Dubai is one of the favourite international tourist destinations for Indians. The short flight time, the availability of every day direct flights, and the luxury and the unique experiences the Emirate offers are some of the main reasons that Indian nationals love visiting Dubai. But before you make your travel itinerary and other arrangements, it is crucial to know about some important things. Here’s a comprehensive Dubai travel guide for Indians that will give you information on all aspects of holidaying in the UAE’s city of gold.
Dubai Visa Guidelines for Indian Travelers
Before you make any kind of plans, you need to first apply for a Dubai visa. Indians are eligible to apply for Dubai visit visa or Dubai tourist visa online. This visa is available for both 30 days and 60 days. Both these visas are available as single-entry and multiple-entry. To apply for Dubai e-visa, you need to have the following documents:
- Passport with minimum 6 months’ validity from the date of returning from Dubai
- Recent passport size photos
- Confirmed return flight tickets
- Proof of accommodation or letter of invitation from UAE or Dubai resident
- Bank statements (proof of adequate finances)
- Complete visa application form
As the Dubai e-visa process is done online, you need to first scan all the documents, upload them, and then submit them along with the fully completed visa application form. Once your application and documents are reviewed, your e-visa will arrive in your email, if all your documents and information are in order. You must take a printout of the e-visa and produce it with your passport at the time of immigration in the airport.
Exception: Indians who have a valid US, UK, and European Union visa are eligible for visa-on-arrival in Dubai or the UAE for 14 days. Similarly, Indians with residence visa of countries like Australia, New Zealand, Japan, Republic of Korea, and Singapore can also enjoy this privilege.
You can apply for Dubai e-visa online through the official visa portal. Alternatively, you can also apply through an airline or a reliable visa agent or company. Once applied, it takes 3-4 working days to finally get the visa.
Dubai Travel Guide for Indians: Places to Visit in Dubai
Iconic Attractions
Dubai is most renowned for its architecture and holds numerous world records. Here are some of the iconic attractions you must check out.
Burj Khalifa: The tallest building in the world stands at the height of 828 meters. The observation decks give you the chance to ride on the fastest elevator in the world and also enjoy a panoramic view of the entire city.
Burj Al Arab: Considered to be the only 7-star hotel in the world, Burj Al Arab in Jumeirah with its sail-shaped structure is a true masterpiece. You can either dine at one of the restaurants or go on a Burj Al Arab tour to check out its plush interiors.
Dubai Mall and Fountain Show: The largest mall in the UAE is home to 1200 stores and numerous attractions that would attract young and old. Right outside the mall is the Burj Lake where you can watch the fascinating Dubai Fountain Show every evening.
Dubai Frame: Shaped like a photo frame, the Dubai Frame represents the past, present, and future of Dubai. On one side of the frame, you can see the old Dubai and the new city on the other.
Family-Friendly Attractions
Dubai is the perfect location for a family-friendly holiday, as there are plenty of attractions that cater to families. Here are some of the best family-friendly places to visit in Dubai.
IMG Worlds of Adventure: The IMG Worlds of Adventure is the largest indoor theme park in the world. There are six zones here, each filled with numerous rides and attractions.
Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo: Located inside the Dubai Mall, the Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo has more than 3000 marine animals. Moreover, they offer a variety of unusual experiences like cage diving, shark feeding, glass-bottom boat ride, and more.
Dubai Parks & Resorts: Dubai Parks & Resorts is a conglomerate of three theme parks, one water park, and a few play areas. Motiongate Dubai, Legoland Dubai, Legoland Water Park, Real Madrid World, Neon Galaxy, Riverland Dubai, and T-Rex Glamping are what you can find here.
Ski Dubai: Known to be the largest indoor ski resort in the world, Ski World is home to a huge mountain where you can try skiing, snowboarding, tobogganing, and zorbing. It also has a Snow World where you can enjoy rides, watch penguins, and also play in the snow.
Global Village Dubai: A seasonal attraction, Global Village is a leisure, entertainment, and shopping destination. Here you can check out the pavilions of 90+ countries, buy local products from different nations, enjoy delicious food from all over the world, watch some amazing entertainment programs, and witness beautiful fireworks.
Cultural and Historical Spots
Dubai is modern and luxurious but it is deep-rooted in its ancient culture and traditions, which you can see in its cultural and historical places.
Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood: The oldest neighborhood in Dubai, Al Fahidi is home to traditional houses with wind towers. There are plenty of museums here, the Dubai Museum being the most important, as it shows you a glimpse of the past.
Dubai Souks: The old part of the city, near the Dubai Creek, is home to plenty of souks or traditional markets where you can buy everything from spices to gold. These are Gold Souk, Perfume Souk, Spice Souk, and Textile Souk.
Dubai Creek: The Dubai Creek is what divides the city into Bur Dubai and Deira. The city began in this area, and you will get to see modern and ancient attractions here. A dhow cruise or abra ride will give you the opportunity to enjoy the sights in this area.
Nature and Outdoor Attractions and Activities
Dubai is not just about its buildings and manmade attractions. In fact, there are plenty of nature and outdoor attractions and activities to check out here.
Dubai Miracle Garden: The largest natural flower garden in the world, Dubai Miracle Garden has more than 250 million plants and 50 million flowers. The beauty of the place is the numerous, awe-inducing floral installations.
Dubai Beaches: Being a coastal city, Dubai is home to various beaches, including Jumeirah Beach, JBR Beach, Kite Beach, etc. The beaches of Dubai are known for their beauty as well as the thrilling water sports they offer.
Dubai Desert Safari: The Dubai desert safari is a complete package of leisure, adventure, and entertainment, where you get to ride a camel, watch marvellous performances, and eat a delicious BBQ dinner. It is a part of most Dubai packages.
Final thoughts on my Dubai travel guide for Indians…
Dubai is a city with innumerable attractions and activities. To ensure that you get to see everything you are interested in, make sure you have a proper itinerary for your Dubai trip.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where to stay in Dubai?
Dubai offers multiple accommodation options, including budget-friendly, mid-range, and luxury hotels and resorts, even Burj Khalifa and Burj Al Arab if you have the budget.
How to travel in Dubai?
You can travel within Dubai via bus, metro, and taxi. Ubers operate in Dubai too.
What is the best time to visit Dubai?
November to March are pleasant winter months in Dubai, perfect for outdoor sightseeing.
Does Dubai have Indian restaurants?
Yes, Dubai has a large Indian expat community, and you will find plenty of Indian restaurants here like Punjab Grill, Saravana Bhavan, and Carnival by Trèsind to name a few.
What are the rules that I need to follow in Dubai?
Refrain from PDA, drinking in public, drinking and driving, etc., while visiting Dubai.
