Dubai holidays

With its colossal skyscrapers, historic souks and resort-backed beaches, this city-state on the Persian Gulf sets a high bar. The former sleepy backwater has grown exponentially in recent years too, so a holiday to Dubai is just as popular with sun worshippers as it is now with foodies, art lovers and theme park fans.

Dubai holiday highlights

Mall life

Shopping is a way of life in Dubai: it’s tax free and its namesake mall is one of the world’s largest. You won’t have to tread far to discover a wealth of designer stores. Don’t worry if your budget doesn’t stretch as far as high fashion — you’ll find plenty of great deals in its many retail outlets.

Desert dates

Experience the contrast of Dubai's cityscape with its stunning desert landscape. Quad biking, sandboarding and camel rides are just the start of the many thrilling adventures at the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve. To add a slice of magic to your holiday in Dubai, why not spend a night in the dunes? Dine under the stars in a Bedouin-style camp or opt for a luxurious glamping retreat.

Hammam spas

Originating in Arabic culture, the hammam is an ancient bathing ritual that uses hot steam to cleanse and relax the body. Dubai’s impressive range of luxury spas makes for an ideal destination to experience this tradition firsthand. Look for holiday deals to Dubai with spa and hammam access included in the cost of the stay.

Dubai: Know before you go

Language

Arabic

Currency

United Arab Emirates dirham (AED)

Time zone

UTC+4 (GST)

High season

December – January

Low season

September – October

Find the best time to go to Dubai

Weather in Dubai

April – October: Humidity levels soar during the rest of the year, with temperatures regularly topping37°C. Take advantage of fewer tourists to explore the city without the crowds. And when you need to cool off, take your pick of Dubai’s opulent air-conditioned shopping centres.

November – March: Dubai’s winter season is a popular time to enjoy the Persian Gulf’s white sands and warm waters, with average daytime temperatures hovering around 25°C. This is also when most of the city’s annual celebrations take place, from shopping festivals to food and arts events. January to March is Dubai’s rainy season, so expect a few short showers here and there.

Events in Dubai

Art Dubai (March to April): This international art fair showcases works by artists from across the Middle East and beyond. Check out the diverse collection of sculptures, paintings, photography and installations.

UAE National Day (December): Celebrated annually on 2 December, it marks the unification of the seven emirates. Join the crowds for parades, live music concerts and cultural activities.

Shopping Festival (December to January): This is the best time to enjoy the city’s famous retail therapy, with shops offering hefty discounts. Besides scoring a bargain, enjoy food events, live music and parades.

Dubai Food Festival (varies): Celebrate Dubai’s food scene with chef-led masterclasses, themed dining experiences and restaurant pop-ups across the city.

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The best neighbourhoods in Dubai

The Walk at JBR

Jumeirah

Jumeirah is renowned for its luxurious hotels and stunning waterfront views, making it one of the best areas to stay in Dubai. Spend your morning at Jumeirah Public Beach, then indulge in some retail therapy at the Dubai Mall. The Burj Al Arab, often labelled as a seven-star hotel, is a must-see landmark. If staying the night isn't feasible, consider taking a guided tour of this iconic sail-shaped structure.

Good for: Beaches, shopping, cafes

Al Fahidi Historic District

Deira

As one of the oldest corners of the city, Deira is where to stay in Dubai for a celebration of Dubai’s ancient culture and heritage. This neighbourhood runs alongside Dubai Creek, where much of its trading history and character can be explored through its centuries-old souks and authentic seaport.

Good for: Culture, shopping, history

Dubai Fountain

Bur Dubai

Blending the old and the new, Bur Dubai is one of the best neighbourhoods to stay in Dubai. This is where The Dubai Frame, a soaring landmark resembling a giant picture frame, sits beside a maze of the city’s oldest streets. Bur Dubai’s mishmash of styles is perhaps best reflected through its traditional sandstone wind tower and the captivating light shows at Dubai Garden Glow.

Good for: Landmarks, sightseeing, architecture

Things to do in Dubai

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Family friendly things to do

With plentiful beaches, waterparks and theme parks, Dubai offers the perfect setting for a family getaway. Scratch beneath the surface and there are even more exciting things to do with family in Dubai. There’s sandboarding in the desert, boat rides at Dubai Marina and being a zookeeper for the day at Dubai’s indoor rainforest, The Green Planet.

Shopping

Dubai is a tax-free haven also known as the Shopping Capital of the Middle East, but there’s more to shopping in Dubai than luxury items. Get a glimpse into the Emirati culture at one of Dubai’s souks. Souvenirs, spices and textiles are sold at traditional venues like Naif Souk while modern souks, such as Souk Al Marfa, feature exquisite jewellery and perfumes.

Take in the culture

From ancient artefacts to contemporary art, Dubai boasts a rich tapestry of cultural treasures. Take a wander through the Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood and the Dubai Creek area for a glimpse of 19th-century Dubai. Plenty of museums in Dubai celebrate the area’s history too, such as the Dubai Museum and Al Shindagha Museum.

Places to eat

The restaurants in Dubai perfectly blend the city's luxury status and international appeal. Michelin-starred cuisine is often served against a backdrop of magnificent views of the cityscape. There are also eateries such as the Arabian Tea House where you can try authentic Emirati cuisine and traditional Arabic coffee. Recommended dishes include luqaimat, a sweet dumpling similar to a doughnut ball.

Free things to do

Looking for free things to do in Dubai? Witness the spectacular IMAGINE show at the Dubai Festival City. The combination of laser, lights, fountains, fire and music has earned this multi-sensory show two Guinness World Records. Explore artworks at Alserkal Avenue and the Jameel Arts Centre, or join a free guided tour at the Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary between Sunday and Thursday.

Beaches

As a city surrounded by sweeping sand dunes, it’s no wonder that the beaches in Dubai are exceptional. You’ll find beaches both free to the public and at resorts. Kite Beach is a favourite, located in the shadow of Burj Al Arab, where there’s powder soft sand and kite surfing. Night swimming is also possible here thanks to floodlights and 24-hour lifeguards.

Plan your holiday to Dubai

Budget

With its reputation for glitz and glamour, Dubai may not seem like an affordable destination. But with some careful budgeting, a cheap holiday in Dubai is very doable. Expect to pay less than 50 Emirati dirhams (AED) for a simple meal in a restaurant and under AED20 for a coffee. Need to catch a taxi? A short ride usually costs around AED15.

Day trips from Dubai

A 30-minute drive north takes you to Sharjah, home to some of the region’s most exciting cultural institutions, including the Sharjah Heritage Museum and the Sharjah Art Foundation. Head to the eastern coast of the Emirate of Fujairah to spend a day on Snoopy Island, so named for its beagle-like shape. This is a popular spot for diving, snorkelling and kayaking.

Getting around Dubai

Driving is the most popular form of transport in Dubai, so hiring a car at the airport is your best bet. There is also a well-connected public transport system of metros, trams, buses and water taxis in the city. The Palm Monorail, which stops at the main attractions across the islands of Palm Jumeirah, offers great views.

FAQs about Dubai holidays

The official currency in Dubai is the United Arab Emirates Dirham (AED). It's wise to bring some cash with you during your trip to Dubai, but digital payments and credit cards are usually accepted by most places.
July is the warmest month in Dubai, with temperatures peaking at 42ºC (108ºF).
Dubai is generally considered to be a safe place to travel to and the crime rate is low. As with all holiday destinations, check the latest travel advice before you depart to ensure your holiday to Dubai goes smoothly.
Around here, you'll mostly hear Arabic. Learning a few local greetings and phrases can be a fun way to break the ice and connect with others during your city break in Dubai.
January brings the coldest days of the year. Organise your Dubai trip then and you can expect lows of 14ºC (57ºF).
Look for a holiday deal to Dubai that will give you at least three days there, allowing you to experience the different sides of the city. If you want to visit the desert and spend a few days at theme parks or other attractions, make it at least five days.
Dubai is home to some of the world’s most lavish hotels and resorts, but there are also plenty of great-value options for those travelling on a budget. Cheap holidays to Dubai are possible, thanks to the many wonderful mid-range hotels and free attractions.
With around 0.6 inch of rainfall, March is the wettest month. If you're taking your Dubai holiday then, you might want to plan for some indoor activities. Enjoy a meal at one of the city's top dining spots, relax in a local cafe, or treat yourself to some retail therapy.
Airfares to Dubai are at their lowest in May. This makes it a great time to snag deals on Dubai flights and hotels.
From Burj Khalifa to The Dubai Mall Heart, this city is filled with experiences worth your time. Start the countdown to your next great adventure by making a list of the best things to do in Dubai.

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