Dubai Tips: Your Quick Guide to Visiting and Living in Dubai (2025)

Thinking about heading to Dubai? You’ll find a mix of glittering skyscrapers, desert adventures, and a few rules that catch newcomers off guard. This guide pulls the most useful advice from our recent posts so you can skip the guesswork and enjoy the city with confidence.

Everyday Essentials

First thing’s first – language. Arabic is the official tongue, but English is spoken everywhere from malls to taxi rides. Learn a few Arabic greetings (like "Marhaba" for hello) and you’ll get extra smiles from locals.

Customs at the airport can be strict. You can’t bring medicines that contain narcotics, and there are clear limits on cigarettes, e‑cigarettes, and even chewing gum. If you’re unsure, check the "What You Cannot Carry to Dubai" list before you pack.

Public behavior matters. Public affection is allowed, but keep it modest; a quick kiss is fine, but anything overt can draw unwanted attention. The same goes for tattoos – you can show them in most places, but covering them up when entering mosques or official buildings is a safe bet.

When it comes to drinking, you’re allowed to have alcohol in your hotel room, but you must buy it from licensed venues. The rules vary by hotel, so ask the front desk for their policy before you uncork a bottle.

Money, Housing & Getting Around

Budgeting for Dubai often feels tricky. A $1,000 budget is doable if you focus on mid‑range hotels, street food, and free attractions like the Dubai Fountain show. Our "Is $1000 Enough for Dubai?" guide breaks down daily costs and offers sample itineraries.

Renting an apartment? Pay attention to the payment schedule – many landlords still prefer post‑dated cheques, and you’ll need an Ejari registration to make everything legal. Deposits are usually one month’s rent, but watch out for hidden fees in the contract.

If you’re sharing a space, know that sub‑letting a “bed space” is allowed but governed by strict rental laws. Always get a written agreement and register the arrangement to avoid disputes.

Transport is easy with the Nol card for metros, buses, and trams. Remember, you can’t flush the toilet after 10 pm in most apartments – it’s a noise rule, not a law, but many buildings enforce it.

Dating apps like Bumble and Tinder work, but they’re monitored. Use them wisely, respect local dating etiquette, and avoid overt displays of affection in public spaces.

In short, Dubai is a city that blends modern luxury with traditional rules. Grab a few Arabic phrases, pack within the customs limits, keep your budget realistic, and respect local customs. Follow these tips and you’ll move from tourist to confident visitor in no time.