Dubai

The currency used in Dubai is Arab Emirate Dirham. There are plenty of ATMs throughout the city to withdraw money from. Also, all major international debit and credit cards are accepted at most shopping malls, hotels and restaurants.

Travelers can easily purchase pre-paid SIM cards to call both locally and internationally. SIM cards can be used in various denominations at the airport itself. Dubai enjoys seamless internet connectivity. Most hotels, restaurants, and malls offer free Wi-Fi services. The Internet is also available on mobile devices from the service providers.

Drugs, narcotics, chemicals and organic fertilizers, Khus Khus (poppy seeds) or paan (betel leaves), pornographic material, non-Islamic religious pamphlets for missionary activities, fireworks, ivory, weapons and ammunition, laser pens, radar jammers/other unauthorized communication devices, plants or endangered animals, and any other objects which do not adhere to the religious and moral values of the UAE are prohibited. If caught, serious punishment is awarded to the offender.

Dubai has world-class restaurants offering everything from traditional Arabic cuisine to British, Chinese, Filipino, French, German, Greek, Indian, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Mediterranean, Portuguese, Russian, Spanish, Swiss and Thai. You can get vegetarian food easily at most of the restaurants.

The minimum age for the consumption of alcohol in Dubai is 21 years. You will need to carry ID proof while visiting a bar. Drinking alcohol in public places is prohibited in Dubai and is punishable under the law. You are not allowed to carry alcohol to beaches unless it is owned by hotels with a liquor license.

Though tipping is not mandatory in Dubai, it is always expected. INR 170-350 approximately is the ideal tipping amount for porters, waiters or bellboys. 10% of the total bill amount should be given as a tip in restaurants and cafes.

Sure, you can haggle with local vendors at the various souks. However, avoid any type of haggling at the malls.