Welcome to Dubai, a UNESCO Creative City of Design
Dubai, the city that people from all over the world have made their home, has been a UNESCO Creative City of Design since 2017. It is a vibrant place where countless languages are spoken, and a rich mix of customs is woven into everyday life. Islamic heritage shapes parts of the city’s architecture and design, adding to the visual character of neighbourhoods and public spaces. Daily life, however, reflects the mix of cultures that live here, and you’ll see that in how communities interact across the city. The UAE places great importance on openness and religious tolerance, and most visitors experience the emirate as a welcoming and straightforward place to move through. Alongside its cultural diversity, there are a few practical basics worth knowing.
Economy:
In recent years, Dubai’s creative economy has flourished, turning the city into a hub where design, innovation, and cultural production thrive side by side. The local currency is the UAE dirham (AED), and it’s fixed at AED3.6725 to the US dollar. Cards and phone-based wallets work almost everywhere, including small cafés, corner shops, and even taxis. Cash is still accepted, but most people don’t reach for it unless they need it for small tips. Newer digital payment options are also being introduced, but your regular card or mobile wallet will cover almost everything during your stay.
Geography:
Dubai is located on the Arabian Gulf, positioned between a long stretch of coastline and the open desert. The climate is warm throughout the year. From October to May, temperatures are generally comfortable, ranging between 20–35°C (68–95°F). The summer period, from June to September, is much hotter, with daytime highs often reaching the mid-40s (around 110°F).
Demographics:
Dubai is home to people from over 195 different nationalities, making it one of the world’s most diverse cities. You see this everywhere, whether you’re grabbing a coffee or walking through one of the city’s many malls. It shows up in simple ways, like the range of food on offer and the different holidays people celebrate throughout the year.
Culinary Experience:
Emirati cuisine reflects the country’s coastal and desert heritage, with dishes built around rice, slow-cooked meats, fresh fish, dates, and spices that travelled along ancient trade routes. Across the city, you’ll find modern restaurants offering contemporary takes on these classics, cozy cafés and home-style kitchens serving traditional versions, bustling street-food stalls, and elegant fine-dining restaurants. As you explore Dubai, a world of flavours awaits.
Driving & transport:
Visitors with a valid international driving permit and a licence from many countries can rent a car without much hassle. Roads are well maintained, but driving habits can take a bit of getting used to. If you’d rather not drive, taxis are reliable and easy to find, and the Metro is another easy way to get around major areas. Ride-hailing is also common, with Uber and Careem operating across the city.
Accessibility:
Getting around Dubai is easy, with well-designed streets, ramps, and accessible pathways, and venues across the city are built to welcome everyone comfortably.
Dress code:
Dubai is a cosmopolitan city where almost all attires and cultural expressions are accepted. Swimwear is permissible at beaches, waterparks, public pools and spa areas but is not considered appropriate in areas such as business districts and shopping malls. Dressing conservatively is appreciated in Dubai’s historic neighbourhoods and places of worship. There are specific requirements for entering a mosque, like wearing clothing that covers shoulders, arms and legs – and headscarves for women.
Greetings & Etiquette:
Handshakes are customary, but it’s polite to let the other person set the tone, especially when greeting someone of the opposite sex. People in Dubai are used to interacting across cultures, so you’ll generally find that social etiquette is straightforward if you approach interactions with respect. Alcohol is served in licensed venues such as hotels, restaurants. The legal drinking age is over 21 years of age.
Safety & legal information:
Dubai is widely regarded as one of the safest cities in the world, and most visitors feel comfortable moving around at any time of day.
Emergency Numbers:
In case of emergencies while on holiday in the UAE, call:
Visitors may also find these numbers helpful:
- +971 800 4438 for tourist security issues
- +971 800 342 for the Dubai Health Authority
- +971 600 545 555 for consumer-related concerns
Health:
If you are travelling with prescribed medication, bring your doctor’s note with you. The Rashid, Latifa and Dubai Hospitals offer free emergency services.
Electricity:
Power supply is 220/240 volts. Sockets are compatible with UK-standard three- pin plugs. For US equipment, use a 220V to 110V transformer.
Tipping:
To tip or not to tip? The short answer is, there are no rules when it comes to tipping in Dubai. How much you tip varies from profession to profession and is also largely down to personal preference. It is customary to offer a little extra in most cases, but it certainly isn’t compulsory.
Phones and Wi-Fi:
The country code for the UAE is +971. Tourists get a free prepaid sim card from telecom operator du at the airport, while free Wi-Fi is widely available across the city.
Arriving in Dubai:
Most nationalities can simply get a visa on arrival at the airport, but visitors should check their visa requirements before arriving. Both Dubai International Airport (DXB) and Dubai World Central (DWC) have a range of helpful facilities and public transport options. Money changing facilities and taxis are readily available, as well as car rental services, convenience stores and information desks for general queries.