Dubai is a modern metropolis rising on the shores of the Persian Gulf, shining like an oasis in the middle of the desert. With its golden beaches, skyscrapers piercing the sky, and a luxury lifestyle you won’t find anywhere else in the world, Dubai welcomes millions of tourists every year. If you are planning a trip to this glittering city, this guide we have prepared is just for you.
How to Get to Dubai?
Dubai is one of the world’s largest transportation hubs. Getting to Dubai from Turkey is quite easy. You can reach Dubai after a journey of approximately 4.5 hours with direct flights organized daily from Istanbul Airport (IST) and Sabiha Gökçen Airport (SAW).
- Airlines: Companies such as Turkish Airlines, Emirates, Pegasus, and flydubai operate regular flights.
- Airports: There are two main airports in the city: Dubai International Airport (DXB) and Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC). DXB is much closer to the city center and is directly connected to the city via the metro line.
- Visa: Turkish citizens holding a Public (Maroon) Passport are required to obtain a visa for a visit to Dubai (United Arab Emirates). Special (Green) passport holders can travel without a visa for up to 90 days.
Currency and Shopping Tips
The official currency of Dubai is the United Arab Emirates Dirham (AED). It is commonly referred to as the “Dirham.”
- Currency Exchange: You can easily exchange currency at the airport, hotels, or “Exchange” offices within the city. The US Dollar has a fixed exchange rate against the Dirham (1 USD ≈ 3.67 AED).
- Card Usage: The use of credit and debit cards is very common in Dubai. You can make contactless payments even in the smallest shops.
- Tipping: Although tipping is not mandatory, it is considered a rule of courtesy to leave a tip of around 10% in the service sector.
What to Eat in Dubai? Local Dishes
Dubai cuisine is a mosaic of traditional Bedouin dishes blended with Lebanese, Iranian, and Indian influences.
- Machboos: An “Emirati” classic where rice, meat (usually lamb or chicken), vegetables, and dried lemon (loomi) are cooked with magnificent spices.
- Luqaimat: Small dough balls that are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside, drizzled with date syrup and sesame seeds. It’s perfect for sweet cravings.
- Harees: A very satisfying traditional dish made by cooking wheat and meat for a long time until it reaches a puree consistency.
- Camel Meat: For those looking for a different experience in Dubai, camel meat burgers or stews are popular.
- Saffron Cake: This milky cake with saffron aroma is an indispensable part of modern Dubai cafes.
Burj Khalifa: Climb to the Top of the World
The first stop that comes to mind when Dubai is mentioned is undoubtedly the Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world. This architectural marvel, 828 meters high, can be seen from everywhere in the city.
- At The Top: The observation decks on the 124th and 125th floors offer a panoramic view.
- Sky Experience: If you want to go higher, you can choose the luxury lounge on the 148th floor.
- Tip: Sunset hours are the most popular times. Buying your tickets online weeks in advance will save you from long queues.
Desert Safari: Adrenaline on the Sand Dunes
A Desert Safari experience is a must for any Dubai trip. You travel to endless sand dunes, away from the noise of the modern city.
- Dune Bashing: A thrill-filled driving experience on sand dunes with 4×4 vehicles accompanied by professional drivers.
- Bedouin Camp: In the camps set up at the end of the safari, you can ride a camel, get a henna tattoo, and take photos in traditional clothes.
- Dinner and Show: Watching Tanura dance and fire shows while having an open buffet dinner under the stars will be one of the most unforgettable moments of your vacation.
LEGOLAND Dubai: The Destination for Family Fun
Dubai is like a playground for families with children. Located within Dubai Parks and Resorts, LEGOLAND Dubai pushes the boundaries of creativity and fun.
- Miniland: Here you can see giant models of Dubai’s iconic structures (such as Burj Khalifa, Burj Al Arab) made of millions of LEGO pieces.
- Factory Tour: You can learn how LEGO pieces are produced and get your own souvenir piece.
- Water Park: The LEGOLAND Water Park right next to it is ideal for cooling off on hot Dubai days.
Ferrari World: The Capital of Speed
Located in Abu Dhabi, about 1 hour away from Dubai, Ferrari World is a place that adrenaline enthusiasts must visit.
- Formula Rossa: The world’s fastest roller coaster is here. Reaching a speed of 240 km/h in just 4.9 seconds, this coaster offers a true Formula 1 thrill.
- Ferrari Museum: You can closely examine the historical models and racing cars of the Italian legend.
- Simulators: You can test your driving skills with realistic simulators where F1 pilots are trained.
Dubai Mall and Aquarium: More Than Just Shopping
One of the largest shopping centers in the world, Dubai Mall is not just about stores. It contains a whole world inside.
- Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo: You can watch sharks and rays in the tunnel passing through a giant tank.
- The Waterfall: The giant waterfall with human diving figures is one of the most popular spots for taking photos.
- Ice Rink: If you want to ice skate in the desert heat, an Olympic-sized rink awaits you inside the Dubai Mall.
Dubai Fountain: The Dance of Water and Light
Located right outside the Dubai Mall, the Dubai Fountain is the world’s largest choreographed fountain system.
- Show Times: The show, which takes place every half hour starting from 6:00 PM, offers a magnificent harmony of music, light, and water.
- Abra Tour: If you want to watch the show more closely, you can take a tour with “Abra” boats, which are traditional Arab boats, on the lake.
Old Dubai and the Spice Souk
Beyond the modern skyscrapers lies the “Old Dubai” area, where you can feel the roots of the city. This is the heart of Dubai’s commercial past.
- Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood: An area where you can see old Arab architecture with its wind towers and narrow streets.
- Spice and Gold Souks: In these bazaars located in the Deira region, you can find saffron, incense, exotic spices, and dazzling gold jewelry.
- Canal Crossing: Use Abra boats to cross from Bur Dubai to Deira for only 1 Dirham; this is one of the most authentic experiences.
Palm Jumeirah: A Man-Made Miracle
This palm-shaped artificial island, which can be seen even from space, is an engineering marvel. It hosts the world’s most luxurious hotels and mansions.
- The View at The Palm: The observation deck where you can see the palm shape of the island from the very top.
- Atlantis The Palm: This iconic hotel at the tip of the island is famous for its massive water park, “Aquaventure.”
- The Pointe: A perfect waterfront for having dinner and watching the Atlantis view across the way.
Museum of the Future: A Journey to the Future
One of Dubai’s newest icons, the Museum of the Future is considered one of the most beautiful buildings in the world.
- Design: The exterior of the building is covered with Arabic calligraphy and features the poems of Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum.
- Content: The museum offers interactive exhibitions simulating technologies, ecology, and human life in the year 2071.
Global Village: Travel the World in One Day
Open only during the winter season (between October and April), Global Village is a massive outdoor entertainment center that brings together more than 90 cultures.
- Pavilions: Each country is represented by its own architecture, food, and handicrafts. You can find Maraş ice cream and Turkish coffee in the Turkey pavilion.
- Concerts: Weekly world music concerts and fireworks displays make this the center of nightlife.
Dubai Marina: The Hub of Modern Life
Built around the water canal passing through giant skyscrapers, Dubai Marina is famous for its walking paths and yacht tours.
- Dinner Cruise: You can have your dinner on a luxury boat among the glittering skyscrapers.
- JBR Beach: This public beach right next to the Marina is the most popular place for swimming and spending time in seaside restaurants.
Things to Consider and Tips for Dubai
It is important to be familiar with some local rules and tips to have a great vacation.
- Best Time: The best time to visit Dubai is between November and March. In the summer months, temperatures can reach 50 degrees Celsius.
- Dress Code: While you are quite free in tourist areas, it is a matter of respect to wear clothes that cover the shoulders and knees in shopping malls and official buildings.
- Alcohol Consumption: Alcohol can only be consumed in licensed hotel bars, restaurants, and nightclubs. Drinking alcohol on the street is strictly prohibited.
- Transportation Tip: You can use the metro and buses very cheaply by getting a “Nol Card” for city transportation. Taxis are also very safe and common.
