Dubai truly is a shopper’s paradise – whether it’s the hustle and bustle of the souks or the air-conditioned splendour of ultra-modern shopping malls you prefer. Head to the old town of Deira to absorb the pulsating atmosphere of the Gold Souk where you will find yellow gold, white gold and silver all at great prices. At the souks you will also find a variety of other items including spices, leather goods, pottery and other souvenirs. If its designer luxury that you’re looking for, you’ll be amazed by Dubai’s incredible range of shopping malls including the huge Mall of the Emirates, where you can enjoy over 450 shops and 65 restaurants – as well as the famous Ski Dubai indoor ‘ski resort’! Alternatively, try the Souk Madinat Jumeirah located on the coast, with its shops, great restaurants and traditional Arabic architectural style.

You could stay in Dubai for months and never run out of new activities to try! From exciting jeep safaris into the amazing desert landscape, to the unusual and unique indoor ski resort of ski Dubai at the Mall of the Emirates – there really is something for everyone here. Dubai is a favourite destination with golfers, and you will find several excellent signature golf courses in and around the city. If you want to get out and about exploring, the best way to do this is by taxi. Rates can even be agreed with the driver beforehand to hire a taxi for the entire day – taking you wherever you wish. This can cost as little as £30 - £40 per day and so is a wonderfully affordable way to get out and about exploring Dubai.

If its sophisticated nightlife you’re looking for – whether it’s a trendy nightclub or enjoying a quiet drink under the stars in a rooftop bar – you’re sure to find something to your taste in Dubai. The city really comes alive after dark with a bustling atmosphere. If you wish, you can enjoy late night shopping in the various malls and souks, all of which open long into the evening, before moving on to one of the excellent restaurants or stylish bars located in hotels throughout the city. People don’t tend to eat their evening meal until around 21:00 in Dubai, so you will find many late night bars and clubs that stay open until around 03:00.

Dubai is a food-lovers paradise, boasting a superb array of cuisine in the many superb cafes and restaurants throughout the city – complete with warm hospitality and great service. Food ranges from shawarma – lamb or chicken roasted on a spit and served in pitta bread in roadside cafes – to exclusive, fine dining restaurants. The food served in Dubai includes local cuisine as well as a variety of Indian and Pakistani food, and a good selection of other international foods. A characteristic of many of the good restaurants in Dubai is that they are set within hotel complexes, but are open to anyone who would like to dine there. You will also find a wide range of great restaurants in the shopping malls including the atmospheric Souk Madinat Jumierah and the Mall of the Emirates.

New landmarks are constantly being constructed in this architects’ playground, with ever-more stunning towers and buildings appearing across the dramatic skyline. The Burj Dubai, the tallest building in the world is currently being constructed. This incredible tower unbelievably reaches almost twice the height of New York’s Empire State Building, stretching over half a kilometre into the sky. Already one of the world’s great towers, this is an unmissable sight whilst visiting Dubai. A great day trip from Dubai is the nearby city of Abu Dhabi, the capital of the United Arab Emirates. Just an-hour-and-a-half drive away, the city is best reached by taxi. Abu Dhabi is an attractive city and offers a great place to explore, with a combination of majestic, modern skyscrapers and beautiful historic buildings interspersed by lush trees and parkland.

Religion

In this predominantly Muslim country, religion should be respected at all times; Non-Muslims are only allowed to visit mosques on organised tours; See below for more information about the religious festival of Ramadan.

Ramadan

Ramadan is a festival that takes place across the Muslim world every year. The exact timing of Ramadan varies from year to year, and involves a month of fasting between sunrise and sundown for people of Muslim faith. To respect local customs, you should not eat, drink or smoke in public during Ramadan in Dubai. Alcohol is also not normally served until after 19:00 - however, most restaurants are open during the day for non-Muslims. Any loud music/entertainment does not take place during this festival. Take note that businesses in Dubai also operate reduced hours.

Working week

The working week in Dubai runs from Sunday to Thursday, with the ‘weekend’ generally taking place on Friday and Saturday. Friday is a religious day for local Muslim people. Please note that many shops and businesses will operate reduced hours or may be closed on Friday and Saturday.

Alcohol

Alcoholic drinks are not available for purchase in supermarkets or other shops in Dubai. However, alcohol can be purchased from Duty Free at Dubai Airport and is also available in restaurants and bars.

Clothing

Modest clothing should be worn - For example: sleeveless tops are ok when walking around the city, but swimwear should be restricted to beach and pool only.

General etiquette

Avoid public displays of affection; avoid pointing the soles of your feet at people – this is seen as rude; always ask permission before taking photographs of local people – and in general, avoid taking photos of local women; only use your right hand when offering or receiving things; taxi fares should be rounded off to the nearest Dirham.