5 Mistakes to Avoid When Booking a Trip to Dubai

Planning a trip to Dubai requires a bit of strategy to ensure an optimal experience. Here are the 5 most common mistakes travelers make and, most importantly, how to avoid them!

Dubai is a highly popular destination, especially during peak season (October to April). Booking at the last minute can lead to higher prices and limited availability for flights, hotels, and activities. Ideally, book at least 4 months in advance; the earlier, the better to secure the best options and rates.

After a 12+ hour flight from Canada, skipping a few nights in Abu Dhabi would be a missed opportunity. The UAE’s capital is home to incredible attractions like the stunning Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, the Louvre Abu Dhabi, Ferrari World, and the breathtaking beaches of Saadiyat Island. A short stay in Abu Dhabi is the perfect complement to a Dubai getaway.

A 4 or 5-star hotel doesn’t always guarantee the best experience. GoDubai personally visits and selects hotels to ensure a worry-free stay. Here are some common mistakes when booking accommodation:

Extra fees for a third bed: Many hotels charge high fees for a third person in a room.

Dry hotels -alcohol free: If you’re looking for a lively atmosphere, check if the hotel serves alcohol, some establishments are completely "dry."

Smoking policies: In Gulf countries, smoking is still prevalent in public areas, which may be a concern for some travelers. If you’re not bothered by it, you might even end up with a smoking room.

With GoDubai’s certified hotel portfolio, you can rest assured that your accommodation choice will be the right one.

Dubai offers countless incredible experiences, but some require booking in advance. For example:

There are over 300 desert safari companies, and not all of them provide the same level of service. Some are mediocre, while others offer an unforgettable experience. Certain entrance tickets are in high demand and may not be available on-site.

To avoid disappointment, GoDubai handpicks the best experiences and handles reservations ahead of time.

One of the most common mistakes travelers make is not checking their hotel’s check-in and check-out times.

Hotel check-out: If your return flight is at 2:30 AM, keep in mind that the standard check-out time is 11:00 AM. Without extending your stay, you’ll have to wait over 12 hours before your flight—far from ideal after a long trip. Solution: Book your room until at least 10:30 PM so you can rest before your flight.

Early arrival: If your flight lands at 5 or 6 AM, be aware that most hotels in Dubai don’t allow check-in before 3:00 PM. After a long-haul flight and hours of travel, waiting in the lobby until the afternoon isn’t the best way to start your vacation. Solution: Book the previous night so you can access your room upon arrival.

Dubai is an extraordinary destination, but poor planning can turn a dream trip into a frustrating experience. By avoiding these 5 mistakes and booking with a specialist like GoDubai, you ensure a smooth, stress-free, and 100% enjoyable trip!