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Visiting Dubai for the first time is an exciting prospect. A cosmopolitan city, Dubai is considered to be one of the most luxurious cities in the world.

The city is home to unique attractions that no one has ever seen. All these may seem a little overwhelming to the first time traveler. This is the reason we present you with this Dubai travel guide that deals with all the aspects of visiting Dubai for people who are travelling to this emirate city for the first time.


Best Time to Visit Dubai

The best time to visit Dubai is between November and March (winter season), when the temperature is low and the climate is pleasant. You also get to be part of important celebrations like Christmas and New Year as well as grand events like the Dubai Shopping Festival during these months.

Burj Khalifa

However, visiting Dubai during winter can be expensive. If budget is a constraint, you can visit during the summer months, i.e. between April and October. However, be aware that the summers in Dubai are extremely hot, making it impossible to step outdoors during the day.


Getting a Visa

Citizens of certain countries are eligible for UAE or Dubai visa on time of arrival. Rest of the people have to get a visa before they take-off from their country. To get a visa, you can either apply online (those who are eligible for e-visa) or visit the UAE consulate or embassy in your city.

Dubai Museum

You need to submit documents like passport, photographs, return flight tickets, itinerary, accommodation details or host details, proof of financial means, etc. to get your visa. You can apply for 14 days, 30 days, and 90 days single-entry or multiple-entry visa to the UAE.

RELATED: 6 Things You Need to Try for an Authentic Emirati Experience


Where to Stay in Dubai?

The answer to the question, where to stay in Dubai will completely depend on your budget. Dubai is home to some of the most luxurious hotels and resorts in the world. Burj Al Arab, the only seven-star hotel in the world, is located in Dubai.

Dubai Mall

Some 5 star hotels in Dubai include Atlantis, the Palm, Hotel Armani, The Oberoi, Grand Hyatt, etc. You will also find several mid-level hotels at Downtown Dubai, Dubai Marina, Jumeirah, etc. Apart from these, you can also find several budget-friendly hotels, hostels, and AirBnB in Dubai.



How to Travel in Dubai?

Travelling within Dubai is quite easy, as you have several options to choose from. The easiest and the most convenient is the Dubai Metro. The city is well-connected by the Dubai Metro, and the best part is it is quite cheap. Taxis, which although more expensive than the metro, are easily available.

Desert Safari Dubai

There are also plenty of RTA buses to go around the city. On the other hand, if money is not a problem, you can also book a private vehicle for your stay in Dubai.



What to Eat in Dubai?

Dubai is a heaven for food lovers, as you get to try cuisines from all over the world here. Be it Indian, Japanese, Chinese, European, or America, you will find numerous restaurants serving these cuisines in Dubai. However, do take time to explore and enjoy the local cuisine.

Dubai Souks

From the juiciest shawarma to the most delicious Arabic coffee, the Emirati cuisine is loaded with a variety of flavors. Just like different types of hotels, Dubai also offers different types of restaurants, right from the most luxurious fine dining restaurant to the modest street-food eatery.



What to See and Do in Dubai?

There is no dearth of places to see and things to do in Dubai. But as a first time traveler to Dubai, there are certain things that are non-negotiable. Here are the 10 best things to see and do in Dubai.

  • Burj Khalifa: The tallest building in the world, the Burj Khalifa is one of the most popular attractions of Dubai. You can visit the observation decks on the 124th or 148th floors to get a 360o aerial view of the entire city.

  • Ain Dubai: The tallest and the biggest observation wheel in the world, Ain Dubai is located on Bluewaters Island. You can choose amongst observation cabins, social cabins, and private cabins to ride on Ain Dubai.

  • Dubai Mall: One of the largest malls in the world, the Dubai Mall is home to more than 1200 retail stores. You will also find Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo, KidZania, VR Park, Hysteria, Dubai Ice Rink, and Dubai Fountain here.

  • The View at The Palm: Located on top of Nakheel Mall, The View at The Palm is an observation deck that gives you a bird’s eye view of the Palm Jumeirah, the largest man-made island in the world.

  • IMG Worlds of Adventure: The largest indoor theme park in the world, the IMG Worlds of Adventure is divided into 7 zones: IMG Boulevard, Marvel, Lost Valley, Cartoon Network, IMG Kids Zone, The Haunted Hotel, and Novo Cinemas.

  • Yacht Tour: A unique way of enjoying the views of the city is going on a yacht tour. You can rental a yacht to explore Dubai Creek or Dubai Marina. You can opt for 2, 3, or 4 hours of yacht rental Dubai. You can also rent it for an entire day.

  • Dubai Museum: Located inside the oldest building in Dubai, the Al Fahidi Fort, the Dubai Museum gives you the chance to peak into the past of Dubai. You get to see how the Emiratis lived, worked, ate, dressed in the olden times at this museum.

  • Dhow Cruise: The dhow cruise Dubai gives you the chance to enjoy a delicious meal and the beautiful skyline of Dubai while cruising on a dhow or traditional boat-turned-restaurant. You can go on a dhow cruise on Dubai Marina and Dubai Creek as well.

  • Dubai Souks: While there are several ultra-luxurious shopping malls in Dubai, you must visit the souks of Dubai for a traditional shopping experience. Dubai has Gold Souk, Spice Souk, Fabric Souk, and Perfume Souk.
  • Desert Safari: Known as the ultimate tourist attraction in Dubai, the desert safari is the best way to have a fun evening. You can enjoy adventurous activities, entertainment programs, and delicious BBQ food at the desert safari in Dubai.

Ain Dubai

Important Tips to Remember

  • Although Dubai is a liberal city that is open to all kinds of clothing, it is best to wear modest clothes while visiting old parts of Dubai as well as religious places.
  • Bikinis and swimwear should be worn only on the beach and in the pool area.
  • Drinking and driving is illegal in Dubai and so is drinking in public.
  • Refrain from public display of affection when in Dubai. It is illegal here.
  • Book your flight tickets in advance to get good deals and discounts on them.
  • Always bargain before buying anything at the souks of Dubai.
  • Apply sunscreen and keep yourself hydrated while stepping outdoors in Dubai.

IMG Worlds of Adventure

This Dubai travel guide covers all the aspects that people have in mind while visiting Dubai for the first time. Remember a well-researched holiday will ensure that you will get to enjoy your first visit in Dubai without any stress.


Dubai Travel Guide for First Time Travelers


Visiting Dubai for the first time is an exciting prospect. A cosmopolitan city, Dubai is considered to be one of the most luxurious cities in the world.

The city is home to unique attractions that no one has ever seen. All these may seem a little overwhelming to the first time traveler. This is the reason we present you with this Dubai travel guide that deals with all the aspects of visiting Dubai for people who are travelling to this emirate city for the first time.


Best Time to Visit Dubai

The best time to visit Dubai is between November and March (winter season), when the temperature is low and the climate is pleasant. You also get to be part of important celebrations like Christmas and New Year as well as grand events like the Dubai Shopping Festival during these months.

Burj Khalifa

However, visiting Dubai during winter can be expensive. If budget is a constraint, you can visit during the summer months, i.e. between April and October. However, be aware that the summers in Dubai are extremely hot, making it impossible to step outdoors during the day.


Getting a Visa

Citizens of certain countries are eligible for UAE or Dubai visa on time of arrival. Rest of the people have to get a visa before they take-off from their country. To get a visa, you can either apply online (those who are eligible for e-visa) or visit the UAE consulate or embassy in your city.

Dubai Museum

You need to submit documents like passport, photographs, return flight tickets, itinerary, accommodation details or host details, proof of financial means, etc. to get your visa. You can apply for 14 days, 30 days, and 90 days single-entry or multiple-entry visa to the UAE.

RELATED: 6 Things You Need to Try for an Authentic Emirati Experience


Where to Stay in Dubai?

The answer to the question, where to stay in Dubai will completely depend on your budget. Dubai is home to some of the most luxurious hotels and resorts in the world. Burj Al Arab, the only seven-star hotel in the world, is located in Dubai.

Dubai Mall

Some 5 star hotels in Dubai include Atlantis, the Palm, Hotel Armani, The Oberoi, Grand Hyatt, etc. You will also find several mid-level hotels at Downtown Dubai, Dubai Marina, Jumeirah, etc. Apart from these, you can also find several budget-friendly hotels, hostels, and AirBnB in Dubai.



How to Travel in Dubai?

Travelling within Dubai is quite easy, as you have several options to choose from. The easiest and the most convenient is the Dubai Metro. The city is well-connected by the Dubai Metro, and the best part is it is quite cheap. Taxis, which although more expensive than the metro, are easily available.

Desert Safari Dubai

There are also plenty of RTA buses to go around the city. On the other hand, if money is not a problem, you can also book a private vehicle for your stay in Dubai.



What to Eat in Dubai?

Dubai is a heaven for food lovers, as you get to try cuisines from all over the world here. Be it Indian, Japanese, Chinese, European, or America, you will find numerous restaurants serving these cuisines in Dubai. However, do take time to explore and enjoy the local cuisine.

Dubai Souks

From the juiciest shawarma to the most delicious Arabic coffee, the Emirati cuisine is loaded with a variety of flavors. Just like different types of hotels, Dubai also offers different types of restaurants, right from the most luxurious fine dining restaurant to the modest street-food eatery.



What to See and Do in Dubai?

There is no dearth of places to see and things to do in Dubai. But as a first time traveler to Dubai, there are certain things that are non-negotiable. Here are the 10 best things to see and do in Dubai.

  • Burj Khalifa: The tallest building in the world, the Burj Khalifa is one of the most popular attractions of Dubai. You can visit the observation decks on the 124th or 148th floors to get a 360o aerial view of the entire city.

  • Ain Dubai: The tallest and the biggest observation wheel in the world, Ain Dubai is located on Bluewaters Island. You can choose amongst observation cabins, social cabins, and private cabins to ride on Ain Dubai.

  • Dubai Mall: One of the largest malls in the world, the Dubai Mall is home to more than 1200 retail stores. You will also find Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo, KidZania, VR Park, Hysteria, Dubai Ice Rink, and Dubai Fountain here.

  • The View at The Palm: Located on top of Nakheel Mall, The View at The Palm is an observation deck that gives you a bird’s eye view of the Palm Jumeirah, the largest man-made island in the world.

  • IMG Worlds of Adventure: The largest indoor theme park in the world, the IMG Worlds of Adventure is divided into 7 zones: IMG Boulevard, Marvel, Lost Valley, Cartoon Network, IMG Kids Zone, The Haunted Hotel, and Novo Cinemas.

  • Yacht Tour: A unique way of enjoying the views of the city is going on a yacht tour. You can rental a yacht to explore Dubai Creek or Dubai Marina. You can opt for 2, 3, or 4 hours of yacht rental Dubai. You can also rent it for an entire day.

  • Dubai Museum: Located inside the oldest building in Dubai, the Al Fahidi Fort, the Dubai Museum gives you the chance to peak into the past of Dubai. You get to see how the Emiratis lived, worked, ate, dressed in the olden times at this museum.

  • Dhow Cruise: The dhow cruise Dubai gives you the chance to enjoy a delicious meal and the beautiful skyline of Dubai while cruising on a dhow or traditional boat-turned-restaurant. You can go on a dhow cruise on Dubai Marina and Dubai Creek as well.

  • Dubai Souks: While there are several ultra-luxurious shopping malls in Dubai, you must visit the souks of Dubai for a traditional shopping experience. Dubai has Gold Souk, Spice Souk, Fabric Souk, and Perfume Souk.
  • Desert Safari: Known as the ultimate tourist attraction in Dubai, the desert safari is the best way to have a fun evening. You can enjoy adventurous activities, entertainment programs, and delicious BBQ food at the desert safari in Dubai.

Ain Dubai

Important Tips to Remember

  • Although Dubai is a liberal city that is open to all kinds of clothing, it is best to wear modest clothes while visiting old parts of Dubai as well as religious places.
  • Bikinis and swimwear should be worn only on the beach and in the pool area.
  • Drinking and driving is illegal in Dubai and so is drinking in public.
  • Refrain from public display of affection when in Dubai. It is illegal here.
  • Book your flight tickets in advance to get good deals and discounts on them.
  • Always bargain before buying anything at the souks of Dubai.
  • Apply sunscreen and keep yourself hydrated while stepping outdoors in Dubai.

IMG Worlds of Adventure

This Dubai travel guide covers all the aspects that people have in mind while visiting Dubai for the first time. Remember a well-researched holiday will ensure that you will get to enjoy your first visit in Dubai without any stress.


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