Dubai is one of the most sought-after destinations by travelers from around the world, especially for those who prefer to venture into a place where luxury and eccentricities are the order of the day. However, for those who have never traveled to Dubai, some of its customs can be curious and eccentric, leading to a certain reluctance when planning vacations.
For this reason, from the travel expert site Lonely Planet, they revealed the ten myths and truths about the most emblematic city of the United Arab Emirates, where a great number of activities can be enjoyed, but which also has its rules and legends.
What no one knows about Dubai according to Lonely Planet
People who choose Dubai for their vacation have a series of prejudices about this enclave that Lonely Planet has set out to dispel. One of them is about the amount of money needed to travel there. Being a city where opulence and eccentricities are its trademark, many consider that choosing this place is very expensive. However, the publication emphasizes that “you don’t have to be rich to travel to Dubai” and ensures that taking taxis or the metro is often the most economical way to get around, and there are also a number of affordable restaurants in the Al Muraqqabat Rd and Al Rigga Rd districts in Deira.
Another myth surrounding this site is that it is a destination solely for shopping and spending. However, Lonely Planet highlights that there are cultural activities that allow visitors to experience this city from the inside, with diverse options for all tastes. One of the options is to visit the Etihad Museum and the Dubai Museum as well as the Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding. Visitors can also explore the vibrant contemporary art scene in Alserkal Avenue and see a performance at the Dubai Opera.
Myths and legends: everything that is said about Dubai.
Nightlife is also crucial for those who enjoy parties, and Dubai has some restrictions regarding this. One of them is about the sale of alcoholic beverages, which is only allowed in bars and restaurants that have licenses, which are generally inside the restaurants. The legal age for purchasing drinks is 21, and there are “Ladies’ nights” on Tuesdays, where women drink for free, as well as all-you-can-eat brunches held on Fridays.
Regarding restrictive measures, one of the most curious for foreigners is the dress code, especially for women. To enjoy the best beaches in Dubai, it is not necessary to wear a burkini, a type of special swimsuit worn by Emirati women. Tourists are not required to cover their hair and can wear shorts and t-shirts in various places, except in mosques and certain areas.
When the weekend begins in Dubai, another of Lonely Planet’s truths.
The weekend is the most anticipated time for everyone, and in Dubai, it begins on Fridays, when Muslims gather for their congregational prayers. Therefore, public transport and businesses operate on restricted hours on this day, and nightclubs usually start their hustle on Thursday nights.
For night owls, it is important to know that in Dubai, one can walk alone without any danger. The United Arab Emirates is the second safest country in the world according to the World Economic Forum, so it has safe areas where people can roam without fear of any uncomfortable situation. In addition to the previously mentioned myths, Lonely Planet also highlights that Dubai is a great gastronomic destination and aims to compete with Orlando in the United States through its offerings.
