Host Tips: A Local’s Insider Guide to Dubai for Your Airbnb Stay

Ahlan wa Sahlan! Welcome to Dubai

As your host, my greatest wish is for you to experience the city not just as a tourist, but as a temporary local. You’ve chosen an Airbnb, which means you’re already seeking a more authentic connection to this incredible place. Forget the generic top-10 lists for a moment. I want to share the Dubai I know and love—the city of hidden corners, fragrant karak chai, sizzling shawarmas, and cultural nuances that exist beautifully alongside the futuristic skyline.

Explore creating Airbnb Guest Book Dubai with MasterHost. 

Consider this your personal cheat sheet, your key to unlocking a side of Dubai that most visitors miss. Let’s dive in.

Want to elevate the stay of your Airbnb guests even further? MasterHost’s Airbnb Concierge Service in Dubai can help you arrange local experiences, restaurant bookings, and insider tips curated by professionals who know the city like the back of their hand.

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First Things First: The Dubai Essentials for a Smooth Start

Before you even step out to explore, let’s get the practicalities sorted. Nailing these basics will make your entire trip seamless.

Getting Around Like a Pro (and Saving Money)

Dubai is sprawling, but its public transport is clean, efficient, and affordable.

• The Dubai Metro: This is your best friend. It’s driverless, air-conditioned (a true blessing), and connects most major areas you’ll want to visit, from the airport to Dubai Marina and Old Dubai. Local Tip: Purchase a Nol Card from any station. It’s a rechargeable smart card. Opt for a Silver Card for regular travel. If you plan on using the front cabin with the panoramic view, you’ll need a Gold Card (it’s twice the price but can be worth it for a special journey). Also, be aware of the “Women & Children” carriages, which offer more space and privacy.
• Taxis & Ride-Hailing: Official cream-colored Dubai Taxis are plentiful and metered. For ride-hailing, the two main apps are Careem (a local company acquired by Uber) and Uber. It’s worth having both apps. Sometimes Careem offers better rates or has unique options like “Hala Taxi,” which connects you to standard RTA taxis through the app.
• Abras in Old Dubai: This is non-negotiable for an authentic experience. For just 1 AED (about $0.27 USD), you can cross the historic Dubai Creek on a traditional wooden boat called an abra. It’s the most charming and cheapest ride in the city, connecting the Deira Gold Souk with the Bur Dubai Textile Souk.

Staying Connected: SIM Cards & Wi-Fi

You’ll get a free tourist SIM card upon arrival at Dubai International Airport (DXB) immigration. It comes with a small amount of complimentary data. For a longer stay, you can easily top it up at kiosks or supermarkets. The main providers are du and Etisalat. Alternatively, most cafes, malls, and public spaces offer excellent free Wi-Fi.

Money Matters: Dirhams and Tipping

The local currency is the UAE Dirham (AED), which is pegged to the US Dollar at approximately 3.67 AED to 1 USD.

• Cash vs. Card: While cards are accepted almost everywhere, it’s wise to carry some cash for smaller purchases at souks, for that 1 AED abra ride, or for a cup of karak chai from a streetside cafeteria.
• Tipping Culture: Tipping is appreciated but not obligatory. In restaurants, a tip of 10-15% is standard if a service charge isn’t already included. For taxi drivers, rounding up to the nearest 5 or 10 AED is common. For delivery drivers, 5-10 AED is a nice gesture.

Cultural Courtesy: Dress Code & Etiquette

Dubai is a cosmopolitan city, but it’s rooted in Islamic tradition. Respectful behaviour is key.

• Dress Code: In your Airbnb, at the beach, or by the pool, wear what you’re comfortable in. When visiting malls, restaurants, or public areas, it’s respectful to dress modestly. This means covering your shoulders and knees. A simple t-shirt and knee-length shorts or a skirt/trousers are perfect. When visiting a mosque, like the beautiful Jumeirah Mosque, women will be required to cover their hair (scarves are usually provided).
• Public Displays of Affection: Keep it low-key. Holding hands is fine, but overt displays of affection are frowned upon.
• Ramadan: If your visit coincides with the holy month of Ramadan, be extra mindful. Eating, drinking, and smoking in public during fasting hours (from sunrise to sunset) is prohibited and disrespectful. Restaurants will be open but will have screens up for privacy. The city transforms at night with festive Iftars (the meal to break the fast), and you’re warmly invited to partake in these special culinary experiences.

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Beyond the Burj Khalifa: A Neighborhood-by-Neighborhood Guide

Every district in Dubai has its own soul. Here’s how to tap into the unique vibe of each one.

1. The Heartbeat of History: Old Dubai (Al Fahidi, Bur Dubai & Deira)

This is where it all began. Before the glass towers, there was the creek.

• Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood: Get lost in the maze-like alleys of this beautifully restored heritage area. The wind towers, traditional courtyard houses, and quiet galleries are a world away from modern Dubai. Local Tip: Visit the Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding (SMCCU) for a traditional Emirati breakfast or lunch. Their motto is “Open Doors, Open Minds,” and it’s the best place to ask any questions you have about UAE culture.
• The Souks: On the Deira side of the creek, prepare for a sensory overload at the Gold Souk and the Spice Souk. Don’t be shy to haggle—it’s part of the fun! On the Bur Dubai side, you’ll find the Textile Souk, filled with colourful fabrics and souvenirs.
• Must-Do: Take that 1 AED abra ride across the creek at sunset. It’s pure magic.

2. The Glimmering Present: Downtown Dubai & Business Bay

This is the Dubai you’ve seen in pictures. It’s impressive, and there are local ways to enjoy it too.

• The Dubai Mall & Burj Khalifa: Yes, you should see them. For the Burj Khalifa, book your “At The Top” tickets online in advance to save money and secure a spot. Local Tip for the Fountain Show: Instead of jostling with the crowds in front of the mall, grab a seat at one of the restaurants in Souk Al Bahar (a modern Arabian-style market across the bridge). You’ll get a fantastic, more relaxed view.
• Burj Park: This green oasis at the foot of the Burj Khalifa is a lovely spot for a stroll, especially in the cooler months. You’ll often find art installations and events here.

3. The Coastal Vibe: Jumeirah & Umm Suqeim

This is where the city meets the sea. It’s a more residential, relaxed area loved by locals and expats.

• Kite Beach: This is arguably Dubai’s best public beach. It’s vibrant, with food trucks, water sports, a great running track, and an unbeatable view of the Burj Al Arab. It’s the perfect spot for a morning walk or a sunset picnic.
• Jumeirah Mosque: One of the few mosques in Dubai open to non-Muslims. Its “Open Doors, Open Minds” tour is a fantastic way to learn about Islam in a welcoming environment. Remember to dress modestly.
• Find a Local Cafe: Jumeirah Beach Road is dotted with fantastic independent cafes and small restaurants. Skip the big chains and pop into a local spot for coffee and conversation.

4. The Urban Oasis: Dubai Marina & JBR

This man-made marina is a city within a city, surrounded by towering residential buildings and a buzzing promenade.

• The Walk at JBR (Jumeirah Beach Residence): This bustling beachfront promenade is lined with shops, restaurants, and often features street performers and supercars cruising by. It’s great for people-watching.
• Marina Walk: For a slightly more tranquil experience, take a stroll or rent a bike to circle the inner Marina Walk. Local Tip: Instead of a pricey yacht rental, take a Dhow Dinner Cruise from the Marina. It’s a more traditional boat that offers stunning nighttime views of the illuminated skyscrapers.

5. The Creative Soul: Alserkal Avenue

This is my number one “hidden gem” recommendation. Tucked away in the industrial area of Al Quoz, Alserkal Avenue is a collection of warehouses that have been transformed into contemporary art galleries, independent cinemas, niche cafes, and creative workshops. It’s the epicentre of Dubai’s art scene and a fantastic place to spend an afternoon discovering something unexpected. Don’t miss Cinema Akil for independent films and Nightjar Coffee for one of the best brews in town.

A Culinary Journey: How to Eat Like a Local in Dubai

Food is the language of culture, and Dubai speaks it fluently. Please, I beg you, venture beyond the hotel restaurants!

The Shawarma Showdown

A good shawarma is a rite of passage. This wrap of spit-roasted meat (usually chicken or lamb) with garlic sauce, pickles, and fries is Dubai’s unofficial king of street food. But not all shawarmas are created equal. Local Tip: The best ones are often found at small, unassuming cafeterias in older neighbourhoods like Satwa or Deira. Look for the places with a long queue of locals. My personal favourite is Al Mallah on 2nd of December Street.

Embrace Karak Chai Culture

Karak chai is a strong, milky, cardamom-spiced tea that is the fuel of the city. You’ll see people pulling up to small cafeterias in their cars and honking, and a server will run out to take their order. It costs just 1-2 AED. Participating in this “drive-thru” karak experience is as local as it gets.

Must-Try Emirati Dishes

• Machboos: A flavourful rice dish slow-cooked with meat (chicken, lamb, or fish) and a blend of aromatic spices. A true taste of Emirati hospitality.
• Luqaimat: Hot, sweet dumplings that are crispy on the outside, soft on the inside, and drizzled with date syrup. Utterly addictive.
• Chebab: An Emirati pancake infused with saffron and cardamom, often served with cream cheese and date syrup. A perfect breakfast.

The Institution of Friday Brunch

The UAE weekend is Friday and Saturday. Friday Brunch is a Dubai institution. It’s an all-you-can-eat-and-drink buffet that ranges from casual family affairs to lavish, party-centric events at high-end hotels. If your budget allows and you enjoy a lively social scene, it’s an experience to be had.

Where to Eat (A Host’s Shortlist):

• For authentic Pakistani/North Indian: Ravi Restaurant, Satwa. A legendary, no-frills institution.
• For amazing seafood: Bu Qtair, Umm Suqeim. A simple shack near the beach serving the freshest catch of the day, marinated and fried.
• For an Emirati experience: Al Fanar Restaurant & Cafe. Designed to look like Dubai in the 1960s, it serves authentic Emirati cuisine.

Experiences You Won’t Find in a Standard Brochure

• A Different Desert Safari: Many desert safaris are very tourist-focused. For a more authentic and sustainable experience, look for a company like Platinum Heritage, which offers safaris in vintage Land Rovers in a private conservation reserve, focusing on local culture and wildlife.
• Explore Hatta: Just a 90-minute drive from Dubai, Hatta is a stunning mountain exclave. You can hike, kayak in the Hatta Dam, or go mountain biking. It’s a breathtaking natural escape from the city’s hustle.
• Spend an Afternoon at a Public Park: Dubai has beautiful, lush green parks. Safa Park or Zabeel Park are local favourites for a picnic, a jog, or just relaxing under a tree with a good book. It’s a wonderful slice of everyday life in Dubai.

A Final Word from Your Host

Dubai is a city of wonderful contrasts. It’s a place where you can touch the sky from the world’s tallest building in the morning and wander through a 100-year-old market in the afternoon. It’s a city where over 200 nationalities live together, creating a unique tapestry of cultures, foods, and experiences.

My best advice is to be curious. Talk to the shopkeeper in the souk, ask your taxi driver about his favourite place to eat, smile and say hello. The people of Dubai are its greatest treasure.

I hope this guide helps you feel more at home here. Enjoy every moment of your stay, and don’t hesitate to create your own “local” path through this dynamic city.

Welcome home, for now.