Planning a solo trip to Dubai (UAE)? Here’s everything you need to know for your visit:
QUICK FACTS
- Located on the Persian Gulf and one of the seven emirates that make up the country, Dubai is home to just over 3.49 million people.
- The desert city has been attracting worldwide focus due to its ambitious expansion, which it has achieved through feats of modern architecture seen on its man-made islands, gigantic shopping malls and impressive skyscrapers.
- Exceptionally safe for solo travelers, including women who can safely explore public areas even late at night.
- A global metropolis, Dubai serves as the business, transport and commercial hub of the Middle East.
- Nicknames: City of Gold
PRACTICAL INFORMATION
- Currency: United Arab Emirates Dirham (AED).
- Spoken languages: Arabic and English.
- Best time to visit: November to March to escape the hot arid temperatures and enjoy the beaches.
- Arriving via airport: Dubai International Airport (DBX) is served by metro and public bus lines that operate on a zone system. Taxis charge AED30-AED40.
- Dubai offers free public Wi-Fi in many locations, including malls and parks.
WHERE TO STAY
- Best Dubai hostel for solo travelers: Bohemian Backpackers.
– A bit hard to find, this is a new little gem in the Marina area.
– Located on the 23rd floor (great views), and right next to a tram spot for easy transportation. - BurJ Dubai is the historic district located on the western side of Dubai Creek and plays host to a large number of upmarket hotels, restaurants and bar as well as the key attractions
- Deira is the commercial centre of the city, famed for its variety and local flavours.
GETTING AROUND
- NOL is a smart card used to pay for fares by stored value and the only valid ticket across all of Dubai’s transportation, including bus, metro and water taxi services.
- RTA operates the public bus transport system across 79 routes that keep the city well-connected. Fares are calculated based on distance.
- Dubai Metro provides efficient, fast and cheap travel.
– With Silver Nol card: Dhs3 for 1 zone, Dhs5 for 2 adjacent zones, and Dhs7.5 for more than 2 zones. - Taxis are an excellent way to explore the far flung districts of the city. Meter starts at Dh3 and charges Dh1.60 per km plus surcharges. Dh20 is added to rides passing Sharjah and Northern Emirates. Call 04 208 0555 to book.
- RTA Water Transport: water buses and boats can provide a unique vantage point of the coastline and various landmarks. Truly the scenic way to see the city!
- The Dubai Tram, which connects to the Metro and services areas like Jumeirah Beach Residence (JBR) and Dubai Marina, makes it easy to explore these popular areas.
- Apps such as Careem and Uber are widely used and can make travel easier and safer for solo travelers.
DUBAI NIGHTLIFE
- Drinking age is 21, and last call is 3 AM.
- Burj Khalifa is the energetic address for Dubai’s premier nightlife as seen at its bars.
- Al Barsha is where the young and fashionable hang out to dance and party the night away.
- Jumeirah stuns with open-air venues, unique nightclubs and sophisticated lounges.
- Warning: Drug use and distribution warrant a serious criminal offence that could lead to a prison sentence if found guilty.
- Great Dubai nightlife spots for visitors:
– Club BLU Dubai (club)
– Bla Bla Dubai ($$$ – cocktails)
– Lock, Stock & Barrel JBR ($$ – International bar)
– Irish Village ($$ – Irish pub)
– Fibber Magee’s (casual pub with live music)
– Chalco’s Cantina (sports bar – American focused).
– Muscovites Club ($$$ – international DJs and sophisticated atmosphere)
UNIQUE LANDMARKS TO VISIT
- Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding aims to educate visitors on the local culture, its customs and religion by offering mosque tours and heritage walks.
- Burj Khalifa is the tallest building in the world and the crowning jewel of downtown Dubai surrounded by some of the city’s best hotels, restaurants and entertainment options.
- Burj Al Arab is an icon of modern architecture, the third tallest building in the world designed by Tom Wright that can be admired from anywhere in the city.
- Sky Views Dubai: Features glass observation decks offering spectacular city views and a glass walkway suspended high above ground – ideal for thrill-seekers.
- Dubai Fountains were designed by the same creators of the Fountains of Bellagio in Las Vegas and are choreographed to music for a stunning show set on Burj Khalifa Lake.
- Al-Jumeirah Mosque is Dubai’s most photographed mosque and a sacred symbol of the city.
- Mohammed Bin Rashid Library: A unique cultural hub designed to resemble an open book, featuring modern learning spaces and multimedia exhibitions.
- Arte Museum Dubai: A cutting-edge multisensory digital art experience combining technology with artistic vision.
- Cityland Mall: A shopping destination with over 350 stores, 75 dining options, and beautiful green spaces including a Japanese garden.
DUBAI DESERT SAFARI
One of the most iconic experiences for visitors to the UAE. Ideal time: November to March (cooler months). Weekday tours are cheaper than weekend.
Key highlights:
- Dune Bashing: ride across the dunes in a 4×4 vehicle.
- Sandboarding: Glide down dunes on a sandboard.
- Camel Riding: the traditional mode of desert transportation.
- Sunset Views: spectacular desert sunsets that provide perfect photo opportunities.
- Bedouin Camp: Enjoy henna painting, shisha smoking, belly dance performances, and Tanoura shows.
Desert safari types:
- Morning Safari (3-4 hours):
– Includes dune bashing, camel riding, and sandboarding.
– 9:00 AM to 12:30 PM
– AED 160–200 per person - Evening Safari (6 hours):
– The most popular option among tourists,
– Mix of adventure activities followed by cultural experiences at a Bedouin-style camp.
– Timing: 3:30 PM to 9:00 PM
– AED 100–900 per person (depending on package inclusions) - Overnight Safari:
– Spend the night in a traditional Bedouin tent under the stars.
– Includes all evening activities plus breakfast the next morning.
– Starts at 3:30 PM; ends at 9:00 AM (next day)
– AED 400–1,000 per person - Luxury Safari (flexible duration):
– Caters to travelers seeking exclusivity and comfort.
– Private transportation in luxury vehicles (e.g., Hummers), gourmet meals, and premium activities such as falconry displays.
– Cost: AED 500–1,500 per person
– Activities Included: Private dune bashing, camel riding, falconry display, gourmet BBQ dinner
Safari Packing Essentials:
- Clothing: Light and breathable clothes for daytime; a jacket or shawl for cooler evenings.
- Footwear: Comfortable closed shoes
- Sun Protection: Sunscreen (SPF 50+), sunglasses with UV protection, and a wide-brimmed hat.
- Water bottle: Stay hydrated throughout your safari. Drink early and often!
Final tips: follow instructions, don’t stray off by yourself in the desert, and stay hydrated!
INTERESTING WALKS
- Dubai Creek hosts charming markets, motor boat cruising and plenty of viewpoints from which to admire the city skyline.
- Madinat Jumeirah is Dubai’s first modern Arabian marketplace, sprawled along the beach.
- Abra Dock is where visitors can hire a water taxi and witness incomparable views of the city while admiring the bustling activities on shore.
WHERE TO EAT
- Looking for great restaurants to try? Here are some affordable places locals love in Dubai:
– Pak Liyari ($ – try the Biryani)
– Al Rabbash ($ – cafe and snacks)
– Al Damyati Express ($ – Egyptian)
– Allo Beirut ($$ – Lebanese)
– Calicut Paragon ($$ – Indian)
– Belgian Beer Café ($$ – pub food). - Want to experience fine dining? Check out:
– Zuma ($$$$ – sushi)
– COYA Dubai ($$$$ – Peruvian). - Where to find good cheap eats: Al Dhiyafah Road is unmatched in its super-economic food stalls and cheap restaurants.
- Budget meals: Around Dh38 per person
CULTURAL ETIQUETTE
Dress code specifics:
- Women: Cover shoulders and knees in public places
- Men: Avoid sleeveless shirts and overly short shorts
- Swimwear is only acceptable at beaches and pools
Greeting customs:
- Traditional greeting: “As-salamu alaykum” (peace be upon you)
- When shaking hands, men should wait for women to extend their hand first
- Right hand protocol: Use your right hand for eating, giving/receiving items, and greeting people as the left hand is traditionally associated with hygiene
LOCAL WISDOM
- Respect local photography rules, especially around government buildings and local citizens.
- Dubai offers free public Wi-Fi in many locations including malls and parks.
- Visitors are required to observe the local customs during the month of Ramadan, which means they should not eat, drink or smoke in public during the daytime.
– Many hotels and restaurants offer special Iftar menus at sunset during Ramadan. - Dangerous areas: crime rates are low across the city and the public is encouraged to follow the strict laws and regulations.
Recommended trip duration: 2-3 days