Welcome to Dubai – A World of Luxury, Culture, and Adventure
Dubai is one of the most exciting and fast-growing tourist destinations in the world. Located in the heart of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Dubai is a city where modern innovation meets rich tradition. Known for its impressive skyline, luxury lifestyle, and warm hospitality, Dubai welcomes millions of visitors from all over the world every year.
Dubai is famous for its iconic landmarks such as the Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world, the Palm Jumeirah, a man-made island, and the Dubai Mall, one of the largest shopping malls globally. Along with modern attractions, Dubai also offers a glimpse into its heritage through traditional markets (souks), historic neighborhoods, museums, and cultural experiences.
Tourists visiting Dubai can enjoy a wide range of activities. From desert safaris, dune bashing, camel rides, and traditional Bedouin experiences to relaxing on beautiful beaches and enjoying luxury resorts, Dubai offers something for everyone. Adventure lovers, families, honeymooners, and business travelers all find Dubai to be a perfect destination.
Dubai is also a global hub for shopping, entertainment, and food. The city hosts famous shopping festivals, international events, theme parks, water parks, and a wide variety of restaurants serving cuisines from around the world, including vegetarian and Indian food. Its excellent infrastructure, modern transport system, and world-class hotels make travel easy and comfortable.
With its safe environment, multicultural society, and friendly people, Dubai provides a memorable and enjoyable travel experience. Whether you are looking for luxury, adventure, culture, or relaxation, Dubai is a destination that truly offers more than you can imagine.
Famous Places to Visit in Dubai
- Burj Khalifa
The Burj Khalifa is the tallest building in the world. Tourists can enjoy amazing city views from the observation deck. - Dubai Mall
One of the largest shopping malls in the world. It has shops, restaurants, an aquarium, and entertainment areas. - Palm Jumeirah
A famous man-made island shaped like a palm tree. It has luxury hotels, beaches, and resorts like Atlantis. - Desert Safari
A must-visit experience in Dubai. Tourists enjoy dune bashing, camel rides, sandboarding, and traditional food. - Dubai Marina
A modern area with tall buildings, walking paths, restaurants, and boat cruises. - Jumeirah Beach
A beautiful public beach where tourists can relax and enjoy views of Burj Al Arab. - Burj Al Arab
A luxury hotel known for its unique sail-shaped design and world-class services. - Dubai Creek
A historic area where tourists can take an abra (traditional boat) ride and explore old Dubai. - Gold Souk & Spice Souk
Traditional markets famous for gold jewelry, spices, and local shopping. - Miracle Garden
A beautiful garden with millions of colorful flowers, open during winter.
Adventure Spots in Dubai
- Desert Safari
This is the most popular adventure in Dubai. Tourists enjoy dune bashing in 4×4 vehicles, sandboarding, camel riding, and desert camping. - Dune Buggy & Quad Biking
Adventure lovers can drive dune buggies or quad bikes on the sand dunes for an exciting experience. - Skydiving at Palm Jumeirah
Skydiving over the Palm Jumeirah offers a thrilling experience with amazing views of the city and sea. - Hot Air Balloon Ride
A peaceful adventure where tourists can see the desert, sunrise, and wildlife from the sky. - Jet Skiing
Tourists can enjoy jet skiing near Jumeirah Beach with views of Burj Al Arab and the Dubai skyline. - Parasailing
Parasailing lets visitors fly over the sea while enjoying beautiful coastal views. - Sandboarding
Similar to snowboarding, tourists slide down sand dunes during desert safaris. - Indoor Skiing (Ski Dubai)
Located inside Mall of the Emirates, Ski Dubai offers skiing and snow activities in a desert city. - Deep Sea Fishing
Tourists can enjoy fishing trips in the Arabian Sea. - Aquaventure & Wild Wadi Water Parks
These water parks offer thrilling rides and slides for all ages.
Major Airlines Based in Dubai
- Emirates Airlines
- Emirates is the biggest and most famous airline based in Dubai.
- It is the national airline of the UAE and one of the largest long-haul airlines in the world.
- Emirates flies to many cities across Asia, Europe, America, Africa and Oceania from Dubai International Airport.
- Flydubai
- Flydubai is Dubai’s budget (low-cost) airline.
- It operates many flights to countries in the Middle East, Asia, Africa and Europe.
- Flydubai is a partner of Emirates and helps connect more destinations from Dubai.
Other Airlines You Can Fly With to/from Dubai
While Emirates and Flydubai are based in Dubai, many international airlines also operate flights to and from Dubai International Airport, including:
- Air India and Air India Express (from India)
- IndiGo and Vistara (Indian carriers)
- British Airways (UK)
- Qatar Airways (via Doha)
- Singapore Airlines
- Air France, Lufthansa, KLM
- Cathay Pacific, Etihad Airways (UAE but from Abu Dhabi)
- Many other global airlines fly to Dubai from Europe, Asia, Africa, and America.
Airports in Dubai
- Most flights from Dubai use Dubai International Airport (DXB) — one of the busiest airports in the world.
- Emirates mostly operates from Terminal 3, while Flydubai uses Terminal 2 (some flights also link with Emirates).
Tips for Travelers
– Book early for better prices and seat choice.
– Many flights from India go directly to Dubai with Emirates, IndiGo, Air India, Vistara, and Flydubai.
– Dubai has flights to most major cities around the world.
Dubai’s culture
Dubai’s culture is a unique blend of deep-rooted Arabian, Islamic, and Bedouin traditions with strong influences from Persian, African, and South Asian cultures, creating a vibrant, cosmopolitan hub where modernity meets heritage, emphasizing hospitality, family, and respect, all while navigating a diverse, multi-national population. Key elements include warm Arabian hospitality (like gahwa coffee), Islamic customs, traditional arts (calligraphy, geometric patterns), Bedouin poetry, and a modern, luxurious lifestyle alongside historic souks and cultural centers.
Core Cultural Aspects
- Hospitality: Central to Emirati life, demonstrated through offering Arabic coffee (gahwa) and dates in a majlis (guest area).
- Islam: The official religion, significantly influencing architecture (mosques), music, dress (modesty), cuisine, and lifestyle, with major events like Ramadan
- Tradition & Modernity: A constant balance; historic areas like souks contrast with modern skyscrapers, reflecting the city’s evolution.
- Family & Respect: Strong emphasis on family values, respect for elders, and community.
Cultural Influences & Diversity
- Melting Pot: Home to over 200 nationalities, making it a diverse cultural mosaic with Indian, Filipino, Western, and other influences.
- Art & Poetry: Rich traditions in Arabic calligraphy, Islamic geometric art (arabesque), and Bedouin storytelling poetry.
Visiting & Etiquette
- Respect Local Customs: Dress modestly, especially in religious sites, and be mindful of public behavior.
- Alcohol: Permitted in licensed venues (hotels, bars) but illegal in public spaces.
- Explore Heritage: Visit Alserkal Avenue, Dubai Design District (d3), historic districts, museums, and traditional souks.
Is Dubai Safe for Indians?
- Yes, Dubai is very safe for Indian tourists and travelers. The city has strict laws, good security, and a low crime rate. Indians visit Dubai in large numbers every year for tourism, business, and work.
- Dubai is a multicultural city, and Indians are one of the largest communities living there. Indian tourists feel comfortable because people are friendly and helpful, and English is widely spoken.
- Public places like malls, beaches, metro stations, and tourist attractions are well-managed and safe, even at night. The transport system is modern and secure.
- Indians can also easily find Indian food, temples, grocery stores, and cultural events, which makes travel stress-free. As long as visitors respect local laws and customs, Dubai is a safe and welcoming destination for Indians.
Availability of Indian Vegetarian Food in Dubai
Yes, Indian vegetarian food is easily available in Dubai. The city has a large Indian population, so many restaurants serve Indian vegetarian dishes. Areas like Bur Dubai, Karama, Deira, and Al Barsha are especially famous for Indian veg restaurants.
Tourists can enjoy food like dal, roti, chapati, rice, paneer dishes, dosa, idli, vada, and vegetarian biryani. Many restaurants also offer pure vegetarian and Jain food.
Supermarkets and Indian grocery stores in Dubai sell Indian spices, lentils, vegetables, and ready-to-eat vegetarian foods. Hotels and food courts in malls usually have vegetarian options clearly marked on their menus.
Because Dubai is multicultural and tourist-friendly, Indian vegetarians do not face any food problems. This makes Dubai a comfortable and enjoyable destination for Indian travelers.
Top Indian Veg Restaurants in Dubai
- MyGovindas – Karama
A popular pure vegetarian Indian restaurant with a wide range of North & South Indian dishes great for thali, dosas, curries and snacks. - MyGovindas – Al Arjan
Another branch of MyGovindas in Al Arjan ideal for traditional vegetarian Indian meals and healthy satvic food. - MyGovindas – Jumeirah Lake Towers (JLT)
Vegetarian restaurant near JLT good for quick Indian veg meals while exploring the city. - MyGovindas – Deira, Gold Souk
Veg delight near Deira area easy to visit if you’re sightseeing around the Gold Souk. - Maharaja Bhog Al Karama
Famous for Rajasthani vegetarian thali (a full meal with many dishes) excellent authentic Indian veg food. - Rasoi Ghar Restaurant
Popular vegetarian Indian restaurant offering Rajasthani and other traditional veg dishes. - Shri Krishna Bhavan Vegetarian Restaurant
Well-liked South Indian veg restaurant with dosas, idli, vada, sambar and more. - Punjab PureVeg by Amritsr
Pure vegetarian Punjabi restaurant in Al Karama great for north Indian veg meals. - Spiice Bite – Pure Vegetarian Indian Restaurant
Casual veg Indian spot in Dubai Production City good for quick vegetarian meals. - Kritika Vegetarian Restaurant
Vegetarian Indian restaurant in Al Raffa with good reviews from locals and tourists. - Manakamana Restaurant- Bur Dubai
Another local favourite in Bur Dubai for Indian vegetarian and Nepalese/Indian fusion food. - Veganesha Vegetarian places in Bur Dubai selling pure veg Indian meals and snacks.
- SWADMAHAL VEGETARIAN RESTAURANT LLC
Budget-friendly veg restaurant in Bur Dubai with a variety of Indian vegetarian dishes.
Transport in Dubai
Dubai has a modern, safe, and well-developed transport system, making travel easy for tourists and residents. The city offers many options such as metro, buses, taxis, trams, and water transport.
The Dubai Metro is one of the most popular and convenient ways to travel. It is clean, fast, and fully automatic. The metro connects major places like the airport, shopping malls, business areas, and tourist attractions.
Public buses cover most areas of the city and are affordable. Taxis are easily available and safe, with metered fares. App-based taxis like Careem and Uber are also widely used.
Dubai also offers water transport such as abras (traditional boats), water taxis, and ferries, especially around Dubai Creek and Marina. The Dubai Tram helps tourists travel easily in areas like Dubai Marina and Jumeirah Beach.
Overall, Dubai’s transport system is efficient, tourist-friendly, and well-connected, allowing visitors to explore the city comfortably and without difficulty.
Cabs and App-Based Transport in Dubai
- Careem
- Careem is the most popular ride-hailing app in Dubai.
- It works like Ola or Uber and offers options like economy cars, luxury cars, and bigger cars.
- You can book rides through the Careem app on your phone.
- Uber
- Uber also operates in Dubai.
- You can choose from different types of cars, and the payment can be cash or card via the app.
- Regular Taxis
- Dubai has plenty of traditional taxis, called Dubai Taxi Corporation taxis.
- They are metered, safe, and reliable.
- You can hail them on the street or book through the RTA Dubai Taxi app.
- Other Tips
- Most drivers speak English, so communication is easy.
- Fares are higher than India, but the rides are very safe and comfortable.
- Some hotels can also arrange taxis for you.
What People Like the Most in Dubai
Tourists love Dubai for many reasons. Some of the things they enjoy the most are:
- Modern Architecture: Dubai is famous for tall buildings like Burj Khalifa and Burj Al Arab, which are world-famous landmarks.
- Shopping: Dubai has huge malls like Dubai Mall and traditional markets (souks) where visitors can shop for gold, spices, and souvenirs.
- Adventure Activities: People enjoy desert safaris, dune bashing, skydiving, jet skiing, parasailing, and indoor skiing.
- Beaches and Resorts: Dubai has beautiful beaches like Jumeirah Beach and luxury resorts for relaxation.
- Culture and Heritage: Tourists like to explore Dubai Creek, museums, and traditional souks to experience Arabian culture.
- Food: Dubai offers a variety of food from around the world, including Indian vegetarian food, making it comfortable for Indian tourists.
- Safety and Cleanliness: Visitors appreciate Dubai’s safe streets, modern transport, and clean environment.
- Events and Entertainment: Dubai hosts festivals, concerts, sports events, and theme parks, which attract tourists of all ages.
Shopping for Gold in Dubai
Dubai is famous worldwide as the “City of Gold”. Tourists love shopping for gold because of wide variety, purity, and competitive prices.
- Gold Souk (Deira): The most famous market for gold in Dubai. You can find rings, necklaces, bracelets, and custom-made jewelry.
- Dubai Mall & Mall of the Emirates: Also have many branded gold shops.
- Purity: Gold in Dubai is usually 22K or 24K, and shops provide certification.
- Bargaining: In traditional markets, you can often negotiate prices, especially in the Gold Souk.
How Much Gold Can You Take from Dubai Airport?
If you are an Indian traveler, the customs rules are:
- Duty-Free Allowance: You can carry up to 20 grams of gold jewelry and USD 200 worth of gold coins without paying customs duty.
- Above Allowance: If you carry more than this, you must declare it at customs and pay the required duty.
- Packing Tip: Always keep the invoice or bill from the shop to show proof of purchase.
Note: Rules may vary slightly, so check the latest Indian Customs regulations before traveling.
What is Unique About Dubai?
Dubai is unique because it perfectly combines modern luxury, adventure, and Arabian culture in one city. Some of the most special things about Dubai are:
- World’s Tallest Building Burj Khalifa: Dubai has the tallest building in the world, which is a symbol of modern engineering.
- Man-Made Islands: Palm Jumeirah and other artificial islands are unique creations that attract tourists worldwide.
- Luxury and Shopping: Dubai offers luxury hotels, designer malls, and the famous Gold Souk, making shopping and lifestyle a unique experience.
- Desert and City Together: You can go skiing indoors in Mall of the Emirates and go dune bashing in the desert on the same day!
- Safe and Multicultural City: Dubai is very safe, clean, and welcoming, with people from all over the world living and visiting there.
- Records and Attractions: Dubai is known for breaking world records tallest hotel, largest malls, biggest fireworks, indoor ski resorts, and luxury resorts.
Tourist Visa for Dubai
If you are planning to visit Dubai for tourism, you need a tourist visa unless you are from a country that has visa-free entry. Indian travelers always need a visa to enter Dubai.
Types of Tourist Visas:
- Short-term Tourist Visa (30 days) – For a visit up to 30 days.
- Long-term Tourist Visa (90 days) – For visits up to 90 days.
How to Apply:
- You can apply through airlines (like Emirates or Etihad), travel agencies, or online eVisa portals.
- Documents usually required:
- Passport (valid for at least 6 months)
- Passport-size photograph
- Confirmed flight tickets
- Hotel booking
Fees:
- Fees depend on the duration of the visa and processing method. Airlines often provide packages that include the visa.
Important Tips:
- Tourist visas cannot be used for work; they are only for sightseeing, shopping, and visiting family or friends.
- Always check the visa validity before booking flights.
- Many Indian travelers use Emirates, Etihad, or Flydubai to apply for a Dubai tourist visa easily.
Shopping in Dubai
Dubai is famous worldwide as a shopping paradise. Tourists love Dubai because it has a mix of modern malls, traditional markets (souks), and luxury brands.
- Malls:
- Dubai Mall: One of the largest malls in the world with hundreds of shops restaurants, an aquarium, and an indoor theme park.
- Mall of the Emirates: Famous for shopping, dining, and Ski Dubai – an indoor ski slope.
- Traditional Markets (Souks):
- Gold Souk: Known as the “City of Gold,” it has a huge variety of gold jewelry at competitive prices.
- Spice Souk: Famous for spices, herbs, perfumes, and souvenirs.
- Textile Souk: Offers fabrics, silk, and traditional clothing.
- Shopping Festivals:
- Dubai hosts Dubai Shopping Festival every year with big discounts, raffles, and entertainment shows.
- Luxury Shopping:
- Dubai is home to designer brands and luxury stores like Gucci, Chanel, and Louis Vuitton.
Tips for Tourists:
- Bargaining is common in traditional souks.
- Keep receipts when buying gold or high-value items.
- Many malls and shops accept credit cards and mobile payments, making shopping easy for international travelers.
Dubai Shopping Festival (DSF)
The Dubai Shopping Festival is one of the biggest and most famous shopping events in the world. It is held every year, usually in December and January, and attracts millions of tourists from all over the world.
Highlights of the Festival:
- Big Discounts: Shoppers can get huge discounts on clothes, electronics, gold, and luxury items.
- Raffles and Prizes: Visitors can participate in raffles and lucky draws to win cars, gold, and cash prizes.
- Entertainment: There are concerts, live shows, fireworks, and street performances for tourists and families.
- Food Festivals: Many malls and streets have special food events, offering cuisines from around the world.
- Family Activities: Fun activities for kids like rides, games, and interactive workshops are organized throughout the festival.
Why Tourists Love DSF:
- It combines shopping, entertainment, and cultural experiences all in one.
- It is also a good time to buy luxury items, gold, electronics, and souvenirs at discounted prices.
Tip: If you are visiting Dubai during December or January, plan your trip to enjoy the Dubai Shopping Festival, as it is one of the best experiences in Dubai.
Final Perspective on Dubai
In my opinion, Dubai is one of the most attractive and well-developed tourist destinations in the world. It offers a perfect mix of modern luxury, rich culture, and exciting experiences. From tall skyscrapers and shopping malls to deserts, beaches, and traditional markets, Dubai has something for every type of traveler.
Dubai is also a safe, clean, and well-organized city, which makes travel easy and comfortable, especially for Indian tourists. The availability of Indian vegetarian food, good transport, and friendly people adds to the comfort of visitors.
With world-class attractions, adventure activities, cultural experiences, and excellent hospitality, Dubai leaves a lasting impression on tourists. Overall, Dubai is a must-visit destination for anyone looking for luxury, adventure, and unforgettable memories.
