Introduction: Why Dubai is Every Indian Traveler’s Dream
Imagine flying just a few hours from India and landing in a city where futuristic skyscrapers rise from the desert, golden sand dunes stretch endlessly, and luxury meets tradition at every corner. That’s Dubai—the jewel of the UAE.
For many Indian travelers, Dubai is often the first international trip. Whether you are a family from Mumbai, a couple from Kerala, friends from Hyderabad, students from Karnataka, or NRIs visiting from Punjab—Dubai has something for everyone.
This guide is specially designed for first-time Indian travelers so that you know:
How to plan your Dubai trip step by step
What to pack and expect
Budgeting tips (luxury vs budget-friendly)
Must-visit attractions
Shopping, food, and cultural etiquette
Visa & Travel Essentials for Indians
Visa Rules
Indian Passport Holders: Most need a Dubai tourist visa (14–30 days).
Visa on Arrival: If you have a valid US, UK, or Schengen visa, you may get visa on arrival.
Processing Time: Usually 3–5 working days.
Flights from India
Mumbai → Dubai (3 hrs 15 min, daily flights by Emirates, Air India, Indigo)
Hyderabad → Dubai (4 hrs, popular route for families & students)
Kochi/Trivandrum (Kerala) → Dubai (4 hrs, very affordable options)
Bangalore (Karnataka) → Dubai (4 hrs 15 min, direct flights daily)
Amritsar/Delhi (Punjab & North India) → Dubai (3 hrs 45 min, frequent flights)
Tip: Book 45–60 days in advance for best fares.
Currency
Local currency: UAE Dirham (AED)
₹1 INR ≈ 0.044 AED (exchange rates vary).
Best: Carry some AED from India, but also use cards/UPI (Dubai supports PhonePe, Paytm in many malls now).
SIM Card
Buy at airport (Du or Etisalat).
Packages: ~AED 50 for 2 GB + local calls (enough for 5–6 days).
Travel Insurance
Highly recommended for medical coverage & adventure sports.
Best Time to Visit Dubai
Winter (Nov–Mar): Peak season, pleasant weather for desert safaris, sightseeing.
Summer (Jun–Sept): Hot, but best deals on hotels & malls are fully air-conditioned.
Ramadan Period: Cultural experience but dining rules differ (restaurants closed in daytime).
What to Pack for Dubai
Light cotton clothes (April–Sept).
Light jacket (Nov–Feb evenings can be cool).
Comfortable walking shoes.
Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat.
Modest attire for mosques (women need to cover head, men wear full pants).
Where to Stay in Dubai
For Luxury Travelers
Atlantis The Palm – Iconic resort with waterparks & private beach.
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Burj Al Arab Jumeirah – World’s only 7-star hotel.
The Ritz-Carlton DIFC – For families who prefer central location.
For Families & Budget Travelers
Holiday Inn Al Barsha – Family-friendly, close to metro.
Ibis Deira City Centre – Budget yet comfortable.
Airbnb Apartments – Great for families who want to cook.
 Tip: If you’re traveling with kids/elders, stay near Dubai Marina or Downtown for easy access.
Must-Visit Attractions in Dubai
1. Burj Khalifa & Dubai Mall
World’s tallest building (828m).
Book tickets for At the Top (124th floor) or Sky (148th floor).
Evening fountain show at Dubai Mall is magical.
2. Desert Safari
Dune bashing, camel rides, belly dance, BBQ dinner.
Options: Morning, Evening, or Overnight safari.
3. Palm Jumeirah & Atlantis
Man-made island shaped like a palm tree.
Enjoy Aquaventure Waterpark & The Lost Chambers Aquarium.
4. Dubai Marina & Dhow Cruise
Evening dhow cruise with buffet dinner.
Family-friendly with live shows.
5. Global Village (Seasonal)
Cultural extravaganza with 70+ country pavilions.
Shopping, food, and entertainment.
6. Old Dubai – Gold Souk & Spice Souk
Bargain shopping for gold jewelry, spices, and souvenirs.
7. Cultural Experiences
Jumeirah Mosque – Islamic architecture.
Al Fahidi Historical District – Traditional houses & museums.
Food in Dubai for Indian Travelers
Vegetarian options: Easily available (Indian thalis, Jain food).
Famous Indian restaurants: Rajdhani, Biryani Pot, Gharana, Saravana Bhavan.
Local dishes to try: Shawarma, falafel, hummus, and Arabic coffee.
Luxury Dining: Michelin-starred restaurants like Zuma, Al Muntaha.
Tip for families from Kerala, Karnataka, Hyderabad, Punjab: You’ll find South Indian dosas, Hyderabadi biryanis, Punjabi curries everywhere.
Budgeting Your Dubai Trip
Average Costs (per person for 5N/6D)
Budget Traveler: ₹45,000 – ₹55,000
Mid-Range Traveler: ₹70,000 – ₹90,000
Luxury Traveler: ₹1.2 – ₹2 lakh
Dubai with Family & Kids
KidZania (Dubai Mall) – Roleplay activities for kids.
Dubai Aquarium – Mesmerizing marine life.
IMG Worlds of Adventure – Indoor theme park.
Legoland Dubai – Perfect for children under 12.
Dubai for Luxury Travelers
Private yacht cruise at Dubai Marina.
Helicopter ride over Palm Jumeirah.
Stay at Burj Al Arab.
Fine dining at Pierchic or Dinner in the Sky.
Getting Around in Dubai
Dubai Metro – Covers most attractions.
Taxis – Safe & metered (₹200–300 for short rides).
Uber/Careem – Available.
Day Tours – Book private or SIC (seat-in-coach) tours.
Shopping in Dubai
Budget Shopping – Karama Market, Dragon Mart.
Luxury Shopping – Dubai Mall, Mall of the Emirates.
Souvenirs – Dates, Arabic perfumes, gold jewelry, carpets.
Practical Tips for First-Time Indian Travelers
Respect local culture – no public kissing or revealing clothes in mosques.
Alcohol only in licensed hotels/bars.
Friday is a weekly holiday; plan shopping accordingly.
Carry photocopies of passport & visa.
Emergency Number: 999 (Police), 998 (Ambulance).