Your 5-Day Dubai Itinerary: From Burj Khalifa to Alserkal Avenue

Many nationalities, including citizens of the US, UK, EU, Australia, and Canada, are granted a free visa-on-arrival, typically for 30 or 90 days. Indian citizens generally require a pre-arranged visa. All travelers must hold a passport valid for at least six months beyond their intended stay. It is advisable to check the official UAE government immigration website for the latest requirements based on your specific nationality.

Dubai is considered one of the safest cities globally, characterized by extremely low crime rates and a strong police presence. Violent crime is exceptionally rare. While generally very safe, be mindful of specific, though uncommon, risks like drink spiking in social settings (always keep your drink in sight) and potential phone scams. The emergency number for police is 999.

The local currency is the United Arab Emirates Dirham (AED). While credit cards are widely accepted in malls, hotels, and larger restaurants, it's wise to carry some cash (AED 100-200) for smaller purchases at traditional souks, local street food vendors, or for taxi fares.

Tipping is not mandatory but is certainly appreciated for good service. Many restaurants automatically add a 10-15% service charge; if not, a similar amount is a good guideline. Taxi drivers don't typically expect tips, though rounding up the fare is common. Small tips (AED 5-10) are appropriate for hotel staff or bellhops.

Pack lightweight, breathable clothing like linen or cotton due to the heat. Include modest options such as shoulder-covering tops and knee-length skirts or trousers for visits to mosques or traditional areas. A swimsuit, sunglasses, a wide-brimmed hat, and comfortable walking sandals are also essential. A light jacket or cardigan is useful for heavily air-conditioned indoors.

The most convenient way is the Dubai Metro, which has stations at Terminals 1 and 3. It's affordable and connects directly to many key areas. Taxis are readily available outside all terminals, are metered, and generally reliable. Ride-hailing apps like Careem and Uber also operate from DXB.

Respect for local customs is important. Public displays of affection should be avoided. Dress modestly in public areas, especially outside tourist resorts; shoulders and knees should be covered when visiting religious sites like mosques. During Ramadan, refrain from eating, drinking, or smoking in public during fasting hours.

Yes, internet telephony services such as WhatsApp voice and video calls are restricted in the UAE. While text messaging works, the calling features are often blocked by local service providers (Etisalat and Du). This means you'll need to rely on traditional phone calls, SMS, or use a VPN, though the legality of VPN use for bypassing these restrictions is often debated.