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Resources & References

Resources & References

Dubai, UAE

Digital Resources

Essential Apps for the Destination

  • RTA Public Transport App

    Navigates Dubai Metro, Tram, and bus routes, timings, and fares.

  • Careem/Uber

    For ride-sharing services, convenient taxi options.

  • Talabat/Deliveroo/Noon Food

    Food delivery services from a wide range of restaurants.

  • Visit Dubai

    Official tourism app with guides, maps, and events.

  • Google Maps/Waze

    General navigation, traffic updates, and point finding.

Useful Websites & Social Media

  • Visit Dubai (Official Tourism Website)

    Visitdubai.com – Comprehensive info on attractions, events, dining.

  • RTA (Roads and Transport Authority)

    Rta.ae – Detailed info on public transport and services.

  • Attraction Websites

    Official sites for places like Atlantis The Palm (atlantis.com/dubai/aquaventure) and Nakheel Mall (nakheelmall.ae).

  • UAE Government Portal

    For official visa and entry requirements.

  • @VisitDubai / @RTA_Dubai

    Official tourism and transport accounts for updates and visuals.

Print Resources

Recommended Guidebooks

DK Eyewitness Dubai and Abu Dhabi: Detailed maps, itineraries, and visuals. Lonely Planet Dubai & Abu Dhabi: In-depth information.

Books About Dubai

"From Rags to Riches" by Mohammed Al-Fahim for historical context. "Dubai: The Story of the World's Fastest City" by Jim Krane for rapid development insights.

Local Publications

Time Out Dubai, What's On Dubai: Free weekly/monthly magazines found in hotels, malls, and cafes for current events, dining, and nightlife.

Emergency & Medical Information

Emergency Contacts

  • Police: 999
  • Ambulance: 998
  • Fire Department: 997
  • Tourist Police: 800 4438 (non-emergency)

Medical Facilities

  • Al Zahra Hospital Dubai: Near Palm Jumeirah.
  • Emirates Hospital: On Palm Jumeirah itself.
  • American Hospital Dubai: A well-regarded private hospital.
  • Your hotel concierge can guide you to nearest care.

Further Reading & Exploration

Digital Content

  • Search for "Dubai travel podcasts" for personal insights.
  • Look for travel vlogs on YouTube for visual guides.
  • Find documentaries on "Dubai: The City of Gold."
  • Films set in Dubai offer cultural glimpses.

Cultural Immersion

  • Explore contemporary Middle Eastern music.
  • Discover traditional Arabic music.
  • Research Dubai's burgeoning art scene.
  • Visit local artists and galleries in Alserkal Avenue.

Community & Language

  • TripAdvisor Forums share insights from travelers.
  • Facebook Groups for Dubai expatriates offer advice.
  • Duolingo or Memrise for basic Arabic phrases.
  • Learning a few phrases demonstrates respect.

Important Information

Safety Reminders

Lost Documents

  • Report lost passport to local police immediately.
  • Obtain a police report for embassy assistance.
  • Contact your embassy for emergency travel documents.
  • For lost credit cards, contact your bank immediately.

Embassy Contacts

  • Check your home country's embassy website.
  • Locate their specific contact details in Dubai.
  • Keep their emergency number handy for serious issues.
  • An emergency travel document might be needed.

Disaster Protocols

  • Natural disaster risk in Dubai is minimal.
  • Follow instructions from local authorities.
  • Stay indoors during severe sandstorms.
  • Hotels provide guidance and updates to guests.

Dives

Dubai's Development

  • Explore documentaries on Dubai's growth.
  • Learn about its rapid transformation.
  • Discover the vision behind its creation.

Art & Music Scene

  • Investigate Dubai's art community.
  • Find contemporary Middle Eastern music.
  • Visit galleries in areas like Alserkal Avenue.

Online Connections

Community Insights

  • Explore TripAdvisor forums for traveler tips.
  • Join Facebook groups for expatriates or travelers.
  • Post questions and get real-time advice.

Language Practice

  • Use apps like Duolingo for Arabic basics.
  • Learn simple phrases to use locally.
  • A few words show respect and openness.

Getting Oriented

  1. Read about local customs and etiquette.
  2. Understand the climate and dress code for settings.
  3. Familiarize yourself with public transport options.
  4. Learn how the Monorail connects to Palm Jumeirah.
  5. Check for local events or festivals.

Pre-Departure Tasks

  1. Inform trusted neighbors of your travel plans.
  2. Pause mail delivery or arrange collection.
  3. Secure your home: lock windows, set alarms.
  4. Adjust thermostats to a vacation setting.
  5. Arrange for pet care if needed.

Travel Essentials

Documents

Passport, visa copies, insurance, reservations.

Digital Prep

Download apps, offline maps, notify bank.

Wellness

Prescription meds, basic first-aid, vaccinations.

Important Note

Verify all visa requirements for your nationality well in advance of your trip. Entry policies vary and can change.