Dubai Feels Different When You Plan the Right Way
There’s something about planning a successful trip to Dubai. The city pulls you in—even when you’re not sure what to expect. Every year, millions show up. Some for the sun, some for the skyline. Some just follow a feeling. Here, the desert brushes up against glass towers. Markets hum. Beaches glow. And somehow, it all fits.
Dubai isn’t just a trend. It has its own rhythm. Sometimes fast, sometimes quiet. Always shifting. If you’re going, it helps to have a few basics in your pocket. Just to avoid the usual stumbles. Just to let go and enjoy the ride. So here it is. The useful stuff. Nothing more. But probably enough.
Take the metro from the airport to the city center
To get to the city center from the airport , you’ll have a choice of cab, metro, bus and car rental.
While the bus is the cheapest option, you will still have a hard time with all your luggage. If you have a budget for travel, you can take a cab that will take you for about 50 AED or 15 € to Dubai Centre.
The most practical and affordable option is the metro which will take you to Downtown Dubai for about 8.50 AED or about 2 €.
Finally, if you don’t want to use public transport, you can still book a shuttle or rent a car, but you’ll have to pay for it.
Buy a Dubai pass to save money
If you’re planning to do a lot of sightseeing and activities, consider buying the Dubai pass. This will give you access to the highest floors of the Burj Khalifa, as well as a morning safari in the desert. In addition, you will have an audio guide to accompany you as you explore the city.
In addition to saving you time, as you will not have to queue for the visits, it will save you a few euros. Indeed, the pass allows you to enjoy up to 10% discount on the entrance of several key attractions of the city such as the Legoland of Dubai or the aquarium of Dubai Mall which contains several rare species.
For an even more immersive experience, our local guides in Dubai are at your service to help you discover the hidden gems and must-see spots of this fascinating city. With their expertise, explore Dubai like never before!
Prefer traditional restaurants to gourmet ones
You are there to discover a new culture and especially for the local specialties. So, avoid the star restaurants and prefer the traditional restaurants located in the old Dubai. You can discover the famous Harees which is one of the most famous dishes or the Machbous which is a kind of paella with rice and several types of meat.
Street food is also very present and you will find the best vendors in the streets of Al Karama and Jumeirah. From falafels to samoussas or shawarmas, your taste buds will be delighted to discover so many exotic flavors. And if you are vegan, you should know that several establishments offer personalized menus.
Enjoying a moment of idleness at the beach
If there is one thing you must do during your stay in Dubai, it is to enjoy its beautiful beaches.
Swimming, lounging and sunbathing are the order of the day, but beware, the beaches are hot, even very hot. Indeed, temperatures can rise to 40°C in summer. Also, prefer to leave in winter when the temperatures are milder. You will be able to try all the existing nautical activities like scuba diving or jet skiing.
If you are looking for an activity that gives you even more thrills, why not try parasailing over the Persian Gulf? You’ll enjoy a unique panorama and come back with a lot of memories.
Go at the right time
Dubai shines year-round. But the season makes a difference — more than many expect. Between November and April, the air softens. Days stay warm, not scorching. Nights are cool enough to sleep outdoors, even in the desert. It’s the best window for long walks, markets, rooftops, anything under the open sky.
May to October tells a different story. Temperatures climb — often past 40, sometimes reaching 45°C. The upside? Lower prices, fewer crowds. And nearly everything indoors is air-conditioned. Still, if you’re planning hikes, outdoor tours, or hours at the beach, it takes preparation: sunblock, water, breaks in the shade. Timing matters.
Whether you’re flying in solo, with kids, or meeting up with friends, Dubai doesn’t hit everyone the same way — but it rarely leaves people unmoved. Behind the showy skyline, there’s something else. A texture. A mix of tradition and momentum that sticks with you longer than expected.
Just plan ahead. Flights fill up. Good places go fast. Book early, then let the rest unfold. And if the trip goes right, there’s a chance you’ll leave already thinking about coming back.
