- Dubai’s winter season, from November to early March, offers comfortable warm weather without humidity, perfect for outdoor exploration.
- The city offers a wide variety of attractions, including the Burj Khalifa, Ain Dubai, souks, Jumeirah Beach Residence Walk, La Perle show, and the fountain show at Dubai Mall.
- While experiencing the modern attractions, don’t forget to explore the historic part of Dubai, such as Al Seef and taking an abra boat ride. Additionally, consider taking a day trip to Abu Dhabi, which is only an hour and a half drive away.
Additional Coverage:
- I’m an American who visited Dubai for the first time. Here are 11 things I wish I knew before I went. (businessinsider.com)
I had the opportunity to visit Dubai for the first time and there were a few things I wish I knew beforehand. The weather during my stay was amazing, so I would recommend visiting during the winter season. The city is much bigger than I expected, so hiring a guide is a good idea to make the most of your visit.
Dubai has year-round sunshine, but the best time to visit is during the winter season, which spans from November to early March. During my visit in January 2022, the temperature was comfortably warm, ranging from 75 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit, without humidity. It was perfect for exploring and being outdoors. I found that sundresses and lightweight clothes were suitable during the day, but I would recommend bringing a jacket or long-sleeve shirts for the evenings when it can get a bit chilly.
One thing I didn’t realize until I visited Dubai was just how many activities there are to do. The city offers a wide variety of attractions, so it’s a good idea to plan your priorities before arriving. Based on my experience, I highly recommend visiting the Burj Khalifa, Ain Dubai, exploring the souks, and taking a stroll along the Jumeirah Beach Residence Walk. At night, be sure to catch the La Perle show and enjoy the fountain show and lights around the Burj Khalifa at Dubai Mall.
Dubai is not only filled with record-breaking attractions, but it also has a rich history and culture. While it’s worth visiting the tallest building and the highest observation wheel, don’t skip the historic part of the city. Exploring places like Al Seef, the souks, and taking a boat ride on an abra across the river allowed me to appreciate the city’s evolution over time.
If you have the time, I highly recommend taking a day trip to Abu Dhabi, the capital of the United Arab Emirates. It’s only about an hour and a half drive from Dubai and offers incredible sites such as the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, Qasr Al Watan (a working Presidential palace), and Heritage Village. Abu Dhabi is definitely worth exploring and I would love to go back to see more of it.
Dubai offers a diverse range of cuisines, so you won’t have any trouble finding food that suits your preferences. From traditional Middle Eastern cuisine to international options like Italian and Chinese, there’s something for everyone. However, be aware that dining out can be expensive.
When it comes to accommodation, I found that staying near the main attractions was convenient. I chose a hotel in the Dubai International Financial Centre, which was just a short distance from the Burj Khalifa and the Dubai Mall. Palm Jumeirah is another popular area to stay, offering waterfront hotels with larger properties and private beaches.
To make the most of my time in Dubai, I hired tour guides, which turned out to be a great decision. They helped me maximize my time and see a lot of the city, including a day trip to Abu Dhabi, the desert, and a nightlife tour. Hiring guides through the hotel or based on recommendations from friends and family was relatively affordable and ensured a smooth experience.
If you plan to visit mosques or other holy sites, make sure to dress appropriately. Men should wear long trousers and shirts with sleeves that cover the elbows. Women are required to wear an abaya and shayla, which cover the body and hair, when entering mosques. You can purchase or borrow an abaya and shayla at many tourist sites.
Don’t miss the opportunity to experience dune bashing in the desert. It was one of my favorite activities in Dubai, providing a thrilling ride over the sand dunes and a chance to witness a beautiful sunset.
Lastly, for souvenir shopping, I recommend visiting the souks. Dubai has a variety of open-air markets that sell everything from gold to spices. The souks offer the best prices and selection, and I found them to be worth exploring.
Overall, my trip to Dubai was filled with memorable experiences and there were a few things I wish I had known beforehand. Dubai has something for everyone, from stunning modern architecture to rich history and culture. With the right planning and guidance, you’ll have an incredible time exploring this vibrant city.