Dubai has an excellent network of public transportation comprising buses, the Dubai Metro, Dubai tram, Palm Jumeirah monorail, and water taxis, that connect all major sights and attractions such as the Burj Khalifa, Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood, Dubai Marina, Palm Jumeirah, and Mall of the Emirates. Not only is the metro a budget-friendly way to get around, but it also helps you beat the rush-hour traffic. You’ll need to get a Nol card (available at all metro stations) that you can recharge and use to pay the fare on public transportation.

While you’ll find plenty of high-end experiences, there are just as many enjoyable things to do on a budget. Take a cue from residents and visit Kite Beach, Marina Beach, and the promenades at Dubai Marina Walk, Bluewaters Island, and JBR Walk, all free to enter. These are a must-visit between October and April when the weather is cooler and you’re likely to find an event or festival in action. Feeling active? Hop on a Careem bike (available through the Careem app) and ride alongside views of the Dubai Water Canal or Jumeirah coastline. For affordable eats, go to cafeterias and hole-in-the-wall restaurants serving everything from Lebanese and Indian to Ethiopian food in Bur Dubai, Deira, Satwa, and Al Barsha.

Expect to dress in Dubai as fashionably as you would in any other city, but do consider the weather and the setting when choosing your attire. In summer, breathable fabrics such as cotton and linen in light colors are more comfortable, while the mild winter season barely requires more than a light jacket or sweater in the evenings. You’ll see a variety of styles on the streets of Dubai, from athleisure and casual to ultra-glamorous.

While both men and women may wear shorts and tank tops, it’s best to wear clothing that covers the knees and shoulders in the souks, heritage neighborhoods, and museums. If you’re visiting a mosque, men and women must wear opaque clothing that is ankle-length and covers the arms.

Swimwear (including bikinis) may be worn on all public beaches and hotel pools, but cover up on your way to the beach. A sure way to stand out as a tourist is to be dressed in a transparent cover-up over your swimwear while taking the metro or public bus to the beach. Not only is that inappropriate, but it’s also not practical, given the strong air-conditioning at metro stations and shopping malls. 

Don’t believe those who say that Dubai has no culture – it’s simply impossible that that would be the case for a city that is home to over 200 nationalities. Dubai’s uniquely cosmopolitan culture has resulted from its rich diversity and that is something that is beautifully reflected in the city’s contemporary art, music, design, literature, and food scenes. Art and culture lovers should head to Alserkal Avenue, a hub of art galleries, studios, indie theatres, live music venues, co-working spaces, and cafes. Between November and March, keep an eye out for events such as Quoz Arts Fest, Sikka Art and Design Festival, and Art Dubai.

Dubai is the kind of city where you can truly relax without worrying about your safety or petty crimes such as pickpocketing, which is unheard of even in crowded places. It’s safe to walk around in most neighborhoods late at night. Women don’t need to constantly look over their shoulder or be anxious about taking a taxi alone, even in the wee hours of the morning. Should you forget your wallet in a taxi or a mall food court, you’re almost certain to have it returned or sent to lost and found.