Quick snapshot
- Dubai is a global city in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). It’s in Asia, on the Persian Gulf.
- Currency: UAE Dirham (AED). Time zone: Gulf Standard Time (GST), UTC+4.
- Language: Arabic is official; English is very widely used.
- Is it worth visiting? Yes — if you like modern skylines, big malls, deserts, beaches and plenty of food/entertainment options.
- Safety: Generally safe for tourists, including women travelling solo — usual common-sense rules apply.
Geography & basics
What continent is Dubai in?
Asia — it’s on the Arabian Peninsula, by the Persian Gulf.
Is Abu Dhabi the same as Dubai / are they the same place?
No. Abu Dhabi and Dubai are both emirates in the UAE. Abu Dhabi is the capital of the UAE; Dubai is a different emirate and city. They’re about 1½ to 2 hours by car apart (depending on traffic).
Where is Dubai on a map / is Dubai in India / is Dubai in Africa?
Dubai is not in India or Africa. It’s in the Middle East, part of Asia.
Practical travel basics
Do I need a visa?
Visa rules vary by nationality. Many nationalities get visa-on-arrival or e-visa options, but some need to apply in advance. Check your embassy or official UAE visa site before booking.
What money do they use in Dubai?
UAE Dirham (AED). Some tourist places accept USD, but carry local currency or a card.
What plug sockets are used?
Type G mainly (the same as the UK) — bring an adapter if you don’t have one.
What’s the phone/area code?
Country code for UAE: +971. Dubai local numbers usually start after that.
What is the time difference?
Dubai is UTC+4. (If you want the exact time vs your local time, let me know where you’re calling from.)
Weather, when to go, and what to pack
When to visit / when’s best time?
November–March is the most pleasant — warm days, cool nights. Summers are very hot (May–September) and humid.
What to wear?
- Day-to-day: lightweight, breathable clothes.
- In malls/hotels: casual Western dress is fine.
- At mosques or conservative places: cover shoulders and knees.
- Women: you can wear shorts and dresses in many tourist areas, but if you want to avoid attention, bring a shawl or longer shorts/skirts for conservative spots.
Can women wear shorts? Yes — in many places — but respect cultural spots and family areas.
Culture & rules — what to know
Is alcohol allowed in Dubai?
Yes, but it’s regulated. You can drink in licensed bars, restaurants, and hotels. Public drunkenness and drinking in non-licensed public places are not allowed. Non-Muslim residents sometimes need a permit to buy alcohol from stores.
Can you hold hands / public displays of affection?
Minor PDA (hand-holding) in public is usually tolerated, but more intimate displays can attract attention or trouble. Best to stay discreet.
What’s illegal / what’s strict?
Dubai enforces conservative laws on drugs, public behavior, and more. Drug penalties are severe. Swearing, public indecency, and offensive social media posts can have consequences. When in doubt, err on the side of caution.
Is Dubai LGBTQ-friendly?
The UAE is conservative; LGBTQ rights and public behavior differ markedly from many Western countries. Public same-sex displays or advocacy may be legally risky. If LGBTQ safety is a concern, research carefully and take local advice.
Is there crime / homeless people / poverty?
Dubai is relatively low in violent crime, but petty theft can happen like anywhere. There is a population of low-income migrant workers and people experiencing hardship — the city is not without social challenges.
Money, cost & lifestyle
Is Dubai expensive?
It can be. Dubai has both budget and ultra-luxury options. Hotels, dining at high-end places, and activities (like skydiving or fancy desert dinners) can be pricey. You can still travel affordably if you pick local eateries, mid-range hotels, and public transport.
Do you pay taxes in Dubai?
For individuals, there is no federal personal income tax. There are other fees and indirect taxes (VAT on some goods and services). Business and corporate tax rules can be more complex.
Why is Dubai wealthy? / where does the money come from?
Historically, Dubai got wealthy from oil, but the city has diversified into tourism, real estate, trade, finance, aviation, and logistics. Dubai’s real estate and business-friendly policies attracted global capital and development.
Are people in Dubai rich?
Some residents are extremely wealthy, including high-net-worth locals and expats. At the same time, there’s a large working population in service and construction jobs — income levels vary widely.
Living, working, residency & citizenship
Can I move to Dubai / can foreigners buy property?
Yes — many expats live and work there. Foreigners can buy property in certain freehold zones. Permanent citizenship is rare; the UAE has introduced long-term residency programs (like the Golden Visa) under specific criteria (investment/business/skills).
How to get a work visa / residence visa / Golden Visa?
Typically via employer sponsorship for work visas. Long-term visas (Golden Visa) require specific investment, property, or skill criteria. Process details are best checked on official UAE government portals or with a sponsor/agent.
Do you pay tax in Dubai?
Ordinarily, residents don’t pay personal income tax, but corporate tax and VAT rules apply to businesses.
Safety & women travellers
Is it safe to travel to Dubai as a woman?
Many women travel solo safely in Dubai. The city is well-policed and tourist-friendly. Still, common-sense safety practices apply: avoid isolated late-night walks, watch your drinks, and respect local customs.
Sightseeing — must-sees & activities
Top things to do in Dubai (short list):
- Burj Khalifa — the world-famous skyscraper.
- Dubai Mall & Mall of the Emirates — shopping, aquariums, indoor ski (in Mall of the Emirates).
- Desert safari — dune bashing + sunset dinners.
- Old Dubai (Al Fahidi, Dubai Creek) — traditional markets and boats (abras).
- Jumeirah Beach / Palm Jumeirah — beaches and luxury hotels.
- Global Village / Dubai Frame / Dubai Opera — culture plus unusual attractions.
- Skydiving — for adrenaline lovers.
Which is the most luxurious hotel?
There are several contenders (Burj Al Arab Jumeirah is the iconic “seven-star” style hotel many think of). “Most expensive” changes with suites and offers, so check real-time rates for the absolute top pick.
Airports, flights & transport
How big is Dubai International Airport (DXB)?
DXB is one of the world’s busiest international airports. Terminal 3 is very large (used by Emirates). It’s big, busy, and well-served by taxis, metro, and buses. For specifics (sq km, passenger numbers), official airport stats are best.
Which airlines fly to Dubai?
Most major international airlines fly to Dubai — Emirates, flydubai (local), and many global carriers from across Europe, Asia, the Americas, and Africa.
How far is Dubai from Abu Dhabi?
About 140 km (≈ 1.5–2 hours by road) depending on traffic.
Dubai “bling”, lifestyle shows & pop culture
Is Dubai Bling real?
It’s a reality TV show — as with many such shows, it mixes real people and staged scenarios for entertainment. Treat it as TV, not a full representation of everyday life in Dubai.
Why do celebs move to Dubai?
Some move for business opportunities, privacy, tax reasons, or lifestyle. Specific personal reasons vary.
Laws, enforcement & human rights questions
Is slavery/forced labour an issue in Dubai?
There have been well-documented concerns about migrant worker treatment in Gulf states, including grievances around pay, working conditions, and sponsorship systems (kafala). The UAE has taken reforms in recent years, but migrant worker rights remain an important and sensitive topic. If worker rights are a priority for you, read NGO reports and news sources for the current situation.
Does Dubai have extradition treaties / are there strict punishments?
The UAE has extradition arrangements with some countries and strict legal penalties for serious crimes. Legal consequences can be severe for certain offenses — always follow the law and local guidance.
Food, chocolate & the viral “Dubai chocolate”
You asked a lot about “Dubai chocolate.” Here’s the easy, friendly lowdown:
What is “Dubai chocolate”?
That term is used in a few ways: sometimes it refers to premium Middle Eastern chocolates or viral snack/recipe trends (for example, pistachio-studded chocolate bars or “Dubai chocolate strawberries” seen on social media). There isn’t one single product called “the Dubai chocolate” universally — it’s more of a trend name in some circles.
Is it made with pistachio / what’s the green stuff?
Many Middle Eastern chocolate treats feature pistachio — the green you see is usually pistachio paste, pistachio pieces, or flavored ganache.
Is it healthy / good for you?
Chocolate with nuts gives some healthy fats and protein, but it’s still a treat. Watch portions like you would with any dessert.
Is it sold at big US retailers (Walmart, Costco, Baskin-Robbins, Starbucks, Kroger, etc.)?
Availability of a specific viral chocolate product varies by store and time. If a brand has gone viral, some stores may stock it temporarily. For accurate up-to-date availability, check the retailer’s website or local store stock. (I can’t check live stock from here, but I recommend searching the store site or Google Maps store listings.)
Can you make it at home?
Yes — many viral recipes show ways to make pistachio chocolate bars, chocolate-covered strawberries, and layered bars. They typically use chocolate (dark or milk), pistachio paste or crushed pistachios, butter or cream (for ganache), and sometimes shredded kataifi or crispy layers. If you want a step-by-step home recipe for a specific “Dubai-style” chocolate bar or chocolate strawberries, tell me which version and I’ll write a simple recipe.
Shopping — where to buy things / chocolate near me
Where to buy “Dubai chocolate” or viral bars near you?
- Check major retailers, local specialty chocolate shops, Middle Eastern groceries, and online marketplaces.
- For city-specific asks (e.g., “where to buy Dubai chocolate in NYC”), a quick local search or store site check is the fastest way.
If you want, tell me your city and I’ll list store types to check (e.g., specialty chocolate shops, gourmet markets) and suggest search keywords.
Curious pop-culture & randoms (quick hits)
- Is there alcohol in Dubai? Yes — in licensed places. Not a free-for-all.
- Is Dubai man-made? Much of modern Dubai (like reclaimed islands) was engineered — it’s a mix of natural coastline and heavy development.
- Are there beaches in Dubai? Yes — public and private beaches exist.
- Are there parks? Yes — several parks and green spaces.
- Are there lions or sharks in Dubai? Not free-roaming lions. Sharks may exist offshore like in many coastal areas (but not a common tourist concern).
- Will it snow in Dubai? No — not naturally. It’s desert/subtropical; you’ll see snow only in themed indoor attractions (or very rare weather events far away).
- Is Floyd Mayweather detained in Dubai? That’s a specific legal news item — for current legal status of a person, check recent news sources.
Transport inside Dubai
- Best short hops: taxis, ride-hailing (e.g., Careem/other apps), the metro for main routes.
- Longer trips: car rentals or inter-emirate buses/taxis to Abu Dhabi.
- Taxis & costs: relatively affordable compared to many Western cities, but fares vary by distance/time.
Family & etiquette bits
- Tipping: common in restaurants/hotels — about 10% is typical if service charge not included.
- Greeting: a simple “Hello” or “Salaam” works; handshakes are common among men. Conservative etiquette is appreciated in religious settings.
Real estate & investment
Is Dubai a good place to invest in real estate?
Many investors like Dubai for its modern infrastructure, rental market, and business prospects. Real estate investments carry risks and need careful research — speak with a local expert for current market conditions and legal advice.
Golden Visa / longer residency options: exist for investors, specialists, and people meeting criteria. Check official UAE government info for up-to-date requirements.
FAQ — short, direct answers to some of your repeated questions
Q. Is Dubai a country?
No — it’s an emirate and city inside the United Arab Emirates (UAE).
Q. Is Dubai richer than the USA?
No — Dubai is wealthy in per-capita and real estate terms, but it’s not richer than the whole USA economy.
Q. Is Dubai a capital city?
No — Abu Dhabi is the UAE capital.
Q. Do you need a passport?
Yes, when traveling internationally.
Q. Is Dubai safe for tourists?
Generally yes — but use normal travel caution.
Q. How many floors is the Burj Khalifa?
The Burj Khalifa has over 160 habitable floors (it’s the world’s tallest building). Exact counts vary by how “floors” are defined.
Q. Is Dubai in the desert?
Yes — it’s in a desert climate, with urban coastal development.
Q. Are there all-inclusive resorts?
Yes — a number of resorts offer all-inclusive packages.
Q. Can you use US dollars?
Some tourist outlets accept USD, but AED is standard; cards are widely accepted.
Q. Is it expensive to live in Dubai?
Costs vary — housing can be expensive in prime areas; utilities and transport can be reasonable. Research current rental and living costs for specifics.
Q. Does baskin robbins sell dubai chocolate?
Short answer: Not reliably. Some Baskin-Robbins locations or seasonal menus may have a “Dubai chocolate” flavour or special item from time to time, but it’s not a universal, permanent Baskin-Robbins SKU worldwide. Availability depends on region and seasonal promos — best to check the local store or their website/menu.
Q. Does baskin-robbins have dubai chocolate
Same answer — it depends. Some franchise outlets run local or seasonal flavours called “Dubai chocolate” (or similar). Call the specific Baskin-Robbins near you.
Q. Does bucees have dubai chocolate
Buc-ee’s stock varies by store and region. Unlikely as a regular item. Buc-ee’s mainly stocks popular American snacks and regional treats; a specific “Dubai chocolate” bar would be a special/seasonal import. Check the store or their merch channels.
Q. Does dubai chocolate have pistachio
Often yes. Many products labelled “Dubai chocolate” or Middle-Eastern style chocolate bars use pistachio (either pieces or paste). The green bits people ask about are commonly pistachio. If you have a specific bar in mind, check the ingredients list.
Q. Does dubai have strip clubs
Dubai does not have licensed strip clubs. Dubai’s nightlife includes licensed bars, nightclubs and entertainment venues, but public nudity and explicit adult-entertainment formats like strip clubs are not permitted under local law and cultural norms. Stick to licensed hotels and clubs for nightlife.
Q. Does dunkin have dubai chocolate donuts
Not as a standard global menu item. Dunkin’ menus vary regionally. If Dunkin’ in a particular country ran a “Dubai chocolate” donut as a promo, it would be limited to that market. Check local Dunkin’ menus or franchise announcements.
Q. Does kroger have dubai chocolate
Kroger’s national stock is unlikely to include a permanent “Dubai chocolate” bar. Specialty or imported versions might appear in international/ethnic aisles or during limited retail runs. Use Kroger’s store search or call your local Kroger for real-time availability.
Q. How big is dubai international airport
Dubai International (DXB) is one of the world’s busiest airports. Passenger traffic is huge (tens of millions yearly) and the hub has multiple large terminals — Terminal 3 is especially large and used by Emirates. Official stats and news reports show DXB handling tens of millions of passengers and continuing expansion plans. For recent passenger figures see airport reports.
Q. How far is dubai from abu dhabi
About 140 km (about 1.5–2 hours by car) depending on traffic and route. Buses and taxis run frequently between the two cities.
Q. How is dubai so wealthy
Short, friendly explainer: Dubai’s wealth came from oil originally, but the city diversified aggressively into trade, aviation, tourism, real estate, finance and logistics. Big infrastructure projects, a business-friendly environment, and global investment turned it into an international hub. Major aviation and real-estate moves keep the economy growing.
Q. How many wives does the crown prince of dubai have
Publicly available info on royals can change. In the UAE, Islamic law allows up to four wives, but individual family arrangements vary. For a current, accurate count about any named crown prince, check reputable news or official royal biographies — I don’t want to give a possibly out-of-date number here.
Q. How much is 100 us dollars in dubai
You exchange USD to UAE Dirham (AED). Rates change daily. Roughly: $100 ≈ AED 367–370 (this fluctuates with markets). For a precise, up-to-date rate use a currency converter or bank rate at the time you exchange.
Q. How much is the prince of dubai worth
Estimating a royal’s net worth is tricky and often speculative. Wealth can include private holdings, state assets, and family investments. Public sources vary widely — for a reliable figure, look for reputable financial press or official disclosures, but be cautious: different sources give very different estimates.
Q. How to become a citizen in dubai
Citizenship in the UAE is limited. Naturalisation is not commonly granted like in many Western countries. The UAE has introduced special long-term residency (e.g., Golden Visa) and some citizenship pathways for outstanding investors, scientists, doctors and athletes under strict criteria, but full citizenship is rare. Check official UAE government portals for the latest rules.
Q. How to become a resident of dubai
Most people become residents via employment sponsorship, property investment, or family sponsorship. Long-term options like the Golden Visa are available for investors, entrepreneurs and highly skilled individuals who meet criteria. Your employer or an official UAE government portal can guide the exact process.
Q. How to dress in dubai women
Keep it respectful and practical: lightweight, modest clothing is best — think breathable fabrics. In malls, hotels and tourist areas Western dress is common. For mosques and conservative areas, cover shoulders and knees. A shawl or light scarf is handy. Comfortable shoes recommended — lots of walking!
Q. How to get dubai chocolate
If you mean the viral pistachio/chocolate bars or “Dubai chocolate” products: look in specialty Middle Eastern stores, import sections of big supermarkets, online marketplaces, or gourmet chocolate shops. Availability depends on your city; try local searches or Amazon/ethnic grocery sites.
Q. How to get to abu dhabi from dubai?
Options include:
1.Taxi / car — fastest door-to-door (≈1.5–2 hrs).
2.Intercity bus — scheduled, affordable (about 90–120 minutes).
3.Private transfer or rideshare.
Pick the one that suits budget and comfort.
Q. How to make dubai chocolate without kataifi
For a generic home version of a pistachio/chocolate bar (no kataifi): use good melting chocolate, chopped pistachios (or pistachio paste), and a crunchy layer (crushed wafer or puffed rice) for texture. Melt chocolate, fold in pistachio + crunch, pour into molds, chill until set. If you want a step-by-step recipe, I’ll write one — simple and kitchen-friendly.
Q. How to make the dubai chocolate pistachio bar
Basic home method: melt good-quality chocolate, prepare pistachio paste or chopped pistachios, combine with a bit of butter/cream for ganache texture, add a crunchy layer (biscuit crumbs or puffed rice), pour into a bar mold, chill, and glaze.
Q. How to plan a trip to dubai
Quick planning checklist:
Decide dates (Nov–Mar best for weather).
Check visa rules for your nationality.
Book flights & accommodation (book early for events).
Plan must-see list (Burj Khalifa, desert safari, old Dubai).
Pack for weather & culture.
Q. Is abu dhabi same as dubai
No — different emirates in the UAE. Abu Dhabi is the capital emirate; Dubai is its own emirate and city.
is alcohol illegal in dubai
Alcohol is regulated, not entirely illegal. Licensed bars, hotels and restaurants can serve alcohol. Public intoxication, drinking in unlicensed places, and drunk driving are illegal. Rules and licensing vary.
is alcohol permitted in dubai
Yes, in licensed venues and for people of legal drinking age. Residents may need permits to buy alcohol from stores. Don’t drink in public areas.
is doha in dubai
No. Doha is the capital of Qatar, a separate country on the Arabian Peninsula. It’s not in Dubai.
is drinking alcohol legal in dubai
Yes in licensed places, as noted above. Not legal in unlicensed public spaces.
is dubai a third world country
No — that term is outdated and not useful. Dubai is a wealthy, high-development city with modern infrastructure, though it has wide economic disparities.
is dubai and abu dhabi the same place
No — they are separate emirates/cities within the UAE.
is dubai bling real
It’s a reality TV show — entertainment, mixing real people and produced scenes. Treat it as TV, not a documentary.
is dubai chocolate elephant poop
That sounds like a humorous product name (some novelty chocolates are named like that). Not a general Dubai product. If you saw a specific novelty item called “elephant poop,” it’s likely a gag candy. Check the brand for ingredients and safety.
is dubai chocolate good for you
Like most chocolates: tasty but a treat. Darker chocolate with nuts has some nutritional benefits (antioxidants, healthy fats) but it’s still calorie-dense. Moderation is key.
is dubai holiday today
Holidays in Dubai (UAE) follow both fixed and lunar calendars (e.g., National Day, Eid). For today’s status, check an official UAE holiday calendar or local news. I can look up today’s public holiday status if you tell me the exact date you mean.
is dubai in africa or asia
Asia — on the Arabian Peninsula (Middle East region).
is dubai near iran
The Persian Gulf separates the UAE and Iran — they are across the Gulf; visible from certain high points on very clear days is sometimes claimed but generally they are not right next door. Flight and sea distances are moderate.
is floyd mayweather detained in dubai
That’s a specific news/legal question best answered by checking current news sources. I can look this up now if you’d like a verified, up-to-date answer.
is it a holiday today in dubai
See earlier: for real-time holiday status, check UAE government announcements or an up-to-date holiday calendar for the exact date you mean.
is it safe to travel to dubai as a woman
Generally yes — many women travel solo safely in Dubai. It’s well-policed and tourist friendly. Still use common sense: avoid isolated areas late at night and be mindful of cultural norms. Official travel advice agencies give sensible safety tips for solo women travellers.
is there homeless people in dubai
There are people experiencing hardship and there are migrant worker communities, but the visible homelessness you might see in some cities is less common due to different social and labour systems. The city does have low-income worker populations and social challenges.
must visit in dubai
Quick must-visit picks:
- Burj Khalifa & Dubai Mall
- Old Dubai / Dubai Creek
- Desert safari
- Jumeirah Beach & Palm
- Dubai Frame / Global Village
Tell me a vibe (luxury, budget, adventure) and I’ll make a 3–day plan.
was to dubai
(Question seems like “ways to Dubai” — assuming you mean “ways to go to Dubai”): By air is the common option — major international flights arrive daily. Overland from neighbouring countries is possible but less common for tourists.
what are people from dubai called
People from Dubai are Dubai residents or informally Dubai-ites; nationally they are Emiratis (if they are citizens of the UAE). “Dubai residents” covers expats living there.
what are rules in dubai
Short list: respect local laws on dress and public behaviour, no public drunkenness, no drugs (severe penalties), obey traffic laws, follow visa and residency rules. If you want a deeper legal dos/don’ts I’ll expand.
what are the rules in dubai
(Repeat) — same as above: respect local customs and legal regulations, especially around alcohol, public behaviour, photography in certain areas, and drug laws.
what continent is dubai in
Asia. (Middle East/Arabian Peninsula.)
what do in dubai
See the “must visit” list above — malls, Burj Khalifa, desert safari, old town, beaches, shows, and attractions like indoor ski in Mall of the Emirates.
what do you do in dubai
Same — shop, eat, explore modern architecture, do desert activities, visit beaches and cultural sites.
what is a dubai porta potty
Probably refers to portable restrooms used at events in Dubai — standard temporary toilets. If you mean a specific brand or viral item, tell me more and I’ll explain.
what is digital dubai
Digital Dubai is a government initiative/brand for smart city services and digital transformation in Dubai, focusing on e-government, data-driven services and tech innovation. It aims to make many public services digital and seamless.
what is the average wage in dubai
Average wages vary widely by sector and nationality. For precise, up-to-date figures, check UAE labour statistics or salary surveys (they differ by job — low-paid service jobs vs. professional sectors). I can fetch recent salary averages for specific roles if you want.
what is the cost of living in dubai
It depends on lifestyle and area. Housing is usually the biggest cost; food, transport and utilities vary. Dubai can be expensive in prime areas but affordable options exist. I can provide a rough monthly budget (budget / mid / luxury) if you want numbers.
what is the dubai curse
That’s likely a pop-culture phrase or internet meme — no single agreed meaning. If you saw a specific reference, tell me the source and I’ll unpack it.
what is the main religion in dubai
Islam is the main religion in the UAE and Dubai. The city is religiously diverse with many expatriate faith communities, but Islam is the official religion.
what is the phone code for dubai
Country code for UAE: +971. For Dubai local numbers use +971 followed by the local area/operator code.
what language do dubai people speak
Arabic is official; English is widely used in business and daily life. Many other languages are common due to the large expat population.
what time is it in dubai india
This question mixes locations. If you mean “what time is it in Dubai vs India”: Dubai is UTC+4; India is UTC+5:30, so Dubai is 1 hour 30 minutes behind India (e.g., when it’s 12:00 in Dubai, it’s 13:30 in India). For the exact current clock time, use a live world clock.
what type of money do they use in dubai
UAE Dirham (AED).
when was dubai bling season 3 filmed
Filming dates for reality shows vary; production timelines are usually reported in entertainment press. For accurate filming dates of Dubai Bling Season 3, check entertainment news sources or official show announcements.
where can i get the dubai chocolate strawberries near me
Try specialty bakeries, gourmet chocolatiers, Middle Eastern patisseries, or local chocolatiers; availability depends on your city. If you give me your city I can search local shops and online options in the next message.
where can you find dubai chocolate
Specialty chocolate shops, Middle Eastern import stores, certain supermarkets’ international aisles, or online marketplaces often carry items tagged as “Dubai chocolate.”
where i can buy dubai chocolate near me
Local answer depends on your location — tell me your city and I’ll hunt for nearby retailers or online sellers in the next message.
where is dubai in india
Dubai is not in India; it is a city in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). If you mean “how to get to Dubai from India”: many direct flights connect major Indian cities to Dubai daily.