International · United Arab Emirates
Dubai
Skyline, desert, and a long Gulf coastline.
Ideal length
5–7 days
Bespoke from
₹2.2L / pax
Time zone
GMT +4
Visa
eVisa, 4 days
Featured packages
Featured packages for Dubai.
The Place
Dubai is easy to do badly. We design a Dubai that's mostly off the brochure: a dawn balloon over the Hajar Mountains, a private dhow in Khor Fakkan, dinner at a chef's table in Alserkal. The Burj is optional.
Language
Arabic, English
Plug
Type G · 220V
Tipping
10% standard; 5% added at restaurants
Tap water
Drinkable but bottled preferred
Best time
November to March
Getting there
Three-hour direct flights from most Indian metros
Currency
AED
Why we go
Three reasons Dubai stays on our atlas.
When to go
Signature experiences
The reasons you came for, and a few you didn't.
DesertEmpty Quarter private camp
Two nights in a Bedu-style camp at the Liwa dunes: silence, stars, falconry.
WellnessHatha & Hatta
Yoga sunrise then a kayak through the green-blue lake at Hatta Dam.
CultureAlserkal Avenue gallery night
The contemporary-art quarter: galleries, a Cinema for film clubs, a Friday-night chef's table.
HeritageOld Dubai walking tour
Al Fahidi neighbourhood, the spice and gold souks, abra boat across the creek, the city before the towers.
Field notes
Small things that change the trip.
Practical Dubai knowledge from people who keep going back.
- 01
Skip the desert dinner-show convoy; it's the worst version of a great experience.
- 02
Brunch is an institution on Fridays and Saturdays; plan a slow afternoon after.
- 03
Modest dress in malls and government areas; beach clubs anything goes.
- 04
Alcohol is legal in licensed venues but expensive, hotel bars only.
- 05
Pair Dubai with Oman (3-hour drive) for a contrast that makes the trip.
Questions
What we get asked about Dubai.
Pair this with
Trips we often run alongside.
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