Dubai is a city of contrasts, where futuristic skyscrapers meet centuries-old traditions. Known for its luxury shopping, world-class attractions, and warm hospitality, Dubai is an ideal destination for travellers seeking adventure, culture, and relaxation.
Must-See Sights and Travel Essentials
Dubai thrives as a global hub for business, tourism, and innovation, blending modernity with tradition. Its skyline is dominated by architectural marvels like the Burj Khalifa, while its older districts offer glimpses of Emirati heritage. The city caters to all tastes, from luxurious experiences to family-friendly attractions, making it a vibrant destination for visitors from around the world.
Climate
Dubai has a desert climate, characterized by hot and dry weather for most of the year. The city experiences long, extremely hot summers, with temperatures often exceeding 40°C (104°F) during the day and remaining warm at night. Humidity levels are relatively low, which can make the heat more bearable. Winters in Dubai are mild and short, with temperatures ranging from 14°C to 24°C (57°F to 75°F). It is the most pleasant time to visit, with cooler evenings and occasional rainfall. However, the winter season is still considered warm compared to many other regions.
Dubai receives very little rainfall throughout the year, with most of it occurring between November and February. The average annual rainfall is around 100 mm (4 inches), and showers are usually short-lived but can be heavy at times.
It is important to note that Dubai’s climate is influenced by its coastal location, as the city is situated along the Persian Gulf. The sea breeze can provide some relief from the heat, especially during the summer months.
Overall, Dubai’s climate is characterised by hot, dry summers and mild winters, making it a popular destination for sun-seeking tourists.
Money
The currency in Dubai is the dirham, (AED – United Arab Emirates Dirham). One dirham is divided into 100 fils. The dirham has been pegged to the US dollar since 1997, meaning the exchange rate never changes. One US dollar is worth AED3.
Telephone Country Code
(+971)
Electricity
230 V; 50Hz – 3-rectangular pins in a triangular pattern plug
Tap water
Most people (residents and visitors alike) prefer to drink bottled water. The tap water is desalinated sea water so does not taste pleasant.
Transportation
Dubai has an extensive public transport network so it’s an easy city to navigate. From the metro to the tram, buses, taxis and even a monorail it’s time to hop on board and explore the city.
Public holidays falling on a weekday
2025: 01 Jan, 31 Mar*, 01 Apr*, 05 Jun*, 06 Jun*, 26 Jun, 04 Sept, 01 Dec, 02 Dec, 03 Dec and 25 Dec
*These holidays are subject to change based on official government announcements. We strongly recommend confirming the exact dates closer to the time to ensure accurate planning for your course. There will be no refunds, make-up classes, or discounts for classes missed on these dates.
For Visa information please visit our Visa Requirements page
Legal Driving Age
Legal age for driving is
Alcohol Age
Legal age for drinking in Dubai is 21 and many places will ask for identification if you look below the age of 21.
Smoking Laws
Smoking is prohibited in public spaces like malls, houses of worship, educational institutions (schools and universities) and health and sports facilities. Also, you won’t find any shisha parlours or licensed smoking places anywhere within a 150-meter radius of residential areas.
Country Laws
Students must abide by local law at all times during their stay. Breach of the law could result in arrest by the police and even imprisonment.
Insurance
Students must have adequate health, accident and travel insurance while attending any of our programmes.
Cost of Living
Bottle of water / soda (0.33 litre)
AED* 3.00 – 15.00
Coffee/Cappuccino (Starbucks)
AED* 12.00 – 30.00
Fast-Food combo meal
AED* 30.00 – 40.00
Meal, inexpensive restaurant
AED* 20.00 – 95.00
Fitness club (monthly, 1 adult)
AED* 150.00 – 800.00
Public transport (local transport)
AED* 3.00 – 8.00 (one-way)
Public transport (monthly pass)
AED* 200.00 – 360.00
The *AED is pegged to the USD at 3.67
Explore the Gold and Spice Souks for a glimpse of Dubai’s vibrant market culture.
Enjoy waterfront dining, shopping, and yacht tours.
Discover the majestic Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque.
A multicultural festival park with pavilions representing over 90 countries.
Perfect for families or thrill-seekers, located at Atlantis, The Palm.
Find out how our international students turned their first steps in language learning into important achievements that changed their lives.
Dubai has a desert climate, with hot and dry weather for most of the year. The city experiences long, extremely hot summers, with temperatures often exceeding 40°C (104°F) during the day and remaining warm at night. Humidity levels are relatively low. Winters in Dubai are mild and short, with temperatures ranging from 14°C to 24°C (57°F to 75°F).
At EC, we know that regardless of what course you choose, a supportive learning environment is key to your success. So you can rest assured that all your teachers will provide guidance, encouragement and motivation as you improve your skills. At EC Dubai, you can also count on the support of an inclusive school community, where you’ll always feel like you belong.
EC offers courses for every need, goal and life stage. Want to improve basic fluency skills? You can choose General English courses to focus on speaking, listening, reading and writing skills. Preparing for university? You can take exam prep courses for the most widely recognized language proficiency qualifications in the world. Interested in boosting your CV? Take our business courses and earn a professional certificate.
With its blend of modernity, tradition and Arabian hospitality, Dubai is one of the most dynamic and captivating cities in the world—a global hub of commerce, innovation, tourism and luxury—where English is the primary language used in daily interactions. Surrounding yourself with English in countries where it is spoken is the fastest way to improve your language skills—and there’s no better place to do it than Dubai.
