Dubai

Arriving at Dubai Airport

Dubai Airport is located 4.6km east of Dubai city and has three main terminals. Emirates and Qantas flights arrive at Terminal 3 and all other international airlines arrive at Terminal 1. There’s a free 24-hour shuttle bus service should you need to travel between the terminals. Passengers travelling between Terminal 1 and 3 can also use the metro.

You will find taxi ranks at all 3 terminals, with taxis waiting 24 hours a day seven days a week. Beware that you will receive a surcharge on journeys from the airport. A more affordable way to travel to the city centre is via the metro. You will find metro stations in both Terminals 1 and 3 - with just two lines to choose from it makes navigation on the network easy. When boarding the metro, please note the front carriage is reserved as first class and there is also a carriage reserved for women and children only.

You will also find local buses or pre-book your transfer with HolidayTaxis and avoid the queues when you arrive.

What to expect in Dubai

World-class shopping, dining and entertainment attractions, beautiful beaches, mysterious deserts and culturally-rich heritage sites – Dubai is a city that needs to be seen to be believed.

UAE is a Muslim country but it’s not as conservative as you might expect. Dress as you would do in Europe: shorts and skirts are fine, and there’s no need for a burkini or to cover your hair.

Dubai enjoys a sub-tropical climate, split into two seasons. Summer lasts from April – October and brings extremely high temperatures and humidity to the city. June – October can bring temperatures of up to 50°C, which can often feel unbearable. Winter months are slightly cooler and the best time to visit for some winter sun.

Culture in Dubai

Dubai is a Muslim country, where kissing, cuddling, and even holding hands in public are not only frowned upon, but actually illegal. It is not uncommon for naïve foreigners to be arrested for committing indecent acts. Drinking alcohol in public is also prohibited (except at licensed establishments), as is giving someone the middle finger. Committing any of these offenses may see you fined, stripped of your passport, and/or thrown in jail.

It’s not all business and skyscrapers here. Learn Dubai’s rich history in its top-class museums, stroll the narrow streets of charming Old Dubai, and take in the sight and smells at one of the city’s many markets.

Dubai celebrates various festivals and events throughout the year, the majority of which are focused on religion. Here, Islam is more than just a religion, it is a way of life that governs even the smallest of everyday events, from marriages to what to eat and drink. You will find other miscellaneous events though, like the Dubai Shopping Festival, the Dubai International Jazz Festival and even Dubai Rugby Sevens.

Check out our travel guide to Dubai for more great things to do in the city.