Destination Information – Dubai

I’ve been to Dubai several times. It’s one of my favorite cities to visit. It seems to have everything and then some. All in the desert. Although you’d never think that you are in the desert, except for the heat :-).

Here’s some information to consider on your next visit.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Where Is Dubai?

Dubai is located in the Middle East. It is one of the seven Emirates in the United Arab Emirates. The others are: Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, Umm al-Quwain, Fujairah, Ajman and Ra’s al-Khaimah.

 

How To Get Here

Dubai has two commercial airports: Dubai International Airport (DXB) and Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC). The main airport is DXB. You may also fly into nearby Emirates Sharjah (SHJ) or Abu Dhabi (AUH). You can get buses or taxis to Dubai from these two Emirates.

Airlines Serving Dubai International Airport (DXB)

AJet (VF), Aegean Airlines (A3), Air Algerie (AH), Air Astana (KC), Air Canada  – Star Alliance (AC), Air China (CA), Air France  – SkyTeam (AF), Air India (AI), Air India Express (IX), Air Mauritius (MK), Air Tanzania (TC), AirBaltic (BT), Ariana Afghan Airlines (FG), Arkia Israeli Airlines (IZ), Azerbaijan Airlines (J2), BS, Belavia Belarusian Airlines (B2), Biman Bangladesh Airlines (BG), British Airways – oneworld (BA), Buffalo Airways (J4), CanJet Airlines (C6), Cathay Pacific Airways (CX), Cebu Pacific Air (5J), China Eastern Airlines (MU), China Southern Airlines (CZ), Condor (DE), Cyprus Airways (CY), D3, El Al Airlines (LY), Emirates (EK), Eqyptair (MS), Ethiopian Airlines – Star Alliance (ET), Eurowings (EW)

Finnair – oneworld (AY), FitsAir (8D), FlyDubai (FZ), , Fly Oya International (YI), FlyOne (5F), Flynas (XY), Freedom Air Express (Somalia) (4K), Gulf Air (GF), Hainan Airlines (HU), Himalaya Airlines (H9), ITA Airways (AZ), IndiGo Airlines (6E), Iran Air (IR), Iran Airtour (B9), Iraqi Airways (IA), Jazeera Airways (J9), KB, KLM Royal Dutch Airlines (KL), Kam Air (RQ), Kenya Airways (KQ), Korean Airlines (KE), Kuwait Airways (KU), LOT Polish (LO), Lufthansa German Airlines (LH)

Middle Eastern Airlines (ME), Myanmar Airways International (8M), Oman Air (WY), Pakistan International Airlines (PK), Pegasus Airlines (PC), Philippine Airlines (PR), QB, Qantas (QF), Qatar Airways (QR), RA, RB, Royal Air Morac (AT), Royal Brunei Airlines (BI), Royal Jordanian – oneworld (RJ), RwandAir (WB), SZ, SalamAir (OV), Saudia Airlines (SV), Serene Air (ER), Sichuan Airlines (3U), Singapore Airlines (SQ), Smart Wings (QS), Spicejet (SG), SriLankan (UL), SunExpress (XQ), Swiss Airlines (LX), TOR Air (OD), Tarco Airlines (3T), Transavia (HV), Turkish Airlines – Star Alliance (TK), Turkmenistan Airlines (T5), Uganda Airlines (UR), United Airlines – Star Alliance (UA), Uzbekistan Airways (HY), Virgin Atlantic Airways – SkyTeam (VS), W5, Wizz Air (W6), Wizz Air UK (W4), Yemenia (IY), airblue (PA), flyadeal (F3).

Airlines Serving Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC)

Animawings (A2), BeOnd (B4), Eurowings (EW), flyadeal (F3), FlyOne (5F), Flynas (XY), Luxair (LG), NB, Neos Air (NO), Norwegian Air International (D8), Smart Wings (QS), Transavia (HV), Transavia France (TO), U6, UTair (UT), WZ.

Airport Tip

Be sure to check the airport you are using as they are at two opposite ends of the city. Especially if you are taking connecting flights.

Check your schedules on passrider.com.

Airport Lounges

There are many lounges in this airport. You can find a list at https://dubaiairports.ae/experiences/relax—refresh.

Airport To The City

Dubai makes this easy as long as you arrive before midnight as the trains close then. The Metro is the best way to get into the city. Of course you may also take a taxi or a shared ride. I’ve had to take a shared ride/taxi as opposed to the Metro as I missed the last train. It can get pricey.

You must purchase a Metro card either at the kiosk or with an agent. You can purchase one for regular travel or for travel in Gold class. Gold class usually have fewer passengers. If you’re a female, there are separate cars you may use. If you are male, ensure you do not enter the all-female cars. They are either at the front or the back of the train.

You can find additional information about the Dubai Metro here.

Currency

UAE Dirham (AED).

Language

Arabic, English is widely spoken.

Visa and Health Requirements

If you are a U.S. citizen, a visa is not required at this time. However, one may be required for citizens from select other countries though. Use this link to check visa requirements for other citizenship.

Here is some additional information from the U.S. State Department including visa and health requirements.

Airport Wifi

Free

Accommodations

Dubai has no shortage of hotels. There is a place to stay for every budget. To check them out, I once did five different hotels each night I was there. Exhausting! But worth it. Here’s a map for you to check out.

 

Where To Eat Dubai

Dubai has many different neighborhoods. One of the reasons is that there are many workers from different countries living in Dubai. As such, you get all kinds of foods. Just find the neighborhood and follow your nose.

Things To Do

Dubai is one of those cities with too much to do. You can basically take the Metro and just get off at any stop and explore. Or you can just ride the Metro and when it’s above ground just enjoy the sights you see.

Here are just some things you can see in Dubai when you visit. You may also go to https://www.10in24.com to get a list emailed to you as well.

1. Burj Khalifa

Description: The world’s tallest building offering unmatched views from its observation decks, plus a deep dive into Dubai’s futuristic design.
Address: 1 Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Blvd, Downtown Dubai, Dubai
Nearest Metro: Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall Station (Red Line)
Book A Visit To The Observation Deck
Website: Burj Khalifa

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2. The Dubai Mall

Description: A shopping and entertainment haven featuring an aquarium, an ice rink, countless dining options, and endless activities for visitors of all ages.
Address: Financial Center Rd, Downtown Dubai, Dubai
Nearest Metro: Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall Station (Red Line)
Website: The Dubai Mall

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3. Dubai Fountain

Description: Located right beside the Burj Khalifa, this massive choreographed fountain system offers mesmerizing water shows set to music.
Address: Downtown Dubai, Dubai (adjacent to Burj Khalifa)
Nearest Metro: Burj Khalifa/Dubai Mall Station (Red Line)
Book A Visit To The Dubai Fountain
Website: Dubai Fountain

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4. Desert Safari

Description: A thrilling adventure beyond the city featuring dune bashing, camel rides, and a traditional Bedouin camp dinner that immerses you in the region’s culture and natural beauty.
Address: Various pickup points from central Dubai (tour operators arrange hotel pick-ups)
Nearest Metro: Not applicable (tours typically include private transfers)
Book A Safari Here
Website: Arabian Adventures – Desert Safari

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5. Dubai Marina

Description: A vibrant waterfront district known for its modern skyline, upscale dining, and lively nightlife—a perfect place for an evening stroll or a relaxing boat ride.
Address: Dubai Marina, Dubai
Nearest Metro: DAMAC Properties Metro Station (Red Line)
Website: 

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6. Palm Jumeirah

Description: An iconic man-made island featuring luxury resorts, chic beach clubs, and top-tier dining, offering a unique glimpse of Dubai’s innovative spirit.
Address: Palm Jumeirah, Dubai
Nearest Metro: No direct metro; best accessed via the Palm Jumeirah Monorail from Gateway Station or a taxi
Website: Palm Jumeirah on Visit Dubai

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7. Ski Dubai

Description: Escape the desert heat at this indoor snow park inside the Mall of the Emirates. Enjoy skiing, snowboarding, and even meet some resident penguins.
Address: Mall of the Emirates, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai
Nearest Metro: Mall of the Emirates Metro Station (Red Line)
Book Ski Dubai
Website: Ski Dubai

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8. Dubai Museum

Description: Housed within the historic Al Fahidi Fort, this museum offers a fascinating look at Dubai’s heritage and evolution, showcasing exhibits that span centuries of local culture.
Address: Al Fahidi Fort, Bur Dubai, Dubai
Nearest Metro: Al Fahidi Metro Station (Green Line)
Book Tickets Here
Website: Dubai Museum

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9. Global Village

Description: A seasonal cultural extravaganza that brings together pavilions from around the globe, offering international cuisine, crafts, and live performances in one festive setting.
Address: Sheikh Mohammed Bin Zayed Road (E311), Dubailand, Dubai
Nearest Metro: Not applicable (best reached by taxi or organized tour)
Book A Visit To The Global Village
Website: Global Village

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10. Jumeirah Beach

Description: Known for its soft white sands and stunning views of the iconic Burj Al Arab, this beach is ideal for a day of relaxation by the sea.
Address: Jumeirah Beach, Jumeirah, Dubai
Nearest Metro: Not directly served by metro; accessible by taxi or local bus
Website: Jumeirah Beach on Visit Dubai

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11. Dubai Frame

Perhaps one of the more underrated attractions, the Dubai Frame is not one to be missed. You take a long elevator up to the top of the Frame for panoramic view as of Dubai. You have to do it when you go.

Description: A striking architectural landmark shaped like a giant picture frame that offers a unique view, juxtaposing old Dubai with its ultra-modern skyline.
Address: Zabeel Park, Yasser Arafat Road, Dubai
Nearest Metro: Al Jafiliya Metro Station (Red Line) – a short taxi ride away
Book A Visit To The Frame
Website: Dubai Frame

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12. Dubai Eye (Ain Dubai)

Description: Officially known as Ain Dubai, this colossal observation wheel on Bluewaters Island provides panoramic views of the city and the Arabian Gulf—a must-see for any visitor.
Address: Bluewaters Island, Dubai
Nearest Metro: No direct metro stop; best reached via a taxi or a scenic walk from Dubai Marina Metro Station (Red Line)
Book A Visit To the Dubai Eye
Website: Ain Dubai

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13. New Dubai Museum (Museum of the Future)

 

Description: A forward-thinking cultural landmark that blends art, science, and innovation to explore the possibilities of tomorrow, housed in a futuristic architectural marvel.
Address: Sheikh Zayed Road, near Emirates Towers, Dubai
Nearest Metro: Emirates Towers Metro Station (Red Line)
Book Tickets Here
Website: Museum of the Future

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14. Dubai Al Seef

This is hands down my favorite area to visit and stay in Dubai. It’s a bit far from the main attractions, but its a very nice neighborhood, with lots to see and do. Plus, you can watch the planes takeoff from the Dubai Airport (DXB). Or maybe you just want to watch the boats/ships along the Dubai Creek. For a very small price you can take one of those Abras you see below across the Creek.

Description: Nestled along the historic Dubai Creek, Dubai Al Seef offers a charming blend of traditional architecture and modern retail, dining, and leisure experiences that celebrate the city’s rich heritage.
Address: Al Seef Street, Dubai Creek, Dubai
Nearest Metro: Al Ghubaiba Metro Station (Green Line)
Website: Dubai Al Seef

Additional Information

Tourism Board

• Dubai Tourism – https://www.visitdubai.com/en/ One Central, building 2, 4th floor PO Box 594 Dubai, United Arab Emirates
  • Telephone: +971 600 55 55 59
• Dubai Tourism Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/visit.dubai
• Dubai Tourism Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/visitdubai.US/
• Dubai YouTube Channel – https://www.youtube.com/visitdubai

Please leave a comment below about your own experiences and tips.