Dubai Tourism Guide 2025 – What You Need to Know

Thinking about a trip to Dubai this year? You’re not alone. The city mixes modern skyscrapers with desert charm, but a few simple rules can keep your visit smooth and fun. Below you’ll find the most practical advice – from customs rules to realistic budget planning – all written in plain English.

Must‑Know Rules & What You Can’t Bring

First things first: the airport. Dubai customs bans items like e‑cigarettes, certain medications without a prescription, and any kind of pork product. If you’re a smoker, you can bring up to 200 cigarettes or one kg of tobacco, but anything over that means a fine.

Vaping? It’s technically illegal to use e‑cigarettes in public places, and you’ll be stopped at the border if you try to bring a vape pen. The safest move is to leave it at home or buy a disposable version after you land.

Even something as harmless as chewing gum raises eyebrows. While it’s not a crime, chewing gum loudly in a quiet hotel lobby can be seen as disrespectful. Keep it low‑key.

Alcohol is another gray area. You can drink in your hotel room, but you must buy it from the hotel’s bar or a licensed shop. Opening a bottle you bought abroad is a no‑go and can land you a fine.

Budget Basics & Smart Itineraries

Many travelers wonder if $1,000 is enough for a Dubai adventure. The short answer: yes, if you plan wisely. Accommodation takes up most of the budget, so consider booking a mid‑range hotel outside the downtown area or using a reputable short‑term rental platform.

Food can be cheap if you stick to local eateries. A shawarma costs around AED 8, while a sit‑down meal at a mid‑level restaurant runs about AED 70. For a luxury splurge, expect to pay double.

Transportation is easy thanks to the Metro and the Nol card. A daily unlimited pass is AED 20, which covers most city trips. Taxis are convenient but pricier, especially during rush hour.

Don’t forget hidden costs: Dubai’s 5% tourism fee on hotel stays, occasional parking fees, and the occasional tip for housekeeping. Adding a modest cushion of 10‑15% to your total estimate keeps surprises at bay.

If you have a week, a sample itinerary might look like this: Day 1 – explore the historic Al Fahidi district, Day 2 – beach day at Jumeirah, Day 3 – desert safari (book a reputable operator), Day 4 – shopping at Mall of the Emirates, Day 5 – visit the Burj Khalifa and Dubai Mall, Day 6 – cultural museum tour, Day 7 – relax in a park or cruise the Creek. This mix hits the highlights without blowing the budget.

Finally, respect local etiquette. Dress modestly in public spaces – shoulders and knees should be covered. Public displays of affection are limited; a quick hug is fine, but a kiss may draw unwanted attention.

Follow these quick rules, keep an eye on your spending, and you’ll get the most out of Dubai’s glittering mix of culture and modernity. Safe travels!