Dubai for business: A practical corporate travel guide

Dubai is a fast-moving metropolis, the leading business hub of the UAE and a key gateway between Europe, Asia and Africa. Global finance, tech and logistics all have their regional headquarters here, while landmark events like GITEX and the FinTech Summit draw market leaders from around the world.

Every day, more people arrive in Dubai looking for new and unique opportunities to grow and connect. If you’re planning your first business trip here, this guide will help you make the most of it.

Read more Tumodo corporate travel guides here.

Before you go

Dubai is modern, welcoming — and full of its own specifics. From dress codes to public behaviour, there are a few local rules worth knowing in advance. To make sure your business trip goes smoothly from the airport to the boardroom, we’ve put together the essentials.

Visa and entry requirements

Dubai makes business travel simple, but entry rules depend on your passport. Many nationalities can enter visa-free or get a 30- or 90-day visa on arrival right at the airport. Some Indian citizens also benefit from special conditions.

If you are not eligible, you’ll need to arrange a visa in advance through a local airline, hotel or licensed travel agency. Tourist visas usually cover 30 or 60 days and can be extended once inside the country. Processing normally takes 3–5 business days.

For business purposes, Dubai offers several visa options. Your choice depends on how long you plan to stay and whether you need single or multiple entries. There are also special conditions for co-owners of UAE companies.

Transit visas — for 48 or 96 hours —  are also available if you’re passing through Dubai.

Whichever option you choose, be ready to provide a valid passport, a photo, proof of accommodation and other supporting documents.

Time zone and scheduling

Dubai runs on Gulf Standard Time (GMT+4) and doesn’t switch to daylight saving. That puts the city 4 hours ahead of London, 3 hours ahead of Moscow, 8 hours ahead of New York and 4 hours behind Singapore. When setting up meetings — especially across regions — double-check the time zone and local business hours.

Money and payments

Dubai is largely cashless — less than 20% of payments are made with cash. Still, keep some AED on hand for tips or markets. Exchange currency only at banks or official kiosks.
Visa and Mastercard are accepted everywhere; American Express, Discover and UnionPay — in many hotels, restaurants and malls. Mobile wallets are common too: Apple Pay is widely supported, while local options like Careem Pay and e& money are gaining ground.

For public transport, use a Nol card — the city’s contactless travel card. There are different types, but for most business travellers the Silver Card is the most practical choice. You can buy and top it up at metro stations, kiosks or through the RTA Dubai app.

Internet and apps

In 2025, the UAE was ranked number one worldwide for mobile internet speed — so staying connected in Dubai is never a problem. The city has full 4G and 5G coverage from Etisalat and du and free Wi-Fi available at most hotels, malls, cafés and at the airport.

Messaging apps like WhatsApp and Telegram work for text, but voice and video calls are blocked. VPNs are allowed for legitimate purposes like accessing corporate resources, but avoid using them to bypass call restrictions, which can lead to fines.

Essential apps for business travellers:

• Getting around: Yango — pay for taxi rides via your corporate Tumodo account; S’hail for public transport routes and Nol top-ups; Waze for driving with live traffic updates.
• Calls & messaging: WhatsApp for text; Botim and Voico for voice and video calls; Zoom or Microsoft Teams for business meetings.
• Delivery: Careem, Deliveroo, Talabat for meals and groceries.
• Deals: The Entertainer for the best offers on restaurants, attractions and services; XE Currency Converter for quick and accurate exchange rates.

These apps will help you get around, stay connected and keep your schedule on track.

Accommodation rules and tips

When checking into a hotel or serviced apartment in Dubai, you’ll need to show your passport and visa copy for registration, as standard. Expect a small Tourism Dirham Fee of AED 10–20 per room, per night, added to your bill.

Hotels may also request a refundable deposit or a credit card pre-authorisation. If you plan to arrive late, let the property know in advance to avoid cancellation. Most places provide toiletries, but it’s worth packing your own essentials or asking at reception if you need something specific.

Business etiquette and local norms

Business in Dubai is formal but welcoming, with a few local rules worth remembering. 

• Punctuality matters — you’re expected to be on time, even if your counterpart is delayed.
• Meetings often begin in offices or hotel boardrooms; once the relationship develops, meals may follow.
• Hospitality is part of the culture. You’ll likely be offered Arabic coffee — strong, spiced with cardamom and served in tiny cups. Accepting it is polite; if you don’t want more, gently shake your empty cup three times to signal you’re finished.
• Handshakes are common, but with the opposite gender wait for your host to offer first.
• Dress conservatively: a business suit works best, though short sleeves are acceptable. The climate is hot and humid, so it’s normal to change shirts between meetings or remove your jacket indoors.
• Be patient. Deals, especially with government clients, can take longer to close than in Europe or North America. Building trust is often part of the process.

How to get to Dubai

From another country

Dubai has two airports: Dubai International Airport (DXB) and Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC). DXB is the main hub for Emirates and flydubai, offering direct flights to over 200 destinations worldwide, including London, New York, Singapore, Sydney plus major cities across Europe, Asia and Africa. DWC, located in Dubai South, operates a smaller number of passenger flights, mostly low-cost and seasonal services from carriers like Wizz Air Abu Dhabi and flydubai.

Travellers can also reach Dubai via connecting flights through major hubs such as Doha, Istanbul or Riyadh. Demand is high year-round, but peak travel periods fall between November and March, when the weather is cooler. For the best fares, book your flights 2–3 months in advance.

From Dubai International Airport (DXB) to the City

• By metro. The Red Line runs directly from Terminals 1 and 3 to Downtown Dubai in about 25 minutes. Trains run every few minutes, with fares around $1.5–2 depending on zones. Dubai Metro is modern, mostly overground and even has separate carriages: Gold Class with leather seats, standard Silver and women-only pink. Keep in mind that only two suitcases per person are allowed and you may need to show your ticket if travelling with luggage.
• By bus. Several routes (for example 32C, 401, 402) connect the airport to the city in 40 minutes or more. Buses run from early morning until past midnight, with a night bus covering all terminals. Fares are budget-friendly ($0.5–1.5), but reaching key spots like Dubai Mall may require a change.
• By taxi or car transfer. Official taxis are cream-coloured with different roof shades. A ride to Downtown takes 15–20 minutes and costs around AED 50 ($14), plus AED 25 airport surcharge and AED 2 per km. Expect traffic delays during peak hours.

Tip: With Yango, you can book a taxi via the app and charge it to your corporate Tumodo account. That means no expense reports to file later. A ride from DXB to Downtown costs about AED 110 ($30).

From Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC) to the City

• By Metro. There’s no direct metro from DWC. The nearest station is Ibn Battuta on the Red Line, which you can reach by bus F55 or F55A. From there, continue by metro to central Dubai. The full trip takes around 1 hour 15 minutes and costs AED 6–8 ($1.5-2).
• By Shuttle Bus. Buses connect DWC with key city hubs though less frequent than from DXB. Travel times vary, so allow extra time if you’re heading to a meeting.
• By Taxi or Car transfer. This is the quickest option: 40–50 minutes to Downtown, costing around AED 165 ($45). Taxis are readily available at the terminal or you can book through Yango and pay from your corporate Tumodo account for a smoother expense process.

Where to stay in Dubai

Dubai offers a huge range of accommodation, from luxury business hotels to affordable mid-range options. We’ve picked five hotels in different categories that are convenient for business travellers and well located for meetings around the city.

Conrad Dubai Hotel

Location

Conrad Dubai is in the heart of the financial district, within walking distance of the Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre and close to DIFC. Jumeirah Mosque and Dubai Mall are also nearby, making it a convenient base for both business and leisure.

At the hotel

The hotel offers five restaurants, several bars and lounges, a poolside bar, and 24-hour room service. For relaxation, there’s a spa, an outdoor pool, and a health club. Business travellers benefit from over 2 500 m² of meeting space, a 24-hour business centre, and dedicated conference facilities. Concierge services, limo hire, and free valet parking are also available. 
With 555 rooms in total, the hotel is well equipped to host large corporate groups and events.

InterContinental Dubai Festival City, an IHG Hotel

Location

The hotel is 7 km from central Dubai, next to Dubai Creek and Festival City Mall. Dubai Mall and Emirates Towers are also within easy reach, making it a practical base for business with some leisure options nearby.

At the hotel

InterContinental Dubai Festival City offers seamless convenience for business travellers. The hotel provides elegant rooms, fast Wi-Fi and daily housekeeping. Business services include dedicated concierge, express assistance, an airport shuttle and a 4 250 m² Events Centre with versatile conference and meeting facilities. For productive downtime or working lunches, several restaurants on site — from Lebanese seafood at Karam Al Bahr to French-inspired Choix TT.

The hotel has 508 rooms, giving business travellers plenty of choice and flexibility when organising stays around conferences or events.

Holiday Inn Dubai Business Bay

Location

The hotel is 6 km from Downtown Dubai, close to the Dubai Fountain, Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo, and Burj Khalifa. It’s a convenient base if you want to combine business with exploring the city on foot.

At the hotel

Holiday Inn Business Bay is designed with productivity in mind. The open-lobby concept creates an easy flow from check-in to casual meetings, with coworking corners and fast Wi-Fi available throughout the property. For larger gatherings, the hotel offers four naturally lit conference rooms for up to 120 delegates, fully equipped with AV technology, as well as flexible breakout areas. Business travellers also benefit from a 24-hour business centre, concierge assistance and express services that help save time on the go. After meetings, guests can recharge at the gym, outdoor pool or spa, and keep networking at the Brasserie on 1 restaurant or at the Juniper cocktail bar.

The hotel features 275 rooms and suites in total.

Rose Rayhaan by Rotana

Location

The hotel sits on Sheikh Zayed Road, just 7 km from Downtown Dubai and close to the Financial Centre metro station. This makes it a convenient base for meetings around DIFC and the World Trade Centre.

At the hotel

Recognised as one of the tallest hotels in the world, Rose Rayhaan by Rotana features elegant rooms, fast Wi-Fi, daily housekeeping, the Bodylines Fitness and Wellness Club, spa, sauna, steam room and an outdoor pool. For corporate needs, the hotel provides 4 naturally lit boardrooms with modern AV technology, plus concierge and support services to make business stays smooth and efficient.

The hotel has 462 rooms and suites, so it can easily accommodate business groups of various sizes.

Rove City Walk Hotel

Location

The hotel is 8 km from central Dubai, close to Burj Khalifa, Dubai Mall and The Dubai Fountain. It’s a good mid-range option near the city’s main business districts.

At the hotel

Rove City Walk brings a vibrant, social vibe to business travel, offering practical comforts alongside playful design touches. Guests enjoy fast Wi‑Fi, free self‑parking and a 24‑hour gym, as well as an outdoor pool and social dining at The Daily. Business travellers also benefit from on‑site meeting spaces with high‑speed internet, flexible layouts and the state-of-the-art technology — ideal for team catch‑ups or informal presentations.

The hotel features approximately 560 rooms, including many interconnecting options ideal for corporate groups.

Walking route through Dubai

Al Fahidi, Dubai Creek, souks, Burj Khalifa and the Dubai Fountain

Start your walk in the Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood. The district is full of narrow lanes, art galleries and traditional houses with wind towers, once used as natural air conditioning. Small museums and cafés serving Arabic coffee with dates make this area a perfect introduction to old Dubai.

From here it’s just a short stroll to the banks of Dubai Creek – the waterway that cuts through the city and separates Bur Dubai from Deira. Hop on a traditional wooden abra for only one dirham and in a couple of minutes you’ll find yourself on the opposite bank.

This side is home to the famous markets: the Spice Souk, with its rich aromas of saffron, cinnamon and dried limes, and the Gold Souk, where dazzling jewellery fills entire shop windows. Even if you’re not shopping, it’s worth visiting for the atmosphere alone.

After exploring the souks, take a short metro or taxi ride (around 20 minutes) to Downtown Dubai, the modern heart of the city. Here you’ll see the Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world. Its observation deck offers spectacular views across the emirate.

Next door is the Dubai Mall, one of the world’s largest shopping and entertainment centres, with an aquarium, ice rink and countless dining options. It’s a great stop for lunch or a quick snack.

End your walk at the Dubai Fountain. In the evenings, the half-hourly light-and-music shows create a spectacular finale — a perfect way to round off your day.

Business lunch spots in Dubai

In Dubai, a business lunch is more than just a meal — it’s a chance to connect, exchange ideas and enjoy the city’s diverse food scene. We’ve picked three spots that combine great cuisine with the right atmosphere for productive conversations.

Prime68

A modern steakhouse on the 68th floor with panoramic views over Dubai’s skyline.

Prime68 combines premium heritage-breed beef with an elegant, contemporary dining room — perfect for making an impression over a business lunch. Signature dishes include beef tenderloin tartare and filet mignon with foie gras.

Il Ristorante – Niko Romito

At the Bulgari Resort Dubai, this two-Michelin-starred restaurant by acclaimed Italian chef Niko Romito offers a refined take on Italy’s culinary heritage.

The minimalist yet elegant menu reinterprets classic dishes with modern precision, while the interiors echo the sophistication of Bvlgari’s Milan flagship. Raised banquettes overlook the Arabian Gulf and Bulgari Marina, making this venue an outstanding choice for business lunches or high-profile client dinners.

Where to relax after work

Dubai has plenty of stylish venues to wind down after a busy day — from rooftop lounges to lively open-air bars. Here are two great options.

Attiko

This Pan-Asian rooftop lounge pairs stylish outdoor seating with panoramic views of Dubai Marina and the Arabian Gulf. The décor blends modern elegance with a lively atmosphere, making it perfect for unwinding after work with colleagues over signature cocktails.

Entry is free, though table reservations are recommended in the evenings.

Iris Dubai

An open-air lounge and restaurant with a chic yet relaxed vibe. Its spacious terrace is a chic yet relaxed terrace with music, conversation, light bites and live DJ sets most evenings. The venue is well-suited for casual networking or relaxing after a busy day in a lively but comfortable setting.

No entry fee applies, but the dress code is smart casual.

What to bring back for colleagues

Business trips often end with a small gesture of appreciation for the team. In Dubai, souvenirs combine tradition and a touch of luxury — from sweets and spices to elegant keepsakes that capture the city’s unique blend of East and West.

Sweets. Premium varieties of dates, often filled with nuts or coated in chocolate, are a staple. One of the best places to find them is at Bateel, a luxury brand known for its beautifully packaged dates or at traditional markets like the Dubai Spice Souk. Another distinctive treat is camel-milk chocolate, a Dubai specialty with a smooth texture and flavour you won’t find anywhere else. For a premium gift, look for Al Nassma, the city’s most renowned camel-milk chocolate brand.

Spices. Saffron, cardamom, cinnamon, and dried limes from the Spice Souk make fragrant and practical gifts for any foodie colleague. To explore the best selection, head to the Spice Souk in Deira. It’s a vibrant market where traders offer not only individual spices but also unique blends for traditional Arabic, Indian, and Persian dishes. It’s a place where you can pick up something authentic and experiment with flavours back home.

Arabic coffee. In the UAE, coffee (gahwa) is traditionally brewed with cardamom and sometimes saffron or cloves, giving it a fragrant, slightly spicy taste. You can buy freshly ground Arabic coffee and pair it with a traditional dallah (coffee pot) and small finjan cups — a thoughtful gift that reflects Emirati hospitality.

Perfume oils and oud. Traditional Arabian fragrances are among the most distinctive souvenirs. Instead of standard perfumes, choose concentrated perfume oils or oud — a resinous wood that, when burned or distilled, produces a rich, smoky aroma highly prized in the Middle East. Popular options include Abdul Samad Al Qurashi and Arabian Oud, both known for their refined blends and elegant gift-ready packaging.

Gold and jewellery. If you’re after something more prestigious, the Gold Souk offers everything from small trinkets to elaborate pieces. Even a delicate charm can serve as a memorable gift. The Gold Souk itself is one of Dubai’s most iconic markets — a maze of glittering shopfronts where you can browse countless designs, compare prices, and even try your hand at bargaining.

Pearl jewellery. Before the oil boom, pearl diving was the backbone of Dubai’s economy, and natural Gulf pearls are still considered among the finest. For something authentic, visit Al Fardan Jewellery, a heritage family brand renowned for its Gulf pearl pieces. Or explore the Dubai Pearl Museum, where you can admire a historic collection and even purchase classic designs with cultural value.