Things to know about Dubai before travelling
Dubai’s many wonders are well documented, but when it comes down to the basics – like public transport, weather, culture and business – all you need is in this essential guide. So, with your plane tickets and hotel booked, read on to discover all you need to know before visiting the emirate.
Getting to Dubai
Dubai is ideally situated at the crossroads of Europe, Asia and Africa, meaning that one-third of the world’s population is within a four- hour flight and two-thirds are within an eight-hour flight.
More than 125 airlines fly to Dubai from destinations around the world. A first-rate network of highways connect Dubai and neighbouring GCC countries. From Indonesia, Emirates Airlines provide 2 direct flights from Jakarta and 2 direct flights Bali that only takes 8 hours to go to Dubai.
Applying Your Visa
Indonesian tourists and visitors traveling to UAE on Emirates Airline can apply for their UAE visa at the Dubai Application Center in VFS Global Kuningan City. Visas are valid for 30 days from date of issue and passenger can apply for his/ her visa a maximum of 30 days prior to the date of travel.
Visit HERE for more information regarding the visa application process. It takes three to four days to process the visa from the date of application.
For passengers traveling with other flight carrier, please contact your local travel agent for information regarding your visa application.
Choosing Accommodation
Whether you’re traveling for business or leisure, Dubai has many accommodation options that will suit your stay. If you’re heading there for a city break, there’s a whole host of affordable hospitality options that won’t break the bank. Click here to see our pick of smart, trendy hotels that offer all the creature comforts you’ll need at great- value prices. Hole up in one of these affordable hotels and splash the cash on other fun stuff instead.
Getting Around in Dubai
Connect seamlessly from the airport to your hotel or meeting using Dubai’s state-of-the-art transport system. You’ll find a string of public taxis waiting for you upon your arrival and, being a relatively small city, you can expect to be at your hotel or remote office in under 30 minutes. Taxis accept most major credit cards and will soon be wifi-enabled for passengers to stay connected on the go. You can alternatively use apps such as Uber or local-based Careem to hire a taxi.
Alternatively, jump on the Dubai Metro. The Red Line runs through the heart of the city along the arterial Sheikh Zayed Road. Stations serve the primary business hubs, such as the World Trade Centre, host to many of the city’s big conventions and exhibitions, and the Dubai International Financial Centre (hop off at Financial Centre station).
To make the most of Dubai’s public transport system, purchase a prepaid NOL card, which can be used for the Metro, Tram, buses and taxis. NOL cards can be purchased from any of Dubai’s Metro stations and selected bus stations.
Culture and Customs
Dubai is a very tolerant, cosmopolitan and multicultural city. Its residents are made up of more than 200 different nationalities – all living together harmoniously. Demonstrating a heritage of rich Arabian hospitality, Dubai is a very welcoming city. Just when visiting any foreign destination, the local customs and culture should be respected.
Being largely a Muslim country, it is recommended to dress modestly, particularly within the workplace. The work week runs from Sunday to Thursday, with Friday and Saturday being the weekend. The usual business hours are adhered to in most private enterprises, but government buildings may close around 2.30pm each day.
Weather in Dubai
Given the location in the Arabian Desert, Dubai enjoys a warm climate year-round. The winter months from October through to May are the mildest, with average temperatures ranging from around 20 degrees centigrade to the mid-30s.
During the summer months of June through September, the weather heats up, with averages from high-30s to mid-40s. This is when Dubai’s plethora of indoor attractions and facilities come to the fore, making Dubai a year-round destination.
Plan your route around Dubai in advance and take advantage of what Dubai has to offer. Download Dubai maps and guides before you arrive. See here for Dubai’s must-see events and attractions, plus Dubai holiday itineraries, and visa information. Start planning your trip to Dubai today.
