Dubai, UAE – Smart Travel Guide 2025
Why Dubai
Dubai is all about contrast: desert and skyscrapers, souks and luxury malls, beaches and rooftop bars. It’s pricier than most Asian spots, but with good planning you can still visit on a mid-range budget.
Average Daily Costs
Coffee: €3–5
Meal at a mall food court: €7–12
Mid-range restaurant dinner: €15–30
Taxi in the city: from €5–10 for shorter rides
Metro ride: around €1–3 depending on distance
Getting Around
Metro – fast and clean, great for reaching many tourist areas and the airport.
Taxi / Uber / Careem – widely available and safe.
Trams & monorail – serve Marina, JBR and Palm.
Money & eSIM
Currency: UAE Dirham (AED).
Cards accepted almost everywhere; you’ll need cash mostly in small shops and older souks.
eSIM / SIM: Etisalat and Du have tourist packages at the airport.
📱 Best eSIM for Travelers
Staying connected abroad is easier (and cheaper) with an eSIM.
You can activate it instantly — no physical SIM card, no store visits, and no passport checks.
Why travelers prefer eSIM:
Works immediately after purchase
Keeps your Irish/UK SIM active for calls & banking
No roaming fees
Fast 4G/5G in most destinations
Perfect for short trips or long stays
👉 For the best worldwide eSIM deals, click here.
💡 Which eSIM to choose?
Most travelers pick plans based on:
Data allowance (3GB, 5GB, 10GB, unlimited)
Trip length (7–30 days)
Region (Asia-only, Europe-only, Global eSIM)
Speed (4G vs 5G)
Global eSIMs are great if you visit several countries in one trip — no need to switch SIM cards.
🛠 How to activate your eSIM
Takes 1 minute:
Buy the eSIM online
Scan the QR code
Turn on “Data Roaming”
Start using data instantly
No contracts. No hidden charges.
🔐 Stay safe while traveling
Many hotels, cafés and airports have slow or risky Wi-Fi.
An eSIM gives you a secure connection everywhere — useful for:
Google Maps
WhatsApp
Banking apps
Flight check-ins
Booking transport
💬 My recommendation
If you travel a lot (like you do), choose a regional or global eSIM — they work in dozens of countries and save time.
Best Time to Visit
November–March – daytime temps ~25–30°C, ideal for beaches and sightseeing.
June–September – extreme heat; you’ll spend most time indoors, but hotels are cheaper.
Top Things to Do
1. Burj Khalifa & Dubai Mall Fountain Show
Enjoy breathtaking city views from the world’s tallest building and end the day with the famous dancing fountain show outside Dubai Mall.
Click here to book your tickets.
2. Dubai Marina & JBR Beach Promenade
A modern waterfront with cafés, restaurants, and a lively beach area. Perfect for walking, relaxing, and enjoying the skyline.
Click here for activities and tours.
3. Old Dubai – Deira, Gold & Spice Souks, Abra Ride
Step into Dubai’s traditional side: explore historic markets, colourful spices, and take a classic abra boat across the creek.
Click here to plan your Old Dubai tour.
4. Desert Safari
Experience dune bashing, camel rides, sunset views, dinner, and a cultural evening in the desert. A must-do adventure.
Click here to book your safari experience.
5. Day Trip to Abu Dhabi – Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque
Visit one of the most beautiful mosques in the world, known for its white marble, pools, and peaceful atmosphere.
Click here for Abu Dhabi day tours.
Safety & Etiquette
Very safe, including at night, but always respect local laws.
Dress modestly in malls and old town; beachwear is for beaches and pools.
Avoid drinking alcohol in public; only in licensed venues.
Affiliate Spots
Flights to Dubai,
hotel search in Marina / Downtown /
