Holidays to Dubai

Dubai travel guide

• When is the best time to visit Dubai?

  Dubai temperatures vary through the year with extreme highs of 30°C to 40°C from June to September, making October to May a much better time to visit with cooler temperatures ranging from 20°C to 25°C.
  
  Take a look at our climate a chart below.
  

• A very quick history of Dubai

  Despite being a highly regarded holiday destination, not to mention the playground of the rich and famous, Dubai didn’t come into existence until 1971. Although its history doesn’t span back across centuries, it makes up for this with stunning landscapes, modern day architecture and plenty of things to do in Dubai. Alongside these fascinating buildings (which will surely go down in history), you can experience the rich culture that’s developed from traditions, folklore and myth.

• Dubai attractions

  This exotic land lives by the ethos of ‘Build it and they will come’. From this we’ve seen the creation of man-made islands, the world’s tallest structure located on shifting sands and even snowfall in the desert. Yes, across this stunning landscape of blue skies and soft white beaches you’ll find various wonders, turning Dubai into an international playground for luxury holiday seekers.
  
  

  Wild Wadi Water Park

  Wild Wadi Water Park offers a fun-filled array of water chutes, lazy rivers and two 32 metre high, almost vertical, water slides. This park has everything you could want for a wet and wild afternoon, with tidal waves you can surf on, paddling pools for children, sports activities and areas to relax and sunbathe.

  Dubai Parks and Resorts

  This brand new Dubai attraction has four different theme parks in one location, with rides and entertainment for all ages. Step into the movies at MOTIONGATE™, dance the day away in Bollywood Parks™, experience the thrills of LEGOLAND® and take to the waves at LEGOLAND® Waterpark.

  Dubai Creek

  If you enjoy relaxing but don’t want to spend every moment of the day on the beach or around the pool, then head to The Creek Park. This oasis of green lawns and flower beds offers a tranquil alternative of what to do in Dubai, with children’s play areas, a golf course, cafes and an amphitheatre adding a musical soundtrack all year-round.

  Burj Al Arab

  Another famous landmark in the Dubai landscape is the Burj Al Arab. This seven star hotel is shaped to represent the curved sail of a dhow, and even if you’re not staying here, it’s definitely worth a visit. Maybe you could check out the impressive Al Muntaha restaurant, which is suspended 300m above the sea; now that’s a dining experience like no other.

  Burj Dubai Lake

  Situated next to Dubai Mall is the Burj Dubai Lake; home to the world’s largest dancing fountains. Shooting jets of water 500 feet into the air, this is a unique water display and one of the extremely popular Dubai tourist attractions.

• Dubai shopping

  If you enjoy shopping on a big scale, then Dubai is definitely the perfect holiday for you. Dubai is a ‘duty-free’ price zone, meaning the glittering shopping malls aren’t always as expensive as you’d have thought. With so much competition and so many places to shop, this often leads to prices being forced down, opening you up to an array of luxurious bargains.

  Mall of the Emirates

  This bustling shopping paradise is like a mini-city, with stores like Harvey Nichols, Prada and Chanel, amongst many other designer brands throughout. They all sit alongside a magnificent ski centre too, Ski Dubai.

  Dubai Mall

  The huge Dubai Mall will leave even the most hard-core shopper spoilt for choice. There’s over 1,200 shops featuring high-end fashion brands like Burberry, Diesel, D&G and McQueen, sitting alongside shops specialising in everything from gadgets to beauty and art. There’s also an ice rink, aquarium, and a whole plethora of restaurants, all next to the world’s tallest building, the Burj Khalifa.

  Souks

  If you want a more authentic shopping experience then head to the Gold Souk, where a little patience and a firm haggle will get you a real treat. This land of bartering is the perfect place to bag an interesting bargain. If you’ve got a taste for traditional flavours, then head towards the Spice Souk, or, for an array of enticing smells, the Perfume Souk can conjure up a signature scent of your own.

  Jebel Ali

  If you’re looking for duty-free outlets, then head to Jebel Ali. Here you’ll find a number of bargains from electrical goods to big brand sportswear.

• Dubai beaches

  Visiting Dubai wouldn’t be the same without a trip to one of its many glorious stretches of sand to make the most of the weather in Dubai. A 20 minute drive from the centre will take you to Jumeirah Beach, with beautiful clear waters alongside a whole host of beach-side amenities. Mamzar is a private beach resort definitely worth paying that little extra for; for a small entrance fee you’ll be treated to stunning shallow waters, white sands and various snack shops and children’s facilities.

• Dubai restaurants & nightlife

  Food in Dubai

  A multicultural melting pot, Dubai has soaked up gastronomic influences from its neighbours, including India, the Mediterranean and Africa. Arabian snack food, such as the spicy shawarma and falafel, is fast, cheap and delicious - served from a range of kiosks and street vendor stalls.

  Every mall, beach front development and tourist attraction in Dubai comes complete with a food court, displaying a dizzying selection of cuisines. The Dubai Mall and Mall of the Emirates have major chains, pub-style fare, fast food and coffee shops galore, while the fine dining options at the hotels and in the downtown area wouldn't look out of place in London, Paris or New York.

  Generally, you'll pay more at the hotels - onsite aquaria, sky decks and theatrical embellishments all add to the experience, and the price. You can save by eating in the malls and souks (or in the excellent, authentic cafes in the historic old quarter). Other good locations when considering where to eat in Dubai include: Dubai's Heritage Village, a busy enclave of al fresco tables, boardwalks and bars; the bars and bistros around Burj Khalifa; Dubai Creek and the Convention Centre, including sushi bars, steak houses, pizzerias and superb curry houses.

  You'll find great places to eat in Dubai at Town Center Jumeirah, Jumeirah. Its double promenade, The Walk and Marina Walk are great spots for enjoying a meal with a blissful view out into the Arabian Gulf.

  Restaurants run from the pricey to the family-friendly, with good 'all-you-can-eat' deals popular with hungry tourists. Look for excellent dim sum, seafood and Arabic-infused tagines (one pot stews) and middle east/fusion menus.

  Remember that Thursday night is the start of the weekend - with Sunday the start of the working week - so expect tables to be busy on Thursday and Friday nights.

  
  

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  Nightlife in Dubai

  It’s not just the daytime, with its stunning backdrop and scorching heat that makes Dubai an excellent holiday location; the nightlife is amazing too. Dubai Creek is surrounded by informal bars and restaurant complexes, making it an excellent place to spend your evenings.

  Or, head to downtown Dubai and party to the sound of Arabian and Western pop music, live concerts, street performers and the hustle and bustle of the souks. With the alcohol flowing freely in the various bars and clubs, Dubai will show you an excellent night out no matter where you go.

  The British pub, Double-Decker, Al Murooj Rotana, is a friendly two-tiered sports venue with plasma screens and pool tables. A good way to kick-start your evening, it’s extremely popular with tourists and those travelling to Dubai on business.

  
  

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  Clubbing in Dubai

  Visit the Jumeirah Beach complex for some of the city’s hottest clubs, such as 360, a renowned club, bar and lounge that looks like it belongs in Ibiza. Other popular hot spots include Sanctuary and Zinc, blasting the best house music until the early hours.

  For a more R&B vibe, head to the popular Ocean Club Dubai, which is extremely popular with tourists, whilst Long Bar, located at the Towers in the Financial Centre, is the longest bar in Arabia; with all manner of specialist beers, and a young, lively crowd.

  
  

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  Traditional Dubai entertainment

  For more authentic Arabian entertainment, The Address in Dubai Marina attracts cabaret singers, and a slightly older, more relaxed crowd. Elsewhere, the hotels have cocktail bars that offer a touch of refined elegance, along with great views, as the majority are situated on the higher floors of the hotels.

• Dubai events - what's on when?

  January - Standard Chartered Dubai Marathon

  The annual Dubai marathon is the richest long-distance running event in the world, with a $250,000 prize for first place for men and women, and a million dollars up for grabs for a new world record.

  February – Omega Dubai Desert Classic

  This yearly professional golf tournament has been part of the European Tour schedule since its foundation. Attracting some of the biggest stars in the sporting world, players compete on the ‘Majlis’ course at the Emirates Golf Club.

  March - Dubai World Cup

  Taking place annually at the Meydan Racecourse since 1996, the Dubai World Cup features leading thoroughbred horses competing for a $10 million prize, making it the world’s richest horse race. It attracts more than 50,000 race goers each year.

  April – Middle East Film and Comic Con

  Taking place over three days, this is one of the regions most anticipated events, returning for its sixth year in 2017. The Middle East’s largest culture event focuses on film, TV, comics, manga, animation, collectables and pop art. With celebrities, music, art and exhibitions from all over, you can relish in everything from Doctor Who to Family Guy.

  May – Automechanika Middle East

  The leading international trade fair for the automotive industry in the Middle East sees 1,482 exhibitors from more than 50 countries descend on the event to find new suppliers, products and compare product alternatives.

  June – Ramadan Night Market

  Ten days of festivities celebrate the most important month in the Muslim calendar, including food and shopping at the Dubai World Trade Center. Families will love all the activities for kids, and a visit to the Henna Painting section for ladies is a great way to immerse yourself in traditional Dubai.

  July – Dubai Indoor Football Championship

  Organised by the Dubai World Trade Centre, this is the largest indoor sporting event in the UAE. With seating for up to 2,500, spectators can enjoy watching international legends competing on a FIFA approved indoor pitch, as they display their skills and compete with challengers from across the Middle East.

  November - Dubai International Motor Show

  Attracting major car manufacturers, tuning companies, and other automobile related companies, this is the largest motoring event in the Middle East. Made popular by the love of expensive cars in Dubai, this event showcases multiple brands at the Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre.

  December - Dubai International Film Festival

  An amazing platform for Arabian film makers, this event is a leading film festival and showcases new and exciting cinema from Africa, Asia, the Middle East and beyond. With more than 100 films screening, and attended by various celebrities, this is the perfect place to experience a new and exciting form of modern film.

• Lifestyle and culture in Dubai

  The Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding

  If you want to learn more about your holiday destination, then have a day out at The Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding in the historic Bastakia Quarter of Dubai. Here you can get a greater understanding of the local customs, culture, and Arabic food as you take a guided tour of the area. This includes traditional breakfast, lunch and Arabic tea, along with a Q&A session, so you can expand your Dubai knowledge.

  Old Dubai

  For a glimpse into the past, take a trip to Old Dubai. This area houses a group of historic and cultural attractions. Places like the Dubai Museum, located within the 18th century Al Fahidi Fort, offers up a comprehensive look at Arabian life alongside various textiles, weaponry, coins, and art that date back over 3,000 years. It’s a great way to get an insight into life in Dubai before it became a tourist haven.

  Jumeirah Mosque

  If you head towards Jumeirah Road you’ll find the Jumeirah Mosque - one of the few mosques open to tourists. As the largest in the city, guided tours of this beautiful building - with its elaborate interior decorations - will give you a fascinating insight into the Muslim religion. Wander past at night and marvel at its beauty when illuminated against the black night sky.

• Dubai travel advice

  Whilst Dubai is a beautiful and fascinating city to visit, welcoming people from all backgrounds, this otherwise tolerant society does have certain rules that it’s wise to observe and learn before your Dubai holiday.

  Public displays of affection in Dubai

  Overt displays of affection are frowned upon in Dubai, with interactions between men and women being particularly sensitive. In Dubai it is even frowned upon for a man to shake a woman’s hand whilst in public.

  What should I wear in Dubai?

  It's important to consider dress code before travelling to Dubai. Women should ensure they wear a shawl over their shoulders when they are not on the beach, and refrain from wearing short skirts in public places.

  Will my hotel serve alcohol in Dubai?

  The consumption of alcohol is also somewhat of a sensitive subject. You are only allowed to consume alcoholic beverages whilst in a licensed venue, whereas the consumption of alcohol on the beach or in public places is strictly prohibited.