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Useful tips

Small things that make the trip easier

Airports

Dubai International (DXB) · Al Maktoum (DWC)

Currency

UAE dirham (AED)

Emergency

Police 999 · Ambulance 998

Hospital

Rashid Hospital · Dubai Hospital

Dress considerately

Cover shoulders and knees in malls, souqs and heritage areas; swimwear is for beaches and pools.

Public behaviour

Keep affection discreet, avoid swearing or rude gestures, and stay calm in disputes; laws are strict.

Metro cabins

Gold Class costs more and is quieter. Women and children have their own cabins; men face fines there.

Get a Nol card

One card covers the Metro, tram, buses and water buses. Top up at stations; no eating or drinking on board.

Taxis

RTA taxis are metered and reliable; Careem and Uber work too. Pink-roofed taxis have women drivers for women and families.

Tipping

Not required. Many bills include a service charge; around 10% is appreciated when it is not.

The weekend

The weekend is Saturday–Sunday; Friday is a half day for government offices. Mosques are busiest at Friday noon.

Photography

Never photograph people, especially women and children, without permission, and avoid government and military sites.

Alcohol laws

Drink only in licensed venues and never in public. Being drunk in public is an offence; zero tolerance for drink-driving.

The sun in winter

December sun is still strong at midday. Wear sun cream, sunglasses and a hat, and carry water.

Medications

Some prescription and over-the-counter medicines are controlled. Check UAE rules before travelling and carry prescriptions.

Stay connected

Buy a local SIM or eSIM at the airport; WhatsApp is the easiest way to confirm bookings.

Dubai is very safe, but its laws differ from many countries. Check your government’s travel advice and the medicines rules before you fly.

WundrPath · City guides