Coming to Dubai?
I’m excited for you!
In 2024 I visited Dubai for the first time and almost ending up buying an apartment there (and probably will someday). I ended up staying for five weeks and truly felt at home – what a magnificent city they’ve built here.
However, for first-time visitors Dubai can be somewhat intimidating (especially if it’s your first time visiting this region of the world). Navigating the city takes time to get used to, as well as just learning how things “work”.
Never fear – Dubai is extremely tourist friendly, and they’re as eager to welcome you as you are to visit.
In this guide I’ll be your personal Dubai tour guide – I’ll help you find the perfect accommodation, how to get around, getting your sim sorted, things to do, how to stay safe, and more.
In This Guide:
Map of Dubai
Many people don’t know this, but Dubai is not a country.
It’s a city, or more accurately one of the “emirates” of a much larger country known as the UAE, or United Arab Emirates.
The UAE is unique in that it has seven different emirates, and all are governed separately by different rulers. This means the laws in each emirate are different – for example, in Dubai it’s okay to drink alcohol, but in Abu Dhabi it’s definitely not.
As you can see from the map, Dubai is situated between the Emirate of Sharjah to the north, and Abu Dhabi to the south.
The reason Dubai is so well-known and popular in the west is because it’s the “western-friendly” emirate, meaning the dress-code is not so strict, alcohol is allowed, and even some very taboo things like prostitution are tolerated (very quietly, and in very specific areas).
So the first thing to remember when you’re in Dubai is what happens in Dubai must literally stay in Dubai – don’t go driving into other Emirates with beer in your car or walking around in bikinis and tank tops – that will get you into trouble quite quickly.
From the map above, you can see the popular areas of Dubai are not exactly right next to each other. Dubai is large (it’s a desert, after all) and things are spread out. It is not a walkable city and you will need taxis, the metro or a rental car to get around freely.
Ideally you will stay in a central area, rather than the areas around the outskirts which will make sightseeing and enjoying the city quite cumbersome (unless you have a rental car, and you really enjoy driving!). Don’t worry – I’ll help you find the perfect spot!
Where To Stay In Dubai
To make things easy for you, I always recommend staying near the metro line.
This means you can get yourself around the city without catching a taxi every day.
Also understand that Dubai in general is not a cheap place to visit, so while I can help you find some decent spots for backpacking budgets, it’s not easy to find in many parts of the city.
Downtown
Downtown is best known for the Burj Khalifa, the Dubai Mall and the Dubai Fountain show (all of which are within a short walk from each other).
Staying in downtown is popular, but in my opinion it’s best for a short stay.
If you’re staying a few weeks, you’ll end up paying a lot to stay here, and the area will get boring quite quickly.
However, if you’re only here for 3 or 4 nights it can be a good choice, as you’ll be close to a lot of the popular sights that you’re here to see, and you’re close to the metro too.
In short – if it’s your first time in Dubai and you’re here for a short time, downtown is a solid pick.
Where To Stay In Downtown Dubai:
For a budget traveller
Unfortunately you won’t find many budget options in this part of town – it’s some of the most expensive real estate in Dubai (keep scrolling though, the other areas have what you need).
To stay around here on a budget, I would recommend Prime Retreats, who have pretty good deals and you can find a private room for around $120/night.
It’s an apartment, tastefully furnished with all the basics – kettle, fridge, television etc.
Definitely the best deal you’ll find in this part of town.
For something luxurious…
You’re spoiled for choice, but my recommendation would be The Palace.
A true experience of Arabic luxury, The Palace sits right on the bank of the Burj Khalifa Lake, in full view of the tower and the Dubai Fountain.
Set in a traditional palace property, lined with palms, a lavish outdoor pool, four different fine dining restaurants and all-day buffets, you will need for nothing and be waited on for everything.
The rooms are in classic Middle Eastern decor and come with all the bells and whistles you could think of, along with a gym, spa, room service and amenities you’d expect from a top-end five star resort.
Just a five minute walk from one of the best malls in the world and you truly have everything you could ever want on your doorstep.
Business Bay
Business Bay is just a stone’s throw from downtown, or more technically, on the other side of the water, but many people consider them the same area.
However, once you get into the heart of Business Bay you’ll see it’s actually quite different.
While downtown is more touristy and busy, Business Bay is much less crowded and is more like a central business district.
You will find many places to eat around here, big wide streets, walkable areas to explore, do some shopping, have a coffee and enjoy a regular day out. Some parts of Business Bay you might even feel like you’re in Singapore or Japan, as it’s very corporate and “normal”.
Not a bad choice if you want to be close to the action but not right in the heart of it all.
Where To Stay In Business Bay Dubai
For the budget traveller
Again, not the best place for budget travellers, but for a reliable place with a reasonable price tag you could try the Citymax Hotel.
Rates change a lot with the seasons, but if you’re lucky you can pick up a room for ~$100/night.
Comes with everything you’d expect from a 3 star hotel, including gym, pool, restaurants, a good breakfast spread and a well furnished room. It’s Dubai too, so standards are generally high.
Around 5km from the Dubai Mall, so you’re not too far from the central attractions.
For something luxurious…
For a relaxing, indulgent, classy experience in Business Bay, I’m going to recommend The First Collection Hotel.
This stylish hotel is all about business sophistication, meaning you have plenty of world-class dining and coffee options, a fantastic gym and spa, and several meeting areas designed for talks with clients or guests, where you can simply relax or get some work done.
An award-winning steakhouse on site, plus a 25m lap pool for you to work off your last meal or simply cool off from the Dubai heat.
By Dubai standards it’s very reasonably priced, and a room might only run you $300 in low season if you book early.
Amazing value for something this high-end.
Deira
What can I say about Deira?
First – it’s probably not the Dubai you have pictured in your head. In fact, most parts of Deira will probably remind you more of Little India in Singapore, or maybe parts of Malaysia or Hong Kong.
Of course, that’s not a bad thing for a curious traveller like you. Deira dates back several hundred years, and is one of the oldest neighbourhoods in the city. It’s a major business area, meaning you can buy everything here – phones, jewellery, clothes, and of course, tons of delicious food.
It’s also famous for having the gold souk and the spice souk (souk is a word for market) – two of the biggest tourist attractions in Dubai.
Is it true many of the less wealthy live here? Yes, but by no means does that mean the area is dangerous, in fact it’s as safe as any other part of Dubai, and personally I love it.
If you’re after shopping, cheap and delicious restaurants, and lively streets, Deira is the perfect choice.
Where To Stay In Deira
For the backpacker
It’s close to the metro and a short walk to many restaurants and a good supermarket.
The hostel is nothing flashy but is well managed and the price is affordable.
Deira is the perfect place for backpackers in Dubai – cheap food and cheap beds – what more could you want?
You’ll find the best rates here.
For the budget traveller
My recommendation would be the Super 8 by Wyndham.
No-frills, high quality hotel with clean and modern rooms.
Very close to gold souk and spice souk (you could probably walk if you don’t mind the heat) and many good food options right on your doorstep.
If you’re lucky, a room might only run you $70 or $80 if you catch them at the right time.
Reliable accommodation in a safe clean area and a decent price.
For something luxurious…
The south of Deira is actually an incredible choice for high-end living, as it’s more spacious than other parts of Dubai.
The Park Hyatt Dubai is the perfect example – built on the shore of the Dubai Creek, it has it’s very own lagoon and private beach. Guests also have access to the Dubai Creek golf course and driving range – something you’ll never get in downtown or the Marina.
You can even charter a yacht from the Dubai Creek Yacht Club for a day on the water.
The hotel itself has three international world-class restaurants with panoramic views of the water, and impeccably furnished rooms with floor-to-ceiling windows, your own bathtub, and of course a balcony to enjoy the views.
An added bonus is you’re only a short drive from the airport (a couple of minutes) and Dubai Mall and Burj Khalifa are just fifteen minutes by taxi if you ever feel like heading into the city.
Personally, if you’re looking to splurge on a relaxing Middle Eastern holiday, don’t sleep on Deira – combine your Dubai holiday with this idyllic beach-like getaway and get the best of both worlds.
Dubai Marina
The Marina is probably the most popular area in Dubai to stay for first-timers. It’s home to all the major hotel chains such as Hilton, Ramada, Radisson etc, and very accessible via the Dubai Metro.
It’s the perfect area to explore on foot, where you can stroll by the water on the Marina Walk, visit the many different shops and restaurants, and enjoy some tourist sights.
Dubai Marina Mall is there, which is not as popular as Dubai Mall or Mall Of The Emirates, but it will surely have everything you’re looking for.
You can also enjoy Marina Beach, which is a popular place to enjoy some sand, sun and sea!
Bear in mind Marina is far away from everything else, about forty minutes from the airport (much longer in traffic). Not an issue if you don’t mind travel times, but something to be aware of. Of course, there is plenty to do around the Marina if you don’t feel like venturing out for the day!
Where to stay in Dubai Marina
For backpackers
There are a few hostels around the Marina, however the word “hostel” should be used lightly, these are not like the hostels you’re used to in Europe and Asia.
What most people do here (due to the high costs of accommodation) is they run hostels out of apartments, which means bunks have simply been placed into 2 or 3 bedroom apartments. You’ll get to use the facilities like the gym and pool, but it’s not going to like the funky carefree hostels you’re accustomed to on the backpacking trail.
Nonetheless they get the job done and offer you a good quality deal for accommodation in Dubai, so who’s complaining!?
I’d recommend staying somewhere established like the Urban Panda. Pretty good rates, and great location.
For the budget traveller
I would stay at Four Stars. It’s a boutique hotel less than a kilometre from the beach.
The rooms are simple but clean and well maintained with everything you’ll need!
Rooms should run you $50/night or close to it, at least during low season.
Great deal for a great location.
For something luxurious…
Stay at FIVE LUXE.
This is the pinnacle of the Dubai experience and if you can afford it, it will be worth every cent.
Just a few steps from Marina Beach, the hotel as features a stunning pool, six different restaurants serving every cuisine you could want, a gym, spa and hammam treatments, not to mention some of the most beautifully furnished rooms in Dubai.
A private beach is available for guests, while you enjoy fresh cocktails from the bar in one of the most exclusive properties in town.
Al Barsha
Al Barsha is best know for being home to Mall Of The Emirates – unofficially the “second-best mall in Dubai”.
(My personal opinion – Mall of Dubai is actually too big, and Mall Of The Emirates is more enjoyable).
Other than that, Al Barsha is more a residential area that centers around Al Barsha Pond Park, you’ll see lots of apartments here, coffee shops and restaurants, and young professionals out and about.
While it’s not an obvious place to stay for first-timers in Dubai, it can be an interesting spot to get a more “expat” style experience.
Where To Stay In Al Barsha
For budget travellers
The Mena Plaza Hotel is a boutique hotel that’s exceptionally well-maintained and does all the basic things right.
The restaurant serves a good buffet breakfast and meals throughout the day.
Swimming pool, gym and a shared lounge area are all available for guests.
It’s a fifteen minute walk from Mall of The Emirates, which is also the nearest metro station.
Good choice for simple high quality.
For something luxurious…
Stay at the Kempinski Aspen Chalets!
The Kempinski Hotel is a luxury hotel connected to the Mall Of The Emirates, and its Aspen Chalets are the top-end of the top end!
This is luxury in every sense of the world – a picturesque outdoor pool, award-winning spa and salon, four great restaurants, tennis courts, it even has access to the Dubai ski school so you can hit the slopes in the desert – say what!?
With direct access to the mall, you also can enjoy almost unlimited shopping and dining options within a few steps of your room.
Private butlers are available with every private chalet.
Just a truly exceptional 5-star hotel experience.
Dubai Old City
Dubai Old City is a lesser-known part of Dubai to most tourists, but also one of the most interesting.
Home to Al Seef – a creekside area for upscale eating and shopping, Al Fahidi – a small historical neighbourhood perfect for Instagramming and exploring, the Grand Dubai Souk – a classic Arabian waterfront market selling everything you can imagine, The Dubai Museum – housed in a historic fort, and much, much more, Bur Dubai is a fantastic place to stay for the inquisitive traveller.
Of course, you don’t need to stay here to enjoy all these things, and they’re just as well enjoyed on a day trip, but there are many nice and affordable places to stay in the Old City, and it can be a nice change from staying at the Marina or by the Burj Khalifa.
Where To Stay In Dubai Old City
For the backpacker
Sky Hostel is well located and offers great value.
For the ladies, there’s a great ladies-only hostel called WeStay Ladies.
Nothing fancy but does the job and won’t burn holes in your pocket.
Both are in a great location, close to the metro and the sights of the Old City.
For the budget traveller
Stay at Al Khoory Inn.
While officially 2-star, this hostel is a pleasant surprise with very modern rooms, aircon and wifi throughout the property, and a great restaurant on-site.
It’s located right next to Al Fahidi and the metro.
Great value for ~$100/night.
For something luxurious….
If you’re after luxury, Raffles Dubai might be the most luxurious hotel available in Dubai, and that’s saying something.
An iconic part of the Dubai skyline, Raffles Dubai was inspired by the Pyramids of Giza, with its award-winning design now recognised around the world.
Raffles Dubai is decorated both in the rooms and throughout the hotel with handcrafted ornaments and imported fabrics, giving it a bespoke style of luxury you won’t see anywhere else.
Its award-winning Japanese restaurant, TOMO, is a favourite for both guests and non-guests, along with six other fine-dining restaurants where you can indulge in the some of the finest international food in the city.
It’s also connected directly to Wafi Mall, one of Dubai’s highest-end shopping malls, meaning luxury brands are literally steps away from your room.
Butler service is available in all rooms.
Unabashed luxury, at a price of course, and nowhere does it better than Dubai.
How To Get To Your Accommodation In Dubai
Dubai Airport might not be the prettiest airport, but it functions well and transport is straightforward.
You have two main options to get to your accommodation:
Metro
There is a Airport Terminal Metro Station, you can get to any of the main points in Dubai using it. It leaves only from Terminals 1 and 3, so if you land at Terminal 2 you’ll need to take the shuttle bus to another terminal (you can walk, but it’s quite far, and hot).
The metros don’t run between 5am and midnight, so if you land in the middle of the night, you may be waiting a while. Also note you’re limited to one big piece of luggage (like a suitcase), so if you’re travelling with a lot of baggage, you’ll need to taxi instead.
If your accommodation is near a metro line, catching the metro is fine, but if not consider taxi’ing, because walking in the Dubai heat with bags looking for a hotel is really not a good time.
However, for price the metro is unbeatable – a ride will cost you around $2 (or less).
Taxi/Careem/Uber
The easier (and more expensive) choice is to take a car.
In Dubai they use a rideshare app called Careem, but Uber also works.
Also half the time you order a Careem/Uber, a taxi picks you up, so taxis, Careems and Ubers are all more or less the same thing.
People insist Careem is cheaper than a taxi and Uber, but in my experience they’re pretty much the same price.
There’s a specific pickup spot outside the terminals for rideshares like Careem and Uber, so when you order your ride the app will give you directions on where to go, and it’s generally well marked.
One thing to look out for is the hustlers at the airport who try to make you cancel your trips while you’re looking for your car. They’ll say things like this pickup is for “Careem premium only” or something stupid like that, and point to your app and point to the sign and try and convince you to cancel your ride. Then when you cancel, they’ll obviously be like let me just take you for the same price. I experienced the same thing in Egypt, so I kinda knew what they were up to right away.
Just ignore them, if you’re at the Careem/Uber spot, your driver will find you there.
How To Get Around In Dubai
Dubai might be one of the least walkable cities in the world, and you’ll really need a car to get around.
Whether you want to rent a car or use taxis will depend on the length of your stay, and whereabouts you are staying.
If you’re staying near a metro line, or you don’t mind spending $50-$60 a day on taxis, then you can just get away without renting a car for a short stay.
If you’re staying more than a week, I’d recommend hiring a car if you’re comfortable driving. If you consider yourself a good driver then you shouldn’t have an issue – Dubai has excellent roads and using Google Maps (locals prefer Waze) you should be able to handle the roads just fine.
On my first visit to Dubai I stayed for over a month and within 3 days I knew I would need a car. The great thing about car rental in Dubai is it’s amazingly cheap! I spent about 1,400 dirhams ($400 USD) for a one month rental. And of course – you’re in the Middle East, so gas is cheap.
I rented my car with DiscoverCars – lots of great deals! Highly recommended.
How To Get Internet In Dubai
I bought a Virgin sim at the airport, and it was expensive!
For context, AED 500 is ~ $$136 – so that’s the price for unlimited data for a month.
Instead I now use an e-sim from Airalo where you can get 20GB for $30.
If your phone is e-sim compatible, I would highly recommend this option as tourist sims in Dubai are not cheap at all. You can check out their plans here.
Otherwise, getting connected to a local sim is easy – as soon as you exit arrivals there will be booths for all the mobile providers there who can get you connected.
Safety in Dubai
Dubai is very safe – in fact some consider it the safest city in the world.
When referring to physical safety, that might be true and you are extremely unlikely to be the victim of any kind of mugging or violent attack, even late at night.
However, remember Dubai is still very conservative and religious and certain behaviours will get you into more trouble than you could ever get into in the USA or Europe.
Common sense will take you a long way here and it’s not complicated.
As an example, drugs are not permitted anywhere and any attempt to buy or sell could result in a very bad time for you. Just don’t! Also while alcohol and pork is legal, it’s forbidden in many places and use your common sense when you should or shouldn’t be consuming. For example, don’t be wandering around in public drinking beers and eating bacon strips. Foreigners are generally afforded a lot of leniency and different laws apply to you as a visitor, but do your best to be respectful, cover yourself up when you’re in public (no booty shorts and boob tubes), don’t insult anyone’s religion or country, and you will have nothing to worry about.
Dubai is overall an extremely welcoming place to tourists, and if you don’t do anything stupid I’m sure you’ll find it one of the safest and most enjoyable places in the world.
Enjoy!
Heading To Dubai and….
Need a cheap flight? I use Kiwi! Best prices, great support.
For travel insurance, I always use World Nomads – get protected for just a few dollars a day!
Somewhere to stay? Booking.com gives you the biggest selection and the best rates.
Questions? Leave them below!