One of the Five Pillars of Worship of Islam – Saum – is the act of fasting during this holy month.  Muslims must abstain from eating and drinking (among other things) between sunrise and sunset to teach themselves self-awareness, patience, and tolerance. The soul is said to be purified of evil influence, and a person’s faith in Allah strengthens.

If you are visiting in future years, this is a good source for finding out when Islamic holidays will fall:

What is a power bank?

A power bank is a portable, rechargeable battery pack used to charge personal electronic devices, including smartphones, tablets, cameras, and laptops. Although passengers may still carry one power bank onboard, the following restrictions now apply:

• Only one power bank under 100 Watt Hours is permitted per passenger.
• Power banks cannot be used to charge devices during the flight.
• Charging a power bank with the aircraft’s power outlets is not allowed.
• The power bank’s capacity must be clearly labelled and visible.
• Power banks must be stored in a seat pocket or bag under the seat in front, not in overhead lockers.
• Power banks remain prohibited in checked luggage.

Why has Emirates introduced this policy?

Following a detailed safety review, Emirates has tightened its rules on power banks to minimise the risks linked to lithium batteries. The growing popularity of portable chargers has coincided with an increase in incidents related to lithium batteries across the aviation sector.

Lithium-ion and lithium-polymer batteries, commonly found in power banks, can pose hazards if damaged or overcharged. In some cases, this can trigger “thermal runaway,” a chain reaction where heat builds uncontrollably within the cell. This may lead to fires, explosions, or the release of harmful gases.

Unlike smartphones and modern electronics, which often include protective charging mechanisms, many power banks lack these same safeguards. Emirates’ new policy aims to reduce this risk by ensuring devices remain unused and easily accessible in the cabin, where crew are trained to respond quickly in the unlikely event of a fire.

Safety remains central to Emirates’ operations, and this change reflects the airline’s ongoing commitment to protecting passengers, crew, and aircraft at every stage of the journey.

Practical Travel Tips – Long Haul Flying With Emirates

We understand that the idea of not having the safety net of a power bank to rely on mid-flight may feel stressful at first—especially on a long-haul journey. But with a bit of preparation, you can keep your devices running smoothly and enjoy the trip without worrying about a low battery.

Emirates’ in-seat charging and thoughtful planning at your layover in Dubai make it easier than you might think.

Here are a few ways to make the most of your flight and stopover:

• Charge fully before you fly: Give all your devices a full charge at home or at your hotel. Carry a good-quality charging cable to use with Emirates’ in-seat power outlets.
• Use battery-saving settings: Switch devices to airplane mode or low-power mode to stretch your battery life during long flights.
• Take advantage of DXB’s facilities: Dubai International Airport has plenty of charging stations, lounges, and family-friendly rest areas—see our DXB airport guide.
• Consider a Dubai stopover: If your layover is long, step out and explore the city instead of worrying about your screen time—here’s our guide to leaving the airport during a layover.
• Check if you’re eligible for a free hotel during your layover: getting out of the airport for some rest, maybe a swim, meal, and a good night’s sleep can also help with these long journeys – see here if you might be eligible for Dubai Connect.
• Pack offline entertainment: Download movies, playlists, or e-books ahead of time so you can relax without relying on streaming.
• Stay refreshed and comfortable: Break up the journey with a walk around the cabin, hydrate often, and take advantage of Emirates’ inflight amenities.

With these small steps, you’ll find that long flights are not only manageable but can actually be enjoyable—and your devices will be ready when you need them most.

Further Reading and Resources For Your Emirates Trip to Dubai

• Grab our Dubai Packing List for more advice on what to bring with you on a trip to Dubai
• Can you drink alcohol on board an Emirates flight? We explain what exactly is included with your international airline ticket
• Children flying as an unaccompanied minor of Emirates: What age can children travel alone, and how will they be treated at DXB
• Considering an upgrade to premium Exconomy on board Emirates? Everything you need to know about this new cabin class.
• When will Emirates move to its new home at Al Maktoum Airport? Everything we know so far about the new Emirates hub and world’s largest airport

What is it like for a woman living in Dubai?

As an expat woman living in the UAE, I have always been treated with the utmost respect. I feel safer in the UAE than I do in my home country. I feel that I can walk down a street without harassment or abuse. Nobody catcalls, nobody stares, nobody talks in a way that demeans me. I still don’t walk along quiet, unfamiliar streets in the dark, but walking around my little corner of the city, I feel pretty safe any time of day.

In general, women are held in high esteem in the UAE. Fifty percent of the UAE Federal National Council and over 30% of the Cabinet of the UAE are female. Women are celebrated in festivals such as the ‘Mother of the Nation’ event in Abu Dhabi, and the UAE makes a big deal of International Women’s Day.

Like other areas of the world, girls are outperforming boys in many school subjects and are pursuing higher education to become doctors, architects, engineers, teachers, accountants, and other professionals. Over 70% of University graduates in the UAE are women.

The UAE is home to over 200 different nationalities. Everybody brings with them different traditions and philosophies. Some families are more conservative than others, but the UAE promotes a progressive and empowering stance towards women and their rights. You can find out more about the role of women in Dubai in this article.

Do women have to cover up in Dubai?

Women are not legally required to cover themselves from wrist to ankle or wear a head scarf like they are in some other Muslim countries. In fact, the UAE only really asks women to dress respectably. That means covering the shoulders and knees when in shopping centers and some other public areas.

The rules are different if you’re visiting a mosque (in which case you must cover from wrist to ankle and wear a head covering). This caveat (arms and legs covered) also applies to some government buildings, such as police stations and government departments.

You should avoid wearing swimwear when away from the beach, but strappy dresses and shorter skirts are permitted in restaurants, tourist hotels, beach clubs, nightclubs, and at many establishments that offer ladies’ nights. Most bars and restaurants have dress codes, so it is always best to check in advance before heading out for the night.

We delve into more detail on the appropriate dress code for different situations in Dubai here.

But I saw women wearing very little on Instagram…

What you see on Instagram is not the real Dubai. Most Dubai residents dress respectfully. Whilst Dubai is less conservative than the other Emirates, there is still a boundary between what is acceptable and what is not. As a general rule of thumb, try to wear a knee-length skirt and longer shorts or trousers.

Always carry something like a shawl or cardigan to cover your shoulders if requested. It’s also best to avoid boob tubes, crop tops, or anything strapless in public places such as shopping malls and theme parks.

Can I visit Dubai with my male partner, even though we’re not married?

Yes. You can legally stay in Dubai with your male partner, even if you’re not married. This includes residents as well as visitors, provided neither partner is Muslim or legally married to someone else. Before 2020, it was illegal for non-married couples to live together, although it was a relatively common practice.

Is Dubai safe for women?

Dubai is a very safe city – much safer for women than most other cities around the world. In general there is a very low risk of assault or petty theft.

The Dubai workforce is more than 80% expatriate, with a large proportion of this workforce made up of men from the Indian subcontinent. Conversely, the population of Dubai is less than 25% female. Whilst women may sometimes feel like men are looking at them, this is often out of genuine fascination, rather than with some ulterior motive.

Most of these gents haven’t seen their wives or children in some time, and many of them will be bewildered by the morning onslaught of Lycra-clad ladies queuing up to do burpees. The UAE has a comprehensive and strict set of harassment laws, and any woman who feels threatened can lodge a case. The law, alongside a cultural moral code, makes sure that women feel safe.

That’s not to say that assault never happens; it is unlikely, but not impossible. It can, of course, happen anywhere, but if perpetrators in the UAE are caught, they will be punished with the full force of the law. That said, in the not-too-distant past, there have been stories of women being arrested when set upon by men, usually because the woman was intoxicated.

We ARE NOT condoning this as an excuse, but it is really important to be aware that although drinking alcohol is permitted at certain licensed venues in the city, public intoxication is not.

There have also been multiple stories of women being lured to private parties, with offers of fancy gifts and favours. Again, this can happen anywhere. We recommend that all women traveling anywhere in the world alone adopt a common-sense approach, and if something offered by a stranger sounds too good to be true, it probably is.

Should women be wary of public transport in Dubai?

You’re very unlikely to come up against a problem when using the city’s bus and Metro system. The Metro even has ladies’ only compartments – not because it needs them, but to make women feel a bit more comfortable.

All forms of public transport are equipped with security cameras, including public taxis, which ensures that everyone is behaving appropriately.

If you are a woman travelling alone and using a taxi or Uber, particularly at night, it is always best to exercise the same caution that you would in your home country. Whilst something is very unlikely to happen, it’s always best to play it safe.

Can women drive in Dubai?

Yes, women are allowed to drive in Dubai. It is possible to hire a car using a recognised international driving license for a short time.

If you intend to stay in Dubai long-term, you will need to obtain a UAE driving license. For many nationalities, this simply involves submitting your existing documents and undergoing a vision test. You can find out more about driving in the UAE here.

Can women work in Dubai?

Yes, many women work in Dubai. As previously mentioned, over 30% of the UAE’s national cabinet are female. Women work in a wide range of roles, from teacher to lab chemist to company CEO.

To be able to work in the UAE, you do, however, need the correct visa. For ladies moving to the country with a working spouse, you can work but may require a letter of no objection, sometimes referred to as an NOC, from your husband if you are sponsored on his visa. Even this is becoming less common as workplaces and employers in Dubai evolve.

For more information about UAE visas, click here.

Is it easy to travel to Dubai as a single mother?

Yes. It’s very easy to travel to Dubai as a single mother. The only thing you may need is a letter from the children’s biological father stating that you have his permission for the children to travel. I also carry such a letter as I often travel without my husband.

Obviously, this is not always possible, so it may be prudent to carry other relevant documentation, such as copies of birth certificates, adoption papers, or death certificates. Being asked for papers is becoming more widespread globally to reduce human trafficking and child abduction.

Once in Dubai, navigating the city as a single mother is relatively easy. Most taxi companies provide cabs with child seats if needed, and the public transportation system is excellent. Dubai has lots to keep both young and older kids busy.

To learn more about what Dubai has to offer its younger visitors, check out our family-friendly activity guide here.

Shopping malls, beaches, and theme parks generally have excellent facilities for families with young children. In the most modern malls, there are baby changing facilities in both the female and male washrooms, as well as separate baby rooms. Older malls all have changing facilities either in or adjacent to the ladies’ washroom. Some malls could benefit from more lifts/elevators for people traveling with strollers, but by and large, this is not a significant problem.

What else do I need to know as a woman traveling to Dubai?

We recommend all travellers, but especially solo female travellers, familiarise themselves with advice from their own consulates before travel to Dubai. You can find advice from:

• US Department of State
• UK Foreign & Commonwealth Office
• Australian Smart Traveller
• Canada Travel Advisory Service

Our team of writers here at Dubai Travel Planner are all female and have lived for extended periods of time in Dubai and the United Arab Emirates, as well as visited both as single and married women, with and without kids, Muslim and non-Muslim. We hope this Q&A guide to Dubai has provided you with a balanced view of what to expect when visiting Dubai as a woman.

Dealing with the heat in Dubai

Dealing with the summer heat in Dubai is not nearly as difficult for most tourists as it might seem. First, nearly everything is airconditioned to the max—even too cold. You will arrive in an airconditioned airport, transfer to an airconditioned car or Metro train, and arrive at an air-conditioned accommodation. Even bus stops are air-conditioned in many locations!

Whilst the outside air temperature is extreme, most hotels will chill their pools in the summer months to make them a refreshing retreat. Swimming is still best tackled in the early morning and late afternoon/evenings (or look for a hotel with an indoor pool if you’d still like to get your laps in!).

The same cannot be said for the ocean, however!  You must be mindful that the salty waters of the Gulf can be too hot for swimming in over the summer (32-35°C/90-95°F); it will feel more like spa water than a refreshing break.

And if it isn’t obvious, the sand becomes excruciatingly hot in the summer. It only takes burning sand to become trapped in your sandals or flip-flops once to work this out, let alone if you dare walk on it barefoot!

Dressing for the heat in Dubai

You should always dress sensibly for the heat.  However, please don’t have any misconceptions that ladies need to be wearing a full head covering or burka! This means, ideally, wearing loose cotton clothing that is still respectable.

• We have a full guide on what you should expect to wear in Dubai here.

A couple of important summer clothing observations:

• Tourists must note the difference between “resort wear” and what you wear publicly.  Although this seems to have relaxed over the years (maybe too much?), as a sign of respect, keep the skimpy clothing and bathers only to the pool & beach.
• When walking through hotel public areas, on public transport, in malls and restaurants, you should ALWAYS dress respectfully for the Muslim country you are in. At a minimum, think covered knees and shoulders for both sexes and nothing too clingy and revealing – yep, you will see many people flaunting this “rule”.
• Stick with cotton/rayon and breathable materials. Man-made materials will make you even hotter and sweatier.
• Temperature drops between outside and indoor air conditioning can be extreme. Make no mistake, you will still want to pack a wrap or cardigan for those indoor blasts of cold!

Keep our Dubai Packing List saved somewhere handy.

Dubai Summer Attractions to Try in 2026

Whilst many seasonal favourites may be closed, there’s still plenty happening indoors to enjoy in Dubai over the summer months (we will be adding to this list as we approach summer 2026 and more events are announced!)

If you are looking especially for family activities in Dubai head over to this post to learn about 90+ indoor activities for kids.

Dubai Mall, Burj Khalifa & Downtown Dubai

One of the world’s largest malls still has a huge amount going on over the summer. You could spend a few days here and not run out of things to do!

Sitting in the heart of “Downtown Dubai”, some of our favourites at Dubai Mall include:

• Burj Khalifa Observation Deck – (Levels 124 & 125 “At The Top” advance booking essential). The entrance is through the Dubai Mall basement level.
• Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo – you can view the world’s largest suspended tank from within the Mall for free or come in for plenty of interactive water life experiences.
• Kidzania Dubai – a real-to-life town where kids “work” to earn Kidzos to spend on fun activities.
• Play DXB (Formerly VR Park) – a virtual reality theme park.
• Dubai Ice Rink – indoor ice skating fun on a full-sized Olympic rink.
• ARTE Museum – interactive gallery experience
• House of Hype – interactive art experience
• Dubai Opera – offering a year-round program of incredible entertainment from traditional opera to the best of Westend theatre and internationally acclaimed acts.
• Evening fountain show of Burj Lake, plus LED light show on the Burj Khalifa (NB – the fountains have been temporarily closed in 2025 for extensive renovations; reopening date still TBC)
• With the kids, don’t forget the giant Hamleys store, plus The Toy Store in the basement – plenty of FREE fun entertainment!

Dubai Mall is certainly not the only shopping mall with a lot going on.  In fact, malls are where most summer life circulates during the day in Dubai. 

You can also try a few more novel indoor ideas in Dubai, such as:

Mall of the Emirates

It is easy to reach on the Metro (the stop is aptly named Mall of the Emirates), about 30 minutes away from Dubai Mall. The Mall of the Emirates is fairly close to those staying at any of the Jumeirah Hotels and is only about 10 minutes from the Dubai Marina/JBR area.

• Ski Dubai & penguin encounters – sub-zero temperatures in the peak of summer, yes please!!
• Magic Planet – an extensive family entertainment complex including Yalla! Bowling, Highway66 mini bowling, and Gravity Air Park – think trampolines!
• Catch the latest flix at the huge Vox Cinema complex

City Centre Mirdif

Situated south of Dubai city, this great suburban mall has entertainment and dining options. It’s not on the Metro, so you’d need a taxi/Uber. Why not try

• ifly indoor flying simulator gravity-defying indoor fun!
• Sky Trails and Climbing Wall – part of the Magic Planet kids entertainment centre.
• Massive 20-screen Vox Cinema offers every type of movie screening you can imagine!

Times Square

A smaller community Mall that’s got a few key fun entertainment attractions for summer! You’ll find it on the Red Metro line (Rostamani Tower is 300m away, a 4 min walk or Financial Centre Metro is about 350m away 5 min walk)

• Adventure Zone by Adventure HQ – offering indoor climbing walls, obstacle courses and more
• Chillout Ice Lounge – enjoy a desert drink in sub-zero temperatures!

Dubai Hills Mall

One of the city’s newest mega malls has loads of fun new indoor instalments, including:

• Storm Coaster – the world’s largest indoor rollercoaster.
• Adventure Park – climbing walls to rope courses keeping kids active indoors, designed for kids 4+.
• Hamleys Play – an extension to the toy store with rides and games
• Play DXB – another instalment of the highly popular VR Park as found in Dubai Mall (but with fewer queues for attractions!)

Top Dubai tourist attractions to visit in the summer

These are the best options for staying cool inside, although you may still need to step outside briefly to access them.

• The Dubai Frame – superb views as well as interactive displays around Dubai’s past and present in Zabeel Park.
• Museum of the Future – journey 50 years ahead in this landmark Dubai building
• Etihad Museum – learn more about the country’s recent history and journey to unification.
• The Green Planet Dubai – an entirely indoor biodome experience that transports you to a tropical rainforest (warm but much cooler than outside!!) at City Walk.
• La Perle evening extravaganza by Dragone is one of the city’s most highly acclaimed stage shows, and it has a permanent home in Al Habtoor City.
• The View at The Palm – offers sensational sky-high views over Palm Jumeirah

Theme Parks

• IMG Worlds of Adventure is the only entirely indoor theme park in Dubai.
• Dubai Parks and Resorts is another favourite family offering, including Legoland Dubai, Motiongate, and the newly opened Real Madrid World (in place of Bollywood). As it’s partly outdoors, it may not suit everyone, though you can also retreat inside to the expansive indoor play space, Neon Galaxy.

There’s a good detailed review here what you should expect at Dubai Parks and Resorts in the summer so you are fully prepared for just how hot it can be and what remains open.

• If time permits and you have access to a transfer, our favourite indoor theme park is actually Warner Bros World in Abu Dhabi – you can easily access Warner Bros on a day trip from Dubai. We’d add to this list SeaWorld Yas Island, too, which is entirely indoors and includes the frosty-cold Antarctica realm, kept at 1°C!

There are a tonne more fun indoor activities, from rock climbing to escape rooms, that can all be enjoyed entirely indoors over the summer in Dubai – check out our complete Dubai indoor entertainment guide here.

Outdoor Activities in Dubai over Summer

The water parks in Dubai are the main outdoor attractions that remain in full operation during Dubai’s hottest summer months.

Dubai Waterparks

• Atlantis Aquaventure Water Park (entry included if you stay at Atlantis the Palm).
• Wild Wadi Water Park (Entry included if you stay at one of the Jumeirah hotels)
• Legoland Water Park – best for your smaller kids, based out in Jebel Ali, attached to the Dubai Parks & Resorts complex. Note, they are running Splash Fest this summer from 28 June to 24 August, which includes Kids Go Free and an exclusive after-party for guests staying at Legoland Dubai resort.

• Yas Waterworld (ok, this one is actually on Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, but it is definitely worth considering as a day trip from Dubai, alongside the entirely indoors Warner Bros World) With the addition of 20 new rides and attractions this summer, it’s a serious contender for the best waterpark in the UAE.

REMEMBER: Even if you hire a cabana, wear sunscreen and stay in the shade, it can still be excruciatingly hot outside even at a water park. Be mindful of hot surfaces (wear flip-flops or non-slip pool shoes everywhere and be VERY careful of touching surfaces).

Outdoor evening activities to try in Dubai in Summer:

As long as you are prepared for it to still be quite sweaty, even after dark, you could try these evening activities in Dubai once the sun goes down.

• Walk around the Al Fahidi neighbourhood, taking in many of the city’s museums and galleries and along the creekfront at Al Seef before catching a traditional abra across the gold and spice souks in Deira.
• The Walk in JBR, a popular outdoor dining district alongside the beach, still has a vibrant nightlife, although outdoor dining is mostly removed in the peak of summer.
• Souk Madinat Jumeirah – a much more modern souk experience. From here, you get the spectacular views back to Burj Al Arab. Mostly indoor and air-conditioned, lots of dining options, and picturesque waterways.
• A traditional dhow boat around Dubai Fountain Lake – see the Dubai fountains up close in this spectacular evening sound and light show (NB the Burj Lake is closed during summer 2025; an alternative is to cruise along the Dubai Canal)

You can find our complete guide to the best night time activities in Dubai here.

Should I do a Dubai desert safari in Summer?

Many desert safari companies do continue to run over the summer, albeit on a reduced program.

We think this depends on how you cope with the heat, but from many years of experience, it starts to get really sticky outside from late May to early October.

If you love heat, you may still enjoy it, but with young kids, I would be extremely cautious about recommending a desert safari in the summer. An option might be to take an early morning desert safari instead to beat the worst heat of the day.

What will be closed in Dubai over the Summer in Dubai?

Our favourite attractions in Dubai that are NOT operational in summer (see links to find out when they will re-open, it’s variably around the end of October/early November) include:

• Dubai Miracle Garden
• Global Village Dubai
• Ripe outdoor markets
• Many day safari and beach sporting operators

Many restaurants and attractions remain open throughout summer, albeit with significantly reduced programs or only opening in the evenings. Outdoor brunches stop in the summer, and rooftop decks will only open in the evenings, if at all.

It’s always best to check opening hours for anything with an outdoor element from Ramadan (March) through summer.

Where to Stay in Dubai Over the Summer

The good news is that the answer is almost anywhere. All Dubai hotels will be airconditioned, and it’s very uncommon to come across a hotel that does not chill their pool in summer.

If you stay in a hotel directly attached to one of the malls or souqs, you will have excellent access to leisure and dining facilities without having to put a foot outside. Why not try;

Dubai hotels attached to shopping malls

• Sheraton at Mall of the Emirates, or top-end hotel, even with a ski lodge suite, try the Kempinski
• Address Dubai Mall and Address Downtown – attached to Dubai Mall
• Armani Hotel Dubai in Burj Khalifa, attached to Dubai Mall
• Address Dubai Marina attached to Dubai Marina Mall
• Jumeirah Al Naseem attached to Souk Madinat Jumeirah
• InterContinental at Dubai Festival City – very close to DXB airport too

Best Dubai hotels attached to waterparks

• Jumeirah Beach Hotel attached to Wild Wadi Water Park
• Atlantis the Palm attached to Aquaventure
• Lapita at Dubai Parks & Resorts and Legoland Water Park

See some of our favourite Dubai hotels that INCLUDE a waterpark or slides!

Dubai hotels with good summer facilities

Many hotel resorts also include mini water parks, lazy rivers, and kids’ clubs. The choices are almost endless, and the summer value can be fantastic. A few suggestions to try:

• Dukes the Palm – lazy river & Duksey kids club (and stunning infinity pool)
• Le Meridien Mina Seyahi – kids pool & kids club, playground, extensive dining options
• Habtoor Grand Resort – slides, kids pool & infinity pool, indoor playground

For a truly unique experience during your Dubai stopover – and if the budget will stretch – why not stay in a hotel with a private pool?

If you are only in Dubai for a very short stopover, you may opt to simply stay in the airport over the hottest time of the year. We have a complete guide to things to do in DXB Airport here.

Summer travellers may also be able to take advantage of the My Emirates Pass, which provides discounts on scores of restaurants, retail stores and attractions, simply by showing you have an Emirates boarding pass (we await details of the 2026 program).

Ramadan in Dubai

It’s important to observe each year when the Holy Month of Ramadan – the 9th month on the Hijri calendar will occur (the start date changes by approximately 10 days on the Gregorian calendar each year). This is a period of deep religious reflection for Muslims and is strictly observed.

Ramadan in 1447 will start approximately 18 Februaryans end on approx 20 March 2026. 

It used to be a time when strict daytime fasting was observed in the UAE and a much more stringent modest dress code followed. However, in recent years the rules and social norms have become significantly more flexible.

Now that Ramadan falls during the cooler, peak tourism months, you’ll find almost all venues aimed at tourists now stay open throughout Ramadan, as do many daytime dining establishments, to the point where you may not even realise its Ramadan!

This doesn’t mean you shouldn’t still show respect for those who are fasting around you and moderate your behaviour. Its a fabulous opportunity to join with iftar (the evening breaking of the fast), learn more about the Islamic culture at venues such as SMCCU and partake in overnight festivities such as suhoor and late-night shopping are great reasons to visit at this time of year.

You can read our complete guide to visiting Dubai during Ramadan here.

Dubai Sea Temperature in November

In November, you should expect sea temperatures on average of 28.4°C/83°F (Maximum sea temperatures are expected at 30.3°C/85°F through to a minimum of 26.5°C/81°F).

For more on what’s happening in Dubai in November, check out this page.

Other Weather Patterns That Are Common in Dubai in November

As mentioned above, it’s important to be aware of fog in Dubai when the weather transitions from hot to mild. The fog builds up overnight as cooler winds from off the coast meet with the warm desert air.

Although the daytime temperatures in Dubai are cooling, continue to be aware of the UV rays and use sun protection outside. On average, there are still 10 hours a day of sunshine in November.

Dubai’s average rainfall in November is less than 5mm, so there is still no need for an umbrella and raincoat. November storms are rare, though not unheard of.

Information sourced from the National Centre of Meteorology climate report 2003-2018 for Dubai International Airport.

What Should I Pack for November in Dubai?

For most, they will find both day and night temperatures warm enough not to need additional layers of clothing; evening conditions are perfect in November! But a light wrap or cardigan may be needed by those who feel the cold, or perhaps if you will be headed into the desert for an evening safari.

You can read more about what to pack for Dubai in November here (coming soon—see our general packing guide).

Note that the weekend in the UAE changed from 1 January 2022; government working hours are now Monday through Friday at lunchtime, and the weekend is Friday afternoon, Saturday, and Sunday.

Hijri Calendar to Gregorian Calendar

The Hijri Calendar moves forward by approximately ten days more than the Gregorian Calendar every year. There is a good translation tool here from IslamicFinder.org to understand when important days on the Hijri Calendar will translate to:

Prayer Times in Dubai

You can also check out our guide here to the daily prayer times in Dubai. There isn’t much you need to do as a non-Muslim tourist at prayer times, but it has some great tips on understanding exactly WHAT is happening and WHY.

We also share some extra pointers on having a more immersive Islamic experience during your trip to Dubai.

Dubai School Holidays 2025

There is both a public (MoE) and private (international) school sector in Dubai, governed by KHDA (Knowledge and Human Development Authority). The dates they have stipulated as holidays in a three-term school year for September starting curriculums are:

• Winter Break 16 December to 5 January 2025 (schools return 6 January 2025)
• Spring Break 24 March to 6 April 2025 (International Schools) 13 April MoE Schools
• Summer Break Not before 27 June 2025 until approximately 25 August 2025*

*The end of summer break is only anticipated until formally announced by the Government.

You can learn more at khda.gov.ae

Other Major Events in Dubai & the UAE 2025

Here’s what’s already lined up for the 2025 Dubai Events Calendar:

• Dubai DutyFree Tennis Championship – February 2025 at the Dubai DutyFree Stadium
• Dubai World Cup – Horse racing season with premier events taking place February – March 2024
• Ramadan – the Holy Month from approx 1 March to 30 March 2025 – note, it’s not a public holiday but a month-long religious observance, concluding with Eid al-Fitr public holidays
• Diwali – 21 October 2025 – with a large Indian expat community, the event is widely celebrated in the UAE
• Christmas – 25 December 2025 – not a public holiday but widely observed within the retail and hospitality sector
• New Year’s Eve – 31 December 2025 always a spectacular night of fireworks and festivities not to be missed

Are you planning on visiting Dubai? If yes, then you’ll probably need a Dubai tourist SIM card!

As well as being a rather Instagram-famous city, it’s almost always necessary to have internet when travelling these days. From retrieving travel booking details to ordering taxis and meals while you’re on the go, trust us; there’s an app for everything in Dubai!

Although you’ll get access to a Wi-Fi network in most places in Dubai, what if you’re on the go? That’s when you’ll need a travel SIM in Dubai to make calls, use social media, or use Maps to navigate the city or call a driver.

For your ease and convenience, we have put together everything you need to know about getting a SIM card in Dubai for tourists, as well as Dubai eSIM options you can arrange before your arrival.

You will find detailed information in this article, from the mobile network operators in Dubai to the best SIM card and even how to pre-order a Dubai SIM, so you’re ready to go.

Mobile Operators in the UAE

Getting a Dubai tourist SIM is a pretty straightforward process. However, there are multiple mobile operators in the UAE, so it gets rather confusing for tourists to decide which mobile network SIM they should go for based on the packages offered.

However, there’s no need to worry, as we have simplified everything for you! Below, you will find a list of mobile operators in the UAE with information about purchasing their SIM and which operator is the most suitable for you.

1. Du SIM Card in Dubai for Tourists

Du is a mobile operator in UAE, launched in 2007. If you want to get a Du SIM card, you can get one on arrival at the airport or from the Du store.

The upside of getting a Du tourist SIM from the immigration counters at the Dubai airport is that you get it for free with 1GB of local data as a welcome bonus. As for the activation, you don’t need to go through extensive steps as the SIM is already activated using your passport information.

To start using the du SIM, you simply have to insert it into your mobile and verify your date of birth via a verification text. Once the verification is complete, you will get 1GB of local data for free, valid for 24 hours.

You can also purchase a Du SIM card from its franchise store across the city. If you just buy the SIM without any package, it will cost around AED 10; however, if you activate a bundle package (starting from AED 49), you’ll get the SIM for free. You’ll just need your passport to get started.

Presently, these are the best Tourist SIM options from Du:

• 2GB valid for 28 days with 30 flexi minutes – AED 49 ($13.35 USD)
• 6GB valid for 28 days with 30 flexi minutes, unlimited internet calls – AED 99 ($27 USD)
• 10GB valid for 28 days with 30 flexi minutes, unlimited internet calls – AED 139 ($37.85 USD)
• 20GB valid for 28 days with 30 flexi minutes, unlimited internet calls – AED 189 ($51.46 USD)
• Online special – unlimited data for 7 days + exclusive attraction discounts – AED 199 ($54.20)

Learn more about Du tourist SIMs and currently available packages here

Good To Know – presently all data plans from Du come with access to the ALSAADA App – you can download this for app (App Store / Google Play) for additional discounts during your stay in Dubai.

2. Etisalat Dubai Tourist SIM

Etisalat is the largest operator in the UAE and the 18th largest mobile operator in the world, they have operations in more than 16 countries.

In a major ramp-up of tourist services, they announced in September 2024 a brand new eSim for tourists that can instantly connect you to their network.

Simply scan the QR Code on signs at the airport to get an instant eSIM with a whopping 10GB of data! The catch is that this offer is only valid for the first 24 hours. They also want you to sign up using facial recognition software, something we know not all visitors are comfortable with.

If you’ll be sticking around longer, then you’ll want to check out their Visitor Line packages:

• The cheapest paid Visitor Line gives you 2GB of data + 30 flexi minutes, valid for 28 days for AED 49 ($13.30 USD).
• Visitor Line + gives you 4GB of data + 30 flexi minutes valid for 28 days for AED 79 ($21.50 USD)
• Visitor Line Premium gives you 8GB of data + 120 flexi minutes valid for 28 days for AED 125 ($34 USD)
• If you’re a heavy online user and caller, go with Visitor Line Premium + 22.5GB of data + 525 flexi minutes valid for 28 days for AED 200 ($54.50 USD), or
• Unlimited 7 Days – includes 100 flexi minutes for 200 AED ($54.50 USD)

Similar to Du, Etisilat offers access to local rewards progrma ‘Smiles‘

Learn more about Etisalat tourist SIMs here

It’s important to note that Visitor Line packages are valid until your visa expires; therefore, if you plan on staying in Dubai for good, you can switch to Etisalat’s other pre-paid and post-paid packages, keeping your number.

3. Virgin Mobile Travel SIM in Dubai

Virgin Mobile is a newer mobile operator in UAE by the Virgin Mobile brand (though it is a fully owned subsidiary of Du and uses the same network). It offers special tourist SIM cards with different packages to people visiting Dubai for business or vacations.

You can get the SIM from the airport as soon as you land; however, the tourist SIM is for one-time use. This means you can use it for as long as your package lasts and won’t be able to renew it.

Virgin Mobile offers four packages for its Dubai tourist SIM:

• A 7-day package costs AED 150 with 21GB of data (capped at 3GB per day)
• A 10-day package costs AED 200 with 40GB of data (capped at 4GB per day)
• A 7-day package costs AED 200 with unlimited data
• A 15-day package costs AED 300 with unlimited data
• A 30-day package costs AED 500 with unlimited data
• Learn more about the Virgin tourist Sim here

SIMs Sold by Third-Party Companies

If you see online tour operators selling you a SIM card, it will be based on services provided by one of the above three networks.

All should have reliable coverage in metropolitan areas. Beyond that, in the mountains and the desert, it’s time to switch off and get yourself an offline map, as the network will be patchy or non-existent, regardless of which network you use (they are all ultimately government-owned and share much of their infrastructure).

Menalink covers 13 Middle East and North Africa Countries 5G/LTE

Dubai to Abu Dhabi Distance

This all depends on where you start and end your journey, but as a general guide:

• The distance from Downtown Dubai (Dubai Mall, Burj Khalifa) to Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station (Al Wadha Mall) is 140 km.
• From Dubai Airport (DBX) to the Abu Dhabi Corniche is 160 km.
• From the Dubai Marina area to Yas Island or Abu Dhabi Airport is less than 100 km.

By private car or small van, you can move at high speed along the E11 Freeway between the two cities, making the journey a little over an hour, whereas public transport from opposite sides of each city can take 2+ hours.

Dubai to Abu Dhabi Bus

The Intercity Bus is the only public transport between Dubai and Abu Dhabi, rather than a metro or train line.

The Intercity Bus Service now operates three routes from Dubai to Abu Dhabi.

• Route 100 – Al Ghubaiba Bus Station (connects to Dubai Green Metro) in Bur Dubai to Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station [Every 20-35 minutes, approx 2.15-hour journey]
• Route 101 – Ibn Battuta Bus Station (connects to Red Line Metro) to Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station [every 20-30 minutes, approx 1.5-hour journey]
• Route 102 – Al Jafilya Bus Station (connects to Max Metro station, Red Line) to Mussafah Shabiya Bus Station, via Ibn Batutta and Zayed International Airport Terminal A [every hour, approx 2-hour journey]

All these routes also run in reverse from Abu Dhabi back to Dubai and cost 25 AED one-way.

You can see our complete guide on how the public bus from Dubai to Abu Dhabi works here.

Connecting to Zayed International Airport AUH from Dubai

If you take the public bus from either Ibn Battuta or Al Ghubaiba Bus Station to Abu Dhabi Central Station, you must head back on yourself to connect to Abu Dhabi International Airport (now called Zayed International Airport) AUH, which sits “off-island”.

From Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station to AUH:

• Take the 2A bus, which leaves every 40 minutes, 4 AED
• Take a taxi – approx 30 minutes and costs approx 40-50 AED

Or, head to the last stop on the Red Line Metro at Jebal Ali. From here, take a taxi over the border directly to Abu Dhabi airport. This should only cost around 170-200 AED rather than 300 AED+ from deeper in Dubai.

You can also now take the AUH express shuttle bus service from Ibn Battuta station (Red Line Metro) – 35 AED per person one way, which gives you the convenience of dropping you at the airport door.

We’ve found it’s cheaper to pre-book your seat on the AUH Express from Ibn Battuta; but tickets can be bought at Ibn Battuta station in cash or with Nol (or vice versa, from AUH airport back to Dubai)

Free transport option to AUH

If you are flying with Etihad, you can book your ticket to start from the Etihad Travel Mall office in Downtown Dubai to include a seat on their luxury coach to AUH.

As long as you pre-book (your journey will therefore start at XNB airport code), this transfer is included in your ticket price and is by far the most cost-effective method of getting to AUH for Etihad passengers starting in Dubai.

You can learn more about free airline buses in the UAE here

Shopping and Trade in Dubai

Let’s turn the clock back to what Dubai is all about.  Unlike much of the rest of the country of the United Arab Emirates which was made up of little more than fishing and pearl-diving villages prior to the discovery of oil in the 1960s, Dubai has been an active port city for well over a century.

Dubai grew significantly in the late 19th-century as tax exemption rules were brought in, encouraging a large foreign workforce and traders to arrive en masse to the port city set up on Dubai Creek. The city has earned various nicknames over the years including “The City of Merchants” and “The City of Gold”.

As generations have passed, the city has certainly changed in population and industry, but one thing it has kept its reputation for is retail trade! Dubai Creek is as bustling as ever as a trading port, albeit cargo ships now dock at the much larger Jebel Ali Port. Smaller dhows can still be found in their dozens unloading their goods in Deira.

While the traditional souks of Old Dubai in Deira still exist today, vast modern shopping malls have become the place to shop in Dubai. Bargain hunters will know, however, that you need to scratch below the surface for Dubai’s best buys.

A souk or souq in Dubai is a market place – the word is used for both traditional and modern markets in Dubai

Whilst the UAE now has a value added tax on goods sold of 5%, there are still plenty of shopping bargains to be had in Dubai, you’ve just got to find the right places to shop.

Best Places to Shop in Dubai

Modern Dubai

In modern Dubai, the best place to shop is the Dubai Mall. This is the single largest mall in the world, with over 1,200 shops. You can find virtually anything you want here. Check out neighbouring Souq Al Bahr too – lots of lovely souvenirs to be found, but you will be paying top $$$ here!

Of course, there are plenty of runners-up when it comes to modern shopping malls across the city: Mall of the Emirates, Dubai Festival City Mall, City Centre Mirdif, City Centre Deira, Ibn Battuta Mall… the list goes on!

Another spot well known for selling traditional (though often priced for the tourist market) pieces is the modern Souk Madinat Jumeirah, adjacent to the Jumeirah complex of hotels. Alternatively, Al Seef along Dubai Creek, made to look like a traditional souk though you’ll find an eclect range from antiques and spices to I Love Dubai t-shirts.

Bargain hunting in Dubai and traditional souks

If you seek bargains, though, you will want to head beyond the major malls. Karama Shopping Complex (Karama Market) and Karama Centre are some of the best places to shop cheaply in Dubai. Items are often much more affordable here than anywhere else, and it’s a good place to do some haggling!

But most visitors probably think of the souks of Deira when it comes to nabbing a shopping bargain in Dubai. Not only the world-renowned Gold Souk but there is also a Spice Souk, Textiles Souk and Perfume Souk. Nearby you will also find Naif Souk which is packed with bargains on electronics to home goods.

And another spot to consider is Dubai Global Village. Open evenings in the winter months, there is a plethora of bargains from merchants worldwide, but particularly a Middle East/Central Asia focus. Come towards the end of the season in April as they are closing up for the best prices!

Finally, real Middle East bargain hunters will want to be aware of Dragonmart and the Antique Muesem in Al Quoa. While the former might be known for cheap Chinese knock-offs, it can hold a treasure trove of bargain finds.

The Antique Museum is not actually a museum, but one of the biggest brick-a-brack type stores you can imagine in Dubai. it is well worth a taxi out there if you are determined to find some of the items on this list!

Souvenirs – What to Buy in Dubai

So how much suitcase space will you need? Here’s our guide to “must-buys” when you’re visiting Dubai for some authentic souvenirs and fabulous memorable gifts from the Middle East.

Persian Rugs

Persian rugs are one of the most famous things to buy in Dubai. This city is renowned for its gorgeous textiles, and it’s a wonderful way to decorate your home. The really high-quality products can be a little expensive, but you can find more affordable rugs in various souks throughout the city.

Where to buy the best Persian rugs in Dubai: National Iranian Carpets and Persian Carpet House are both located at Souq Madinat Jumeirah or Bur Dubai Textile Souk.

Oudh and Bakhoor

Oudh and Bakhoor are both two of the best things to buy in Dubai. Both of these products provide a very distinct, Middle Eastern scent. They make a great gift for anyone who appreciates sophisticated fragrances. Oudh is an oil made from agarwood resin and tends to be a little more expensive. Bakhoor is simply agarwood chips that release an aroma when burned.

Where to buy the best Oudh and Bakhoor in Dubai: Visit Perfume Souk at Deira for Oudh or Spice Souk for Bakhoor. You can also find these items in perfume shops in any mall, though expect to pay a higher price.

Aladdin Lamps

Aladdin lamps have an obvious charm for anyone who grew up loving the classic Disney film. Besides the nostalgia factor, these brass lamps are beautifully carved and sometimes feature intricate inlay work. Also, you can often haggle to get them at a cheaper price, making them one of the best cheap things to buy in Dubai that will look great on your mantlepiece.

Where to buy the best Aladdin Lamps in Dubai: Karama Market and Karama Centre are both great places to shop for Aladdin lamps, or try the Antique Museum

Camel Milk Chocolate

Why not treat yourself while you’re in Dubai? Camel milk chocolate is one of Dubai’s most famous delicacies. Al Nassma is the original manufacturer of this delicacy and is still the best. These chocolates are available in five different flavours. You can even get camel-shaped chocolates, which makes for an excellent and unique gift, truly reminiscent of Dubai!

Where to buy the best camel milk chocolates in Dubai: You can find Al Nassma kiosks at the Dubai Mall, Burj Khalifa, Burj Al Arab, and various other places throughout Dubai.

Spices

An important part of Arabic cuisine is the rich flavour that comes from cooking with authentic spices. There is an immense variety of spices to be found in Dubai with influences from all over the region. Transform your cooking at home by bringing some traditional spices back from Dubai with you.

As well as cooking spices, there are plentiful aromatic spices too. (Just check the customs rules on spices for the country you are heading to next).

Where to buy the best spices in Dubai: The Dubai Spice Souk, of course! And major local supermarkets such as Lulu and Carrefour have extensive spice counter selections.

Lanterns

Lanterns are some of the most elegant Dubai souvenirs you can find. These often serve as centrepieces in Arabic homes, and they could serve as a centrepiece in yours as well. They’re often made with very intricate designs using mirrors and stained glass. Prices can range from very affordable to quite expensive.

Where to buy the best lanterns in Dubai: Dragon Mart, Karama Market, Antique Museum, Al Seef and Homes R Us are all excellent places to shop for lanterns in Dubai.

Dates

If you’re still wondering what to buy in Dubai, this is an excellent way to treat yourself while participating in an important part of Middle Eastern culture. Dates, or dried fruits, are often given as gifts at the end of the fasting of Ramadan. Along with being a tasty snack, they also have numerous health benefits. There are over 20 varieties in all. Whether for your own pleasure or a beautifully presented gift, you simply can’t leave Dubai without dates!

Where to buy the best dates in Dubai: Go to the Deira Food Market for the best fresh dates. You can also find packed dates at any supermarket in Dubai and many gift shops. Bateel are often touted as the best (and will let you try before you buy!).

Arabic Perfume Oils

This is another way to bring the unique fragrances of Dubai home with you. Arabic perfume oils, also known as Arabic attars or ittar, are made from plant extracts. They are very popular among both men and women. There are literally dozens of different oils to choose from but don’t worry, the vendors will willingly help you pick the fragrance that’s right for you.

Where to buy the best perfume oil in Dubai: The Perfume Souk at Deira is the best place to shop for perfumes. You can also find perfume shops in any mall in the city.

Hookahs (Shisha Pipes)

Smoking from hookahs is a very popular pastime in Dubai. You can find one in almost any household and many bars and cafes throughout the city offer shisha. This can be a great way to relax at home, and it’s a beautiful souvenir even if you don’t partake in smoking yourself.

Furthermore, it’s a surprisingly affordable souvenir. It’s an excellent choice if you’re still wondering what to buy in Dubai – though do take care with your packing as the glass is fragile.

Where to buy the best hookah from in Dubai: Carrefour Hypermarket is a surprisingly good place to shop for hookahs. You can also find them in Dubai souks and Smokers’ Centre outlets. Check out what’s on offer at Global Village, too.

Pashmina Shawls

A pashmina shawl is one of the most fashionable things to buy in Dubai (and super practical!). These are made from cashmere derived from goat hair, and they make a great gift for your significant other. The most authentic pashmina shawls can get pretty expensive. If you want to save some money, opt for shawls made of silk or viscose instead.

Where to buy the best pashminas in Dubai: These can be found at the Pashmina House, Karama Market, or Bur Dubai Textile Souk.

Arabic Coffee & Coffee Pots

The distinct taste of Arabic Coffee referred to as “qahwa” is likely to be a lasting memory from a visit to Dubai and the UAE. It is, after all, one of the most common acts of hospitality to be served a small cup of coffee as a welcome drink by your hosts.

And what would your coffee be without a coffee pot? Arabica coffee pots, known as “dallah” locally can not only be visually beautiful souvenirs from your trip to Dubai, but also a practical item to use at home. They are distinctive for their long spouts and ornate handles. Be warned, many dallah found in souvenir shops are decorative only, the most functional type to look for is made of copper.

Where to buy it: Dubai Coffee Museum in Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood Villa 44 and the Dubai Spice Souk. The Antique Museum again would be another sure bet for finding a good range of collectible items.

Arabian Dagger

A really quite unique collector’s piece from your trip to Dubai is an Arabian Dagger. Generally used only decoratively, you will want to display this at home. The gently curved tip and intricately designed pouch and handle. khanjar origanted in Oman

Where to buy the best Arabian Daggers in Dubai: look in the Yemeni and Omani stalls at Dubai Global Village

Gold Jewellery

Finally, you might consider buying some gold jewellery while you’re in the City of Gold. Gold jewellery has a very obvious appeal, and it’s plentiful in Dubai. Because of this, it’s much more affordable than you might expect. It could be the perfect gift for the special person in your life or a great place to come and have something customized made just for you.

Where to buy the best jewellery in Dubait: Dubai Gold Souk and Gold and Diamond Park on Sheikh Zayed Road have excellent selections.

Emirates Bus to Abu Dhabi City (ZVJ)

If you are landing at Dubai International Airport (DXB), but want to travel to Abu Dhabi, you can book your airline ticket to actually end in Abu Dhabi and cover the last 160kms or so by ground transportation.

When booking your airline ticket with Emirates, you simply need to enter your end destination as ZVJ. (Emirates does not fly directly to AUH airport).

Your Abu Dhabi arrival point is outside the Emirates Abu Dhabi office in Khalidiya, on the Corniche.

The bus runs five times a day (as of September 2023), and you will be allocated a seat at the same time you are issued your airline ticket.  You can call Emirates to add this service later, but it MUST be pre-booked.

There are a few catches to be aware of when booking this “FREE” option:

• You have to transfer straight from your Emirates flight, to the bus stop at Terminal 3 and onwards to Abu Dhabi – no stopping for sightseeing a day or two in Dubai before you transit onwards!
• The Emirates office in Khalaydia, whilst in a great spot for Abu Dhabi sightseeing and staying along the Corniche, is nowhere near Zayed International Airport AUH. If you are after connecting to a flight at AUH, you then need to take a taxi back to AUH from the Corniche, which is about 80 AED / $22 USD.

Emirates Free Bus from Abu Dhabi to DXB

You can also use the Emirates free transit bus in reverse. If you have been spending some time in Abu Dhabi but will fly back out of DXB with Emirates, you simply book your return ticket to start from ZVJ.

You catch the coach from the Emirates Abu Dhabi office in Khalaydia back to DXB Terminal 3 (you’ll be dropped at Arrivals, Check-in Area C)

This service operates five times a day as follows:

Flying Etihad: Free Bus Dubai XNB to Abu Dhabi

If you have been visiting Dubai but ultimately need to fly out from Zayed International Airport (AUH) with Etihad, then you can use the Etihad free coach transfer service.

They are now back to a full service since COVID, offering 10 daily transfers from Dubai XNB to AUH.

This leaves from Etihad Travel Mall (Al Wasl Centre, Sheikh Zayed Road, Al Safa 2).  You can check the exact schedule here.

You must pre-book this service using your departure airport as XNB.

If you don’t pre-book, your seat is not guaranteed. You can still get a walk-in seat on the coach for 25 AED, if space is available.

Landed in AUH but want to end in Dubai?

The free transit coach system also works in reverse with Etihad. The Etihad Coach departs from outside Terminal A at Zayed International Airport (AUH) and drops passengers at Etihad Travel Mall, Al Wasl Centre, Dubai, with daily services you can see here.

If you are connecting onward to DXB, you can catch the Metro from Etihad Travel Mall at Business Bay Metro Station (Red Line). For completing this journey, you will need to buy a Nol card.

Again, your seat on the Etihad coach is free but must be pre-booked (either with your ticket or by phoning an Etihad call centre at least 24 hours in advance), with your final destination noted as XNB.

This free coach service between Abu Dhabi and Dubai is only available to passengers who have flown with Etihad.

AirArabia AUH to Dubai

New to the complimentary transfer services game, AirArabia now also offers a twice-daily service for passengers arriving in AUH to their office in Karama, Dubai.

• Departs AUH at 11:30 and arrives at Karama 14:00
• Departs AUH 23:30, arrives Karama 02:00

Learn more about how to transfer from Sharjah International Airport to Dubai and Abu Dhabi

Paid Airport Coach Service Dubai to AUH

New in 2022, Abu Dhabi International Airport (now Zayed International Airport) has introduced “AUH Express” – offering a paid shuttle service from AUH to Ibn Battuta, Dubai.

From Ibn Battuta, passengers can transfer to Dubai’s Metro and local bus network – a Dubai Nol card would be required.

Tickets for the AUH Express can be bought at Ibn Battuta station (Stand 11) to travel to Abu Dhabi or the airport terminal if you arrive in AUH. They cost 35 AED one way.

They can now also be pre-booked here on GYG (cheaper! and with the ability to cancel up to 24 hours before).

NB – Passengers flying WizzAir used to receive the AUH Express for free under an existing agreement with the operator, Capital Express, but it looks like you now have to pay an additional €9.99 if you want to pre-book a WizzTransfer online – GYG is cheaper!

These tickets are still a little bit more than the Intercity bus service 101 Dubai-Abu Dhabi (25 AED), but it is more point-to-point and faster than needing to take a bus from central Abu Dhabi back to the airport, so it can be the preferred option for many travellers.

You can also look to catch the 102 intercity bus service, which starts at Al Jafila Bus Station, then goes via Ibn Battuta and ends in Mussafah (not the Central Bus Station in Abu Dhabi). It makes a few stops en route to Mussafah, including a stop at the new airport terminal A. Tickets for this bus cost AED 25, and it only takes a few minutes longer than the airport coach service.

If you’re not sure whether the free airline transit bus is the right transport option for you, pop back over to see all Dubai to Abu Dhabi transport options here.

Public Transport Sharjah Airport to Dubai Airport

If you seek to connect by public transport between SHJ and DXB, you will need to take at least two buses, or a bus and a Metro train connection.

Note the Metro that runs through the heart of Dubai does not extend as far as the Emirate of Sharjah. You must complete any journey between the Emirates by bus, taxi, ferry or private car.

Buses in Dubai are regulated by The Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) and in Sharjah by the Sharjah Roads and Transport Authority (SRTA). Each has its own payment system – nol card in Dubai or Sayer card in Sharjah (or cash payment can be used on SRTA services).

When we refer to bus routes below, routes starting with an “E” are RTA-operated in Dubai. Otherwise, assume they are operated by SRTA, and you can pay cash on board.

For Dubai buses and Metro, you must have an Nol card.

Private Transfer Options Between Sharjah Airport and Dubai Airport

Public taxis will be waiting for your arriving visitors at the exit to Sharjah airport. The journey to DXB is around 30 minutes, is traffic-dependent and will cost around

If you’d prefer the option of having your own vehicle to transfer you to Dubai Airport, the companies we suggest you pre-book with are:

• Welcome Pick Ups – a reputable airport transfer service that will get you door-to-door pick-ups from any airport in the UAE

• Get Transfer – ask drivers to bid on your journey, a convenient way to find the cheapest transfers if you want to plan your lifts in advance and avoid the hassle of airport queues.

You theoretically could hire a car too, but given the short journey distance, we’d strongly recommend you stick with public transport or a private vehicle transfer when travelling SHJ to DXB. The hassle of a car rental simply doesn’t make sense for a journey of less than an hour.

Sharjah Airport to DWC Al Maktoum Airport

The second Dubai airport – DWC – is much further away from SHJ, being on the other side of the Emirate of Dubai.

As there are no direct public transport options, we strongly recommend you consider the private transfer services we recommend above.

It is theoretically possible by public transport, but cumbersome, involving several changeovers and a taxi to complete your journey no matter what.

Taxis and Transfer Services

You can make the journey by public taxi from the airport, with an approximately metered fare charge of around AED 350 – 450, depending on your endpoint in Abu Dhabi. The journey should take about 1.5 hours.

Another option is to take an airport transfer service, such as Welcome Pickups from Sharjah to Abu Dhabi. This door-to-door airport service is a quick and efficient way to travel between the two airports. You’ll get an English-speaking driver, an air-conditioned vehicle and a guaranteed price you’ve already paid online, so there’s no need to withdraw any dirhams during your brief transfer.

Bus from Sharjah Airport to Abu Dhabi

Another new option is the airport express transfer service that runs from Ibn Battuta to AUH. Ibn Battuta is one of the last stops on the Red Metro line in Dubai.

• Following the steps above for getting to DXB in Dubai Emirate.

• Instead of taking the Metro to DXB from Union Square or Deira City Centre, take the Metro red line west, all the way to Ibn Battuta (Approx AED 7.50-8.50)

• Alternatively, take the E308 bus service from Sharjah Al Rolla to Ibn Battuta (AED 20). Generally speaking, even if it involves an extra swap, it’s quicker to use the Metro than the bus.

• There is a large bus terminal at Ibn Battuta; switch here for the AUH Express airport transit service (stand 9).

• This comfort coach will cost you 35 AED one way. Tickets need to be purchased separately from the Dubai Nol card system. You will need a credit card or UAE dirhams to purchase your ticket, or pre-purchase online via GYG here.

• The journey from Ibn Battuta to AUH is around 1 hour and 15 minutes.

• All up, allowing for connections, we’d allow 2.5 to 3 hours to transit from Sharjah Airport to Zayed International Airport (the new name for AUH) using public transport and a budget of AED 63.

Dubai Airport Bus to Dubai Mall & Burj Khalifa

There is little difference in cost to take the Bus instead of the Metro, but with traffic and stops, the journey is likely to take you at least twice as long and involve at least one change.

Buses in Dubai are cashless, so you need a Nol card from within the airport terminal before you board.

Note the bus does not go directly to Downtown Dubai but can take you to the main Al Ghubaiaba Bus Station; this is where many of the country’s Intercity buses depart from

• You can learn more about connecting from Dubai to Abu Dhabi by bus here

DXB to Dubai Mall by Taxi

RTA Taxis are readily available in front of the terminals at DXB. You should expect a standard taxi from Terminal 3 to Dubai Mall to cost approximately 40 to 55 AED, and the journey to take 15 to 25 minutes, depending on traffic.

Note that when leaving from Dubai Airport, there is automatically a 25 AED flagfall added. The cost thereafter is 1.96 AED per kilometre.

At the airport, there is a choice of a standard taxi, premium taxi, or ladies’ taxi.

NB, if you jump in a Premium Taxi from DXB, they are nicer cars but charge you for the privilege of an extra 1 AED per kilometre! Careful staff don’t sweet-talk you into spending more “for only 1 AED more!!”

The differences in roof colour are just the different taxi companies; the only exception is the ‘pink roof’ taxis are specifically for ladies and families.

What is there to do in Dubai’s Downtown Area?

The most obvious answer is to visit the Dubai Mall for shopping and window browsing, and take in the views from the Burj Khalifa – but the answer goes much deeper than this as there are just so many things to do! 

On a short stopover from Dubai Airport, you will really need to narrow it down to a couple of favourite activities – many you can enjoy for free, others you will need to pay for and preferably pre-book.

• The Dubai Fountain Show – the free musical spectacular of Dubai Fountains happens over lunchtime and all throughout the evening.  There are several vantage points from the Mall and nearby Souk al Bahar to view the show. We explain all the timings and best vantage points here.
• At The Top – Visit Burj Khalifa’s observation decks on Level 124/125.  Just be aware even with timed slot tickets queues can be long, it might be better to save this activity for a longer stopover as it could easily take you 2 hours.  You can see our complete guide here for the best ways to tackle Burj Khalifa here.
• The Dubai Aquarium – there are both free and paid experiences available. From within the centre of Dubai Mall, you can enjoy the world’s largest suspended glass tank for free, or purchase a ticket and head inside for the underwater tunnel and more hands-on experiences – our complete guide to visiting the aquarium here.
• Ice Skating Rink – Fancy a bit of exercise during your stop? Rug up and hire some skates to enjoy the Olympic-sized ice rink, yes within the Mall!
• Dubai Opera – timing your stopover over in an evening you may be able to catch a show at the stunning Dubai Opera House.

Alternatives to Dubai Mall and Downtown Dubai on a stopover

If you only have limited time to get out and get some fresh air during a Dubai Stopover, why not also try:

• Dubai Festival City – creekside and close to the airport, this is a smaller shopping mall than Dubai Mall but still has plenty of dining and entertainment options. You can enjoy the nightly IMAGINE sound and light show, or how about Bounce X freestyle Terrain Park if you have active kids to burn off energy?
• Al Seef & Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood – if you’d prefer a taste of old Dubai on a stopover, we recommend catching a taxi to this creekside area of the city (or Red Metro to Khalid bin al Waleed station, changing one stop to Al Fahidi on the Green Line). Beautifully restored buildings and the Dubai Museum (currently closed for renovations) can be found, along with plenty of dining options and the opportunity to take a traditional Abra across the Dubai Creek).
• The Walk & The Beach, JBR – this area takes a little longer to reach from the airport, so you should allow at least an hour in transit in either direction. If you are visiting during the cooler winter months this is the perfect place to catch some rays, maybe even time to head out on a boat tour from Dubai Marina and enjoy dinner at one of the trendy beachfront restaurants, or sundowners from a stunning rooftop bar.
• Grab the Dubai Hop-on Hop-off Bus for a greater taster of experiences and sightseeing all over the city. Note you cannot catch the sightseeing bus directly from the airport. The best starting point for airport passengers to jump on is Deira City Centre, which is located a few stops away from DXB on the Metro Red Line.
• We have a more detailed guide to Dubai stopover ideas over here.

• If you’d prefer to get some shut-eye or have a refreshing swim and a rest during your Dubai stopover, you could try one of these conveniently located Dubai airport hotels or see if you might be eligible for a free Dubai Connect hotel room if your connection is unavoidably over 8 hours.

Dubai Mall in Downtown Dubai

Before we dive into all the details – the reason it matters is that Dubai Mall, one of the largest shopping malls in the world, is located at the heart of Downtown Dubai.

For many tourists, this may be where much of their travel to the city is focused around. It is not just a shopping and retail hub but also one of the city’s liveliest nighttime neighbourhoods, a dining hotspot, and a central spot to start your exploration of the world’s tallest building, the Burj Khalifa, Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo, Dubai Opera, Sky Views, the Dubai Fountains – it’s as close as Dubai gets to a ‘city centre’ really.

It is a public place where people from all races, religions and nationalities co-mingle.

You can read more on all the awesome things you can do at Dubai Mall here.

We hope this has cleared up for you the appropriate dress code for Dubai Mall and what you should be packing in your suitcase for Dubai.

You could ask this question in a forum and get a dozen different answers, from “I’ve lived here my whole life, and I’ve never had a problem wearing shorts” to “You must always completely cover knees and shoulder.”

The reality is the right answer as of 2024 is somewhere in the middle of these responses; what you CAN and SHOULD wear in Dubai can be too different discussions, too.

Keep it respectful of the Muslim culture and keep your skimpier clothes for situations where they are seen as appropriate.

Read up here more on the do’s and don’t of visiting Dubai

Who needs to apply for a Tourist Visa?

Tourist Visas for Dubai and the UAE apply to anyone NOT eligible for a visa on arrival.  There are two categories of Visa on Arrival – check these first!

If your country of citizenship is not listed below, you can apply either through your airline or UAE registered tour operator for the appropriate visa.

• Visa services from Etihad Airways
• Visa Services offered by Emirates
• Visa services from Fly Dubai
• Visa services from Air Arabia

What Are UAE Transit Visas?

• A 48-hour Transit Visa is applicable for a single entry into the country between 8 to 48 hours and costs AED 37
• A 96-hour Transit Visa is applicable for a single entry into the country between 8 to 96 hours and costs AED 206

If your flight layover is between 2 to 8 hours and you are not eligible for a visa on arrival, then you will not be able to leave the airport. See this guide to things to do in DXB during a layover.

Single and Double Entry UAE Tourist Visas

• A 30-day single-entry visa costs 510 AED for 30 days.
• A 30-day multiple-entry visa costs 610 AED for 30 days.

Both of these may be extended twice for 30 days (so a maximum of 90 days) at 960 AED per extension.

• A long-term single-entry visa costs 830 AED for 60 days.
• A long-term multiple-entry visa costs 1560 AED for 60 days

Visa-Free Entry to the UAE

Citizens from GCC Countries do not need to apply for a visa on arrival.

Countries eligible for 30-Day Visa on Arrival in Dubai

There are 20 countries that are currently eligible for a FREE 30-day visit visa on arrival to the UAE; these are:

A visit visa for these countries lasts for 30 days, multi-entry, and can be renewed twice, with a 10-day grace period (i.e. you won’t be fined for overstaying your visa until Day 40).  If you overstay a visit visa the fine is 200 AED the first day, plus 100 AED per additional day – see more below on overstays.

Countries Eligible for 90-day Visa on Arrival

There are 40+ countries that are currently eligible for a FREE 90-day visit visa on arrival to the UAE, these are:

Mexico citizens are eligible for 180 days.

India Citizens

There are specific rules applicable to Indian citizens which you can find here.

If you have any concerns, you should verify this information on the UAE Government website.

Dubai Tourist Visa Extension

If your 30-day Dubai tourist visa has expired, you have two options:

• Leave the country before your 10-day grace period expires (ie, by day 39)
• Apply to Immigration and pay a fee to have your visit Visa extended. You can only extend a 30-day Visa for a maximum of 60 days (ie two paid extensions).

What is a Visa Run?

A visa run is a common expression used when you leave the country in order to immediately re-enter and start a fresh visit visa.

Most commonly, this is done on the UAE’s border with Oman. We have a detailed guide here on how border runs from Dubai works.

Accidental overstays in the UAE

It’s important to note that if you leave the country during the first 30 days, your visa will not renew upon re-entry. It’s a 30-day multi-entry Visa.  If you are travelling through Dubai, let’s say onward to Europe then have a stopover in Dubai again, be very careful if that second stop sees you cross over from 30 days to 40 days.

E.g., You arrive in Dubai on 1 September, stay for a few days, then fly on to Europe. You return to the UAE on 28 September.  You then spend two weeks in Dubai and fly out again on 12 October.

Even though you only stayed in Dubai for just over two weeks, your original 30-day visa was still valid on re-entry. You are considered to have overstayed your visit visa by 12 days as you did not leave the country, and it was not renewed during the 10-day grace period.

Before leaving the UAE, you will need to pay the daily fine for your overstay at the airport.

Road trip to Oman?

A good way to avoid this can, of course, be to include a trip to Oman with your Dubai trip!  Musandam is our favourite location for an overnight trip – not only an amazing experience but also one where you can avoid any issues with overstaying your visa and receiving a fine by exiting the country between day 30 and day 39.

There are a few small costs involved. Other than transportation, you have to pay an exit fee to the UAE (35 AED), and a tourist Visa entry fee to Oman, currently 5OR for a 10-day visit visa.  Regarding re-entering the UAE, there are no charges on the Omani or UAE side; just stamping your passports.

Current Electric Scooter Laws in Dubai

According to the upgraded laws by RTA:

• E-scooter riders need an RTA driving license, full driving license, or an international driver’s license to use the 10 designated places. These areas include:
  • Sheikh Mohammad Bin Rashid Boulevard
  • Jumeirah Lake Towers
  • Dubai Internet City
  • Al Rigga
  • 2nd of December Street
  • City Walk
  • Palm Jumeirah
  • Al Qusais
  • Al Mankhool
  • Al Karama
• E-scooter riders do not need an RTA license to ride on sidewalks and cycling tracks.
• If you don’t have a license, you can apply online for it and go through an awareness training course in order to obtain it (for free!).
• The minimum age to be eligible to get an e-scooter permit is 16 years; however, kids under 12 can ride e-scooters if accompanied by an adult.
• Riders under 16 are not allowed to ride electric scooters or bikes.
• You need RTA approval to ride an e-scooter, even if it’s for training purposes.
• If you ride an e-scooter without a license, a penalty of AED 200 will be charged.
• If you continue violating traffic rules, your e-scooter will be confiscated for a month or a lifetime.
• You have to park the e-scooter in the designated spot, or you’ll be fined AED 200.

Dubai E-Scooter Safety Rules to Follow

With the new laws and guidelines regarding e-scooters in Dubai, there are some safety rules that all e-scooter riders must follow. These include the following:

• The maximum speed limit for electric scooters in Dubai is 20 km/h; therefore, one cannot ride on a road with a maximum speed limit of 60 km/h or more.
• All e-scooters Dubai should have headlights, taillights, and working breaks.
• E-scooter riders should use both hands while biking or cycling, except for using hand gestures to make a signal.
• E-scooter riders should wear protective helmets, riding shoes, and proper gear when riding their electric scooters.
• Wearing headphones or earphones while riding is prohibited.
• All electric scooters Dubai must be GPS-tagged to remain inside the designated places.
• All riders must observe traffic rules while riding.

Where can you rent an electric scooter in Dubai?

Currently, there are only four companies that offer Dubai electric scooter rentals. These include two local companies, Arnab and Skurtt, and two international companies, Tier and Lime.

1. Arnab

Arnab Mobility was launched in 2019 and is one of the very first e-scooter rentals in UAE. It started off with just 3 e-scooters and now has more than 1500 operational electric scooters across the eight cities it operates in, including Dubai and Abu Dhabi. 

The company hosts weekly free training and safety seminars for the public so that they can ride their e-scooters safely and abide by the rules.

The e-scooter rentals at Arnab cost AED 0.6 per minute and have a one-time unlocking fee of AED 3.

Download from App Store

Download from Google Play

To ride an Arnab e-scooter in Dubai:

• Download the Arnab app for iOS or Android.
• Locate the nearest e-scooter using the app.
• Wear a helmet and scan the QR code to unlock the e-scooter.
• Once you’re done riding, park the electric scooter at one of the designated places.
• End the ride with one tap using the app.

2. Skurtt

Skurtt is a mobility as a service (MAAS) business that provides a safe, accessible, and affordable solution to people looking to go from one place to another in Dubai without any hassle.

The e-scooter rentals at Skurtt cost AED 0.5 per minute.

To ride a Skurtt electric scooter in Dubai:

• Download the iOS or Android app for Skurtt.
• Open the app, and you will automatically be taken to a map showing locations for the nearest e-scooter.
• Reach the location, and unlock the Skurtt e-scooter by scanning the QR code or manually entering the 6-digit scooter code located below the QR code.
• Start your ride, and once you’re done, park it at the designated places.
• End the ride by tapping on the app.

3. Tier

Tier is an international e-scooter provider operating in Dubai. It was launched in January 2020 and is famous for being one of the first climate-neutral micro-mobility companies offering e-scooter, e-moped, and e-bike rentals. It aims to reduce emissions and give way to a sustainable future.

To start an e-scooter ride with Tier:

• Download the Tier app for iOS or Android.
• Launch the app and find an electric scooter Dubai near you.
• Scan the QR code to unlock the e-scooter and start your ride.
• When you’re done riding, park the e-scooter at one of the designated locations.
• Tap the “End Ride” option on the app to end the ride.

4. Lime Scooter Dubai

Another international e-scooter service operating in Dubai is Lime. Lime Scooter Dubai is famous for having Gen4 e-scooters with interchangeable, swappable batteries. The e-scooters have a wide footboard for a comfortable ride.

Lime’s aim is to provide safe, sustainable, and innovative mobility solutions to people looking to get from one place to another in a green and affordable way. At the moment, Lime Dubai only offers e-bikes and e-scooter rentals.

The cost of renting an e-scooter Dubai via Lime is AED 1 per minute, with a one-time charge of AED 3 to unlock.

To ride an e-scooter using Lime:

• Download the iOS or Android Lime app, and launch it to find the nearest e-scooter.
• Scan the QR code to unlock the e-scooter, and ride.
• To end the ride, park the e-scooter at the designated places, and tap on the app.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) on Dubai e-Scooters

Here are some common queries regarding e-scooters Dubai:

More on Getting Around in Dubai

If scooters aren’t your thing, you may like to learn more about:

• How to hire a bike in Dubai
• Everything you need to know about catching taxis in Dubai
• Water transport options in Dubai explained
• Everything you need to know about Nol for Dubai public transport

Where to Catch the Dubai to Sharjah Ferry

Managed by the RTA (Roads and Transport Authority) in Dubai, the Dubai terminal is situated at Al Ghubaiba Marine Station in Dubai, which is adjacent to the Al Ghubaiba Metro and bus station, a large transportation hub in Bur Dubai.

Your journey from Dubai to Sharjah will take approximately 35 minutes and will take you to Aquarium Marine Station in Sharjah.

If you’re catching the ferry in reverse from Sharjah to Dubai, there is a comfortable air-conditioned waiting area and parking spaces. We await news of a shuttle returning between the city’s cultural district and ferry stations.

When Does the Ferry to Sharjah Operate

Operating times for the Dubai to Sharjah Ferry (route FR5) are:

• Monday to Thursday: 7:45 AM, 4:00 PM, 5:30 PM and 7:00 PM
• Friday to Sunday: 3:00 PM, 5:00 PM and 8:00 PM

To catch the ferry in reverse Sharjah to Dubai, operating hours are:

• Monday to Thursday: 7:00 AM, 8:30 AM, 4:45 PM and 6:15 PM
• Friday to Sunday: 2:00 PM, 4:00 PM and 6:00 PM

For the latest information, contact the RTA directly at 800 9090 or see the timetables here.

Tickets for the ferry can be purchased from the ticket office with cash, credit card, or NOL card. There is a differential pricing for the “Silver” (regular) class and “Gold” first class.

• Silver AED 15
• Gold AED 25
• Children under 6 are Free
• People of Determination are Free

Is Gold worth it? Gold-class ticket holders not only get more space on the ferry, but they can also use the outside deck for the best views; it’s up to you, really. For a once-in-a-lifetime type trip to Dubai, why not spoil yourselves for a couple of dollars more? For regular commuters, especially in summer, you’ll be just fine in the main Silver cabin.

There is also a nol top-up machine on the Sharjah side, or you can use cash/card for a ticket to board the ferry back; the fares are the same for your return journey. (They don’t seem to sell a return ticket; you have to pay for a separate ticket in each direction).

What to expect on board the Dubai to Sharjah Ferry

Unlike the small wooden abras you see floating along the Dubai Creek, this is a sleek, modern ferry service.

The comfortable seating can handle up to 84 passengers in Silver Class and 14 passengers in Gold Class (separated by opaque glass walls). There are bathrooms on board, free Wi-Fi, and a refreshments stall. And the boat is, of course, fully airconditioned for year-round comfort.

Your ferry journey takes you past the Al Shindagha Museum and historic district and the historic areas of Dubai Creek, which have been in existence for over 150 years. You’ll pass by the Waterfront Market area and Mamzar Park in Dubai before crossing into the Aquarium Station in Sharjah.

Things to do in Sharjah

Sharjah makes for a wonderful day trip from Dubai, particularly if you are interested in Islamic culture and history. We have a detailed guide to the best Museums in Sharjah here.

The ferry is close to Sharjah Aquarium, which is highly acclaimed and a popular site for families to visit.

Heading beyond the waterfront, you may find it easier to catch a taxi to complete your journey to other sites, we have been unable to confirm t this stage if the promised shuttle service is currently running as at late 2023.

Our complete day trip guide to Sharjah is coming soon!

More Transport Advice in Dubai

Dubai has definitely become a sprawling urban metropolis in the Middle East, but the good news is that there is a growing public transport network to help keep you connected around the city and to the other emirate of the United Arab Emirates. You may like to read next:

• Our complete guide to public transport in Dubai
• Transport around the UAE
• How to get from Dubai to Abu Dhabi by bus
• How to get from Sharjah Airport to Dubai Airport
• DXB to AUH Airport transport options