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Travel in Dubai and the UAE: the practical guide

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Abras, traditional boats, on Dubai Creek
Contents

In short: Dubai is best visited from November to March. Many nationalities, including French citizens, enter visa-free for 90 days, the metro links the airport to the centre, and a day in Abu Dhabi rounds off the trip. Respect local customs, especially during Ramadan.

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When to go

  • November to March: the best time, warm but pleasant, ideal for the beach and the desert.
  • April, May, October: very hot.
  • June to September: extremely hot and humid; life moves indoors, air-conditioned.

Entry requirements

Many nationalities, including French citizens, receive a free entry stamp on arrival for a stay of up to 90 days, with a passport valid for at least six months. Check the rules for your nationality.

Arriving and getting around

  • The metro red line serves Terminals 1 and 3 of Dubai International Airport and runs to Downtown, the Marina and Jebel Ali.
  • Taxis and ride-hailing apps are plentiful; the tram serves the Marina and JBR.
  • Abras, traditional boats, cross the creek between Deira and Bur Dubai.

Money, internet and customs

  • Currency: the UAE dirham (AED). Cards are accepted almost everywhere.
  • Internet: install a travel eSIM.
  • Customs: modest dress in public places and malls, shoulders and knees covered in mosques; alcohol is served only in licensed venues; during Ramadan, avoid eating and drinking in public during the day.
  • Weekend: Saturday and Sunday.

What to see

  • Dubai: the Burj Khalifa and its observation deck, the fountain and Dubai Mall, Old Dubai and its souks, the Museum of the Future, the Marina, a desert trip.
  • Abu Dhabi (about an hour and a half’s drive): Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, the Louvre Abu Dhabi.

Where to stay

Our Dubai page presents the best areas for your travel style: Downtown for a first visit, the Marina for the beach, Old Dubai on a tighter budget.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need a visa for Dubai?

Not for many nationalities, including French citizens: a free entry stamp is issued on arrival for a stay of up to 90 days, with a passport valid for at least six months. Rules depend on nationality.

How do I get from Dubai airport to the centre?

The metro red line directly serves Terminals 1 and 3 of Dubai International Airport and runs to Downtown and the Marina. Taxis are plentiful and convenient.

When should I go to Dubai?

From November to March, when it is hot but bearable. Summer (June to September) is extremely hot and humid.

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