Dazzling Dubai is a sensational city of superlatives where a holiday like no other awaits in the Arabian Gulf sunshine – but what should you know before you go to help make your visit a truly magical experience?

We’ve decided to provide answers to some key questions which will prepare you for an adventure of a lifetime in a spellbinding destination which oozes glitz, glamour, luxury, entertainment and leisure. Marvel at the world’s tallest building, the Burj Khalifa, live like royalty in an opulent 5-star hotel, soar across Dubai Marini on the world’s longest urban zipline or head into the desert for a romantic night under the stars in a traditional Bedouin camp. These are just a few of the delights in store in this enthralling emirate which boasts a futuristic skyline, world-class restaurants, spectacular theme and water parks, epic landmarks, pristine sandy beaches, giant shopping malls and vibrant nightlife.

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Is Dubai Expensive?

If a taste of the glitzy Dubai lifestyle is what you’re seeking, then prepare to splash the cash. However, if you’re holidaying on a budget, visiting this incredible destination doesn’t have to break the bank. In fact, for comparable holiday standards, the average daily cost in Dubai is similar to other tourist cities, including New York and London, and there are a whole host of money-saving tips you can take advantage of. Using public transport is cheaper than taking a taxi and the local souks are great places to shop for holiday bargains. Eating out won’t cost a fortune, with prices similar to the UK, and no shortage of street food spots. Some attractions are fairly expensive, but others are free. Buying a Go City Pass is a great way to get discounts, with some hotels even offering discounted or free passes to theme parks, water parks and animal attractions. Cheaper holiday deals are also available in the low season summer months from May to August.

Can I Go All-Inclusive?

You certainly can – in fact this is a great way to enjoy a carefree holiday, with most things in your hotel paid for in advance. Choosing the all-inclusive option available in some of Dubai’s luxurious 5-star hotels will allow you to dine in gourmet restaurants, soak up the sun on private beaches, enjoy a myriad of thrilling water sports and take advantage of their spas, fitness centres and other superb leisure amenities. All-inclusive holidays in Dubai are particularly appealing for families who want to get on with having a feast of fun, with many hotels offering little bonuses for young guests, such as ice creams, cold drinks and special menus for kids in their restaurants. The all-inclusive concept is most definitely on the rise in Dubai, with more and more resorts offering it as an option for couples, families and groups of friends craving a hassle-free sunshine getaway.

How Long Should I Stay?

Staying a week or longer in Dubai is the way to go if you want to truly immerse yourself in the wonders of this spectacular destination. You’ll need at least a week to really discover what Dubai has to offer and return home feeling you’ve lived the Dubai experience to the full. From the thrills and spills of Aquaventure Waterpark and exhilarating beachfront water sports action to shopping in the expansive malls and fun-packed nights on the town, there’s so much to see and do. Some people, however, opt for shorter 3 to 5 night breaks, preferring to visit Dubai several times, focusing on a particular theme during each mini trip – whether that’s shopping, nightlife, sightseeing or a desert adventure. Other travellers choose to build Dubai into a multicentre holiday, staying a few nights in the city, before jetting off to other destinations such as the Maldives, Thailand or Bali.

Can I Visit During Ramadan?

Ramadan is a wonderful time to visit Dubai, with this most sacred holy month in the Muslim calendar offering the chance to experience the emirate’s spiritual culture and tradition. During this time, Muslims fast between sunrise and sunset, but most restaurants and cafes remain open and tourists can eat and drink in public if they wish. In the evenings, the city comes alive, with traditional feasts, community events and family activities aplenty. Many hotels host huge meals during Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, and invite guests to join in the festivities, including a traditional iftar meal after sunset, usually for a supplementary charge. Most of Dubai’s shopping malls stay open even later in the evening, with many of them offering special sales, promotions and deals throughout the month. The city’s popular tourist attractions remain open during Ramadan, including the theme parks, museums and galleries, and the majority of city’s lounges are still open, although most nightclubs will be closed.

What Do I Need to Take?

There are some essential items to pack before jetting off to Dubai. The emirate’s warm year-round climate means it’s essential to bring suitable light clothing and swimwear. A light jacket may be needed outside in the coolest winter months and indoors in summer when the air conditioning is on full. Sunglasses, lip balm and plenty of sun cream are essential, while a sun hat is also recommended. Sandals and flip flops are ideal for wearing around the hotel or on the beach, but a pair of trainers or open-toe sandals may be a better option for travelling around the city or visiting the desert. Other items to consider bringing include insect repellent, hand sanitiser, deodorant wipes and travel adaptors. It is also important to dress appropriately to respect local traditions in Dubai, which means refraining from wearing short clothing or swimwear in public places. If you're visiting a religious location, such as Jumeirah Mosque, you should dress modestly, with arms and legs covered, and a headscarf for women.

Dubai’s desert climate means you’ll enjoy plenty of golden sunshine, no matter what time of year you visit. The emirate is blessed with an average of 8 to 10 hours of daily sunshine and most shopping malls, restaurants and indoor attractions have superb air-conditioning systems to keep you feeling comfortable, even when the mercury is at its highest. Dubai’s peak season is from November to April, when temperatures hover around 25°C, which is ideal for visiting the big city attractions and heading to the desert for camel rides, dune buggy safaris and other activities. Temperatures can soar to an uncomfortable 45°C from May to August, so it’s best to get out in the early mornings and late evenings if you’re planning to visit at this time of year. You’re unlikely to make use of an umbrella when you visit the emirate, as there’s minimal rainfall, with a mere 68mm or rain annually.

“Dubai is an awe-inspiring destination and it’s definitely worth having an idea of what to expect when you get there, so you can hit the ground running when you arrive and get the best out of your time in the crown jewel of the UAE.

“There’s no shortage of glorious sunshine in this enchanting emirate so it’s certainly important to bring suitable clothing, plus several other essential items, including plenty of sunscreen, sunglasses and lip balm.

“Dubai is brimming with incredible world-famous attractions, exceptional shopping opportunities, pulsating nightlife and rich history and culture, so a stay of a week or more is highly advisable, unless you simply want to integrate the city into a fabulous multicentre holiday experience.

“This amazing destination will make a big impression on every visitor, with its fabulous food, fantastic weather, heavenly beaches and superb hospitality. It really does have everything you need to create magical memories which will last a lifetime.”

Address Beach Resort

A world of relaxation, leisure and entertainment awaits at this visually-striking 5-star escape with direct beach access. Spend restful nights in lavish accommodation, dine in style in a choice of top-class restaurants and chill out beside the 'highest outdoor infinity pool in a building'. A myriad of other superb amenities at this luxurious family-friendly retreat includes a sumptuous spa, a state-of-the-art fitness centre, landscaped terraces, a beauty salon and a fun-packed kids club.

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Hilton Dubai Palm Jumeirah

Spellbinding views of the Dubai Marina skyline and the world’s tallest observation wheel are among the delights at this magnificent 5-star resort located next to a beautiful private sandy beach. Heavenly nights are assured in your exquisitely-appointed room or suite, while the gastronomic joys in a host of wonderful restaurants will tantalise your taste buds. You’ll also enjoy head to toe pampering in a plush spa, refreshing dips in a 65-metre swimming pool and a bumper programme of live evening entertainment, while young guests will have a feast of fun in a lively kids club.

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Hilton Dubai Jumeirah

Jet off for relaxing days and entertaining nights at this sensational 5-star beachfront haven nestled in the heart of Jumeirah. You’ll savour the flavour of delicious culinary creations in 12 unique dining venues, embrace complete serenity in a laid-back spa and marvel at breathtaking views in your modern and stylish accommodation. Soak up the sun on a private beach, enjoy water sports thrills in the inviting Arabian Gulf, keep in shape in the cutting-edge fitness centre or sip refreshing cocktails in the beautiful lounge garden.

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