Top 5 Tips for First Time Cruisers to Dubai

Whether it’s looking at stunning skyscrapers or exploring the bewitching desert, almost a million cruise passengers are drawn to Dubai every year.

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Although the UAE is one of the safest countries in the world, in fact the UK-based magazine Which? Travel ranked Dubai the second-safest place for tourists in the world, any responsible tourist should still take the time to properly learn about the country they’re visiting.

With this in mind, here are top five tips every first-time cruise visitor to Dubai should know.

1. Buy Tickets in Advance

Dubai is filled with stellar sights to see, such as the Etihad Museum and the Bastakiya Quarter. To this end, it’s especially important to book tickets to your selected attractions early on to avoid long hours in line.

For instance, taking a trip to the Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building, usually means waiting more or less an hour in line if you don’t plan ahead. And as a bonus, buying tickets early can help you save on ticket prices, too.

2. Visit Public Beaches

From The Bvlgari Resort Dubai to the One&Only The Palm, Dubai is home to some of the most luxurious beach resorts in the world. But you don’t have to shell out loads of cash for a Dubai beach experience during your first trip there.

Instead, you should consider adding some of the beautiful public beaches to your itinerary. Indeed, culture expert Leah Simpson highlights how Al Sufouh Beach is great for some rest and relaxation, thanks to its minimalist nature.

Meanwhile, Kite Beach is ideal for those looking for some fun, whether it’s beach volleyball or water sports. Visiting these places will not only help you save more for your travel budget (they’re free!), but it will also introduce you to the city’s natural beauty.

3. Dress Properly

As a tourist, you’ll always want to show respect to the country’s culture. And one of the best ways to do to this in Dubai is by dressing modestly. Even if it’s known for its warm climate and liberal atmosphere, it’s best to avoid typical holiday clothing.

According to Telegraph, women should always wear skirts below the knee, tops with sleeves, and nothing revealing. Meanwhile, men should opt for trousers and sleeve tops.

4. Prepare for the Weather

Don’t forget to check the weather before packing your suitcase. Summer is between October and April, when temperatures can go as high as 50 °C. Be sure to pack loose (and of course, modest) clothing, and lots of sunscreen.

In addition, travel enthusiast James Gonzales recommends bringing along a pair of sunglasses to protect your eyes. These can keep you safe not only from the harsh desert sun’s UV rays, but also from particles like sand.

As a bonus, it also helps you deal with the jet lag once you arrive! Thankfully, winter is much more bearable, as temperatures range from 21 to 26 °C. So, don’t forget to pack a light jacket, jumpers, and a pair of boots.

5. Respect Ramadan

Lastly, if you’re visiting during Ramadan, it’s important to show respect even if you practice a different faith. Culture writer Sara Miah notes that you shouldn’t eat or drink in places that aren’t tourist spots, since Ramadan is otherwise known as Islam’s holy month of fasting.

Moreover, if you’re a non-Muslim, you should say Ramadan Mubarak (or “Happy Ramadan”) to a friendly local, as the greeting will greatly be appreciated.