Known best for its futuristic architecture, lively nightlife, and luxury shopping, Dubai is a spectacular vision surrounded by desert landscape. It is so unique due to the fact that they have put into realisation some seemingly impossible projects, such as the towering Burj Khalifa and the stunning Palm Islands, that would not have made it off the drawing board anywhere else.
Weather
As Dubai is generally hot all year round, the optimal time to visit is between October and April when temperatures are lower and more comfortable. Most attractions and festivals are within this time frame, and the beaches are full of life. August is the hottest month with temperatures over 40°C, so around this time you will be spending a lot of time indoors with the rest of the population, however the prices are considerably lower and the sea is perfect for swimming.
Budgeting
The currency in Dubai is United Arab Emirates Dirham. You can arrange a currency exchange before you travel, purchase a currency card, or exchange money once you have arrived.
We have included below some average costs to help you budget for your trip.
Accommodation
1 Night in a Budget Double Room: £20 - £40
1 Night in a Double Room: £40 - £70
1 Night in a Luxury Room - £70+
Food
Street Food: £1 - £15
Restaurant Meal: £15 - £40
Luxury Restaurant Meal: £50 - £100
Extras
Museums: £1 - £10
Return bus to Abu Dhabi: £10+
Going up the Burj Khalifa: £25+
Desert Safari: £80+
Tipping
Generally you are expected to tip around 10% at restaurants so take this into account when selecting a place to eat.
Food
Dubai is a multi-cultural haven when it comes to cuisine. The main influences are from Asia and the Middle East, but you’re sure to find everything from Italian classics to fish and chips in the vast variety of eateries. As Dubai is a Muslim city you won’t see pork available in the majority of restaurants and supermarkets, but many hotels will often offer it in their restaurants and room service menus however try to venture out and taste some of the authentic dishes.
Emirati cuisine – Traditional Emirati dishes need to be experienced during a visit to this vibrant city. Try Harees (stew with cracked wheat and chicken or lamb), Fareed (lamb stew with flat bread), Machboos (meat or fish in a casserole with rice, onions and a spicy sauce).
Shawarma – A fast food staple in Dubai, avoid Mcdonalds and sample a delicious pita bread stuffed with marinated meat cooked on a rotating grill.
Farmers Market on the Terrace – This is an interesting experience, as you will be surprised what beautiful produce can be grown in the desert. Located in downtown Dubai, this is usually visited by locals but if you are doing a self-catering trip, go and grab some delicious organic fruit and veg.
Phrases
As-salām 'alaykum
Hello
Ma'a as-salāmah
Goodbye
Bikam hādhā?
How much is this?
Shukran
Thank You
Interesting Facts
1. There is no income tax in Dubai, great news for the growing number of expats!
2. The artificial Palm Islands use enough sand to fill two and a half Empire State Buildings which equates to 94 million cubic metres of sand.
3. As Dubai is constantly growing, 1 in every 4 cranes in the world are located there.
4. The Burj Khalifa is the worlds tallest building at 828 metres, and houses the world tallest restaurant on the 122nd floor.
Call 0161 440 6735 to book your next adventure to Dubai!