25 Traveling to Dubai Tips: Your Messy Mom’s Guide to Crushing Vacation with Kids in the City of Gold
Planning a trip to the united arab emirates, specifically Dubai? We’ve got you covered with all the tips you need for an unforgettable adventure!
From what to pack and where to stay, to navigating local customs and finding the best attractions, our helpful tips will help make your Dubai experience amazing.
The best time to visit Dubai is during winter months (December to February), the peak tourist season, when temperatures are comfortable for exploring this dazzling city.
Dubai is truly a magical destination in the middle east that combines ultra-modern luxury with rich cultural traditions. We know traveling to a new place can feel overwhelming, especially one as unique as Dubai.
That’s why we’ve put together these essential tips to help you feel confident and prepared.
Whether you’re dreaming of desert adventures, shopping sprees, or beach relaxation, these travel tips will help you make the most of your Dubai vacation!
1) Plan Your Trip Between October and April
Hey mamas! We’ve got the scoop on the best time to visit the uae, specifically Dubai, and trust us, timing is everything!
Dubai gets seriously HOT in summer – we’re talking melt-your-makeup-off hot.
That’s why we recommend planning your adventure between October and April when the weather is absolutely dreamy.
During these summer months, you’ll enjoy temperatures in the comfortable 80s Fahrenheit rather than the scorching triple digits of summer. Perfect for exploring without looking like you just stepped out of a sauna!
November through March offers the best weather overall. We love visiting during this sweet spot when we can actually enjoy outdoor attractions without breaking a sweat!
2) Download the Careem App for Easy Rides
We cannot stress this enough – getting around Dubai is so much easier with the Careem app!
It’s basically Dubai’s version of Uber, and girl, it’s a total lifesaver!
With Careem, we can book rides in seconds or even schedule pickups for later. No more standing in the scorching Dubai heat trying to flag down a taxi!
The app lets us choose from different ride options to fit our budget and needs. Plus, it shows the fare upfront so there are no surprises later – we love transparency!
It’s not just for rides either. We can also use Careem to order food and groceries or even manage payments. Talk about convenience!
3) Dress Modestly in Public Areas
Ladies, let’s talk Dubai fashion! While Dubai is super modern, it’s still important to respect the local culture with your outfit choices.
You’ll want to pack clothes that cover your shoulders and knees for most public places. This is especially important when visiting government buildings or older areas.
We recommend bringing simple, comfortable clothing made of thin fabrics – Dubai gets HOT!
Think loose pants, below-knee skirts, and t-shirts that don’t show too much skin.
For the beach or hotel pools? No worries! Swimwear is totally fine in these areas. Just throw on a cover-up when heading back through public spaces.
4) Avoid Traveling During Summer Heat
Ladies, let’s talk about Dubai summers – they are NO JOKE!
The temperatures can soar between 37-39°C (or higher!), making outdoor activities practically impossible.
We’ve learned this the hard way! Dubai in summer is scorching hot, and you’ll find yourself bouncing from one air-conditioned space to another.
The humidity levels make it feel even worse than the thermometer shows.
For the best experience, we recommend planning your Dubai adventure during the cooler months.
Your makeup will thank you, and you’ll actually enjoy those gorgeous outdoor attractions!
5) Check Visa Requirements Before You Go
Ladies, let’s talk about uae visas!
Trust us, there’s nothing worse than arriving in Dubai only to be turned away at immigration. Been there, done that, and it’s not cute!
Your passport needs to be valid for at least six months beyond your arrival date in the UAE. This is non-negotiable!
Some of us might qualify for visa on arrival, while others need to apply in advance.
GCC citizens, you’re the lucky ones – no visa needed!
We recommend checking the Emirates website for the most up-to-date requirements.
Don’t forget to have valid health insurance too!
6) Explore Beyond the City Limits
Dubai is amazing, but some of our favorite memories came from venturing outside those skyscrapers and learning about local laws !
We totally recommend taking a day trip to Abu Dhabi to see the stunning Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque.
Want something wild? Book a desert safari!
We screamed our heads off during dune bashing and laughed till our cheeks hurt. The sunset views? Absolutely magical!
Don’t miss the chance to explore areas beyond the city.
From mountain adventures in Hatta to beach vibes in Fujairah, there’s so much more to the UAE than just Dubai’s glitz.
7) Respect Local Culture and Traditions
Dubai might be super modern, but it’s still part of a traditional Islamic country with its own customs. We need to be mindful of this when visiting!
Dress modestly in public places, especially religious sites and malls. Ladies, keep those shoulders and knees covered. Guys too!
Public displays of affection are a big no-no. We know it’s tempting to hold hands with your sweetie, but save the kisses for private spaces.
During Ramadan, be extra respectful of those fasting by not eating or drinking in public during daylight hours. It’s a small gesture that locals really appreciate!
8) Book Attraction Tickets in Advance
Ladies, trust us when we say that booking your Dubai attraction tickets ahead of time is a total game-changer!
Nothing ruins a vacation vibe faster than standing in looong lines under that desert sun.
One of the biggest mistakes we’ve seen travelers make is waiting until the last minute to snag tickets for popular spots like Burj Khalifa or the Dubai Aquarium.
Advance booking often means better prices than those last-minute purchases too!
We’re talking about attractions like the Dubai Frame, desert safaris, and The View at Palm.
Don’t let FOMO ruin your trip—grab those tickets early and strut past those long queues like the organized queens you are!
9) Stay Hydrated with Plenty of Water
Dubai heat is no joke, friends!
We can’t stress enough how important it is to drink plenty of water when visiting this gorgeous desert city.
The scorching temperatures can sneak up on you, and before you know it, you’re dealing with dehydration headaches (not the vacay vibe we’re going for!).
We recommend carrying a cute reusable water bottle everywhere.
Trust us, your body will thank you!
Planning outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon is our go-to strategy to avoid the peak heat and stay fresh.
Remember that those fancy cocktails by the pool don’t count as hydration! Water is your BFF in Dubai, so sip it constantly!
10) Try Local Emirati Cuisine
Ladies, we’re obsessed with the food scene in Dubai, especially the traditional arabic coffee !
When visiting, you absolutely must treat your taste buds to some authentic Emirati dishes. The local cuisine is packed with amazing flavors that will literally make your mouth water!
For the real deal, we highly recommend checking out Al Banoosh البانوش in Dubai.
It’s super underrated and won’t break the bank—total win-win!
Don’t miss trying the traditional Arabic coffee while you’re there.
It’s such a unique experience and gives you that perfect Instagram moment we all secretly want!
Trust us, diving into local foods is the best way to feel connected to Dubai’s amazing culture.
11) Choose Your Neighborhood Wisely
Picking the right area to stay in Dubai can make or break your vacation, trust us! We’ve learned this lesson the hard way, friends.
Dubai is definitely not a pedestrian-friendly city, so location really matters.
You’ll want to think about what you plan to do during your visit.
Are you all about those beach vibes? Downtown shopping? Something family-friendly? Each neighborhood has its own personality!
Choosing the right neighborhood means considering your daily routes and how close you’ll be to public transport.
No one wants to spend half their vacay stuck in Dubai traffic!
We recommend checking out popular areas like Downtown Dubai, Dubai Marina, or JBR depending on your vibe and budget.
12) Watch Out for Rush-Hour Traffic
Dubai traffic can get pretty wild during rush hours!
We’ve learned the hard way that mornings (7-9 AM) and evenings (5-7 PM) are absolute gridlock nightmares.
Going with the flow is our best advice.
Pick a lane and stick to it rather than constantly switching lanes hoping for a faster route.
We always try to visit attractions in the morning when there’s much less traffic.
This little hack gets us around quicker and helps avoid those massive tourist queues!
The Metro system is super clean and easy to use.
During weekday rush hours, it’s often our go-to option to avoid sitting in bumper-to-bumper traffic.
13) Stay at a Hotel with a Pool
Let’s be real – Dubai is HOT y’all!
After exploring the city in that desert heat, there’s nothing better than cooling off in a refreshing pool.
We absolutely love hotels with amazing pool views, like the 25hours Hotel Dubai One Central which travelers rave about!
If privacy is your jam, consider villas with private pools. How luxurious is that?! Swimming laps in your own personal oasis!
When choosing your hotel, check if the pool gets good sun exposure.
Trust us on this one – some hotels have pools tucked between buildings that barely see daylight.
Don’t forget to pack that cute swimsuit and enjoy some well-deserved relaxation time!
14) Visit the Dubai Mall for Retail Therapy
Ladies, get your wallets ready because Dubai Mall is a shopaholic’s dream come true!
This isn’t just any mall – it’s spread over 12 million square feet with more than 1200 stores! We’re talking serious retail therapy here.
But wait, there’s more than just shopping!
We can check out the Dubai Aquarium or zip up to the Burj Khalifa while we’re there. It’s like a mini Dubai tour all in one place!
This place is truly big, bold and beautiful, and we just can’t get enough of it, especially the friendly taxi drivers!
Trust us, plan at least half a day here – your shopping bags (and Instagram) will thank you!
15) Ride an Abra Across Dubai Creek
Girls, you absolutely cannot miss taking an abra ride across Dubai Creek!
These adorable wooden boats are the cutest way to get from Bur Dubai to Deira for just a few dirhams.
We loved how these traditional wooden ferries can carry about 20 people at once.
It’s like the most authentic (and budget-friendly!) Dubai experience ever.
The ride offers amazing views of the city’s skyline and gives us a glimpse into Dubai’s heritage before all those shiny skyscrapers popped up.
Plus, there are two main abra routes to choose from depending on which part of the creek you want to explore.
Perfect for those Instagram-worthy moments without breaking the bank! #TravelWin
16) Visit the Burj Khalifa Observation Deck
Standing tall as the world’s highest building, the Burj Khalifa is a must-see on your Dubai trip!
We absolutely loved our experience at the observation deck – it’s seriously breathtaking.
For the best views, we recommend visiting during sunset (between 4-7 PM) when you can catch the gorgeous Dubai Fountain show every 30 minutes.
The Burj Khalifa is open from 5am on weekends and 8am on weekdays until midnight.
Pro tip: book tickets in advance – this place gets packed!
Don’t forget your camera! The views from up there are totally Instagram-worthy.
Trust us, it’s worth every dirham!
17) Relax at Jumeirah Beach
Who’s ready for some beach time?
Jumeirah Beach is one of our absolute favorite spots in Dubai to unwind!
This gorgeous stretch of white sand runs along Dubai’s coast and is perfect for soaking up those rays.
We love that there are showers and changing rooms if you want to take a dip in the sea. The water is usually calm and super refreshing!
This beach isn’t just about lounging around (though we’re totally here for that too).
You’ll find tons of activities for all ages and the views of Dubai’s skyline are absolutely dreamy!
18) Take a Desert Safari Adventure
OMG, you guys! A trip to Dubai without a desert safari is like forgetting the cherry on top of your sundae – just not complete!
We absolutely LOVED the thrill of dune bashing when we visited. It’s like a roller coaster ride on sand dunes – hold onto your hats, ladies!
Don’t miss out on sandboarding and camel rides either. We were legit terrible at sandboarding but laughed the entire time!
The desert sunset views? Totally Instagram-worthy!
We suggest booking a package that includes a traditional dinner under the stars.
Trust us, the belly dancing shows and henna tattoos make for the most unforgettable evening!
19) Enjoy the Dubai Fountain Show
The Dubai Fountain is an absolute must-see when you’re in town! We couldn’t believe our eyes when we first saw this stunning water show. It’s set on the 30-acre Burj Lake and is over 900 feet long – that’s bigger than two football fields, y’all!
The fountain performs to different songs throughout the day, creating the most magical vibes.
We love hanging out at one of the nearby restaurants to catch the show while enjoying some yummy food.
Heads up, friends! The fountain will be closed from April 19th until September 30th, 2025 for maintenance. If you’re planning a trip soon, catch it before the closure!
For a truly special experience, try a traditional Abra boat ride across the lake.
Tickets start at just AED 73.25 ($20) per person. So worth it!
20) Shop at the Gold Souk
OMG, the Dubai Gold Souk is a MUST visit on your Dubai trip! It’s one of the oldest markets in Dubai with over 350 retailers selling tax-free gold jewelry. So shiny!
We love that it’s located in Deira, an area known for affordable shopping and yummy restaurants. Super convenient if you’re near the airport too!
Don’t forget to channel your inner bargain queen!
Prices are totally negotiable, so flex those haggling muscles.
We’ve found shops like Al Anwar often have pieces with zero making charge!
21) Capture Moments at Miracle Garden
Dubai Miracle Garden is a total must-see when you’re in the city! We couldn’t believe our eyes when we first visited this breathtaking oasis of floral extravagance.
Pro tip: Hit the garden early in the morning right when it opens.
Trust us, this is THE way to explore at your own pace and snap perfect pics without crowds photobombing your shots!
The garden has super cute designated photo op areas that are basically made for your Instagram.
With over 150 million flowers in all kinds of varieties, we guarantee you’ll capture memories that’ll make everyone back home totally jealous!
22) Experience a Dhow Cruise Dinner
Ladies, we can’t stress this enough – a dhow cruise dinner is a MUST when visiting Dubai! These traditional wooden boats offer the most magical evening experience along Dubai’s waterfront.
Most cruises include a semi-formal dress code, so pack something cute but comfortable. Nothing too fancy required!
The boats typically pick you up around 7pm, and you’ll enjoy dinner while cruising past Dubai’s stunning illuminated skyline.
We love that these cruises often include traditional entertainment too!
It’s such a refreshing break from the city crowds and a perfect way to see Dubai from a different angle.
23) Visit the Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo
Oh my goodness, we absolutely love this underwater paradise! The Dubai Aquarium is a must-see attraction that’ll leave you wide-eyed and amazed.
The entrance fee is about 80 dirhams (around $22), and guess what? Your ticket comes with a 10% discount for the gift shop! Talk about a little bonus!
For the best experience, we recommend checking out the visitor’s guide before you go.
There’s so much to see, including the adorable Penguin Cove that the kids will absolutely flip over!
Don’t forget your camera – those underwater tunnels make for some seriously Instagram-worthy shots!
24) Marvel at the Dubai Frame
The Dubai Frame is totally one of those can’t-miss attractions! We were blown away by this massive golden picture frame structure that perfectly frames old Dubai on one side and new Dubai on the other.
When you visit, try to arrive early to avoid crowds. We learned this the hard way after waiting in line for ages!
Glass-walled elevators take you up for the most incredible views.
Don’t forget your camera because the photo ops are seriously amazing!
We suggest dressing modestly out of respect for local customs.
The museum inside tells Dubai’s story in such a cool way. We spent way more time there than we planned because it was so interesting!
25) Spend a Day at Atlantis Aquaventure Waterpark
OMG, we’re obsessed with Atlantis Aquaventure! It’s literally the ultimate water playground in Dubai that we can’t stop talking about.
Pro tip: Book your tickets online and well in advance to avoid disappointment. Trust us, this place gets packed!
Get there early to beat the crowds and snag those perfect lounge chairs. We learned this the hard way after showing up at noon once – never again, ladies!
The park has over 105 slides and attractions, including the iconic Leap of Faith slide that’s both terrifying and exhilarating. We screamed our heads off!
Don’t forget to bring your own water bottles because buying them inside can get super expensive!
Understanding Dubai’s Culture and Etiquette
Dubai blends traditional Islamic values with modern global influences, creating a unique cultural landscape for visitors.
Getting familiar with local customs will help you avoid awkward moments and show respect to the locals who welcome millions of tourists each year.
Dress Code Tips
Let’s talk real talk about what to wear in Dubai!
The city is modern, but it’s still part of a conservative culture.
For women, we recommend covering shoulders and knees in public places. No need to stress—maxi dresses, lightweight pants, and modest tops are perfect (and cute!) for the hot weather.
Men should avoid going shirtless except at beaches or pools.
Quick tip: dress modestly and avoid tight or revealing clothing when exploring the city.
Shopping malls actually have dress codes posted at entrances! We were surprised too, but it’s totally normal there.
Pack a light scarf or pashmina—they’re super handy for women if you’re visiting mosques or more conservative areas.
Cultural Sensitivity
When we visited Dubai, we quickly learned that respecting local customs makes your trip way more enjoyable!
Public displays of affection are a big no-no—save those kisses for private spaces. Even holding hands can raise eyebrows in some areas, just like carrying prohibited medications!
During Ramadan, avoid eating, drinking, or smoking in public during daylight hours. It’s all about respecting those who are fasting!
Photography etiquette matters too. Always ask permission before taking photos of locals, especially women.
And steer clear of photographing government buildings—it could land you in hot water!
We found that learning a few Arabic phrases went a long way with locals.
Simple greetings like “Marhaba” (hello) and “Shukran” (thank you) brought us the warmest smiles!
Getting Around in Dubai
Navigating Dubai is easier than you might think thanks to clear street signs ! The city offers fantastic transportation options that can save you time and money while exploring all those amazing attractions.
Public Transportation Options
The Dubai Metro is seriously your BFF when visiting! It’s the fastest way to travel long distances across the city and super easy to use.
Trains come every few minutes, and the stations are clean and air-conditioned (thank goodness in that heat!).
For shorter trips, try the Dubai Tram which connects with the metro at certain stations. It’s perfect for getting around neighborhoods like Dubai Marina and JBR.
Don’t forget about buses! They reach places the metro doesn’t, though they might take longer.
Water taxis (abras) are our absolute favorite for crossing Dubai Creek – they’re cheap and give you that authentic Dubai experience. For just 1 AED, you’ll get amazing skyline views!
Car Rentals and Driving Tips
Thinking about renting a car? It’s a great option if you want flexibility!
The main highways like E311 and E611 are usually less congested than city center roads.
We recommend downloading navigation apps before your trip – Google Maps works well, but RTA Smart Drive is specifically made for Dubai’s roads.
Parking can be tricky in popular areas, so look for paid spots marked with blue or white lines. Most malls offer free parking for the first few hours – take advantage!
Gas is surprisingly affordable in Dubai, but traffic fines are STEEP. Stick to speed limits and avoid using your phone while driving.
If driving seems stressful, taxis are safe and reasonably priced. Just remember they might be hard to find during rush hour.
Diving into Dubai’s Food Scene
Dubai’s culinary landscape is as diverse as its population, offering everything from street food to luxury dining experiences, alongside numerous events . We’ve fallen in love with the flavors and traditions that make eating in Dubai an adventure all its own!
Must-Try Local Dishes
Let’s talk about the absolute stars of Dubai’s food scene!
Shawarma is a must-try – these delicious wraps filled with seasoned meat, veggies, and garlic sauce can be found on practically every corner. We always grab one for a quick lunch!
Al Machboos (or Kabsa) is another favorite – this fragrant rice dish cooked with meat and aromatic spices will transport your taste buds straight to flavor heaven.
Don’t miss these other local treasures:
Luqaimat: Sweet dumplings drizzled with date syrup and sesame seeds
Knafeh: Cheese pastry soaked in sweet syrup
Camel meat dishes: Unique to the region and surprisingly tender!
For a mix of cultures, the Global Village Dubai offers amazing street food options from around the world. We could spend days just eating our way through there!
Dining Etiquette
Navigating Dubai’s dining scene requires a bit of cultural awareness, but don’t worry – we’ve got you covered!
During Ramadan, be mindful that eating in public during daylight hours is discouraged.
When invited to a local’s home, it’s polite to remove your shoes and accept offered coffee or tea.
Using your right hand for eating is important as the left hand is considered unclean in Arab culture.
In restaurants, modest dress is appreciated, especially in more traditional establishments.
While tipping isn’t mandatory, leaving 10-15% for good service is a nice gesture.
For budget-friendly authentic meals, we love spots like Ravi Restaurant for Pakistani food or Al Mallah for Lebanese treats!
These places give you the real deal without breaking the bank.
