Question 1

Do I need a visa to visit Dubai?

Accepted Answer

It depends on your nationality. Citizens of many countries (including US, UK, EU, Australia, Canada) get a free 30-day visa on arrival. Others need to apply in advance through airlines, hotels, or a UAE sponsor. Always check the latest requirements with the UAE government's official portal before traveling.

Question 2

How much does it cost to live in Dubai per month?

Accepted Answer

A single person can live comfortably on AED 8,000–15,000/month ($2,200–$4,100). Rent is the biggest expense: a 1-bedroom apartment ranges from AED 3,000–12,000/month depending on the area. Dubai has no income tax, which offsets the higher cost of living compared to some cities.

Question 3

Is Dubai safe for tourists and expats?

Accepted Answer

Dubai is one of the safest cities in the world. Violent crime is extremely rare, and the police force is well-resourced. The main things to be aware of are traffic safety (aggressive driving is common), summer heat (temperatures above 45°C), and respecting local laws around alcohol, public behavior, and dress codes.

Question 4

What is the best time to visit Dubai?

Accepted Answer

November to March is the ideal time to visit when temperatures are a pleasant 20–30°C. December and January are peak tourist season with events like Dubai Shopping Festival. Avoid June to September unless you love extreme heat (40–50°C), though hotels and attractions are much cheaper during summer.

Question 5

Can I drink alcohol in Dubai?

Accepted Answer

Yes, but only at licensed venues — hotels, restaurants, bars, and clubs with a liquor license. Drinking in public, on the street, or on the beach is illegal and can result in fines or arrest. You can also buy alcohol from licensed shops (like MMI and African + Eastern) for home consumption with a personal liquor license, which is now free.

Question 6

How do I get around Dubai?

Accepted Answer

Dubai has a modern metro system (Red and Green lines), buses, trams, and water taxis. Most expats rely on cars or ride-hailing apps (Careem, Uber). Taxis are affordable and metered. The nol card works across all public transport. Dubai is not very walkable due to distances and summer heat, so transport planning is essential.

Question 7

What is the Golden Visa and how do I get one?

Accepted Answer

The UAE Golden Visa is a long-term residency visa (5 or 10 years) for investors, entrepreneurs, professionals, and skilled workers. You can qualify through property investment (AED 2M+), a high salary (AED 30,000+/month), or being a specialized professional. It doesn't require a local sponsor and allows 100% business ownership.

Question 8

What should I know about Dubai's dress code?

Accepted Answer

Dubai is relatively liberal but respectful dress is expected in public. In malls, markets, and on the street, cover shoulders and knees. Beachwear is fine at beaches and pools only. During Ramadan, dress more conservatively. At clubs and upscale restaurants, smart casual or formal dress codes often apply.

Question 9

Can I start a business in Dubai as a foreigner?

Accepted Answer

Yes! Dubai actively encourages foreign entrepreneurship. You can set up in a free zone with 100% ownership from around AED 5,750/year, or on the mainland where 100% foreign ownership is now permitted for most activities. The process typically takes 5-15 business days. Corporate tax is 9% on profits above AED 375,000, with free zone companies potentially qualifying for 0% on qualifying income.

Question 10

What are the top tourist attractions in Dubai?

Accepted Answer

The must-visit attractions include Burj Khalifa (At the Top from AED 169), Dubai Frame (AED 50), Museum of the Future (AED 149), and Atlantis Aquaventure water park (AED 299). Don't miss the free Dubai Fountain shows every evening, Gold Souk in Deira, and a desert safari (from AED 150). For families, Dubai Aquarium, Ski Dubai, and Legoland are excellent. Global Village (seasonal Oct-Apr) offers 90+ country pavilions for just AED 25 entry.

Question 11

What emergency numbers should I know in Dubai?

Accepted Answer

The essential numbers: Police 999, Ambulance 998, Fire 997, and Coast Guard 996. From a mobile phone, 112 works as a universal emergency number. For non-emergency police matters, call 901. DEWA (electricity/water) emergencies: 991. RTA transport helpline: 8009090. Save these in your phone before arriving.

Question 12

How do I set up utilities and internet when I move to Dubai?

Accepted Answer

Register with DEWA (Dubai Electricity & Water Authority) online or at a service center — you'll need your Ejari (tenancy contract), passport, visa, and Emirates ID. Deposit is AED 2,000 for apartments or AED 4,000 for villas. For internet, choose between du and Etisalat (now e&) — home packages start from AED 299/month for 250Mbps. Both offer eLife/home bundles with TV.

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