Dubai,United Arab Emirates

Practical Information

Transportation

• Dubai International Airport (DXB)
• Dubai International Airport (DXB) is one of the busiest airports in the world and serves as a major hub for international travel](https://dubai-dxb-airport.com/flights/arrivals/)
• Terminals: DXB has three terminals (Terminal 1, Terminal 2, and Terminal 3) with Terminal 3 being the largest and most modern.

• Dubai Public Transport
• Dubai has an extensive and efficient public transport system managed by the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA). Here are some key options:
• Dubai Metro: The Dubai Metro is a convenient and affordable way to travel around the city. It has two lines – the Red Line and the Green Line – covering major areas and attractions. The metro operates from 5:00 AM to midnight daily.
• Taxis: Taxis are widely available and can be hailed on the street or booked via apps like Careem and Uber. The base fare starts at around AED 12 (approximately £2.50).
• Buses: Dubai has an extensive bus network with routes covering most parts of the city. Buses are air-conditioned and run frequently.
• Water Transport: For a unique experience, you can use water taxis (abras) to travel along Dubai Creek and other waterways.
• Trams: The Dubai Tram operates in the Marina and Jumeirah Beach Residence areas, providing convenient access to these popular spots.
• Driving in Dubai
• If you prefer to drive, Dubai has a well-developed road network. However, be aware of the Salik toll system, which charges vehicles when they pass through toll gates. The tolls are around AED 4 (approximately £0.85) per gate.
• Cycling and Scooting
• Dubai is becoming increasingly bike-friendly with dedicated cycling tracks and bike-sharing programs. Electric scooters are also available for rent through various apps.

Top Locations to Visit

• Burj Khalifa (At The Top)
  • Price: AED 149 (approx. £32)
  • Details: The tallest building in the world, standing at 828 meters. The observation deck on the 124th and 148th floors offers breathtaking views of Dubai. You can also visit the SKY Lounge on the 148th floor.
• Dubai Mall
  • Price: Free to enter, but prices vary for dining and shopping.
  • Details: One of the largest shopping malls in the world, featuring over 1,200 retail stores, an indoor ice rink, a massive aquarium, and numerous dining options. The mall also has an entertainment complex with a VR park and a cinema.
• The Dubai Fountain
  • Price: Free to watch, but there may be costs for nearby dining or events.
  • Details: Located outside the Dubai Mall, this spectacular water show features choreographed fountains set to music. The performances happen daily and are a must-see attraction.
• Palm Jumeirah (Atlantis, The Palm)
  • Price: Entry to the park is around AED 100 (approx. £21), with additional costs for attractions and dining.
  • Details: An iconic man-made island shaped like a palm tree. Atlantis, The Palm, is a luxury resort offering a water park (Aquaventure), an aquarium (The Lost Chambers), and various dining and entertainment options.
• Dubai Creek
  • Price: Free to visit, but there may be costs for dining and shopping.
  • Details: A historic area that showcases Dubai’s heritage. You can take a traditional abra (water taxi) ride across the creek, visit the Gold and Spice Souks, and explore the Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood.
• Alserkal Avenue
  • Price: Free to visit, but prices vary for exhibitions and dining.
  • Details: Dubai’s contemporary arts district, featuring numerous art galleries, creative spaces, and trendy cafes. It’s a hub for artists and art enthusiasts.
• Dubai Miracle Garden
  • Price: AED 55 (approx. £12)
  • Details: A stunning garden featuring over 150 million flowers arranged in various themed displays. Open seasonally from November to May, it’s a visual delight and a great spot for photos.
• Ski Dubai
  • Price: AED 150 (approx. £32)
  • Details: An indoor ski resort located in the Mall of the Emirates, offering skiing, snowboarding, tobogganing, and penguin encounters. A unique experience in the desert city.
• Dubai Marina
  • Price: Free to visit, but prices vary for dining and activities.
  • Details: A bustling waterfront area with high-rise buildings, luxury yachts, and a vibrant nightlife. You can stroll along the marina promenade, dine at waterfront restaurants, or take a boat tour.
• Al Marmoom Desert Conservation Reserve
  • Price: Free to visit, but there may be costs for activities like camel rides and desert safaris.
  • Details: A natural reserve offering a variety of desert experiences, including camel racing, stargazing, and wildlife spotting. It’s a great place to explore the natural beauty of Dubai’s desert.

Daytime Attractions & Food

• Popular Cafes in Dubai
  • Joe’s Café
  • Location: The Dubai Mall, Fashion Avenue, First Floor
  • Popular Dishes: Freshly baked pastries, gourmet sandwiches, salads, and specialty coffees.
  • Price Range: Breakfast: AED 30-50 (£8-13), Lunch: AED 50-80 (£13-21), Dinner: AED 60-100 (£16-27)
• Cafe Cache
  • Location: 7 43 A St – Al Karama, Dubai
  • Popular Dishes: A variety of coffees, teas, cakes, and light snacks.
  • Price Range: Breakfast: AED 20-40 (£5-11), Lunch: AED 40-60 (£11-16), Dinner: AED 50-70 (£13-19)
• Farzi Café
  • Location: Building No 5, City Walk Phase II
  • Popular Dishes: Modern Indian cuisine with dishes like butter chicken, lamb kebabs, and biryanis.
  • Price Range: Breakfast: AED 40-60 (£11-16), Lunch: AED 60-90 (£16-24), Dinner: AED 80-120 (£21-32)
• Em Sherif Restaurant
  • Location: Al Manzel Hotel – Downtown
  • Popular Dishes: Traditional Emirati dishes like Chicken Majboos, Al Harees, and Balaleet.
  • Price Range: Breakfast: AED 30-50 (£8-13), Lunch: AED 50-80 (£13-21), Dinner: AED 70-110 (£19-29)
• The Lime Tree Café & Kitchen
  • Location: Centre – 4b Street, Al Qouz 1 Next To The Courtyard Gallery
  • Popular Dishes: Organic fair trade coffee and tea, breakfast items, salads, and cakes with gluten-free and vegan options.
  • Price Range: Breakfast: AED 25-45 (£7-12), Lunch: AED 45-70 (£12-19), Dinner: AED 55-85 (£15-23)

Rare places to see and visit

• Design District (D3)
  • Price: Free to visit, but prices vary for dining and shopping.
  • Details: A creative hub with art galleries, studios, and cafes. It’s a great spot for art lovers and those interested in the local creative scene.
• Pearl Museum
  • Price: Free to visit.
  • Details: Located in the National Bank of Dubai headquarters, this museum houses a collection of rare and fine pearls from Arabia.
• Meydan Stables
  • Price: Free to visit, but there may be costs for special tours or events.
  • Details: Known for its horse racing events, you can visit the stables to see the horses up-close and even watch them being bathed in the horse pool.
• Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary
  • Price: Free to visit.
  • Details: A protected area where you can observe flamingos and other wildlife in their natural habitat. It’s a peaceful escape from the city.
• Flamingos in the Desert
  • Price: Free to visit.
  • Details: Visit Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary to see the permanent pink flamingo habitat. It’s a unique experience to watch these magnificent birds in the desert.
• Historic Bastakiya (Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood)
  • Price: Free to visit.
  • Details: One of Dubai’s oldest districts with traditional wind-tower architecture, art galleries, museums, and cultural centers.
• Al Qudra Cycle Track
  • Price: Free to visit.
  • Details: A popular spot for cycling enthusiasts, offering a scenic route through the desert with plenty of wildlife sightings.
• Al Marmoom Desert Conservation Reserve
  • Price: Free to visit, but there may be costs for activities like camel rides and desert safaris.
  • Details: A natural reserve offering desert safaris, camel rides, and stargazing. It’s a great way to experience the natural beauty of Dubai’s desert.
• The Pointe at Palm Jumeirah
  • Price: Free to visit, but prices vary for dining and activities.
  • Details: A vibrant area with dining options, shops, and entertainment. It’s a great place to enjoy the nightlife with stunning views of the Palm Jumeirah.
• Ripe Market
  • Price: Free to visit.
  • Details: A community market offering fresh produce, organic products, and a variety of food stalls. It’s a great place to experience local flavors and meet the community.

Pets friendly

• Delta Hotels by Marriott Jumeirah Beach
  • Price: AED 850-1,600 per night (approx. £180-340)
  • Details: Pet-friendly services, beachfront location, and a cozy atmosphere.
• DoubleTree by Hilton Dubai – Jumeirah Beach
  • Price: AED 500-1,000 per night (approx. £110-215)
  • Details: Pet-friendly policy, beachfront location, and comfortable rooms.
• Donatello Hotel
  • Price: AED 700-1,200 per night (approx. £150-260)
  • Details: Comfy rooms, rooftop pool, and pet-friendly amenities.

Adults

• Le Méridien Dubai Hotel & Conference Centre
  • Price: AED 1,000-2,000 per night (approx. £215-430)
  • Details: Adults-only environment, conference facilities, and luxurious rooms.
• Rose Rayhaan by Rotana
  • Price: AED 1,200-2,500 per night (approx. £260-540)
  • Details: Adults-only luxury hotel with stunning views and top-notch amenities.
• The Retreat Palm Dubai – MGallery by Sofitel
  • Price: AED 1,500-2,800 per night (approx. £320-600)
  • Details: Holistic well-being resort with adults-only policy and luxurious facilities.

Fitness

• Le Méridien Dubai Hotel & Conference Centre
  • Price: AED 1,000-2,000 per night (approx. £215-430)
  • Details: Advanced fitness center with a variety of equipment and group classes.
• The J Club at Jumeirah Beach Hotel
  • Price: AED 1,500-2,800 per night (approx. £320-600)
  • Details: State-of-the-art gym with cardio machines, weight training equipment, and group exercise studios.
• FIT at the W Dubai
  • Price: AED 1,800-3,000 per night (approx. £385-645)
  • Details: 24/7 fitness center with a wide range of equipment and outdoor training areas.

Weather

• Spring (March to May)
  • Temperature: 25°C to 38°C (77°F to 100°F)
  • Humidity: Moderate
  • Details: Spring in Dubai is warm and dry, with temperatures gradually increasing. It’s a great time for outdoor activities and sightseeing before the intense summer heat sets in.
• Summer (June to August)
  • Temperature: 33°C to 42°C (91°F to 108°F)
  • Humidity: High
  • Details: Summer in Dubai is extremely hot and humid, with temperatures often exceeding 40°C (104°F). Outdoor activities are limited, and it’s best to stay indoors or visit air-conditioned attractions.
• Autumn (September to November)
  • Temperature: 27°C to 37°C (81°F to 99°F)
  • Humidity: Moderate to high
  • Details: Autumn sees a gradual decrease in temperatures, making it more comfortable for outdoor activities. The weather is still warm but more bearable than the summer months.
• Winter (December to February)
  • Temperature: 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F)
  • Humidity: Low to moderate
  • Details: Winter is the most pleasant season in Dubai, with mild and comfortable temperatures. It’s an ideal time for outdoor activities, beach visits, and exploring the city.

Exclusive Accommodations

• The Royal Atlantis Resort & Residences
  • Price: AED 10,000+ per night (approx. £2,150+)
  • Details: This ultra-luxurious resort on the Palm Jumeirah offers stunning views, private beach access, and a variety of world-class amenities including a spa, multiple swimming pools, and a water park.
• Burj Al Arab
  • Price: AED 3,500-6,000 per night (approx. £760-1,290)
  • Details: Known for its iconic sail-shaped architecture, this hotel offers unparalleled luxury with private beach access, butler service, and opulent suites with breathtaking views.
• Atlantis The Palm
  • Price: AED 6,000+ per night (approx. £1,290+)
  • Details: This iconic hotel features underwater suites, a water park, a private beach, and a variety of dining options. It’s a perfect blend of luxury and adventure.

Exclusive Private Tours

• Private Helicopter Tour and Yacht Charter Combo
  • Price: AED 25,000+ per person (approx. £5,400+)
  • Details: Begin your day with a private helicopter tour over Dubai’s iconic landmarks, including the Burj Khalifa, Palm Jumeirah, and The World Islands. After the helicopter tour, enjoy a full-day luxury yacht charter with a private chef, personalized itinerary, and access to secluded beaches.
• Ultra-Luxury Desert Safari and Overnight Stay
  • Price: AED 30,000+ per person (approx. £6,500+)
  • Details: Experience a VIP desert safari with private Range Rover transportation, a private guide, and exclusive access to a luxury desert camp. Enjoy gourmet meals, cultural performances, and a stargazing experience. Spend the night in a lavishly appointed tent with all modern amenities.
• Exclusive Private City Tour with Helicopter and Limousine
  • Price: AED 35,000+ per person (approx. £7,600+)
  • Details: Explore Dubai in style with a private city tour that includes helicopter rides over the city, limousine transfers, and exclusive access to high-end attractions. Visit the Burj Khalifa, The Dubai Mall, and other iconic landmarks with a personal guide.
• VIP Shopping Experience with Personal Stylist
  • Price: AED 40,000+ per person (approx. £8,600+)
  • Details: Indulge in a luxurious shopping experience with a personal stylist and VIP access to Dubai’s top designer boutiques. Enjoy private shopping sessions, personalized fashion advice, and exclusive discounts. The experience includes limousine transfers and a gourmet lunch at a high-end restaurant.
• Private Island Experience at The World Islands
  • Price: AED 50,000+ per person (approx. £10,800+)
  • Details: Spend a day on a private island at The World Islands with a fully catered experience. Enjoy water sports, a private beach, gourmet meals prepared by a personal chef, and exclusive access to luxurious amenities. The experience includes yacht transfers to and from the island.

Gourmet Experiences

• The St. Regis Downtown Dubai
  • Price: AED 3,500-6,000 per night (approx. £760-1,290)
  • Details: Lavishly appointed rooms and suites with floor-to-ceiling windows, marble bathrooms, and Butler Service. Enjoy culinary journeys at BASTA! (Italian restaurant) and TABŪ (Japanese restaurant), along with signature afternoon tea and champagne sabering.
• The Royal Atlantis Resort & Residences
  • Price: AED 10,000+ per night (approx. £2,150+)
  • Details: Ultra-luxurious resort on the Palm Jumeirah with private beach access, a water park, multiple swimming pools, and a variety of world-class amenities.
• Burj Al Arab
  • Price: AED 3,500-6,000 per night (approx. £760-1,290)
  • Details: Iconic sail-shaped hotel offering unparalleled luxury with private beach access, butler service, and opulent suites with breathtaking views.
• Emirates Grand Hotel
  • Price: AED 1,500-3,000 per night (approx. £320-645)
  • Details: Located on Sheikh Zayed Road, this hotel offers self-catering accommodations with modern amenities, including an indoor pool, sauna, steam room, and hot tub.
• The Canvas Hotel Dubai – MGallery Hotel Collection
  • Price: AED 2,500-4,000 per night (approx. £540-870)
  • Details: Situated in Bur Dubai, this 5-star hotel features modern accommodations, a 1000 m² spa, and is within walking distance of the Dubai Museum and Gold Souk.

Wellness Retreats

• One&Only The Palm
  • Price: AED 16,000-25,000 per night (approx. £3,440-5,375)
  • Details: This exclusive beachfront resort offers private spa suites, personalized wellness programs, and luxurious accommodations. Enjoy rejuvenating treatments, yoga sessions, and gourmet dining.
• Bvlgari Resort Dubai
  • Price: AED 15,000-30,000 per night (approx. £3,225-6,450)
  • Details: A blend of Italian elegance and Arabian opulence, this resort features a luxurious spa with holistic treatments, private villas, and stunning views. Indulge in wellness programs and world-class amenities.
• Four Seasons Resort Dubai at Jumeirah Beach
  • Price: AED 18,000-35,000 per night (approx. £3,870-7,525)
  • Details: This resort offers a lavish spa with exclusive treatments, private beach access, and luxurious accommodations. Enjoy personalized wellness programs, fitness classes, and fine dining experiences.
• Armani Hotel Dubai
  • Price: AED 20,000-40,000 per night (approx. £4,300-8,600)
  • Details: Located in the iconic Burj Khalifa, this hotel features an exclusive spa with signature treatments, luxurious suites, and stunning views. Experience personalized wellness programs and gourmet dining.
• Jumeirah Al Naseem – Madinat Jumeirah
  • Price: AED 14,000-28,000 per night (approx. £3,010-6,020)
  • Details: This beachfront resort offers a luxurious spa with a range of treatments, private beach access, and opulent accommodations. Enjoy wellness programs, fitness classes, and exquisite dining options.

Exclusive Cultural Experiences

• Private Helicopter Tour with Champagne Breakfast
  • Price: AED 15,000+ per person (approx. £3,225+)
  • Details: Enjoy a luxurious helicopter tour over Dubai, followed by a champagne breakfast at a private location with stunning views of the city.
• Exclusive Dinner with a Celebrity Chef at a Private Villa
  • Price: AED 20,000+ per person (approx. £4,300+)
  • Details: Dine with a renowned celebrity chef in a private villa, enjoying a customized menu and an unforgettable culinary experience. Includes a tour of the chef’s kitchen and a meet-and-greet session.
• VIP Desert Safari with Luxury Accommodation and Cultural Performances
  • Price: AED 25,000+ per person (approx. £5,375+)
  • Details: Experience a luxurious desert safari with private transportation, camel rides, a traditional Bedouin dinner, cultural performances, and overnight stay in a luxury desert camp.
• Private Yacht Charter with Gourmet Dining and Cultural Tour
  • Price: AED 30,000+ per person (approx. £6,450+)
  • Details: Charter a private yacht for a day or weekend, exploring Dubai’s coastline and enjoying exclusive cultural tours of historic sites, museums, and art galleries. Includes gourmet dining and personalized service.
• Exclusive Art and Culture Tour with a Local Artist and Private Gallery Viewing
  • Price: AED 35,000+ per person (approx. £7,525+)
  • Details: Join a local artist for a personalized tour of Dubai’s art scene, including private gallery viewings, studio visits, and cultural site explorations. Includes a curated art piece as a keepsake.

Recommended Luxury Travel Agencies:

• Regal Dubai Travel Agency
  • Address: Bin Fahad Building – No 312, 3rd Floor – 4 Damascus Street – Al Qusais Industrial Area – Al Qusais 2 – Dubai
  • Rating: 4.7/5
  • Details: Known for efficient visa processing and excellent customer service, Regal Dubai Travel Agency has been providing services for over 11 years.
• Desert Wave Travel Agency
  • Address: Same building of UBL Bank, Bank Street Building – Office # 302 – Exit 3 – near to Burjuman Metro Station – Bur Dubai
  • Rating: 4.9/5
  • Details: Highly praised for its personalized service and attention to detail, Desert Wave Travel Agency offers luxury travel experiences and cultural tours.
• Arooha Tours & Travel
  • Address: Shop No 1 Khalid Bin Al Waleed building, Khalid bin Al Waleed road, Al Suq Al Kabeer – Bur Dubai
  • Rating: 4.6/5
  • Details: Specializes in curated luxury tours and stays, Arooha Tours & Travel provides personalized itineraries and exclusive experiences.
• AlCabana Luxury Travel Boutique
  • Address: Russia W05 – S14 – Warsan 1 St – opp. Nesto Hypermarket – Dubai International City
  • Rating: 4.9/5
  • Details: Known for its bespoke luxury travel services, AlCabana Luxury Travel Boutique offers exclusive cultural tours and high-end accommodations.
• Pluto Travels LLC
  • Address: AAB Building – Office No. 4 21A St – Bur Dubai
  • Rating: 4.6/5
  • Details: Offers a range of luxury travel services, including private tours, yacht charters, and bespoke travel experiences – Best In Hood.