There is a lot of information about how Dubai is a city of shining skyscrapers and excessive luxury, still, in case you want to embrace the so-called soul of this place, you should see it with the eyes of a local. Forget five-star hotel buffets and those digital ability-to-do anything places on Instagram, this guide will help you live the real Dubai.
Why Experience Dubai Like a Local?
Anyone is capable of the desert safari or eating at the Burj Khalifa. What if you could dine in the same place that a native Dubai-born resident vouches in its shawarma? Or take karak tea on a roadside cafe as the city buzzes in your ears? When you think yourself like a Dubai citizen, you find out the rhythm, feel, and culture which you cannot find in tourist guide.
Get Around Like a Local
Use the Metro and Public Transport
The metro of Dubai is clean, cheap, and efficient. The locals use it to commute. You will not be affected by traffic and it takes you to essential places such as Bur Dubai, Deira and even Dubai marina.
Rent a Scooter or Bicycle
Downtown or JLT are some of the places where you will find locals riding e-scooters. Hire one and swish around town on your everyday run-about or just city sightseeing.
Avoid Tourist Taxis
Although taxis are safe, they are not always the cheapest. Rather, ride with Careem or Uber as local people do to pay reasonable prices and enjoy clean cars.
Eat Where the Locals Eat
Try Local Restaurants in Deira and Al Karama
Until you have eaten late night at Ravi Restaurant in Satwa or devoured the biryani in Deira you have not eaten Dubai yet.
Enjoy Emirati Cuisine in Al Fahidi
Go to restaurants such as Al Khayma Heritage Restaurant where you can experience real Emirati food in an old-style surrounding.
Don’t Miss Out on Street Food
It could be manakish, falafel and grilled corn on the beach, but it is a daily routine to many locals.
Explore Non-Touristy Neighborhoods
Wander Through Al Satwa and Al Qouz
Al Satwa is packed with character-tailors, barbers and outdated shops. Al Qouz, in its turn, is a paradise of artists and/or creators.
Discover Local Life in Mirdif
It is in Mirdiff where families spend their leisure, shop and reside. It is quiet with some nice parks and neighbourhoods.
Visit Traditional Souks in Bur Dubai
You may also want to skip the gold souk at least on this trip and go to the textile and spice soup to have a taste of the city.
Conclusion
Dubai is much than about skyscrapers and fancy shopping. It is a cultural mix, the everyday rush and it is delicious in case you are adventurous enough to leave the tourist track. Riding the metro, trying karak in a cafe by the road or strolling along old neighborhoods, you will begin to understand the city through the eyes of people who live here.
FAQs
1. Is Dubai safe for exploring like a local?
Absolutely. Dubai has been regarded as one of the safest positions in the globe. All you need to do is follow the local laws and customs.
2. Are there any free places locals love to visit?
Yes! Residents also visit the local parks such as Zabeel and also go to the Al Qudra Lake and the public beaches.
3. Can I eat street food safely in Dubai?
Well, yes, the street food of Dubai is mostly clean and tasty. Where there is good foot traffic always go there.
4. What’s the best time to explore like a local?
It is great at evenings and before the morning especially in summer. In winters, it is ideal the whole day.
5. Should I learn Arabic to blend in?
This is not required but having basics such as Shukran (Thank you) and Salam Alaikum (Peace be upon you) are of great help.
