Dubai is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world, and there is a reason for this. With amazing buildings, fantastic local food, great waterparks and plenty of opulent shopping malls, there is something for every traveler that wants to visit this destination. Below are four of the biggest misconceptions people have before visiting Dubai.

You Can’t Get Alcohol
Many people think Dubai is a dry country, and although you do need an alcohol license to drink in your house, there are many licensed restaurants and bars. This is a Muslim country, and Muslims choose not to drink, but they understand that tourists still visit Dubai and other religions do drink. The best places to drink are usually in the restaurant or bars attached to your hotel. Some of the higher-end places may not serve alcohol.

You Have to Be Wrapped Up
If you are not Muslim, Dubai does not require you to cover up. You can have your hair out, and you can wear shorts and t-shirts in most places. You can wear a bikini on the beach or by your pool, but it is not expected to walk around the streets in your bikini. The only place where you should respect the culture is in the mosques and malls, which require knees and shoulders to be covered. Air conditioning is standard in all these places, so do not worry about being too hot. Dubai is also quite a higher-class city, so take your best outfits as this is a great place to dress up whilst going for brunch or a few drinks at night.

You Need to Be Rich

Although Dubai is known for its high-end shops and restaurants, you don’t need a lot of money to visit Dubai. There are many affordable hotel chains in Dubai and cheap flights to Dubai are readily available. There are many cheap places to eat and drink if you know where to look, and travelling is relatively cheap on the Metro. Even the taxis are quite affordable. If you are unsure of how much you want to spend, you could budget your cash for each day so you know what is in your price range. Dubai is a big city to explore and you can see many things for free.

Image credit: https://pixabay.com/en/burj-al-arab-largest-hotel-in-dubai-2624317/

Author: Ryan Holman

Maralyn
Author: Maralyn

Maralyn Dennis Hill, The Epicurean Explorer, is president emeritus of International Food Wine & Travel Writers Association, member of Society of American Travel Writers, and Society of Professional Journalists. She is Executive Editor of Luxe Beat Magazine and contributes to other publications. She also speaks and is a guest on many shows. The majority of Maralyn’s articles are now geared to the luxury market, spas, corporate retreats, business events, and culinary tourism, from simple to gourmet. Maralyn’s description of herself: I was born to travel and tell the tale. I’m energized by different cultures in every aspect of their lives, from food, wine, and destination, to how they conduct business. Travel represents a continual geography lesson.