Before I went to Dubai, I had seen the photos: towering buildings, luxury cars, and grand hotels. But being there in person was a whole different vibe.
Dubai is home to people from more than 200 nationalities, so you’ll encounter a wonderful mix of cultures, languages, and backgrounds. It’s also part of the United Arab Emirates, a Muslim country, and that influence shapes daily life. I heard the call to prayer during my visit and found it beautiful.
One thing that caught my attention was how many fancy cars were on the road. Then I learned that the numbers on a car’s license plate can make a statement, too. Shorter or distinctive plates are considered prestigious and can sell for high prices at auction. They can signal status, though they don’t tell you for certain how wealthy the owner is.
What stood out just as much as the cars was how welcoming people were. I felt comfortable exploring, and I felt very safe during my visit. Dubai also struck me as exceptionally clean and beautiful.
Adventure in the desert
Our desert safari was one of the highlights. We rode through the dunes in an SUV with a driver behind the wheel, then enjoyed a barbecue dinner with entertainment under the evening sky. The desert felt like a completely different world from the city—wide open, peaceful, and unforgettable.
I also did a flying-dress photo shoot, which let me feel glamorous and capture a memory I’ll always treasure. We even had a yacht experience, another memorable way to see Dubai from a different perspective.
Planning tip: When comparing desert safari or yacht tours, check what’s included. Confirm transportation, meals, activities, pickup details, and any additional fees before you book.
From modern landmarks to traditional markets
Dubai has no shortage of impressive sights. We visited the Dubai Frame and the Burj Khalifa. We watched the Dubai Fountain show, explored the Dubai Mall, and wandered through the Gold and Spice Souks in the old part of the city. You can spend hours browsing the shops and taking in the atmosphere.
We also visited the Ferrari Museum and the Museum of the Future and had a memorable private dining experience at The Pods. Seeing traditional markets alongside the modern skyline gave me a glimpse of Dubai's many sides.
Planning tip: Dubai has a lot to see, so group nearby attractions together and leave room in your schedule for travel time. Check attraction hours and ticket requirements before you go, especially for popular sights.
A day trip to Abu Dhabi
One of our excursions took us to Abu Dhabi, where we toured the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque. The mosque was breathtaking. Its scale, architecture, and peaceful atmosphere made it a memorable visit. We also stopped at Emirates Palace, where I enjoyed a cappuccino.
Planning tip: Abu Dhabi is a separate emirate, so plan it as its own day trip. For the Grand Mosque, visitors need modest clothing: women need to cover their hair and wear loose clothing that covers their arms and ankles. Check the mosque’s visitor guidance before your visit.
Culture and respectful travel
Dubai is a cosmopolitan city, and visitors will see a range of clothing styles. I recommend packing some modest options, especially for malls, historic neighborhoods, and cultural sites. You don’t need to wear an abaya or cover your hair around the city, but mosque visits have their own dress requirements. Swimwear belongs at the beach or pool.
Keep public displays of affection minimal, and ask permission before photographing people. These small gestures show respect for local culture.
Ramadan follows the lunar calendar, so its dates shift each year. Restaurants generally operate during the day, though some may adjust their hours. Be mindful of people who are fasting, and check opening times and transport schedules for your travel dates.
Getting around Dubai
The Dubai Metro is clean, air-conditioned, and connects many major areas. A Nol card can be used on the Metro, buses, trams, and other RTA transport. Dubai Metro trains also have designated cabins for women and children. Taxis and ride-hailing apps can be useful for places the Metro doesn’t reach or for late-night trips.
Money, dining, and tipping
The local currency is the UAE dirham (AED), which is pegged at about 3.67 AED to one U.S. dollar. Credit cards are convenient, but carrying some cash can be helpful at smaller shops and markets.
Costs vary widely depending on where you eat, stay, and what experiences you choose. In planning, I’d recommend budgeting separately for meals, transportation, shopping, and excursions—especially if luxury dining, yacht trips, or designer shopping are on the itinerary.
Tipping is a personal choice, and there are no fixed rules. A service charge may already be included, so check your bill. If you’d like to leave something extra for good service, small tips are appreciated.
Alcohol is available in licensed venues, including hotels, bars, and some restaurants. Follow local rules, drink responsibly, and don’t drink in public spaces or drive after drinking.
A few things I was curious about
I had heard that people in Dubai don’t pay taxes when they work. I learned that the UAE does not levy personal income tax on individuals
I’d also heard that the government helps Emirati couples with wedding and housing costs.
Tourism and real estate are Dubai’s main sources of income. They’re important parts of the economy.
When to visit
I visited Dubai in December and would consider going again in November or early December, especially for outdoor activities. Dubai’s tourism site describes October through April as a popular season for enjoying the city outdoors. Dates around holidays and special events can affect individual tours or opening hours, so confirm your plans directly with the providers.
Dubai left an impression
Dubai gave me adventure, beautiful sights, rich contrasts, and warm interactions with the people I met. I came home with memories of riding through the desert in an SUV, seeing the skyline, shopping in the Gold and Spice Souks, enjoying a yacht experience, and visiting the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi.
There’s still more I’d like to remember and share, but one thing is certain: Dubai was an experience—not just a trip.
Have you been to Dubai? What surprised you most?
If Dubai is on your list and you’d like help planning a trip—or want to hear about future DTJ group travel—reach out to Destination & Travel Junkies. I’d love to help you turn the idea into a plan.
