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Elegant Traveller

Our Dubai Travel Guide For First Timer Visitors

schedule3 Minute Read

18-Nov-2025 Mark Martin

Our Dubai Travel Guide For First Timer Visitors

Learn everything you need about Dubai prior to travelling to the country with our in-depth guide to the best attractions, hotels, activities & tours.

Welcome to our definitive travel guide to Dubai, where our luxury travel specialists answer all of the questions we get asked most frequently by tourists who are planning to visit the dazzling city for the first time.
Whether you're planning an indulgent escape, a family holiday or a romantic retreat, this Dubai travel guide will steer you toward the finest resorts, the best experiences and the essential tips that ensure your stay lives up to the impeccable reputation Dubai has as a luxury holiday destination. Let's start off by answering one of the most basic questions.

Is Dubai a good holiday destination?

ER

Yes, absolutely. Dubai blends ultra modern infrastructure with rich culture, endless sunshine, world-class dining and thrilling attractions. It is a place where futuristic skyscrapers jostle with traditional souks, where pristine beaches meet artificial islands and where luxury is expressed in detail everywhere. For travellers who crave both excitement and relaxation, from desert safaris and waterparks to spa escapes and fine dining, Dubai delivers by the bucket load.

What do tourists need to know before going to Dubai?

ER

Before your departure, there are a few practicalities and cultural notes that are worth knowing in order to smooth your journey:

  • - Visas & Entry: Many nationalities receive visa on arrival or e-visa. Check the UAE government portal to confirm your eligibility, especially post-COVID.
  • - Dress code and cultural sensitivity: Dubai is cosmopolitan, but modest dress is respectful outside beach and pool areas. In malls, heritage sites or in Ramadan, avoid overly revealing attire.
  • - Currency and tipping: The dirham (AED) is used. Tipping is customary in hotels, restaurants, and for Dubai travel guides. Typically a tip of 10-15 % is offered.
  • - Health and safety: Dubai is very safe, with excellent medical facilities. Tap water is generally safe, though bottled water is standard.
  • - Transport and mobility: The metro, tram, taxis, ride-share (Careem, Uber) and resort transfers provide excellent connectivity around the city and between resorts.
  • - Cultural rules & laws: Public displays of affection should be discreet. Alcohol is served in licensed venues only. Photography of certain government buildings or locals (especially women) without permission should be avoided.
  • - Electricity & connectivity: Voltage is 230 V, 50 Hz, and sockets are British-style three-pin. Luxury hotels and resorts in the Elegant Resorts portfolio will offer complimentary Wi-Fi internet access.
Adhering to these essentials will ensure that your journey to Dubai will unfold as smoothly as possible, leaving you free to enjoy the parts of your holiday that matter.

What is the Best Time to Visit Dubai?

ER

The best time to visit Dubai is typically between November and April. It is during this period that daytime temperatures usually hover between the mid 20 and low 30 degree mark. This makes Dubai winter breaks incredibly popular. Summers in Dubai are typically extremely hot. However, you will be able to hide away from the heat by taking advantage of the air conditioning facilities which are available in all luxury hotels and the majority of indoor attractions.

Is Dubai good for kids & families?

ER

Yes, Dubai is extremely family friendly. Holiday resorts in Dubai are usually replete with children's clubs, play areas, water parks, kids' menus in restaurants and babysitting services. Many of the best attractions in Dubai are also designed to entertain younger visitors: think Legoland, aquariums, thrilling theme parks, water parks, dolphin shows, desert safaris and interactive museums. A family holiday in Dubai offers the perfect balance of adventure and relaxation. Adults can luxuriate in spa treatments or fine dining while children are engaged in supervised kids clubs. Dubai is one of the rare destinations where luxury and family fun truly coexist seamlessly.

Where is the Best Place to Stay in Dubai for the First Time?

ER

For first-time visitors seeking a luxurious base, Palm Jumeirah and Downtown / Burj Khalifa district are excellent choices. On Palm Jumeirah, you enjoy beachfront elegance with calm water, resort privacy and spectacular sea views; it's ideal for resort lovers who want immediate access to beach life and water sports. Meanwhile, the Downtown district places you in the heart of Dubai's iconic skyline: steps from the Dubai Mall, Dubai Fountain and the Burj Khalifa. Both zones allow easy access to the rest of the city. Elegant Resorts offers flagship properties in these enclaves, combining sumptuous rooms with concierge-led excursions to maximize your first impression of Dubai.

What are the Best Places to Stay in Dubai for Families?

ER

For families, the ideal resort will typically combine space, activities, safety and convenience. Some standout neighbourhoods and resorts are matching these criteria in Dubai are:

  • - The Palm: Many holiday resorts here are purpose-built for family enjoyment, offering waterparks, kids' clubs and interconnecting suites.
  • - Jumeirah Beach: Close to iconic attractions like Burj Al Arab and Wild Wadi Water Park, these beachfront resorts make it easy to juggle relaxation and exploration.
  • - Jebel Ali coast: Offers quieter, more expansive holiday resorts with sprawling grounds ideal for children to roam.
Some of the best hotels in Dubai for families within these regions include Atlantis The Palm, with its Aquaventure waterpark and marine life attractions, and Jumeirah Zabeel Saray with its expansive children's play zones.

What are the Best Places to Stay in Dubai for Couples?

ER

For couples seeking romance, serenity, and luxurious intimacy, the following Dubai regions stand out:

  • - Outer crescent of Palm Jumeirah: A quieter, romantic beachfront setting with sweeping views, exclusive villas or suites, and secluded ambiance.
  • - Dubai Marina / JBR (Jumeirah Beach Residence): Offers a chic, cosmopolitan vibe with waterfront promenades, upscale dining, and romantic night cruises.
  • - The Creek / Al Bastakiya area (in combination with boutique luxury): For couples interested in blending heritage charm with high-end comfort, boutique stays near Dubai Creek or Al Fahidi historical district bring romance through winding lanes, wind towers, and creekside dinners.
  • - Desert retreats/overnight camps: A desert resort or luxury camp outside the main city allows couples to escape, stargaze and enjoy privacy away from the bustle.
Elegant Resorts can spotlight properties in these areas that deliver graceful, romantic stays enhanced by curated excursions and tailor made experiences such as private yacht cruises, sunset desert dinners and couples' spa rituals. Get in touch with one of our luxury travel specialists for more bespoke suggestions on the best accommodation for you and your loved one.

What are the Best Places to Visit in Dubai for Tourists?

ER

When building your bespoke holiday itinerary, there are a number fantastic visitor attractions in Dubai to take into consideration:

  • Burj Khalifa & Downtown Dubai: Climb to the observation decks, shop in the Dubai Mall and watch the dancing fountain show. Palm Jumeirah & Atlantis: Visit the hotel's aquarium and waterpark, stroll along the crescent and take a monorail ride.
  • Dubai Marina: Enjoy the promenade, beaches, boat tours and al fresco dining in some of the fabulous restaurants in Dubai marina.
  • The Dubai Creek and Al Fahidi Historic Neighbourhood: enjoy a cruise on a traditional boat, explore the gold and spice souks and visit the Dubai Museum.
  • Dubai Miracle Garden: A vast floral spectacle featuring tens of millions of blooms.
  • IMG Worlds of Adventure: A giant indoor theme park making for a cool indoor attraction for families away from the heat.
  • Dubai Theme Parks & Resorts (Legoland, Motiongate, Riverland): A cluster of incredible entertainment venues which are ideal for full-day family adventure.
  • Wild Wadi Water Park: Right next to Burj Al Arab, the Wild Wadi Water Park is perfect for fun in the sun with plenty of slides and adventures to be had.
  • Dubai Dolphinarium & Children's City / Creek Park area: Enjoy marine shows and family entertainment by the creek.

What are the Best Things to Do in Dubai?

ER

Beyond sightseeing and theme parks, there are plenty of thrilling experiences in Dubai to be had. These experiences can be tailored to your exact requirements with a bespoke itinerary of excursions and activities which are perfectly suited to you and your family. You could enjoy a desert safari where you can venture into the dunes for 4x4 adventures, camel rides, sandboarding, falconry displays and traditional Arabian dinners under the stars. From the city, you can take a helicopter or seaplane flight for aerial views of The Palm, World Islands and coastline. Other seabased adventures include scenic cruises from Dubai Marina. Alternatively, the city also offers luxury malls (Mall of the Emirates & Dubai Mall) and traditional souks where you'll find spices, gold products and textiles for a more traditional experience. For a more cultural experience, you can head to Alserkal Avenue in Al Quoz for galleries, art showcases and inviting cafes. The more adventurous amongst you can go jet skiing, kite surfing or head out onto one of the world renowned golf courses. Many of the luxury holiday resorts in Dubai also have their own luxury spas where you can treat yourself to relaxation therapies or beauty treatments. This can be rounded out by dining in one of the Michelin star restaurants, some of which offer rooftop terraces where you can enjoy panoramic views. If views are something you crave, then you can head to Ain Dubai, home to the world's tallest observation wheel for panoramic views of the surrounding region.

What are the Best Things to do with Kids in Dubai?

ER

Dubai is a real wonderland for children. Headlining the list of family friendly attractions are the many Dubai theme parks and resorts such as Legoland Dubai which offers rides that are perfectly tailored to younger children. IMG Worlds of Adventure is another indoor thrill zone, perfect for families with children of all ages.Even the adults are sure to have fun here, with there being six different zones with rides aimed at all ages. This includes sections devoted to Cartoon Network series and Marvel characters. There are more thrills to be had at the outdoor Wild Wadi waterpark which has over 30 different unique rides and attractions. This is in addition to a wide choice of eating establishments so that you can make a real day of it. At Dubai Dolphinarium, kids can watch dolphin and seal shows and even participate in interactive sessions. Also make sure that you don't miss Miracle Garden for a whimsical, floral world that delights all ages. While the adults sunbathe on JBR beach, the children can enjoy the mini fairground, games and cinema on JBR promenade. Alternatively, if the adults are in the mood for some retail therapy at the Mall of the Emirates, the younger members of the family can have fun at the Magic Planet family entertainment centre which offers games, simulators and soft play areas. These brilliant activities will fill your children's days with magic while giving parents a much needed moment of rest.

What are the best day excursions to take in Dubai?

ER

If you want to venture beyond your holiday resort, then there are a number of different day excursions in Dubai to take into consideration. Here are some of the most popular:

  • - Overnight Desert Safari - experience sunrises, sand dunes, traditional Bedouin camps, stargazing and dining under the clear nights sky;
  • - Day Trip to Abu Dhabi - Visit the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, Louvre Abu Dhabi and the attractions at Yas Island which includes Ferrari World and Warner Bros Studios.
  • - Hatta Excursion - Go to the Hajar Mountains, visit the Hatta Dam, Hatta Heritage Village or go mountain biking
  • - Dubai Creek Visit & Heritage Tour - Combine an Abra ride, souks, lunch in old Dubai and a guided walk of Al Fahidi.
  • - Al Aim Day Trip - Visit the Al Ain Oasis, Jebel Hafeet and the famous Camel Market.
The luxury travel designers at Elegant Resorts can create tailor made tours for our distinguished clients so that they can see and experience the attractions that are most important to them without wasting any effort planning the trip. We'll use our first hand knowledge and experience to create the perfect Dubai day trips and excursions which are bespoke to you.

What are the best restaurants in Dubai?

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Dubai's culinary scene is dazzlingly diverse and high calibre, with a range of different eateries made up of Michelin star restaurants, family friendly diners and scenic establishments with rooftop bars and lounges offering panoramic views. A few of the most noteworthy restaurants in Dubai includes Burj Khalifa; Al Mahara at Burj Al Arab for underwater elegance; Pai Thai for romantic dhow-canal dining; Nobu at Atlantis for Japanese-Peruvian fusion by the sea; Zuma in DIFC for chic Japanese contemporary and rooftop bars or lounges such as Level 43 Sky Lounge, Iris Dubai, or Melia Sky Lounge for skyline vistas. Some of the luxury hotels in Dubai within the Elegant Resort collection also offer their own incredible restaurants. This includes One&Only The Palm which has three exceptional restaurants, the most highly regarded of which is Stay by Yannick Alleno which boasts two Michelin stars thanks to the quality of the French cuisine that it offers.

Are Dubai and Abu Dhabi in the same country?

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Yes. Dubai and Abu Dhabi are both emirates within the United Arab Emirates (UAE) - a federation of seven emirates including Sharjah, Ajman, Ras Al Khaimah, Fujairah and Umm Al Quwain.

What is the distance between Abu Dhabi and Dubai?

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The driving distance between Dubai and Abu Dhabi is around 80 miles, which takes approximately 1 hour 15 minutes to complete by car, depending on traffic.

Tailor Made Dubai Holidays with Elegant Resorts

When planning your Dubai holiday, Elegant Resorts excels in weaving together luxury accommodation, bespoke excursions and exclusive touches. In every answer above you can imagine how your stay can be elevated: a private airport transfer, room upgrades, curated day tours, priority bookings at top restaurants, helicopter flights, spa packages and VIP tickets the best attractions all organised by our luxury travel specialists.
All you need to do is tell us your preferences and requirements and our luxury travel specialists will get to work, utilising their first hand knowledge and contacts in the region to create a tailor made getaway that is beyond imagination. Get the exciting planning process started today by getting in touch with our team.
Mark Martin

Mark Martin

SEO Consultant

An experienced marketing professional who has been fortunate enough to work in the travel industry since 2010. Over this time I've developed an increasing thirst for travel, particularly to holiday destinations which allow me to indulge my love of motorsport.

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