An interesting blend of Emirati tradition and Western modernity, Dubai is an exciting place to visit. You get to enjoy a wide range of experiences in Dubai right from admiring the wonders of the modern world to visiting its vast desert. Are you a first time visitor to Dubai? If you are, you might feel a bit overwhelmed when you land in Dubai. After all, there is a lot to do here. Here’s an informative Dubai travel guide for first time visitors that shall help you make the most of your visit to the city.
Best Time to Visit Dubai
Being a desert city, Dubai is very hot and humid for much of the year. It’s only between the months of November and April when it’s winter here that the weather in Dubai is very pleasant. The temperatures are much lower than usual and so is the humidity. That makes the conditions perfect for sightseeing and other outdoor activities.
How to Get to Dubai
Dubai International Airport (DXB) is one of the world’s busiest airports. It’s easy to reach Dubai from any part of the world since Dubai is a major city and hence very well connected to every corner of the world. There are flights operating to and from Dubai connecting it to almost every major city in the world. The airport is also very well connected to the rest of the city and you can get there by taxi, bus or the metro.
Getting Around in Dubai
The transport infrastructure in Dubai is absolutely world class and there are numerous options you can use to get around the city. These are:
The Metro
Dubai Metro is very clean, fast and convenient. What’s more, it’s very affordable as well. There are two lines criss-crossing the entire city, the Red Line and the Green Line. You can access all the major attractions of Dubai using the metro like the Burj Khalifa, the Dubai Marina And Dubai Mall.
Taxis
Taxis are a very convenient way to travel around Dubai and they are readily available. The taxis charge reasonable fares and all of them are metred. All the taxis are well maintained and hence, they are comfortable.
Buses
The bus network in Dubai is a really extensive one and buses on all the routes run at regular intervals. Covering most areas of the city, the buses too in Dubai are a convenient way to go around the city. They are very affordable as well.
Water Transport
Dubai also has water taxis called Abras that take you from one side to the other side of the Dubai Creek. If you are looking for a fun and scenic way to explore the city, these Abras are a great option.
Top Attractions to Visit in Dubai
There are a lot of things to see in Dubai. In fact, there are so many of them, that you feel pretty lost. Therefore, mentioning the top places that you must visit in Dubai acts as truly helpful travel tips for your first time in Dubai.
Burj Khalifa
One of the most iconic landmarks of Dubai, the Burj Khalifa stands proudly as the tallest building in the world. As tall as 828 metres, the Burj Khalifa boasts excellent observation decks on the 124th and 125th floors that offer spectacular views of the city. You’ve got to take a picture of yours with the Burj Khalifa in the background since it happens to be a symbol of Dubai’s many outstanding achievements.
Dubai Mall
With over 1,200 retail outlets selling myriad items from the latest in fashion wear to Emirati handicrafts, the Dubai Mall is one of the largest in the world. Things go much beyond just shopping at the Dubai Mall. The mall is home to a massive aquarium, an ice rink and also a virtual reality park. The Dubai Mall is an entire entertainment hub. Since it’s located just beside the Burj Khalifa, you can visit both places on a single trip.
The Palm Jumeirah
The Palm Jumeirah is a wonder of modern engineering. A man made group of Islands, it’s shaped like a palm tree. Mini luxurious hotels stand on the Palm Jumeirah including the iconic Atlantis the Palm. Palm Jumeirah is a fine place to visit and you can have a nice time here dining at one of the blush restaurants, Aur visiting the beautiful beaches. You may take a ride on the monorail traversing the islands And take in spectacular views of Dubai Skyline and the sea beyond.
Dubai Marina
Famous for its world class shopping and dining options and also its modern architecture, the upscale Dubai Marina is a very vibrant place indeed. Enjoy dining at any of the fine waterfront restaurants, take a boat ride or go strolling on the Marina Walk and just enjoy yourself at this happy place. You’ll love visiting the Dubai Marina in the evening when the lights go on and their reflections on the water make for a beautiful sight.
These are only a few of the many exciting places Dubai is dotted with. There are a lot of things to do in Dubai and every moment in this city is thoroughly enjoyable.
Useful Tips for First Time Visitors to Dubai
When you visit a city for the first time, you don’t really know what to expect. Here are some useful tips for an enjoyable stay in Dubai:
Dress Code
While Dubai is a modern city, make it a point to dress very soberly in public places especially when you are visiting places of worship.
Stay Hydrated
Since the humidity levels in Dubai are always very high, you sweat a lot. Hence, keep drinking water at regular intervals to keep yourself hydrated.
Avoid Public Display of Affection
While Dubai is pretty liberal, it’s not as liberal as the West. Hence, avoid any public display of affection since it shall be frowned upon.
Conclusion
Dubai is indeed an incredible city to be in and there are a lot of places to visit in Dubai. That makes your holiday in this city a truly memorable experience. Shopping, dining, exploring, Dubai offers everything. Every moment in this city is filled with thrill. You are sure to cherish your holiday in this incredible city forever. So, choose a Dubai city tour and explore the beauty of this whole city in less time.