Language: While Arabic is the UAE’s official language, English is the language of business and is spoken by almost everyone in Dubai.

Currency: The UAE’s currency is the Dirham (Dhs).

Credit Cards and Banks: Cash is still king here. While most places accept credit cards, it’s best to always carry small change.

Climate: Dubai is the desert! S0, summers are extremely hot in Dubai—daytime temperatures are sometimes over 106 degrees while nights rarely fall below eighty-eight degrees. Winters are much more comfortable with temps between sixty and seventy-five degrees.

Good to Know: The minimum drinking age is twenty-one and there are areas where photography is prohibited, so watch out for signs and be respectful to their rules and cultural observations.

Dress Code: It can get very hot in Dubai, but you should be aware of keeping your clothes more on the conservative side. Be sure to pack light layers with a few long-sleeves and full-length bottoms.