Do I need cash?
Card payments are accepted almost everywhere, but carrying a small amount of cash is always useful.
Before You Travel to Dubai
Finance, communication, transport and practical advice before your trip.
Finance
Can I use my bank card?
Yes. Visa and Mastercard are accepted almost everywhere.
Communication
Should I buy a SIM card?
Yes. Tourist SIMs and eSIMs are widely available and easy to set up. Our highly recommended eSIM is Airalo — you can download it through Google Play or the App Store.
Is WhatsApp used in Dubai?
Yes. We communicate with all of our clients through WhatsApp.
Transportation
Should I use RTA taxis or Uber?
RTA Dubai Taxis are usually the best value. You can either hail one from almost any road or book one through the Careem app. Uber is available too, but it’s generally a little more expensive.
Should I download Careem?
Yes. We highly recommend downloading the Careem app before you arrive.
Is public transport good?
Yes. The Metro is clean, affordable and reliable.
General
What should I wear?
Dubai is relaxed in most tourist areas. When in mosques, shoulders and knees should be covered.
Is Dubai safe?
Yes. It’s one of the safest cities in the world for tourists.
Is tipping expected?
It’s appreciated but never compulsory. Around 10% is common for great service. If we’ve helped plan your entire holiday and made your trip stress-free, we’d happily accept 10% too! 😁
Can I drink alcohol?
Yes. Alcohol can be enjoyed in licensed hotels, bars, restaurants and beach clubs.
How hot does Dubai get?
Summer temperatures regularly exceed 40°C, so stay hydrated and plan outdoor activities earlier or later in the day.
Should I book activities before arriving?
Yes. Booking in advance gives you the best availability, helps us build the perfect itinerary and often secures better prices.
Need anything else? You’re talking directly to us.
Ask Us On WhatsApp★★★★★ What our guests say
“The whole experience was great from start to finish. The jet skis were amazing, all booked and ready to go, and we did the buggies and quads, picked up from our door step and dropped off with a lovely trusty gentleman. If you want a stress free time I would highly recommend.”
Calvin Wilkins
“Honestly, 10/10 experience! The buggies are super fun, fast, and really easy to handle. They picked us up right from our hotel on time, drove us out to the desert in AC comfort, and dropped us back after. Zero stress, amazing views. Highly recommend!”
Kyle Mackenzie
“Anyone coming to Dubai should be in touch with Myles and the team @insidedubaiguide. Great advice and offers, genuine person who puts customer first. Can't recommend enough for any desert trips, yachts, jet skis, attraction tickets, transfers and more.”
Stuart Anderson
“Great service from Myles and his team from start to finish. Changing the number of people and the dates was never a problem. I booked the jet skis and jeep safari and everybody was friendly and helpful, esp Shaza and her team on the safari.”
Natalie o'Sullivan
“Responses were practically immediate. The Gold experience at Burj Khalifa was incredible and we wouldn't have chosen it if not for the advice given. We also did the Sky Views Observatory and the Jet Cars. We will only use InsideDubaiGuide whenever we return to Dubai!”
Lewis Ramster
“I contacted Inside Dubai Guide before arriving in Dubai with a list of everything we wanted to do, and Myles was absolutely brilliant. Everything was perfectly organised, and every activity ran smoothly from start to finish.”
Nat -_-