This Dubai travel guide is written for a first visit. Dubai mixes record-breaking towers and giant malls with a small old town of wind towers, creek boats and spice markets — and it is one of the easiest cities in the Gulf to visit. Flights from Lahore, Karachi and Islamabad take about three hours, the airport is close to the centre, and the metro links most of what you will want to see.
The best time to go is November to March, when days are a pleasant 24–30 °C. From June to September the city is very hot (often above 40 °C), so plan indoor sights and evenings outdoors. During Ramadan, eat and drink discreetly in public during daylight hours.
Getting into Dubai
Most visitors arrive at Dubai International Airport (DXB), about 15 minutes from Deira and 20–30 minutes from Downtown. Some low-cost and charter flights use Al Maktoum International (DWC), roughly 45–60 minutes from the city — check which airport your ticket shows before you book a transfer.
Entry rules depend on your passport. Many European passports, including German ones, receive a free entry stamp on arrival, while Pakistani passport holders need a UAE visa arranged before travel, usually through the airline or an approved travel agent. Rules change, so confirm on the official UAE immigration website before you fly.
| From DXB to the city | Time | Typical cost |
|---|---|---|
| Metro Red Line (Terminals 1 & 3) | 20–35 min | AED 5–9 with a Nol card |
| Airport taxi (metered) | 15–30 min | AED 50–90 to Downtown |
| Ride-hailing app | 15–30 min | AED 45–80 |
| Hotel transfer | 15–30 min | AED 100–200 |
Popular flights: Lahore → DubaiKarachi → DubaiIslamabad → DubaiPeshawar → DubaiSialkot → DubaiMultan → Dubai
Top sights to see in Dubai
You can see Dubai's highlights in three busy days. Book the Burj Khalifa observation deck online for a sunset slot — tickets at the counter cost more and sell out.
The world's tallest building. Levels 124–125 give the classic view; go 30 minutes before sunset.
1.5 hours · from about AED 170Free fountain shows every 30 minutes from early evening, plus an aquarium and hundreds of shops.
2–3 hours · free entryCross the creek on a traditional wooden boat between Bur Dubai and Deira for one dirham.
30 minutes · AED 1Quiet lanes of restored wind-tower houses, small museums and cafés in the old town.
1–2 hours · mostly freeBusy Deira markets for gold, saffron, dates and perfumes. Bargaining is expected.
1–2 hours · freeA waterfront promenade with a free public beach, dhow cruises and evening restaurants.
Half a dayRide the monorail along the palm-shaped island to Atlantis and the boardwalk views.
2–3 hoursStriking building with interactive exhibitions about technology and space; book a time slot.
1.5 hours · about AED 150Afternoon dune drive, sunset photos and a barbecue dinner at a desert camp.
6 hours · AED 150–350Food to try in Dubai
Almost all food in Dubai is halal, and you can eat well at every budget. Start with a chicken shawarma from a street counter (AED 8–15), fresh juices and Arabic grills. Try Emirati dishes such as machboos (spiced rice with meat), harees and luqaimat — sweet dumplings with date syrup — in the cafés of Al Fahidi.
Karama, Al Rigga and Bur Dubai are full of excellent Pakistani, Indian and Iranian restaurants at modest prices, while the Marina and Downtown have international dining with fountain or sea views. Expect AED 25–60 for a casual meal and AED 150–350 per person at upmarket restaurants. Alcohol is served only in licensed hotels and venues.
Getting around: public and private transport
Public transport is clean, safe and air-conditioned. The Metro Red Line runs from the airport through Deira, Downtown and the Marina; the Green Line serves the old town. Trams connect the Marina, JBR and the Palm monorail, and buses fill the gaps. Fares depend on zones — roughly AED 3–8 per trip with a Nol card — and a Gold Class carriage plus women-and-children cabins are available on every train.
Taxis are metered, plentiful and fairly cheap for short trips; ride-hailing apps work well too. Renting a car is easy if you are confident on fast multi-lane roads, but parking and tolls add up. For short hops across the creek, abras and water buses are the most fun way to travel.
Safety and local tips
Dubai is one of the safest cities in the world, with very low street crime. The main risks are the summer heat and strict local laws. Dress modestly in malls, souks and mosques (shoulders and knees covered), avoid public displays of affection, and never carry illegal drugs — some prescription medicines also need approval, so check before you travel.
Watch out for overpriced 'free' tours, fake designer goods and unlicensed taxis at the airport. In an emergency call 999 for police, 998 for an ambulance and 997 for fire. Plugs are type G (220 V), tap water is safe but most people drink bottled, tipping 10% is appreciated but not required, and tourist SIM cards are sold in the arrivals hall.
Where to stay in Dubai
Choose your area by what you want to do — Dubai is spread out, so staying near the metro saves time and money.
Best for first-timers: Burj Khalifa, Dubai Mall and the metro on your doorstep.
Mid to luxuryBeach, promenade and nightlife, with tram and metro links.
Mid to luxury · familiesOld town, souks and great-value food; closest to the airport.
Budget to midGood-value hotels near Mall of the Emirates and the Red Line.
Budget to midA 3-day plan for Dubai
Day 1: old Dubai — Al Fahidi, an abra across the creek, the Gold and Spice Souks, then dinner in Karama. Day 2: Downtown — Museum of the Future in the morning, Dubai Mall, and the Burj Khalifa at sunset followed by the fountain show. Day 3: the beach at JBR, the Palm monorail and a desert safari in the afternoon. Our full day-by-day guide has timings and prices.
Frequently asked questions
How many days do you need in Dubai?
Three to four days cover the main sights, a beach day and a desert safari. Add a day for Abu Dhabi if you have time.
What is the cheapest way from Dubai Airport to the city?
The Metro Red Line from Terminals 1 and 3, which costs about AED 5–9 with a Nol card and reaches Downtown in around 30 minutes.
Is Dubai safe for tourists and families?
Yes. Dubai has very low crime and is popular with families. Respect local laws on dress and behaviour, and take care in the summer heat.
Do Pakistani citizens need a visa for Dubai?
Yes, Pakistani passport holders need a UAE visa before travel, usually arranged through the airline or an approved agent. Always confirm current rules on the official UAE immigration website.
When is the best time to visit Dubai?
November to March, when temperatures are around 24–30 °C. Summer is very hot, so plan indoor sights by day.
Prices and transport details were checked 7 October 2026. Travel information changes — please confirm entry rules and prices with official sources before you go.