Hi all, I will be visiting Dubai soon during the new year period for around 4 days and was wondering if anyone has any tips for travel during that period and just in general anything that a foreigner should look out for in Dubai.
It is not Ramadan, which means everything will be open while you are there. Weather decent, with even a possibility of a rain shower. No overtly open public displays of affection or too revealing clothing, but otherwise as you would wear anywhere else. Rest depends on where you are staying, what you enjoy doing etc. In the main, everything works very well and you should enjoy yourself.
If you're thinking about a drive over to Abu Dhabi for a look at Sheikh Zayed Mosque, be aware: despite what you may read, non-Muslim women visitors are treated very rudely. Another lesson learned: the gold souk in Dubai is a potential rip-off. Gold quality is not always as it is represented, and if you leave one shop in search a better deal you can guarantee others nearby have already had a phone call about you and the price you refused.
Dubai Mall, Fountains, Burj Khalifa (go up it) and dinner overlooking fountains at Mango Tree. All of this can take up a whole day.
Old Souks Deira, with Abra crossing across Dubai Creek. Even if you don't buy, worth it for a wander. For a more sanitized version (which is still quite fun) go to the souk at The Madinat and on the fake abras around the resort.
Desert/Dune Safari and dinner - worth doing if you have not done this sort of this before
Wild Wadi or Atlantis Water Parks. Both good. In Wild Wadi you can pay extra and be in your own private space, along with the ability to jump queues on all rides. Atlantis is a destination in itself.
Transport generally very easy. Taxis are cheap, though drivers sometimes struggle with routes. Car hire not recommended, unless you love busy highways with six lanes in each direction. Often too, some horrendous accidents if driving between Emirates. Metro is generally fine if it is on a route you want to go.
Phone roaming charges used to be extortionate and probably still are!!
RaptorNation158
RaptorNation158
Qantas - Qantas Frequent Flyer
Member since 21 Aug 2014
Total posts 185
Dubai travel tips.
Hi all, I will be visiting Dubai soon during the new year period for around 4 days and was wondering if anyone has any tips for travel during that period and just in general anything that a foreigner should look out for in Dubai.
Cheers!
Richard Brown
Richard Brown
Qantas - Qantas Frequent Flyer
Member since 26 May 2012
Total posts 132
It is not Ramadan, which means everything will be open while you are there. Weather decent, with even a possibility of a rain shower. No overtly open public displays of affection or too revealing clothing, but otherwise as you would wear anywhere else. Rest depends on where you are staying, what you enjoy doing etc. In the main, everything works very well and you should enjoy yourself.
wilsoni Banned
wilsoni Banned
Qantas - Qantas Frequent Flyer
Member since 28 Sep 2011
Total posts 302
If you're thinking about a drive over to Abu Dhabi for a look at Sheikh Zayed Mosque, be aware: despite what you may read, non-Muslim women visitors are treated very rudely. Another lesson learned: the gold souk in Dubai is a potential rip-off. Gold quality is not always as it is represented, and if you leave one shop in search a better deal you can guarantee others nearby have already had a phone call about you and the price you refused.
RaptorNation158
RaptorNation158
Qantas - Qantas Frequent Flyer
Member since 21 Aug 2014
Total posts 185
I will watch out especially about the gold and the Mosques, thank you wilsoni for your response - really appreciate it!
Richard Brown
Richard Brown
Qantas - Qantas Frequent Flyer
Member since 26 May 2012
Total posts 132
A few personal favourite which may be of help.
Dubai Mall, Fountains, Burj Khalifa (go up it) and dinner overlooking fountains at Mango Tree. All of this can take up a whole day.
Old Souks Deira, with Abra crossing across Dubai Creek. Even if you don't buy, worth it for a wander. For a more sanitized version (which is still quite fun) go to the souk at The Madinat and on the fake abras around the resort.
Desert/Dune Safari and dinner - worth doing if you have not done this sort of this before
Wild Wadi or Atlantis Water Parks. Both good. In Wild Wadi you can pay extra and be in your own private space, along with the ability to jump queues on all rides. Atlantis is a destination in itself.
Transport generally very easy. Taxis are cheap, though drivers sometimes struggle with routes. Car hire not recommended, unless you love busy highways with six lanes in each direction. Often too, some horrendous accidents if driving between Emirates. Metro is generally fine if it is on a route you want to go.
Phone roaming charges used to be extortionate and probably still are!!
Hope this helps
RaptorNation158
RaptorNation158
Qantas - Qantas Frequent Flyer
Member since 21 Aug 2014
Total posts 185
Certainly helped me a great ton, thanks Richard for your long and thorough post!!