What to Pack for Dubai?
- Clothing:
- Lightweight, breathable tops (5-7) in neutral colors
- Linen trousers, airy pants, modest shorts or capris (3-4)
- Maxi dresses, long skirts, or midi skirts (3-5)
- Evening wear for fancy dinners or nightlife (2-3 outfits)
- Swimsuits (2) and cover-ups for beach or pool
- Light jacket or sweater for cooler evenings and air-conditioned places
- Comfortable walking shoes and sandals
- Scarf or pashmina for covering shoulders or during cool evenings
- Sun hat, sunglasses, and suncream for protection from the sun
- Essentials:
- Passport (valid for at least 6 months), visa (if required), and copies of important documents
- Toiletries and medications (with prescriptions)
- Water bottle
- Tech accessories (chargers, adapters, power bank)
- Modest clothing for visiting religious sites
- Type G plug adapter (UK-style 3-pin plug)
What to Expect from Dubai?
- Clean, modern, and safe city
- English is widely spoken
- Strict law enforcement — follow rules
- Weather: Hot most of the year; Nov–Feb is pleasant
- Taxis and public transport are reliable
- Air-conditioned everywhere — carry a light cover-up
Where to Shop?
- Dubai Mall – Luxury, global brands, and attractions
- Mall of the Emirates – Fashion + Ski Dubai
- Gold & Spice Souk – Traditional Dubai experience
- Meena Bazaar – Affordable Indian shopping & tailoring
- Global Village – Seasonal cultural shopping & food
- Ibn Battuta Mall - Themed sections, 275+ shops
- Dubai Flea Market - Affordable gifts and local finds
Where to Eat?
- Budget Options
- Al Mallah (Shawarma)
- Ravi Restaurant (Pakistani)
- Karak House (Tea & snacks)
- Indian Favorites
- Rajdhani Street
- Biryani Pot
- Saravana Bhavan
- Mid to Premium
- Zuma (Japanese)
- Pierchic (Seafood)
- Tresind Studio
- For Vegetarians
- Sagar Ratna
- Maharaja Bhog
- Cream Centre
Where to Buy Water Bottles? Water Bottles are costly in Dubai.
- Supermarkets: Carrefour, Lulu, Spinneys
- Convenience stores: Baqala shops on almost every street
Tip: Buy a 6-pack to save money. Tourist spots overcharge.
Popular Vegetarian and Vegan Restaurants in Dubai
- SEVA Cafe - 100% vegan, gluten-free, plant-based dishes, Located at Jumeirah 1
- Plantoholic Kitchen & Coffee Bar - Large vegan menu including sushi, burgers, wraps, Located at Palm Jumeirah
- Vegan Burger - 100% plant-powered burgers and comfort food, Located at Dubai Mall
- Planet Terra Vegan Cafe - Organic vegan dishes, seasonal and locally sourced The Greens, Located at Ibis World Trade Centre
- Wild & The Moon - Vegan, organic, gluten-free, superbowls, juices, Located at Downtown Dubai, DIFC, Alserkal Avenue
- Dobro Top Vegan - Vegan pita sandwiches, bowls, burgers, unique dishes, Located at Jumeirah Lake Towers (JLT)
- Avatara - Fine dining, all-vegetarian MICHELIN-starred Indian food, Located at Dubai
- Sangeetha Vegetarian Restaurant - Budget-friendly Indian vegetarian and vegan options, Located at Al Karama
- Raagam Vegetarian Restaurant - South Indian, North Indian vegetarian cuisine, Located at Oud Metha
- Bombay Basera - Pure vegetarian Indian cuisine, Located at Dubai
Airport & Immigration Tips
- Carry passport (6+ months validity), UAE visa, hotel voucher, return ticket
- E-visa printout accepted
- Expect immigration queues — keep documents handy
- SIM cards available at airport (Du / Etisalat)
Useful Apps
- RTA Dubai – Metro, buses, taxis
- Dubai Now – City services
- Talabat / Zomato – Food delivery
- Google Maps – Accurate navigation (Download Offline Map)
Currency & Payments
- Currency: AED (UAE Dirham)
- Cards accepted almost everywhere
- Exchange money at malls or Meena Bazaar for better rates
Family-Friendly Tips
- Attractions like Aquarium, Desert Safari, Miracle Garden, Dubai Parks are great for kids
- Diapers and baby food easily available
- Malls have clean family restrooms and stroller rental
Precautions to Take
- Respect dress codes in public and religious places
- Avoid public displays of affection
- Do not drink alcohol in public areas
- Do not take photos of locals, especially women, without permission
- Littering, smoking in non-designated areas, and chewing gum in metro are fined
- Avoid heated arguments or public disputes
Things to Ignore or Avoid
- Unlicensed taxis or street sellers
- Unofficial currency exchange
- Activities or offers that sound “too good to be true”
- Eating/drinking in public during Ramadan (daytime)
Final Travel Reminders
- Stay hydrated and use sunscreen often
- Plan fewer activities per day to avoid exhaustion
- Carry passport copy or Emirates ID when stepping out
- Be punctual — especially for SIC (shared) tours and pickups