Dubai is the most populous city in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and the capital of the Emirate of Dubai, the most populated of the 7 emirates of the UAE.
Before you travel, here are some essential tips and information to help you make the most of your trip:
Visa:
The visa rules vary depending on your nationality, so check the official UAE government website for up-to-date information. Citizens of many countries can get a visa on arrival, while others might need to apply for a visa in advance.
Weather:
Dubai has a desert climate, which means it can get extremely hot during the summer months (from May to September).
Best Time To Visit:
The best time to visit Dubai is during the winter months (November to March) when the weather is more pleasant and cooler. Avoid visiting during the scorching hot summer months as temperatures can reach extreme highs.
Clothing:
Dubai is a modern and cosmopolitan city, but it’s still important to respect local customs and traditions. While you can wear Western-style clothing, it’s recommended to dress modestly, especially in public places and religious sites. It is respectful to cover your shoulders and knees in these places.
Respect Local Customs:
Dubai is a Muslim city, and it’s essential to respect local customs and traditions. Avoid public displays of affection, public intoxication, and any behavior that may be considered offensive.
Public Displays of Affection:
Public displays of affection are not allowed in Dubai. Holding hands is generally accepted for married couples but avoid anything more intimate in public.
Dubai has strict laws and regulations, so it’s essential to be mindful of your behavior.
Currency:
The currency used in Dubai is the United Arab Emirates Dirham (AED). Most establishments accept major credit cards, but it’s a good idea to carry some cash for small purchases and in case you visit places that don’t accept cards.
Language:
Arabic is the official language, but English is widely spoken and understood, especially in tourist areas.
Public Transportation:
Dubai has an extensive and modern public transportation system, including the Dubai Metro, buses, and taxis. Taxis are a convenient and popular mode of transportation for tourists.
Attractions:
Dubai offers a wide range of attractions, such as the Burj Khalifa (the tallest building in the world), the Dubai Mall, the Palm Jumeirah, Dubai Marina, and the historic district of Al Fahidi.
Safety:
Dubai is generally a safe city for travelers. However, it’s always a good idea to take standard precautions like keeping an eye on your belongings and avoiding poorly lit or unfamiliar areas at night.
Respect Ramadan:
If you plan to visit during the holy month of Ramadan, be aware that many restaurants and cafes will be closed during daylight hours. Public behavior rules are more strictly enforced during this period, so it’s important to be respectful of local customs.
Stay Hydrated:
The desert climate can be extremely hot and dry, so make sure to drink plenty of water and keep yourself hydrated at all times.
Friday Brunch:
Friday brunch is a popular tradition in Dubai. Many hotels and restaurants offer lavish brunch buffets with various cuisines and unlimited beverages. It’s a great way to experience local and international dishes.
Shopping:
Dubai is known for its shopping opportunities. From traditional souks to massive malls, you’ll find a wide range of products. Remember that haggling is common in the souks.
Beach Etiquette:
While Dubai has beautiful beaches, be mindful of the local customs and dress codes. Bikinis are acceptable on public beaches, but topless sunbathing is not allowed.
Alcohol Consumption:
Drinking alcohol is permitted at licensed establishments such as hotels, bars, and restaurants. However, public intoxication and drinking in public places are strictly prohibited.
Photography:
Always ask for permission before taking photos of people, especially locals, as some may find it offensive.
By keeping these tips in mind, you can have a fantastic time exploring the vibrant city of Dubai and experiencing its unique culture and attractions.
Remember to check for any updated travel advisories or guidelines before your trip. Enjoy your time in Dubai and make the most of your experiences in this vibrant city!
Now that you are planning on traveling overseas and want to stay in touch with your family and friends, or need to stay connected on your business trip, how do you avoid excessive roaming fees? Ever considered an eSIM? Download the Red Bull MOBILE Data App to avoid expensive fees.
eSIMs also allow for more flexible mobile plans, as users can switch carriers or plans without needing to physically swap SIM cards. This can be especially useful for international travel, as users can switch to a local carrier or data plan without needing to purchase a new SIM card.
How do you get an eSIM?
With an eSIM you do not need to physically swap out SIM cards to stay connected to the internet and avoid expensive roaming charges.
Simply download the Red Bull MOBILE Data app, choose your data plan for your destination, and follow the instructions on how to activate the Red Bull MOBILE eSIM data plan. Your device will prompt you to set up your eSIM, which typically involves selecting a mobile plan and confirming your activation. Once your account is activated you are ready to connect to the world without any basic or roaming fees. You will be able to email, chat, set up video conferencing and use your social media accounts. Connecting with your family and friends around the globe is instantaneous.
You don’t have to switch out SIM cards, just switch to your eSIM plan for data on your device while traveling and when you get back you just switch to your regular SIM card.
Are there more advantages to an eSIM other than traveling around the globe?
One of the many advantages of an eSIMs is that it can support multiple profiles, allowing you to use different carriers or plans on the same device. This can be useful if you travel frequently or have different needs for different situations. You could use it to separate your business account from your personal account for emails and phone calls by switching between those profiles. Please note, you can only use one profile at a time.
Another advantage of an eSIM is that you can access the Red Bull MOBILE Data app wherever you are. So if your travel plans change or you decide to go to a new country simply log in to the app, and choose a new destination and bundle, and you are all set!
Do all devices support eSIM?
Not all devices support eSIM, so you should check if your device is compatible with eSIM technology. You can usually find this information in the device specifications under Settings.
iOS devices: Go to Settings > Mobile Data or Cellular Data, if you have the Add Mobile Plan or Add Data Plan option, your iPhone supports eSIM.
Supported devices include iPhone XS, XR and newer models
Android devices: Go to Settings > Connections > SIM card manager. If you have the “Add mobile plan” option, your smartphone supports eSIM.
The majority of newer Android smartphones are supported including the Samsung Galaxy S20 or newer models, Google Pixel 3 or newer models, Huawei P40 and many more.
It’s worth noting that the exact steps to use an eSIM may vary slightly depending on your device and mobile carrier. So, it’s always a good idea to refer to the specific instructions provided by your carrier and device manufacturer.
Here are some tips on how to avoid expensive fees with eSIM for traveling:
Turn off automatic app updates: To avoid unnecessary data usage, turn off automatic app updates on your phone. This can be done in your phone’s settings.
Turn off background data: Many apps use data in the background even when you’re not actively using them. To avoid unnecessary data usage, turn off background data for apps that you don’t need.
Use a data monitoring app: Download a data monitoring app that can help you keep track of your data usage. This can help you avoid exceeding your data plan and incurring additional fees.
By following these tips, you can avoid expensive fees with eSIM for traveling and stay connected without breaking the bank.
Have a fantastic trip to Dubai!
