Dubai Cultural Guide - ISEA INTERNATIONAL

Welcome to Dubai, a UNESCO Creative City of Design

Dubai, the city that people from all over the world have made their home, has been a UNESCO Creative City of Design since 2017. It is a vibrant place where countless languages are spoken, and a rich mix of customs is woven into everyday life. Islamic heritage shapes parts of the city’s architecture and design, adding to the visual character of neighbourhoods and public spaces. Daily life reflects the mix of cultures that live here, and visitors experience the emirate as welcoming and easy to navigate.

All you need to know

Economy

In recent years, Dubai’s creative economy has flourished, turning the city into a hub where design, innovation, and cultural production thrive side by side. The local currency is the UAE dirham (AED), and it’s fixed at AED3.6725 to the US dollar. Cards and phone-based wallets work almost everywhere, including small cafés, corner shops, and even taxis. Cash is still accepted, but most people don’t reach for it unless they need it for small tips. Newer digital payment options are also being introduced, but your regular card or mobile wallet will cover almost everything during your stay.

Geography

Dubai is located on the Arabian Gulf, positioned between a long stretch of coastline and the open desert. The climate is warm throughout the year. From October to May, temperatures are generally comfortable, ranging between 20–35°C (68–95°F). The summer period, from June to September, is much hotter, with daytime highs often reaching the mid-40s (around 110°F).

Demographics

Dubai is home to people from over 195 different nationalities, making it one of the world’s most diverse cities. You see this everywhere, whether you’re grabbing a coffee or walking through one of the city’s many malls. It shows up in simple ways, like the range of food on offer and the different holidays people celebrate throughout the year.

Driving & transport

Visitors with a valid international driving permit and a licence from many countries can rent a car without much hassle. Roads are well maintained, but driving habits can take a bit of getting used to. If you’d rather not drive, taxis are reliable and easy to find, and the Metro is another easy way to get around major areas. Ride-hailing is also common, with Uber and Careem operating across the city.

Dress code

Dubai is a cosmopolitan city where almost all attires and cultural expressions are accepted. Swimwear is permissible at beaches, waterparks, public pools and spa areas but is not considered appropriate in areas such as business districts and shopping malls. Dressing conservatively is appreciated in Dubai’s historic neighbourhoods and places of worship. There are specific requirements for entering a mosque, like wearing clothing that covers shoulders, arms and legs – and headscarves for women.

Greetings & Etiquette

Handshakes are customary, but it’s polite to let the other person set the tone, especially when greeting someone of the opposite sex. People in Dubai are used to interacting across cultures, so you’ll generally find that social etiquette is straightforward if you approach interactions with respect. Alcohol is served in licensed venues such as hotels, restaurants. The legal drinking age is over 21 years of age.

Other useful information

Accessibility

Getting around Dubai is easy, with accessible pathways and welcoming venues across the city.

Safety & Legal information

Dubai is widely regarded as one of the safest cities in the world, and visitors feel comfortable moving around at any time.

Health

If travelling with prescribed medication, bring your doctor’s note. Major hospitals offer emergency services.

Electricity

Power supply is 220/240 volts with UK-style plugs. Use a transformer for US devices.

Phones & WiFi

Country code +971. Free SIM cards at airport and Wi-Fi widely available.

Tipping

Tipping is optional and based on personal preference.

Arriving in Dubai

Many nationalities receive visa on arrival. Airports provide transport, taxis and information desks.

Emergency Numbers

In case of emergencies while on holiday in the UAE, call:

+999 Police

+997 Fire Department

+998 Ambulance

+996 Coastguard

Visitors may also find these numbers helpful:

+971 800 4438 Tourist Security Issues

+971 800 342 Dubai Health Authority

+971 600 545 555 Consumer-related Concerns