Among the world's safest
Violent crime is very rare and the city is heavily monitored. Petty theft is uncommon, but still keep an eye on valuables in crowded souks and on the beach.
Your local guide to the City of Gold
Welcome to Dubai UAE
The most dazzling places, the boldest flavours and unforgettable adventures — curated by people who know the city by heart.
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Tallest tower on Earth
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Nationalities living here
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Days of sunshine
Find your kind of perfect day
Five curated collections to plan everything from where you sleep to where the night ends.
5 stays
Hotels & Stays
Palm-island resorts, downtown towers and boutique boltholes for every kind of traveller.
Browse hotels
3 must-dos
Activities & Attractions
Stand on top of the world, dive with sharks, or ride the planet's wildest coasters — Dubai's icons await.
Plan adventures
6 cafés
Cafés & Coffee
Heritage tea houses and specialty roasters.
Find cafés
6 venues
Bars & Nightlife
Rooftops, lounges and superclubs.
Go out tonight
11 spots
Restaurants
From omakase to street eats.
See restaurants
Experience Dubai holidays
Dubai's calendar never sleeps. Here are the celebrations that turn a good trip into a great story.
Select a month
Pick a month to see what's on in Dubai.
Creed Burleson
Founder & lead city guide
Meet the Creed
“I have spent much time showing visitors the Dubai I love — beyond the postcards, into the kitchens, courtyards and rooftops that make this city sing.”
Born by the Creek and raised between the old town and the new skyline, I started Welcome to Dubai UAE to share an honest, locally-lived take on the city. No tourist traps, no paid placements — just the places I'd take my own friends.
Whether you have 24 hours or two weeks, I'll help you fall for Dubai the way I did.
Staying Safe in Dubai
Dubai is consistently ranked among the safest cities on earth. A few local pointers keep your trip smooth, respectful and stress-free.
Respect local laws & customs
Dress modestly in malls, mosques and public areas, keep public displays of affection low-key, and never drink alcohol in public. The UAE has zero tolerance for drugs.
Beat the heat
Summer (Jun–Sep) can top 45 °C. Carry water, wear sunscreen and a hat, and plan outdoor sights for early morning or evening — everything indoors is air-conditioned.
During Ramadan
Out of respect, avoid eating, drinking or smoking in public during daylight hours. Many restaurants stay open with screened areas, and evenings come alive with iftar.
Getting around
Use the spotless Metro, official cream-coloured taxis, or the Careem/Uber apps. Insist on the meter, and keep the Dubai Police app handy for anything official.
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Solo & women travellers
Dubai is exceptionally comfortable for women and solo visitors, with women-only Metro carriages and taxis. Tap water is safe, and pharmacies are everywhere.
Emergency Contacts
999Police
998Ambulance
997Fire
901Non-emergency
Frequently asked questions
Everything first-time visitors ask us before they land.
Many nationalities receive a free visa on arrival, while others can apply online in minutes. Always check the latest requirements for your passport before you travel — rules are generous but change from time to time.
November to March offers warm, pleasant days perfect for the beach and outdoor dining. Summer is hot but rewards you with the city's biggest sales, smaller crowds and world-class indoor attractions.
Dubai is consistently ranked among the safest cities in the world, with very low crime and a strong, visible focus on visitor wellbeing. As anywhere, respect local customs and dress modestly in religious or traditional areas.
The driverless Metro is clean, cheap and links most major sights. Taxis and ride-hailing apps are plentiful and affordable, and many hotels offer shuttles. For the Palm and the Marina, the tram and water taxis are scenic options.
The UAE Dirham (AED). Cards are accepted almost everywhere, contactless is the norm, and ATMs are widely available. Carry a little cash for souks, abras and smaller cafés.