3. Dubai
Please note all prices and currency conversions are approximate at time of writing.
A major finance and trade hub, Dubai is a desert oasis that doubles as a magnet for international travellers who desire lavish hotels, retail indulgence and a vibrant nightlife. The city’s breathtaking architecture is a stand-out feature.
Getting around
Dubai’s public transport is modern and safe. Get the official RTA Dubai app to check metro schedules. Taxis are plentiful and metered, while ride-sharing apps such as Uber and Careem are also available (consider Careem’s dedicated business service for extra comfort). Buses cover the city.
Travel from the airport to downtown Dubai by red line train for AED8, by taxi for roughly AED60, or by bus for AED5.
nol Cards are also a good travel payment option.
Local tastes
Catering to 200 nationalities and many travellers, Dubai’s food scene is truly international.
21Grams: Start with breakfast or brunch at this unpretentious bistro near Jumeirah Beach, where pindjur eggs — poached eggs in slow-roasted tomato and pepper relish — are a favourite.
Aseelah: Head to Aseelah for genuine Emirati fare, local ingredients and belly dancing. This awardwinning, stylish restaurant in the Radisson Blu Hotel on Dubai Creek is known for its seafood dishes and decadent desserts.
Zuma: The black cod is a globally recognised dish at this buzzing Japanese restaurant. Popular with businesspeople for brunch, lunch and dinner.
Where to stay
From high-end retreats to comfortable business hotels, there are plenty of places to stay in Dubai.
Raffles, The Palm: Raffles is a recreation of an 18th century European palace on the Palm Jumeirah archipelago. With eight restaurants, a private yoga studio and a beach club offering access to a private coastline, this is the place to relax — for a price.
Rove Downtown: A budget-friendly yet stylish hotel with co-working spaces, Rove has a self-service laundry and an energetic vibe — great for startups and freelancers on a budget.
25Hours Hotel One Central: A trendy hub for creatives and businesspeople, this hotel has co-working spaces, a podcast recording room and a rooftop pool with bean bags.
Where to play
Explore Emirati culture, world-class galleries and museums, or wander through ancient souks (marketplaces).
Burj Khalifa: Marvel at the views from one of two observation decks in this 829m-tall engineering masterpiece — the world’s tallest building. Ticket prices start at AED179 for adults and AED145 for children aged 3–8.
IBN Battuta Mall: Inspired by adventurer Ibn Battuta, this gigantic mall has been designed so each section is themed around a different country. Covering an area of 521,000 square metres, it is the largest themed shopping centre in the world.
Al Fahidi Historical District: Experience old Dubai with a walk through twisting streets in this historic neighbourhood.
Calligraphy House (specialising in Arabic calligraphy) and the Coins Museum are worth a visit.
Insider tip
Taxis are colourcoded. A yellow roof can be hailed, a pink roof is for women and children, and a green roof is a hybrid vehicle.
