Dubai, the crown jewel of the UAE, is a stunning blend of futuristic architecture, luxury shopping, golden deserts, and vibrant nightlife. Home to global icons like the Burj Khalifa, Dubai Mall, Palm Jumeirah, and the sprawling Arabian Desert, the city offers world-class experiences for every type of traveller — from families and couples to adventure seekers.

For travellers visiting Dubai from India, the journey is exceptionally convenient.
Flight duration from major cities like Delhi(DEL), Mumbai(BOM), Bengaluru(BLR), and Chennai(MAA) to Dubai International Airport (DXB)is only 3.5 to 4 hours, making Dubai one of the most accessible international destinations for Indians.

In terms of entry requirements, Indian passport holders do need a UAE visa.However, those with a valid US, UK, or Schengen visa are eligible for a Dubai Visa on Arrival, making the process even smoother.

A typical Dubai trip from India costs around ₹60,000–₹90,000 for 5 days, including flights, hotels, and sightseeing—making it a luxurious yet affordable getaway.

Beyond the modern skyline, Dubai invites visitors to explore experiences like dune bashing, camel rides, desert safaris, pristine beaches, gourmet restaurants, souks, and record-breaking attractions. Whether it’s your first trip or a repeat visit, Dubai truly offers something unforgettable for everyone.

14 Things to know before travelling to Dubai from India

When to Visit

If you are planning to visit Dubai then understand that the best time to do so will be from November to March. It is the time when the weather is the most pleasant in Dubai and one can enjoy the best of outdoor activities and sightseeing.

However, one must understand that it is the time when the place is the most crowded and the rates are also higher for the hotels and other attractions. But this is also the time when the Dubai Food Festival and Dubai Shopping Festival also happen in Dubai, so here you get another reason to explore Dubai.

What to Pack

If you are packing for a Dubai trip, then you need to ensure that you are packing for the hot weather as well as the cultural norms of the place. Ensure that you pack for yourself the light and comfortable clothes that will help you get the most out of the activities while being in Dubai amidst the scorching heat.

We recommend you to dress up modestly in order to not offend the locals and their customs such as you can try wearing long sleeves long skirts trousers etc. Make sure to wear comfortable shoes for walking so that you can easily cover most of the distance without tiring your feet.

Carry an umbrella, sunscreen as well and sunglasses. You can wear swimsuits in private pools but make sure to cover up in public places. There are a lot of Dubai Tourist Attractions that you can find being here in Dubai.

TrekHops Tip: Pack a scarf or shawl to respect local customs when visiting mosques or traditional souks.

Essential Documents

• Valid Passport (6 months)

• UAE Visa (tourist or transit)

• Return flight tickets

• Hotel reservations

• Travel insurance & emergency contacts

Dress Code and Social Etiquette

After reaching Dubai, you will realise that Dubai is all about a blend of modern thought with traditional upbringing. Make sure to wear modest dresses when you are at any religious site/ public place of Dubai.

If you are a woman, then ensure not to wear revealing clothes, wear long skirts in public and always carry cover-ups. Additionally, for couples, ensure that you don’t indulge in public displays of affection in public places, as it can even get you in trouble and even get you penalties.

Rules During Ramadan

If you are visiting Dubai sometime when the holy month of Ramadan is going on then ensure to follow the rules of the locals during this time which include no smoking, eating or drinking at any religious place.

The restaurants are usually open in the evening after iftar. Make sure to cover your shoulders and knees to show respect. There must be no dancing or loud music that you play in the public area, But the markets get a new life during this month as this is the time when you can get the most immersion in the culture of Dubai.

Alcohol Consumption

Dubai regulates alcohol consumption but it is permitted in bars, restaurants and hotels. Drinking outside the licensed areas can cause penalties for you. The non-muslim residents need an alcohol license if they are planning to consume alcohol in their home. Make sure to drink responsibly and within your limits while being in Dubai, but make sure to try the best of Dubai food.

UAE Currency

Dubai’s currency is UAE Dirham which is commonly named as AED. You will find ATM’s readily available. But we advise you to carry some cash at all times so that you can pay the small vendors. There are also currency exchange services available but be sure to cross-check the exchange rates and fees beforehand.

Public Transportation

Dubai has a decent transport system with well-connected transport such as the Dubai metro, trams, buses, and taxis, which will help you move from one place to another in the city smoothly and effortlessly. Also, there is the famous NoI card which can be used in all the transports.

Also, there are options for water ferries, water taxis etc that you can try while here in Dubai. You can also try Uber and Careem to get a ride easily while in Dubai. The public transport in Dubai is neat and clean and will let you travel seamlessly. So, public transport will come in handy especially if you are on your First trip to Dubai from India.

Emergency Numbers

Emergency numbers will keep you safe. If you want any help from the Police, you can dial 999. If there is a fire, then you can call 997 and if you need to call for an ambulance, the number will be 998.

Any medical service that is not extremely urgent then you can dial 800-1717. For tourists in Dubai there is a specific number: 0-4438. These are all toll-free and all the time available numbers.

Health and Safety

When it comes to Dubai, be rest assured that there will be a premium standard that Dubai follows. In Dubai, you will find the best-in-class healthcare with some of the best hospitals and clinics in the world, with the most renowned doctors and medical staff.

We strongly recommend you get yourself travel insurance so that you can get the benefits of free medical care in case of any emergency. Also, when it comes to safety, Dubai has made a name for itself for being one of the safest places in the world The crime rate here is one of the lowest in the world.

However, we would still advise you to follow basic precautions such as sticking to groups, avoiding isolated areas at night, and taking good care of your belongings. And the most important of them all is to follow the social protocols to avoid any unwanted actions taken against you on a tour to Dubai from India.

Dubai Travel Tips for Shopping Enthusiasts

If you are a shopping enthusiast then Dubai is the place for you to be in. There are a lot of luxury options that you can get while being in Dubai. But even for budget shoppers, there are a lot of options in the form of markets and souks that will provide you with the best shopping experiences.

Visit the fancy Dubai Mall where you can have an amazing experience of shopping for the finer things and enjoying fantasies such as visiting fancy places for dining. But we will give you a pro tip here if you are planning to visit Dubai then make sure to do it in the prime shopping season as it will be the most beneficial for you as you will be able to save some money while you shop while Travelling to Dubai from India.

And yes, the last tip will be that wear comfortable shoes as it will keep you comfortable all through the shopping trip.

Dubai Food and Nightlife

If you want to experience Dubai at its finest, don’t miss its food scene and nightlife. The city is a global culinary hub offering everything from Indian, Chinese, and Italian cuisine to premium fine-dining and Michelin-starred restaurants.

For memorable evenings, head to Dubai Marina and Jumeirah Beach, two of the most popular areas for waterfront dining, lounges, and lively cafés. These neighbourhoods offer a vibrant mix of gourmet restaurants, rooftop bars, and chic nightlife venues.

During Ramadan, nightlife becomes quieter, but it’s also one of the best times to experience Dubai’s cultural side. After sunset, post-iftar gatherings, traditional meals, and Ramadan tents create a warm and festive atmosphere that travellers love.

How to Make Payments in Dubai

Making payments in Dubai is simple and hassle-free. Almost all hotels, restaurants, malls, and attractions accept debit and credit cards, especially Visa and MasterCard, which are the most widely used across the UAE. American Express is accepted in many places as well, though not everywhere.

Digital payments are also extremely popular. Travellers can conveniently use:

• Apple Pay
• Samsung Pay
• Google Pay

Despite the city’s digital convenience, it is still smart to carry some cash in UAE Dirhams (AED) for taxis, small vendors, local markets, and tips.

ATMs are available across Dubai—including malls, metro stations, hotels, and supermarkets—allowing easy cash withdrawals. Currency exchange centres are also found at airports, shopping centres, and souks, often offering competitive rates.

Must Know – Free Things to Do in Dubai

Who doesn’t love freebies? If you’re travelling to Dubai on a budget, the city offers plenty of free attractions and experiences that let you explore without spending a dirham.

Start with the Dubai Fountain Show, a world-famous display of water, music and lights at the base of the Burj Khalifa. Wander through the historic lanes of Al Fahidi Historical District, where you can soak in old Dubai’s culture and architecture at no cost. For a sensory experience, stroll through the Gold Souk and Spice Souk, where vibrant aromas and glittering jewellery displays await you.

Beach lovers can relax at Kite Beach, one of the city’s most popular public beaches, perfect for sunsets and long walks. Enjoy a peaceful evening stroll at Dubai Marina Walk, surrounded by skyscrapers and waterfront cafés.

You can also visit Dubai Mall—not just for shopping, but to enjoy its giant indoor waterfalls, art installations, and window shopping across hundreds of luxury stores. It’s one of the world’s most visited malls and offers plenty to explore without spending anything.

Conclusion

Travelling to Dubai from India is easy, comfortable, and rewarding. With world-class attractions, desert adventures, beaches, shopping festivals, and excellent connectivity, Dubai guarantees an unforgettable holiday. Whether you’re planning a family trip, romantic getaway, or solo adventure, Dubai delivers exceptional experiences for every traveller.

For curated Dubai packages, visa assistance, and customised itineraries — TrekHops India is here to make your trip seamless and memorable.