Dubai is an exciting city that blends futuristic modernity with rich cultural traditions. If you’re visiting or planning to explore the city, here’s how you can do Dubai like a local, along with some fun facts:

1. Embrace the Dubai Metro

The Dubai Metro is driverless! It’s one of the most advanced metro systems in the world, and locals love it for its punctuality and efficiency. The Gold Class carriage is a luxury option, offering leather seats and exclusive views.

• How Locals Use It: Skip the taxis and use the metro for fast, affordable travel. Locals prefer the metro because it’s quick and connects major areas like Downtown, Dubai Marina, and Dubai International Airport.

2. Explore the Souks (Markets)

The Gold Souk in Deira has over 300 retailers, and Dubai has some of the best gold prices globally. It’s also home to the world’s largest ring, which is on display at the Dubai Gold and Diamond Park.

• How Locals Enjoy It: While tourists flock to the bigger malls, locals often shop for spices, textiles, and gold in the traditional souks. These markets offer a vibrant, bustling experience and are perfect for haggling!

3. Try Authentic Emirati Food

Traditional Emirati dishes like al harees (wheat and meat stew), machboos (spiced rice with meat), and luqaimat (sweet dumplings) are deeply rooted in the culture. Many Emirati dishes are influenced by Bedouin traditions and surrounding Arab countries.

• How Locals Eat: Skip international fast food and visit local cafés and restaurants. Try an authentic Emirati breakfast, like balaleet (sweet vermicelli noodles with eggs) or enjoy a hearty margoogat (a type of stew).

4. Go to the Beach Early

Dubai has some of the best beaches in the world, but they can get crowded, especially in tourist-heavy areas. The waters of the Arabian Gulf are warm year-round.

• How Locals Enjoy It: To avoid crowds and enjoy a peaceful experience, head to the beach early in the morning. Jumeirah Beach, Kite Beach, and Al Mamzar Beach are popular with locals. And don’t forget to try wakesurfing or paddleboarding, which are favorite water sports here!

5. Experience the Local Coffee Culture

Coffee is a big part of the local culture. In fact, the word “coffee” is derived from the Arabic word qahwa. Locals often serve Arabic coffee (known as Gahwa) along with dates as a gesture of hospitality.

• How Locals Drink It: Head to a traditional café, or even better, an outdoor shisha café. Locals love to sip on their coffee slowly, especially in the evenings when the weather cools down. It’s often served in small cups alongside sweets.

6. Respect the Dress Code

While Dubai is modern and liberal compared to some other parts of the UAE, it still maintains a conservative dress code. In public places, modest dress is appreciated.

• How Locals Dress: Women in Dubai wear everything from casual clothes to abayas (traditional black robes), especially in more religious or cultural settings. Men often wear a kandura (a long white robe). Locals expect visitors to dress modestly in public areas, even if it’s hot outside.

7. Enjoy the Desert Safari

Desert safaris are one of Dubai’s most popular tourist activities, and the city’s location amidst vast desert dunes makes it an ideal place for dune bashing, camel rides, and stargazing.

• How Locals Experience It: Locals often visit the desert on special occasions, like weekend getaways or family outings. If you’re looking to go off the beaten path, skip the big commercial safari tours and opt for smaller, more private experiences where you can camp under the stars or visit traditional Bedouin villages.

8. Take Part in Local Festivals

Dubai hosts some of the world’s largest festivals, like the Dubai Shopping Festival (DSF) and the Dubai Food Festival. These events can be a great way to experience the local culture and get discounts at stores.

• How Locals Celebrate: While tourists attend the big events, locals love smaller community festivals that celebrate food, music, and the arts. Check out Global Village for an eclectic mix of international pavilions or head to Al Seef for a more cultural experience with traditional performances and crafts.

9. Hunt for Hidden Gems in Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood

The Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood (also known as Bastakiya) is one of the oldest traditional Emirati areas in Dubai. It’s a maze of narrow lanes, wind towers, and old houses that offer a glimpse into what Dubai was like before it became the skyscraper-filled city it is today.

• How Locals Use It: While tourists often flock to the big malls and high-rise towers, locals come to this area to enjoy art galleries, boutique cafés, and local exhibitions. It’s the perfect place to unwind and soak in some history.

10. Practice Hospitality with Friends

Hospitality is a cornerstone of Emirati culture, and it’s common for locals to invite friends and guests into their homes for meals or coffee. Offering dates and Arabic coffee is a standard gesture of welcome.

• How Locals Socialize: Unlike Western nightlife, Dubai’s social scene revolves around family and home gatherings, especially in the cooler months. If you’re lucky, you might receive an invitation to a local home for a traditional meal, which is a true Dubai experience!

11. Don’t Miss Dubai’s ‘Friday Brunch’

Friday brunch is a beloved tradition in Dubai. It’s not just a meal; it’s an event. Many hotels and restaurants offer lavish buffet-style brunches that go on for hours.

• How Locals Enjoy It: Locals often use brunch as an excuse to catch up with friends and family. If you want to do Dubai like a local, indulge in a luxurious Friday brunch at places like the Atlantis or Jumeirah Beach Hotel—it’s an unforgettable experience.

12. Look for Secret Rooftops and Hidden Bars

Dubai is home to some incredible rooftop bars with stunning views of the city skyline. Many of these bars are hidden gems, often tucked away behind unmarked doors or in quiet hotel lobbies.

• How Locals Go Out: Locals enjoy the nightlife but prefer more understated spots. Look for rooftop bars with panoramic views of the Burj Khalifa or the Palm Jumeirah, especially in the cooler months when outdoor seating is ideal.

By blending modern luxuries with deep-rooted traditions, Dubai offers an experience that’s constantly evolving. For locals, it’s not just about the tall skyscrapers or shopping malls—it’s about enjoying the finer moments and celebrating the culture and community. If you follow these tips, you’ll get a taste of Dubai from a local’s perspective!

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