Tourist Tips

Hotels can book up very quickly especially during peak times in Dubai like The Big 5, we recommend that you book your hotels as early as possible. Click here to book your hotels directly through booking.com

Lightweight summer clothing is suitable for most of the year, but during the winter months sweaters or jackets may be needed. Please note that during Index the dress code is business attire/smart

Compared with other parts of the Middle East, Dubai has a very relaxed dress code, however care should be taken to not give offence by wearing clothing which may be considered revealing. At the pool or on the beaches trunks, swim-suits and bikinis are quite acceptable.

Alcohol is available in hotel and club restaurants and bars, however restaurants outside the hotel are not permitted to serve alcohol beverages. Never drink alcohol in public places outside of licensed premises.

Make sure you don’t eat, drink or smoke in public before sunset, the period when Muslims are required by Islam to fast. This includes chewing gum and eating anything in your car or taxi. Dress conservatively throughout the month, woman should dress modestly and cover shoulders and knees.

Normal tourist photography is acceptable but it is considered offensive to photograph Muslim women, it is also courteous to ask permission before photographing men. In general photographs of government buildings or military installations should not be taken.

Tap water is safe to drink, but visitors usually prefer locally bottled mineral water, and this is served in hotels and restaurants

The electricity supply in Dubai 220 volts, and UK three pin plugs

Do not arrange appointments on Fridays this is Dubai’s day of rest and prayer

Useful words and phrases:

> Assalaamu aleikum - peace be upon you
> Marhaba - greeting
> Shukran - thank you
> Min fadlak  - please
> Keefak(m)/keefik (f) - how are you?
> Zein, kwayis, tammam  - fine
> Mumkin = Can I, is it possible?
> Kam  - how much?
> Wein - where
> Mai madaniya  - mineral water
> Mai  - water