Dubai Practical Tips
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Bookmark this page for quick reference during your Dubai trip. These practical tips will help you navigate the city like a local!
Dubai Practical Tips
Everything you need to know to make your Dubai trip smooth and hassle-free
Payments
Apps
Transport
Your Complete Dubai Visitor Guide
Dubai seamlessly blends modern luxury with Arabian tradition. This guide provides all the practical information you need to navigate the city like a local. From payment options and transportation tips to accommodation advice and cultural etiquette, we've got you covered.
Payments and Currency
Payment cards
- Visa and Maestro cards from abroad are accepted almost everywhere
- Ability to withdraw cash from ATMs
- ATMs without fees: ADCB, Emirates NBD
- Revolut: Avoid EURONET, always choose the "without conversion" option
Cash and exchange
- Up to 40,000 AED can be transported without customs declaration
- Best to exchange USD/EUR to AED at currency exchanges in Dubai
- Not worth bringing dollars unless you specifically want to
Revolut
- The most convenient solution for Revolut app users
- Quick activation without having to buy a physical SIM card
- Works immediately after arrival
- Option to manage your package through the app
- Create a Revolut account with our referral link
Public Transport
NOL Card
- Mandatory for using public transport
- Each passenger must have their own card - no group travel on a single card
- Can be purchased at metro stations (card/cash payment) or bus stops (often cash only)
- Can be used to pay for: metro, buses, trams, RTA taxis, boats, some shops and attractions (e.g. Miracle Garden)
- Children under 5 years travel for free
- Disabled persons have free travel on personalized cards (NOL Personal Card)
- Current information about NOL cards and fees on the RTA website
This information is regularly updated. Check the official sources for the most current details.
Metro
- Operates 7 days a week, approximately every 3 minutes
Operating hours:
- Monday–Thursday: 5:00-24:00
- Friday: 5:00-1:00
- Saturday: 5:00-24:00
- Sunday: 8:00-24:00
- Free Wi-Fi available in all carriages
This information is regularly updated. Check the official sources for the most current details.
City buses
- Operate daily from 4:00 to 1:00 the next day
- Schedule available on the RTA website
Line markings:
- Purple - day lines
- Yellow - day lines
- Gray - night lines
Recommended travel planning apps:
- Google Maps
- S'hail (official RTA app)
This information is regularly updated. Check the official sources for the most current details.
Tram
- One line in the Dubai Marina area
Operating hours:
- Monday–Saturday: 6:00-1:00
- Sunday: 9:00-1:00
- Easy transfer from metro to tram for Marina and Palm Jumeirah
Internet in Dubai
Revolut eSIM Card
- The most convenient solution for Revolut app users
- Quick activation without having to buy a physical SIM card
- Works immediately after arrival
- Option to manage your package through the app
- Create a Revolut account with our referral link
Local SIM cards
- Main operators: Etisalat, du, Virgin Mobile
- Cards available at the airport and at sales points in the city
- Passport required for purchase
- Attractive internet packages for tourists
- Option to purchase additional packages during your stay
Wi-Fi
- Free Wi-Fi in most shopping centers
- Available on the metro and at metro stations
- Hotels offer free internet for guests
- Many restaurants and cafes provide Wi-Fi
Hotels, Restaurants and Entertainment
Reservations
- Tripadvisor - reviews and price comparison
- Booking.com - wide range of accommodations
- Hotels.com - loyalty program with every 10th night free
- Agoda - often the lowest prices for luxury hotels
- Direct booking with hotels sometimes offers the best deals
Recommended areas
- Downtown Dubai - near Burj Khalifa, Dubai Mall, and Dubai Fountain
- Dubai Marina - modern district with beach access
- Palm Jumeirah - luxury hotels with private beaches
- Deira & Bur Dubai - historic districts with more affordable options
- Jumeirah Beach Residence (JBR) - family-friendly area with beach access
Restaurants and cafes
- Wide range from cheap street food to luxury restaurants
- Many international chains and local cuisine options
- Alcohol only served in licensed hotel restaurants and bars
- Many restaurants offer home delivery through apps like Deliveroo, Talabat, and Careem
- High-end restaurants often require reservations
- It's recommended to make reservations during peak tourist season
Alcohol in Dubai
Where to buy
- Only in licensed stores with a special permit (not required for tourists)
- In restaurants and bars located in hotels
- Duty-free at the airport (limited to 4 liters of liquor or wine per person)
- MMI and African & Eastern are the main alcohol retailers
Drinking rules
- Public consumption is prohibited and punishable by fine or imprisonment
- Driving under the influence is strictly prohibited (zero tolerance)
- You must be at least 21 years old to purchase and consume alcohol
- During Ramadan, serving hours may be limited even in licensed venues
Prices
- Generally higher than in Europe or the US
- Typically 50-80 AED (10-17 EUR) for a beer in a bar/restaurant
- Cocktails from 60-120 AED (13-26 EUR)
- Wine glass from 45-90 AED (10-20 EUR)
- Special promotions and happy hours available in many venues
Drinking Water
Tap water
- Technically safe to drink but has a distinct taste many find unpleasant
- Most locals and visitors prefer bottled water
- Hotels provide free bottled water daily
- Water dispensers are common in public places
Bottled water
- Widely available and inexpensive
- 1.5L bottle costs around 1-2 AED (0.20-0.40 EUR) in supermarkets
- Popular brands include Masafi, Al Ain, and Mai Dubai
- Many hotels provide complimentary bottled water
Staying hydrated
- Essential in Dubai's hot climate, especially in summer months
- Carry water with you, especially when outdoors
- Rehydration salts recommended for extensive outdoor activities
- Water filters are an eco-friendly alternative to bottled water
Electricity and Adapters
Socket type and voltage
- Type G (UK-style) three-pin rectangular socket
- 230V, 50Hz electricity supply
- Adapter required for European and American plugs
- Universal adaptors available at Dubai Airport, electronics stores, and larger supermarkets
Charging devices
- Modern smartphones and laptops typically handle 110-240V (check your device specs)
- USB charging ports often available in hotels, cafes, and public spaces
- Power banks recommended for full-day excursions
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