The Currency: UAE Dirham (AED)
The Dirham has been pegged to the US Dollar for years, which makes budgeting relatively predictable if you're used to USD prices — always confirm the current rate before you travel, since pegs can in theory change.
Cards Are Widely Accepted, But Carry Some Cash
Malls, restaurants and hotels overwhelmingly accept cards. Cash still matters for the Gold and Spice Souks in Old Dubai, small taxis, and tipping — bring some Dirhams rather than relying entirely on plastic.
Tipping Isn't Obligatory, But It Is Expected
Many restaurants already add a service charge to the bill, so a large additional tip usually isn't necessary there — check first. For taxis, rounding up is normal. For hotel staff and tour guides, a modest cash tip is genuinely appreciated rather than strictly required.
Why Costs Swing So Much
A coffee in a Downtown mall and a coffee in Old Dubai can differ by several multiples. The same applies to dining and activities — Dubai can be genuinely affordable if you spend deliberately outside the flagship tourist zones, or genuinely expensive if you stay inside them for the whole trip.
Bring a card for the majority of spending, carry Dirhams for souks and tips, and don't assume every part of Dubai costs what the Downtown and Palm Jumeirah areas do — the price gap across districts is real.