Dubai Information For the First Time Tourists

Dubai is a beautiful city that has plenty of attractions and sights to see. It also has a lot of transport options, including buses and taxis.

The best way to get around is by hiring a car. This will give you the freedom to explore as much as possible and to stick to your own schedule.

Sights

Dubai is a city that’s sure to leave you with lasting memories. From soaring skyscrapers and vast deserts to restaurants from just about every country in the world, this city has it all. It can be overwhelming for first time tourists, but with a little planning, you can make the most of your trip.

One of the most iconic sights to see in Dubai is Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building. This soaring structure will take your breath away, and you can easily reach the top by booking tickets in advance.

Another must-see sight in Dubai is the Jumeirah Mosque, an iconic landmark that combines medieval Fatimid architecture with white marble design. This mosque is a wonderful example of Islamic art and culture, and it’s a great place to learn more about the local way of life.

If you’re visiting Dubai for the first time, it’s important to know how to behave in public. In addition to following the rules of safety, it’s also important to be aware of cultural expectations. Homosexuality is illegal and can land you in jail, while public displays of affection are frowned upon.

Whether you’re traveling on your own or with family, there are several areas of Dubai that are safe and popular for tourists. The most popular neighborhoods include Downtown, Palm Jumeirah, Dubai Marina, and Al Barsha.

Downtown Dubai is the best area for first time travelers as it’s home to major attractions and has plenty of restaurants, bars, and shopping options. It’s also very central and offers easy access to the rest of the city. If you’re looking for something more affordable, you can also stay in the neighborhoods of Palm Jumeirah or Dubai Marina.

Transport

Travelers in Dubai have several transport options to choose from depending on their preferences, destinations, and budgets. Some of the most popular modes include metros, buses, and taxis.

The Dubai Metro system consists of two lines that serve multiple stations around the city. The fare is fair and easy to navigate. It’s an ideal choice for tourists visiting Dubai for the first time.

Buses are a convenient and efficient mode of transport in Dubai. They operate on routes that traverse seven zones across the city. They are operated by the Rapid Transport Authority, a public transport agency that maintains schedules for these vehicles. The service is regulated by the government, and passengers can pay using an NOL card.

Another option is to use a traditional boat called an abra, which costs only 1 dirham (around $0.27) per trip. These boats are an iconic symbol of the city’s heritage and have a strong presence in the downtown area.

There are also several ride-hailing apps in Dubai, including Uber and Careem. These apps allow travelers to hail a cab from their mobile device, and fares are calculated based on factors like distance, wait time, and demand.

A first-time tourist should be aware that taxis in Dubai can be expensive. Luckily, there are dedicated taxis for the airport, as well as pink-topped cabs that are designated for women and families.

Aside from taxis, visitors can also find a large number of bus stations throughout the city, where they can hail a ride. However, bus arrival and departure times depend on traffic, so make sure to check before you hop in the vehicle.

Rental Cars

If you are a first time tourist and are wondering how to get around UAE, renting a car may be the best way to go. Taxis can be very expensive and the Metro isn’t reliable so renting a car will help you get around more easily and save you money. In Dubai, the average cost of a compact car is 15 euros per day, in Abu Dhabi - 17 euros per day.

There are several rental companies to choose from and prices range depending on the car you want, but they’re all pretty reasonable by international standards and will give you the freedom to drive anywhere you like in the city without worrying about getting stranded or paying for a taxi ride. Most cars are brand new and smell really fresh - it’s a real treat to drive in one!

When picking up your car you will be asked to sign a contract with terms and conditions. These vary from company to company, but most will require you to return the car in the same condition as it was rented in. You’ll also be expected to pay a deposit which is usually refundable on return of the vehicle.

Another thing to remember is that most cars are fitted out with toll tags which will add an additional fee onto your final bill when you pay the company. Tolls can be quite expensive so it’s worth planning ahead to avoid them, especially if you’re using the Dubai highways.

If you’re not from one of the Gulf Cooperation Council countries (GCC) you will need an International Drivers Permit to be able to drive in Dubai. This is an international licence that allows you to use your home country’s driver’s license whilst in the UAE. It’s important to carry this with you as it can save you a lot of hassle and stress when driving in the UAE.

Food

If you're visiting Dubai for the first time, you'll find a wide variety of food options to suit any taste. From international restaurants to street food, you'll be sure to find something that tickles your fancy.

Khubz, a whole wheat flatbread that's similar to naan but isn't made with yeast or other leavening ingredients, is popular among the UAE's locals. It's a great base for dips or grilled meats, especially when accompanied by hummus or aubergine sauces.

Another popular Emirati dish is al machboos, which is a savory stew of red meat, chicken or shrimp boiled in stock with spices and dried lime powder. It's served with rice and a side of vegetables and nuts.

This zesty dish is typically made with a particular Levantine bread that remains unbaked before being added to the dish toward the end of cooking. It's a comforting and easy-to-digest meal that's a must on any food tour of Dubai.

The United Arab Emirates is one of the world's fastest growing gastronomic destinations, and you'll find some of the region's most innovative culinary creations on offer here. If you're interested in trying some of the country's most unique recipes, book an evening food tour with Frying Pan Adventures to learn the ins and outs of this vibrant dining scene.

There's also plenty to do beyond the city's glitzy skyscrapers. If you're looking for an outdoor activity, the desert is a great place to get out and explore, from off-road excursions into the red dunes to more educational tours that will teach you about the history of this region. You can also visit the Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary, a prime spot to see flocks of flamingos during the winter months.

Shopping

Shopping is a big part of Dubai's culture. From a quirky design district packed with independent pop-up stores to a gold and diamond souk selling jewelry for a fraction of the price back home, there's something for everyone here.

If you're a textiles enthusiast, make sure to visit the Textile Souk in Bur Dubai. This is a popular place to find embroidered fabrics and fine prints. It also has a mix of locals and tourists, making it a fun place to shop.

Another popular destination for shopping is the Dubai Mall. It's a sprawling retail complex with hundreds of stores and many entertainment options. You can spend the day here, with a stop for ice skating or a visit to the aquarium.

The Mall's shops are clustered into different precincts depending on the type of product you're looking for. You'll also find a variety of dining options and an indoor ice rink.

For fashion lovers, the Mall has all leading brands like Bebe, Hugo Boss, Chanel, Burberry, Calvin Klein, Mango, Armani, and Dior. It also has a large number of branded electronics stores.

You can also purchase items online from Dubai's top retailers. Some of these include Amazon, Luxury Closet, and Garderobe.

Lastly, you can find some great deals at Retold and Brands for Less. These are companies that sell a wide range of pre-loved clothing and accessories for less than market value.

Besides all these, there are plenty of other shopping options for a first time tourist in Dubai. Whether you're looking to shop at a mall, online, or in the local markets, there's something for every budget. You can even go souvenir hunting for things to bring back to friends and family.