John's Answer

I had a question regarding using USD in Dubai-

Is it best to bring US Dollars or dirhams for a holiday?
John

Good day John! You can only use dirhams for purchases but you can exchange USD for AED (dirhams) easily. Most places will accept a foreign charge card however typically your bank will charge a conversion fee for every purchase so that is not as cost effective.  I believe you can use your charge card at the exchange centers and banks to get AED's so you don't have to bring all the money you intend to spend in cash. You can exchange at the airport upon arrival and there are exchange centers and banks in every mall and there are a lot of beautiful malls. There are also banks at the major tourist destinations like The Walk at JBR (where I live) and The Golden Mile on The Palm, etc. The exchange rates at the conversion centers and the banks are competitive so you don't have to worry with finding a particular place for the best rate. Dubai makes it very convenient to spend as much money as you like! I don't when you plan to visit Dubai but I would recommend you wait until after August. Ramadan begins 1 Aug and doesn't end until 30 Aug. No eating, drinking or smoking in public any where from sun up to sundown. Ladies must have thier shoulders covered and legs must be completely covered. Restaurants will not open until after sundown; it is a very conservative time. No live music anywhere and alcohol consumption is frowned on. Have a great trip- Dubai really is beautiful! Thanks, Michele