Because the most affordable time to visit Dubai is in the summer, it may be uncomfortable doing outdoor activities. But you can still enjoy Dubai’s world-class indoor attractions, shopping malls, and entertainment. That said, Lobo notes that October is a great time to visit for more tolerable temperatures; at this time, there are still good deals to be had before the high season begins in November.
When is peak season in Dubai?
Peak season in Dubai runs from November to March, according to Noubani and Lobo. “This is when the city is bustling with events, festivals, and tourists,” Lobo says, since the relatively cooler weather makes it easier to enjoy outdoor activities, desert adventures, and sightseeing. “Be prepared for larger crowds and higher prices, especially during major events like the Dubai Shopping Festival and Dubai Food Festival,” she says.
When visiting Dubai for the first time, where should I go and what should I see?
For your first time in Dubai, Noubani says, “you don’t want to miss a stop at Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world; the Dubai Mall, one of the largest shopping malls in the world; the Museum of the Future; and the Gold Souk.” In Dubai, travelers should also try enjoying the environment and doing a desert-based activity: Noubani suggests riding an abra—a traditional boat—across the Dubai Creek; Lobo recommends dune bashing in the desert. The views from the Palm Jumeirah are also worth the visit, they say, and you can’t visit Dubai without doing a desert safari at sunset with all the works like a camel ride and a traditional dinner.
How many days do I need to spend in Dubai as a first-timer?
For a first-time visit, Lobo says four nights in Dubai is enough to see the main attractions and experience the city’s highlights. “If you prefer a more relaxed pace and want to take a day trip to Abu Dhabi, consider staying for five to six nights,” she says. “That said, the city is a great stopover destination as well, so even a two- or three-day visit can be enough for a fully-loaded agenda that allows you to experience the destination,” Noubani says.
What else should I know before visiting Dubai?
Keep in mind that Ramadan typically falls in March or April. “This sacred month is observed by Muslims with fasting, prayer, and reflection, and many businesses and attractions operate on reduced hours or may close,” Lobo says. As such, it’s essential to be mindful of local customs and plan your activities accordingly.
Noubani says, “English is common everywhere, and alcohol can be purchased at certain supermarkets, hotels, and resorts. Dubai is easy to navigate and caters well to international visitors; it allows visa-free visits to travelers from many different countries, including the US.