Culture, Rules, and Preparation
Dubai is a unique blend of Arabic culture, futuristic technology, and luxury that attracts travelers from all over the world. But before the first trip, many people have questions related to local traditions and rules. This guide will give you clear and up-to-date answers to help you feel confident and comfortable.
Is Dubai an Islamic Country with Strict Laws?
The short answer: Dubai is an emirate within the United Arab Emirates (UAE), where Islam is the state religion, but the policy is characterized by progressiveness and tolerance towards guests.
What this means for a tourist:
-
Respect is the key rule. You don't need to become a strict Muslim, but you must show respect for the local culture. This applies to clothing in public places (not on beaches) and public behavior.
-
Laws exist and they are enforced. Public displays of affection (kissing, hugging), drinking alcohol outside of licensed venues, disrespectful behavior (swearing, gestures), and photographing people without their consent, especially local women, are prohibited. Violations can lead to serious fines.
-
The atmosphere is cosmopolitan. Over 90% of the population are expatriates from all over the world. The city is built for international business and tourism, so the basic rules are intuitively understandable and logical for ensuring order and safety for everyone.
How to Dress in Dubai? Is There a Dress Code?
Dubai offers amazing freedom, but within the bounds of reasonable respect.
-
On the beach, by the hotel pool, or at a resort: Standard open swimwear (bikinis, swim trunks) is acceptable. Toplessness and nudism are strictly prohibited.
-
In shopping malls, restaurants, public transport, and on city streets: Modest clothing covering shoulders and knees is recommended. For women — sundresses, tunics with shorts or light trousers. For men — shorts below the knee or trousers with a T-shirt/shirt.
-
When visiting mosques (e.g., Jumeirah Mosque): Women will need to wear an abaya (cloak) with a hood provided on-site. Men — trousers and a long-sleeved shirt.
-
Practical advice: Always carry a light shawl or cardigan with you. It will save you from strong air conditioning indoors and allow you to quickly "cover up" if needed.
When is the Best Time to Go to Dubai: Seasons, Weather, Current Trends
-
Perfect season (October — April): "Winter" in Dubai means clear days with temperatures of +25°C...+30°C and cool evenings. The peak tourist season. Ideal for excursions, the beach, and walks.
-
Hot season (May — September): Temperatures reach +40°C...+45°C and above with high humidity. The beach and streets are comfortable only early in the morning or after sunset. This is the time for shopping in malls, visiting water parks, and indoor entertainment. Hotel prices are at their lowest.
-
Trend: The popularity of the shoulder season (late April, May, September) is growing due to lower prices and less crowded attractions, but readiness for the heat is mandatory.
Leisure, Entertainment, and Practical Matters
Dubai Beaches: Which Are the Best, Prices, Rules
The beaches are one of the city's main assets, and each has its own character.
-
Free public beaches: An excellent choice for budget-conscious tourists.
-
JBR Beach (The Beach at JBR): The center of activity, many cafes, entertainment, sunbed rental is paid. Ideal for those who love a vibrant atmosphere.
-
Kite Beach: A mecca for active recreation enthusiasts (kitesurfing, volleyball, running). Excellent infrastructure, equipment rental and food trucks available.
-
Al Mamzar Beach Park: A park area with shade, picnic lawns, swimming pools. Entrance is paid (symbolically), but it is very clean and family-friendly.
-
Paid hotel beaches and beach clubs: For example, Bluewaters Island, Nikki Beach. They offer a high level of service, comfort, bars, and music. The entrance fee (often including credit for food/drinks) can range from 150 to 400 AED (from $41 to $109).
-
Main rules: Swimming after sunset is prohibited on most public beaches for safety reasons. Littering is strictly prohibited.
Alcohol in the UAE: Where to Buy and Is It Allowed to Drink?
The system is regulated, but accessible to tourists.
-
Where to buy: Alcohol is not sold in supermarkets. It can be purchased only in specialized stores of licensed chains (e.g., African + Eastern, Maritime & Mercantile International (MMI)). A passport confirming age (21+) is required for purchase.
-
Where to consume: Legally — only on the premises of licensed establishments: bars and restaurants in hotels, certain nightclubs, private villas. It is strictly forbidden to drink in public places (streets, parks, beaches), as well as to appear heavily intoxicated. This leads to a large fine or detention.
-
Important: In the emirate of Sharjah, a "dry law" is in effect, and the import/consumption of alcohol is prohibited there.
Dubai for Free: What to See on a Budget
You can appreciate the luxury of Dubai even with a minimal budget.
-
The Dubai Fountain show at the Burj Khalifa: One of the most spectacular shows in the world, takes place every evening.
-
Flamingo watching at the Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary: An amazing natural oasis within the city with free viewing platforms.
-
A walk through the Dubai Marina district: Admire the "canals" and the city's tallest skyscrapers.
-
Umm Suqeim Beach: A free beach with the best view of the legendary Burj Al Arab hotel for photos.
-
The futuristic Museum of the Future skyscraper: Even if you don't go inside (paid), its architecture is impressive.
-
Old Town (Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood): Immersion in the atmosphere of Dubai before the oil boom, visiting museums is sometimes paid, but walking through the streets is free.
Finances, Technology, and Summary
Useful Apps in Dubai: What You Can't Do Without
-
Transport: Careem or Uber for taxis and carsharing. S’hail (from RTA) for planning public transport routes.
-
Food delivery: Talabat, Deliveroo, Careem Now — the main aggregators with thousands of restaurants.
-
Navigation and communication: Google Maps/2GIS work great. WhatsApp/Telegram — the main messengers for communicating with guides and services.
-
Entertainment and discounts: The Entertainer — an app with "buy one get one free" discounts at restaurants and activities. Visit Dubai — the official events guide.
Money in Dubai: Currency, Card Payments, Cash
-
Currency: UAE Dirham (AED). Current exchange rate: 1 AED ≈ 0.2723 USD, ≈ 0.25 EUR.
-
Card payments: Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted, including contactless payments via Apple Pay and Google Pay. American Express cards are less commonly accepted. Important for Europeans: There are usually no transaction fees. Tourists from some CIS countries should check with their bank in advance about the possibility of paying in the UAE and the presence of conversion fees.
-
Cash: Not mandatory, but useful for markets (gold, textile), small shops, and taxis. ATMs are widely available. Exchanging euros or dollars for dirhams can be done at numerous exchange offices (e.g., UAE Exchange, Al Ansari Exchange), their rate is often better than at the airport.
-
Tipping: Not obligatory, but welcome for good service (5-10% in a restaurant, 5-10 AED ($1.4 - $2.7) for a porter or maid).
In summary: Dubai is a hospitable and well-organized city where tourists with any expectations can feel comfortable. The key to a successful vacation is simple respect for local norms and a little preparation. Knowing these basic rules will allow you to relax and fully enjoy all the wonders this amazing emirate has to offer.
