Dubai Done Right – My Guide To Luxury And Style!

Dubai isn’t just a destination — it’s a whole mood.
From the moment you land, you’re swept up in a city where luxury meets ambition and everything feels larger than life. Whether you’re here for world-class shopping, jaw-dropping skyscrapers, sun-drenched beach clubs, or a taste of refined Middle Eastern charm, Dubai delivers it all in style.

One minute you’re sipping a cappuccino topped with 24K gold, and the next, you’re catching a desert sunset in complete serenity. Where else can you shop for a bag made of pure gold at the airport, then head straight to a rooftop infinity pool with skyline views?

The service? Flawless. The lifestyle? Unapologetically extravagant — just how I like it.

Whether you're sunning at a private beach, indulging in Michelin-star dining, or just letting the city spoil you, Dubai makes sure you feel like royalty every step of the way.

And let's talk about safety — because honestly, I’ve never felt safer anywhere. Walk around in full glam with your designer bags, your Rolex, and your peace of mind intact. Leave your phone on a beach lounger while you take a dip? It’ll be right there when you get back. That kind of security is a luxury in itself, and Dubai offers it effortlessly.

Now, let’s address the elephant in the room: people love to say Dubai is "fake" or overly manufactured. But let me tell you something- luxury doesn’t necessarily need a 200-year-old story to feel real. This city isn’t pretending to be ancient Europe or old Asia. It’s doing its own thing: bold, ambitious, beautifully over-the-top. Dubai is a modern marvel, a place where ideas become reality — and that’s as real as it gets.

Sure, this isn’t the place for ruins and relics, but it’s a paradise for lovers of design, indulgence, hospitality done right, and just the finer things in life. And once you experience it for yourself, you’ll get it.

Before you pack your bags, let me walk you through everything you need to know to experience Dubai smoothly.

Essential Practical Information

Camel Dubai Beach — Dubai; The Arabian Dream :-)

1. Visa & Entry Requirements

Dubai welcomes visitors from around the world with different visa policies depending on nationality:

Visa on Arrival: Citizens of certain countries (EU, UK, US, Canada, and Australia) can get a free-of-charge visa on arrival (valid for 30 or 90 days).
Pre-arranged Visa: If your country isn't eligible for a visa on arrival, you must apply in advance.
GCC Citizens: No visa is required for Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) nationals.

👉 Pro Tip: Check the latest visa rules on the UAE government website before traveling.

2. Best Time to Visit

Dubai is hot, like, really hot. Timing your trip can make or break your experience.

Peak Season (November–March): Pleasant temperatures (20–30°C), perfect for outdoor activities, but higher prices and crowds.
Shoulder Season (April, May, October): Still bearable heat-wise, with some deals on hotels.
Summer (June–September): Scorching (40–50°C) but great discounts on luxury stays, if you don’t mind staying indoors most of the time.

👉 Pro Tip: If visiting in summer, stick to air-conditioned attractions like malls, museums, and indoor theme parks.

3. Currency & Payment Methods

Currency: UAE Dirham (AED)
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, but carrying some cash is useful for taxis, souks, and tips.
ATMs are everywhere, and currency exchange rates are generally fair at malls and banks.

👉 Pro Tip: Avoid airport exchange booths as rates aren’t great. Use an international credit card with no foreign transaction fees.

4. Language & Communication

Official Language: Arabic
Widely Spoken: English is the go-to language for tourism and daily interactions.

👉 Pro Tip: Learning a few Arabic words like Shukran (Thank you) or Marhaba (Hello) is always appreciated!

5. Local Customs & Dress Code

Dubai is modern, but it’s still a part of the UAE, so respectful dressing is expected in public spaces.
Swimwear is fine at beaches and pools, but cover up when leaving those areas.
Public displays of affection are frowned upon. You will see this on courtesy policy boards along the JBR.
Drinking alcohol is allowed only in licensed venues (hotels, bars, and private clubs).

👉 Pro Tip: Friday is the weekend in Dubai, so plan accordingly.

6. Safety & Laws

Dubai is one of the safest cities in the world, with low crime rates and strict laws.
Drug possession (even in tiny amounts) is zero-tolerance—don’t risk it.
Taking photos of government buildings or people without permission can get you in trouble.

👉 Pro Tip: When in doubt, follow the rules—Dubai takes them seriously!

7. Transportation & Getting Around Dubai

Taxis (The Convenient Choice)- Dubai taxis are clean, equipped with CCTV, WIFI, comfortable, and metered. You can also pay by card, and don’t go for the fixed price!

Regular Dubai Taxi: Readily available and affordable. The doormen at your hotel will assist you gladly.
Luxury Taxi (Lexus): More premium, usually found at airports and malls.
Ladies Taxi: If preferred, pink-roof taxis are driven by women for female passengers.

Ride-Hailing Apps:

Uber Black – High-end SUVs and executive cars with professional chauffeurs.
Blacklane – Premium chauffeur service with high-end vehicles like Mercedes S-Class.

👉 Pro Tip: The Careem app is recommended everywhere! However, from my 3-week experience in Dubai, I say STAY AWAY! The prices were higher than the regular taxis, it was not convenient at all to get one, and our personal data wasn’t protected; someone stole our credit card details and ordered items online, luckily we caught it in time.

Private Chauffeur Services

For ultimate luxury and exclusivity, book a private driver with a high-end car.

LUX Dubai – Offers Rolls-Royce, Bentley, and Maybach with chauffeurs.
Dubai Exotic Limo – Limousines, luxury sedans, and SUVs for hourly or daily hire.
AHD Dubai – Specializes in VIP transport with multilingual drivers.

👉 Pro Tip: Many hotels offer complimentary chauffeur service for VIP guests—check before booking!

Self-Drive Supercars (If You Want to Turn Heads)

Rent and drive exotic cars like:

Ferrari 488 Spider
Lamborghini Urus
Rolls-Royce Cullinan

Top Rental Agencies

VIP Rent a Car – Specializes in high-end sports and luxury cars.
Paddock Rent a Car – Great for Lambos, McLarens, and Porsches.
Be VIP Rent a Car – Offers chauffeur-driven or self-drive exotic cars.
NOTE: Price is around 2,500-3,000 AED per hour. You can either drive yourself ( you must be older than 23) or ask for a driver to be included.

👉 Pro Tip: If renting, be ready to provide a hefty deposit in some cases and a valid international driving license.

Where To Stay In Dubai: The Ultimate Luxe Experience

Jumeirah Burj Al Arab Dubai — Jumeirah Burj Al Arab, Dubai

When it comes to luxury hotels in Dubai, the city knows no bounds. Picture this: grandiose properties, impeccable service, world-class dining right at your doorstep, and luxury at every turn. From glitzy sky-high towers to private beach resorts, Dubai’s hotels offer an unparalleled level of luxury — everything is taken care of before you even ask. It’s easy to get swept up in the extravagance, but you don’t have to mortgage your life to enjoy the chic side of Dubai.

After exploring top-tier options like the iconic Atlantis The Palm and the ever-popular FIVE Palm Jumeirah, I can confidently say that Hilton Dubai Palm Jumeirah strikes the perfect balance between luxury, prime location, and value for money. It offers an elevated experience without the sky-high price tag of some other five-star hotels. Save your budget for the experiences that make Dubai unforgettable — because trust me, this city has a lot to offer.

Located on West Beach, this Hilton offers breathtaking views of the Dubai skyline and an exclusive beach experience without the crowds. This location is close to all the must-see attractions but still feels like a peaceful retreat. It’s a perfect spot to relax in style while still being immersed in the action. First-class amenities without the astronomical price tag.

Hilton Hotspots

Zing Beach Club: Chill out by the pristine shores with a cocktail in hand — the ultimate way to unwind by the water.
Jones the Grocer: A laid-back yet chic dining spot, serving gourmet meals on the beach in a relaxed atmosphere.
Barfly By Buddha Rooftop: Enjoy panoramic views of the city, incredible food, sleek design, and live entertainment. It’s the perfect place to catch the sunset and soak in the vibrant Dubai skyline with a drink in hand. It's one of my favorite rooftops! We saw local celebs having a night out here, which is telling in itself.

Barfly rooftop views Dubai — Dubai’s skyline from the Barfly Rooftop

West Beach Boulevard – For That Beach Club & Chi-Chi Vibe
Looking for something energetic and buzzing? West Beach Boulevard has that cool beach club vibe with a dash of high-end chic. Here, you'll find trendy spots where you can sip cocktails by the beach, soak up the sun, people-watch in style, and even dance the night away. The laid-back atmosphere is perfect for anyone wanting a fun, social day at the beach without feeling like they’ve stepped into a stuffy luxury-only zone. Perfect location to explore; day or night.

Views from the private beach of the Hilton Palm, Dubai

The Best Things To See And Do In Dubai

A personal note: I didn’t mention amusement parks as I am not a park person, and every recommendation I make is from personal experience only. If this is of interest to you, there are many to choose from! I have only been to the Global Village. Other ones recommended for 2025 are IMG Worlds of Adventure, Hollywood-themed Motiongate Dubai, Legoland® Dubai, and Dubai Miracle Garden.

Luxe, Culture & Must-Knows

Let’s talk about Old Dubai, where expectations and reality can diverge fast. We were pointed toward the Deira Souk (or “Suk,” as it’s locally called) with promises of charm and tradition. But in truth? Aside from the glittering Gold Souk, it was a miss. It felt more like a tourist trap than a slice of real Emirati culture — aggressive vendors, no locals in sight, and zero serenity.

We quickly escaped the chaos via an abra (traditional wooden boat) and crossed the creek — and that’s where the magic began.

Suk, Old Dubai — The colorful Spice Suk of Old Dubai

Al Seef & Al Fahidi — The Other Side Of Old Dubai

Here, authenticity returns. Strolling through Al Seef and Al Fahidi, you’ll find a slower pace, inviting smiles, and real heritage. Don’t miss Al Shindagha: a historic district home to the former residence of Sheikh Saeed Al Maktoum, grandfather of Dubai’s current ruler. Museums in the area are small but rich with stories, perfect for travelers who like culture with their cappuccino.

On the way back to downtown, you can stop at the Dubai Frame and the Museum of the Future.

The Dubai Frame, visible from afar, is an iconic structure that ‘frames’ impressive views of Old and New Dubai, while serving as a metaphorical bridge connecting the emirate’s rich past with its magnificent present. It offers spectacular panoramic views across the city.

Museum of the Future is located along the city's superhighway, Sheikh Zayed Road. The museum explores how society could evolve in the coming decades using science and technology. And its structure is phenomenal!

Jumeirah Beach – Sun, Sea, And Luxury With A Price Tag

Jumeirah Beach is home to some of the most beautiful beach clubs in Dubai. While you can rent sunbeds and umbrellas for a truly luxurious experience, it will cost you around 100 Euros per person, so come prepared. The views are breathtaking, the waters are crystal clear, and the atmosphere is lively, with lots of options for watersports and beachside dining.

After soaking up the sun, take a stroll along the Marina Walk—a long stretch filled with urban energy, shops, cafes, and vibrant crowds. It’s one of the best places to take in the buzzing atmosphere of the city while enjoying a leisurely walk.

Dubai Mall — Even For Mall Skeptics

I’m not a mall person. But Dubai Mall? It’s practically a city. Not just a shopping mecca, but a visual experience: bold architecture, upscale boutiques, and top-tier design.
Even if malls aren’t your thing (they’re usually not mine either), Dubai Mall is a world of its own. It's one of the largest malls on the planet — over 1,200 stores, an aquarium, a waterfall, an Olympic-sized ice rink, and a view of the Burj Khalifa right outside its doors.

You could easily walk 5-7 km in one visit (yes, seriously), but don’t worry, in true Dubai style, there are chauffeur-style electric buggies and mini luxury carts available inside to whisk you from one end to the other. Think of it as the VIP way to mall-hop without ruining your heels.

Even the valet parking by the entrance to the mall looks like a car show, complete with private security for each vehicle. Can you imagine?

Take a breather at the Armani Café (treat yourself to their chocolate tart), then head outside for the Fountain Show from 6 PM onward; a dazzling display of water and music, with nightly projections on the Burj Khalifa, which is pure magic! Surrounding the fountains are fine dining restaurants with front-row seats to the skyline, and just across the bridge, you’ll find a beautifully designed souk with a modern twist.

Burj Khalifa, Dubai — Burj Khalifa by night, Dubai

The Palm & Atlantis - Sunset Done Right

To see the legendary Atlantis Hotel and enjoy a unique sunset view, hop on the Palm Monorail, a driverless train with scenic views over the Palm Jumeirah. If you flew Emirates, show your boarding pass for a discount.

Atlantis, Dubai — The iconic Atlatis Hotel, Dubai

WHERE TO EAT IN DUBAI — ICONIC RESTAURANTS, BUZZY VENUES & SECRET GEMS

Dubai’s dining scene doesn’t just serve food — it stages a full-on production. With Michelin-star chefs, interiors that look like art installations, and sunset views served with every course, you’re never just eating; you’re indulging. Here's a curated guide to the most unforgettable places to dine, drink, and dazzle.

⭐️ Fine Dining & Chic Must-Trys

Row on 45
An immersive tasting experience by celebrity chef Jason Atherton, where 17 courses are served across three elegant rooms on the 45th floor of the Grosvenor House. This is not dinner. It’s theatre.

The Guild
A dark, moody, high-design brasserie that feels like a New York power lunch meets Parisian supper club. Come for the oysters, stay for the energy.

Signor Sassi
Posh Italian with flair. Dine like a Milanese fashion icon on their terrace with skyline views. Everything from the creamy burrata to the decadent tiramisu hits the mark.

Pierchic
A romantic escape on a private pier extending into the Arabian Gulf. Award-winning Italian seafood, gentle sea breeze, and zero distractions — just you, the view, and the vino.

💃 Lively Dinner Spots Where the Night Comes Alive

Voyage by Amelia – A gorgeous lounge in the heart of Downtown. The menu leans Nikkei (Japanese-Peruvian fusion), and the ambiance is candlelit opulence with a resident DJ.

Verde – This one’s for the scene-makers. French-Mediterranean cuisine, dramatic interiors, and energy levels that build from dinner to party. Think Saint-Tropez meets Dubai.

STK – A global favorite for a reason. Sleek, sexy, and steakhouse perfection with a side of sass (and truffle fries). Dress to impress.

Showhouse Dubai – A sensory overload — in the best way. Expect theatrical service, immersive dining, and a visual spectacle. You don’t just go here for food, you go for the show.

OPA – Greek cuisine with a party twist. There’s plate smashing, live entertainment, and rich, authentic flavors that taste straight out of Mykonos.

Ristorante Olivo – A mesmerizing underwater restaurant in the Burj Al Arab.

More Addresses To Choose From

Oia restuarant, Dubai — Oia restaurant, Dubai

OIA – Stylish Santorini vibes on a rooftop with Aegean-inspired cuisine. Chic, boho, breezy.

Eugene Eugene – Hidden gem alert. Tucked in the new Huna complex, this French-inspired botanical bistro is relaxed yet sophisticated, with a garden terrace that feels like a secret.

Ristorante Loren – Classic Riviera charm on the Palm. Elegant, airy, and excellent Italian. The kind of place where lunch turns into aperitivo hour without you noticing.

Nazcaa – A standout for lovers of Japanese-Peruvian fusion. The cocktails are next-level, the decor lush, and every dish feels like a surprise you didn’t know you needed.

TOP ROOFTOPS & POOLS TO ELEVATE YOUR EXPERIENCE

NOTE: On rooftops in Dubai, you need to be, in most cases, 21 years old and up.

For Views That Don’t Quit!

Gevora Hotel Rooftop – Highest Views in Dubai.
The Penthouse – Outdoor dining, sushi, and skyline views to die for. Finish the night strong on the club side with DJ beats and a fabulous crowd, see and be seen.

For that “Is This Real Life?” Pool Moment

Dolce & Gabbana x Ounass by Cloud 22 -Fashion and poolside luxury.
Be transported to an Italian dream with visions of blue and white as you indulge in decadent cuisine.
Ce La Vi – At Address Sky View, views for days.

UNMISSABLE EXPERIENCES

If you only do one thing? Make it the Aura Skypool. Full stop. The world's highest 360° infinity pool, and it is iconic, luxurious, and unforgettable! On offer are extraordinary pool experiences from tranquil sunrises to vibrant sunsets and enchanting nights.

👉 Pro Tip - Depending on the date, they hold iconic pool parties.

Aura skypool Dubai — Aura skypool, Dubai

Aura skypool cocktail, Dubai — Cheers! Cocktails on top of the world- Aura Skypool, Dubai

Other Standouts

Views from the top of the Address Hotel, Dubai

Sky Views Observatory – There are exciting outside-the-box experiences to choose from aside from the spectacular views from the observatory. For example, The Edge Walk: Dare to look down? For brave hearts, take a hands-free leap of faith 53 floors above the ground. My choice? The Glass Walk and experiencing a breathtaking slide from floor-to-floor, outside the tower, and more than 219.5 metres up in the air.
Visiting the Burj Khalifa - Let’s be real—no trip to Dubai is complete without seeing the icon: Burj Khalifa. It’s not just the tallest building in the world—it’s a symbol of Dubai’s “go big or go home” energy. You can see it from almost anywhere in the city, but nothing compares to actually going up.
We opted for a combo ticket that included the Dubai Aquarium; a good value if you're planning to do both. The viewing platform at level 125 offers stunning panoramic views, and to be honest, it was enough for us. Yes, you can go to the 146th floor, but that’ll cost you well over €100 per person, and unless you’re dying for those extra floors, I’d say skip it. The experience at 125 still delivers that "wow" moment with the skyline, the desert, and the ocean all stretching out before you.

Xclusive Yachts – A luxury yacht brunch or dinner cruise, complete with a red carpet moment, DJ, swimming, and waterslides. Yes, really. We opted for their signature luxury yacht brunch cruise, our yacht was called Stardom (how fitting), and it was everything you'd expect from a five-star floating escape:
- A red carpet welcome.
- Live DJ and entertainment
- Live cooking stations and premium beverages.
- Swim & Slide: A blissful swim stop right off the shores of Jumeirah Beach. They put out a slide and a swimming pool so you don’t meet jellyfish close up.
From the panoramic views of the Palm Jumeirah to lounging on a daybed as the city skyline glows behind you, this was high-seas glamour at its best. The crew? Impeccable. The vibe? Elevated. The experience? Unmissable.
Desert Safari - Glamour In The Golden Dunes!
Saharan chic; many companies are offering amazing experiences in the desert, we choose Prime Oscar Tours think private 4x4s, sunset photo ops, quads and camel rides, an open-air dinner under the stars with gourmet flair, belly dancing, a fire show, and tanoura traditional dancing.
We chose a premium experience with:
- Door-to-door transfers in a luxury 4X4 vehicle.
- Dune bashing through the golden dunes, super thrilling! These professional drivers will demonstrate the meaning of bashing.
- Sunset champagne and photo opt stop in the middle of the desert.
- A stunning Bedouin-style camp set up with white linen tables, live oud music, fine dining, and entertainment.
  Optional extras? Henna, falcon photography, and shisha lounges. Or just lean back, sip your drink, and soak in the silence of the desert under a sky full of stars.
It was the perfect contrast to the city’s high energy; calm, cinematic, and utterly unforgettable.

Luxury indeed! Image courtesy of Xclusive Yachts, Dubai

BEACH CLUBS TO SKIP THE CLICHÉS

If you want something fresher than Nikki Beach or Nammos, try these:

NOTE: In Dubai, Most high-end beach clubs are 21-plus. Please check before booking.

Twiggy - Located at the Park Hyatt Dubai Lagoon. AmaZing!
O Beach Club - Bringing an essence of Ibiza to the UAE.
Gitano
La Baia
Ninive
Almayass by the Sea
Sirene Beach by Gaia

BEYOND DUBAI — WORTHWHILE ESCAPES OUTSIDE THE CITY

Dubai is a world of its own, but if you have a few days to spare, don’t sleep on what the rest of the UAE has to offer. From surreal landscapes to cultural icons, here are the top escapes worth leaving the city limits for.

🏙 Abu Dhabi- Culture, Grandeur & The Iconic Mosque

Just 90 minutes from Dubai, Abu Dhabi is the UAE’s refined, cultural cousin. Think architectural marvels and less chaos.

Must-Visit Spots

Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque – Jaw-droppingly majestic. White marble, gold details, and chandeliers the size of cars.
Louvre Abu Dhabi – A sleek, sea-surrounded art museum with a stunning floating dome.
Qasr Al Watan – A working presidential palace that lets you peek behind the curtain of Emirati leadership — and it's drop-dead gorgeous.

🌿 The Long Salt Lake – A Dream Location

Located near Al Wathba (on the way to Abu Dhabi), this surreal line of glowing green pools stretches through the desert like something out of a dream.

No entrance fee, but best visited with a 4x4.
Go early in the morning or just before sunset to beat the heat and crowds.
Bring your best camera — trust me, phones don’t do this place justice.

🏔 Fujairah — Mountains, Mosques & Coastal Vibes

If you're craving nature or a break from city glam, Fujairah offers a different vibe — think rugged mountains, quiet beaches, and cultural heritage.

Highlights

Snoopy Island – A snorkeler’s paradise.
Al Bidyah Mosque – The UAE’s oldest mosque.
Scenic road trip route along the Hajar Mountains.

Good to know: It’s about a 90-minute drive from Dubai. Pack a swimsuit, hiking shoes, and a sense of adventure.

Final Thoughts
Dubai is a city that doesn't just sparkle — it dazzles. From sky-high rooftop views to underwater fine dining, golden dunes to glittering malls, it’s a destination where luxury isn’t optional — it’s the baseline. Whether you’re after indulgent experiences, picture-perfect moments, or just a little (okay, a lot of) glamour, Dubai serves it all on a silver platter.

The beach, Dubai — The gorgeous beach & skyline of Dubai

I hope this guide helps you navigate the magic — without the tourist traps. If you have any questions, drop them in the comments or DM me on Instagram. And if you’re looking for even more travel inspo, fashion-forward finds, or chic dining ideas… well, this is only the beginning.

Dubai Travel Guide: The Ultimate Gateway to Glamour and Adventure!