushed. I think 5 days is a good amount of time because you can really explore some of the attractions Dubai has to offer without rushing.

Is Dubai worth visiting in the summer?

As someone that visited Dubai in the summer I would say no. But that’s also because I am terrible with the heat. In June, July, and August it gets to around 40 degrees celsius which is hot! It’s fine when you are inside in the air conditioning but it’s really hard going outside in such heat.

For us this meant less time to explore the outdoor parts of the city like the souks and more time in the malls. This was slightly disappointing. So in answer to the question ‘Is Dubai worth visiting in the summer’ we would say no.

Is Dubai worth visiting in the winter?

Winters in Dubai are incredibly mild, particularly in comparison to Europe. The temperature ranges from around 14 degrees Celsius to around 26 degrees Celsius. Winter is a really popular time to visit the city because of the mild weather conditions. December particularly is a popular month to visit Dubai with many flocking here from cooler climates to get a taste of the sunshine. Just make sure you book accommodation in advance to make sure you get the best deals in the busier season.

But, is Dubai worth visiting at any other time of the year?

Ok so we might not think Dubai is worth visiting in the summer due to the extreme heat, but is Dubai worth visiting during the other seasons? That is a yes. The weather in Dubai is warm and sunny year round. This is of course one of the perks of being a dessert city. So if you love you sun holidays, or just lazing by the pool, then Dubai is perfect for that. The shoulder seasons of spring and autumn are great because you sort of get the best of both worlds. It’s warm enough the swim, but not so warm that you feel like you will melt as soon as you step outside.

Is Dubai worth visiting for foodies?

One of the really cool things about Dubai is that due to the high numbers of expats in the city, the food scene is massively diverse. And not only that it’s really good quality. Our tip is, especially in the Old Town you can get some cheap but delicious traditional foods, so give it a whirl.

Is Dubai worth visiting for culture?

A lot of people seem to dismiss a trip to Dubai because they think that it has no culture. There is this idea that it is superficial, with modern buildings and not much else.

Yes Dubai is big on skyscrapers and luxury, but if you delve a little deeper you will start to see the culture and the traditions behind the glamour. The UAE is a Muslim country, and you will see hints of this in the architecture, and the cuisine.

Dubai is also becoming a cultural hub with museums, and galleries, mixed with modern architecture and opulence. If you want to experience the culture ditch the malls for the streets of Old Dubai. Explore the souks and immerse yourself in the colourful sights and smells of middle eastern spices and decor.

Is Dubai worth visiting for solo travellers?

If you are planning to visit Dubai as a solo traveller then it’s actually a good place to visit alone. The infrastructure is great meaning there are plenty of transport options and cheap taxis, making it easy to get around. There are also a lot of tour options you can book on which is a great way to meet some fellow travellers.

As a whole Dubai is generally pretty safe, and you won’t get much hassle even as a lone female traveller. The main thing is that you respect the rules of the country. Still have your wits about you, as we have heard stories of women who have been assaulted and getting into trouble with the police themselves.

Is Dubai worth visiting for couples?

We visited Dubai as a couple, and happen to think it is an excellent place to visit with your significant other. There are so many incredible things to do, and the food scene is out of this world. You certainly will not be stuck for date night ideas.

The one thing to be mindful of is that legally unmarried couples cannot share hotel rooms. I get the sense that many hotels turn a blind eye to this as if this was an issue many tourists wouldn’t visit. You don’t need to provide proof of marriage when checking in to your hotel room, and many couples have different last names in passports.

Another legal issue in Dubai is homosexuality. There can be severe repercussion to being openly gay in Dubai due to the strict Muslim laws. Many gay people do visit Dubai though, and there is even a gay scene in the country. It’s best to brush up on the rules before you go.

Something else to consider when travelling as a gay or straight couple in Dubai is that public affection is frowned upon so be mindful of this when visiting.

Is Dubai worth visiting for families?

Despite Dubai being marketed as a luxury destination it’s actually a great destination for families. You have a number of family friendly holiday resorts that you can stay in. Additionally there are several water parks and general theme parks to keep the kids entertained.

Is Dubai worth visiting during Ramadan?

If you are wondering if Dubai is worth visiting during Ramadan, the answer will depend largely on whether or not you are Muslim. If you are Muslim, Ramadan is a special time, and involves fasting during the day, and feasting in the evenings.

The days during Ramadan are a bit quieter, as many Muslims who are fasting prefer to stay out of the heat at this time. The evenings though, are where the true culture of Dubai shines through. It’s also a great opportunity to experience more than just the luxury and tourist parts of Dubai.

If you decide to visit during Ramadan, be respectful. If you aren’t fasting then you can eat and drink, but be mindful of those around you who are. Try and be discrete if you can. It’s also important to dress respectfully. Ramadan is such an important time for Muslims, and dress codes can be a bit stricter. Now there are usually large concessions for western tourists, but remember to be respectful.

Can you leave the airport during a stopover in Dubai?

If you are passing through Dubai on a layover you might want to take the opportunity to leave the airport and explore the city. This is definitely possible but it depends on the amount of time between your flight. It will also depend on your nationality and visa requirements. If you do get the opportunity to leave the airport though take it!

Is Dubai really strict?

Dubai is a strict country in regards to its laws. I am not an expert at all, so please do your research before you go. Dubai follows Sharia law, which is an Islamic religious law. There are some pretty hefty consequences if you fail to follow the law, and some laws might be different to what you are used to at home.

Women should dress modestly, and couples in general should avoid public displays of affection in public. Drugs are obviously a big no no as is alcohol consumption in public.

Despite the strict rules, Dubai is multicultural and for an Islamic country the UAE is a little more laid back than others. There are a lot of Westerners living and visiting Dubai, who have no issue. Our advice would be to know the rules, and be respectful.

Things to know before visiting Dubai

Dubai has some very strict rules as mentioned above. So we have compiled a short list of some of the things you should be aware of before visiting Dubai.

Drugs are a no no!

It’s common knowledge that Dubai has a zero tolerance policy on drugs. But something to consider before you visit is this includes your usual illegal narcotics but also some that are legal in other countries. One example is codeine. It’s an over the counter pain killer in the UK for example, but it’s certainly not legal in Dubai.

If you have prescription medicine, including certain painkillers you should make sure you bring a doctors note with you. And check what you can and cannot bring into the country before you leave.

Dress in a respectful way

You may think you have to cover yourself from head to toe, as a woman in Dubai. This is not true. But you should dress conservatively. I was worried about being offensive when we visited, so I asked the staff at our hotel what was appropriate.

They advised not to wear short skirts or shorts, and to make sure my shoulders were covered. I still wore short sleeved T-shirts and tops, which was fine. Men should also dress conservatively, and you should always wear shirt even in the heat. That might sound obvious but where we live in the UK, it gets to 20 degrees and suddenly all these men are walking around shirtless. If you are at the beach or the hotel pool, bathing suits are acceptable.

Don’t show public affection

It’s really not acceptable to be kissing or hugging in public in Dubai. Not only is it seen as disrespectful but it is an arrestable offence. When we visited we weren’t married so we even avoided holding hands in public. Not because we thought someone would stop us, but because we felt uncomfortable.

Don’t share a room if you aren’t married

The rule in Dubai is that unless you are married you shouldn’t be living with a member of the opposite sex. The same goes for sharing a hotel room. Realistically a hotel isn’t going to ask to see your marriage certificate upon checkin so you do have a bit of leeway. I just wouldn’t broadcast the fact you aren’t married.

Is Dubai worth visiting – Things to do

One of the criteria for answering your question, ‘is Dubai worth visiting’ is based on the things to do in the city. Here is a bit of a to do list, so that you can make up your own mind.

And you if want more detail on the best things to do in Dubai this is a helpful guide.

See the Burj Khalifa

One of the top sights in Dubai has to be the Burj Khalifa. It’s the world’s tallest building at a whopping 828 metres high, and let’s face it, it’s the most recognisable building in Dubai too.

To access the observation deck you will need to plan a visit to the Dubai Mall. Where you can pre-purchase a time stamped ticket. We recommend pre-booking because due to the timed tickets if you show up on the day, you may not get to go up straight away. It’s not the end of the world though because Dubai Mall has a lot to keep you entertained.

The observation deck is located on the 124th floor of the building, so you can imagine how awesome the view is. There are several different tour packages you can book, and below are just some examples.

Explore the malls

If you like shopping, then the answer to the question ‘Is Dubai worth visiting’ is definitely going to be YES! The Dubai Mall and the Mall of the Emirates, are must sees in Dubai. They are perfect for shoppings and thrill-seekers alike, and there is no shortage of things to do here.

The Dubai Mall is the world’s largest shopping centre, that includes your classic shops and restaurants. What makes it even more exciting though is the fact it has an amusement park, an aquarium, and an ice skating rink inside. And that’s just the beginning.

The Mall of the Emirates is another huge shopping centre, with over 600 retail outlets. But if you aren’t into shopping one of the biggest attractions here is Ski Dubai. It’s essentially a large indoor ski resort where you can learn to ski and snowboard, or just enjoy the slopes. It’s also great for a respite from the heat.

Jumeirah Mosque

The Jumeirah Mosque is the only Mosque in Dubai that is open to non-Muslim visitors. It’s a great place to go to familiarise yourself with Muslim culture and traditions, especially as part of a guided tour. The mosque is really beautiful and made from white stone, which also makes it really popular with tourists. It is open everyday except for Friday as this is a prayer day.

Dubai Creek

Another more authentic experience in Dubai has to be visiting Dubai Creek and riding an abra. This is a traditional wooden boat, that carries about 20 people across the creek. It’s definitely something to do if you are planning to spend any time in Old Dubai.

Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood

This is another must particularly if you are looking to get away from the flashy modern luxuries Dubai has to offer. The neighbourhood basically gives you some insight into what Dubai was like before the Emirates were founded in 1971.  There are stone buildings and alleyways snaking around to get lost in.

Monorail it over to Atlantis

A cool area to check out in Dubai has to be the Palm islands, and the Atlantis Hotel. You can get the monorail over which gives you some great island views. The Atlantis is home to one of the best waterparks in Dubai, so if you want to cool down in that desert heat this is the place for you.

Barter at a souk

There are several souks that you can visit in Old Dubai, that will give you a more traditional experience. We decided to do the Gold Souk, that has over 300 retailers. They mostly do jewellery, but you can also get your souvenirs in the form of shish-a pipes and genie lamps.

Do a desert safari

One thing that you absolutely have to do in Dubai is a desert safari, with a bit of dune bashing. In fact this was one of our highlights in Dubai. A 4×4 picked us up from our hotel, and we headed towards the desert.

The dune bashing itself is thrilling, if not a little stomach churning. But one of the cool things is that you get to spend a bit of time in the desert, and enjoy a BBQ under the stars afterwards.

Can I use public transport in Dubai?

There are public transport options in Dubai but I wouldn’t bother. The cheapest and easiest way to get around Dubai is via taxi. Especially in the summer months you don’t want to be struggling in the heat trying to catch a bus. Taxis are popular and cheap in Dubai so you don’t need to worry about spending a fortune. Fares are regulated and may go up or down depending on the time of day.

So is Dubai worth visiting?

We think that Dubai absolutely is worth visiting. Despite the opulence and luxury that is often shown to the outside world, there is also a more traditional and historic side to the city. It all depends on what kind of a holiday you want. If you want shopping, and luxury, you will find it in Dubai. At the same time if you want to find out more about the history of the UAE, and explore some of the older parts of the city, you can do that too.

Hopefully we have helped answer your question ‘Is Dubai worth visiting’. Don’t forget to Pin this post to refer back to later.