The Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) brought the city’s vibrant experiences, attractions, and travel insights directly to South Africa in a dynamic three-city roadshow.

• Dubai continues to captivate South African travellers with a mix of luxury, culture, adventure, and family-friendly experiences.
• Connectivity and accessibility are seamless, with metro, monorail, water taxis, buses, and taxis making it easy for travellers to explore the city.
• The roadshow highlighted Dubai’s affordability, from three-star hotels to free and low-cost attractions like Abra Rides and the Viewing Point.
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The Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) wrapped up its highly anticipated roadshow in South Africa last week, bringing the city’s latest attractions, experiences, and offerings directly to Durban, Cape Town, and Johannesburg. The roadshow underscored Dubai’s commitment to providing world-class experiences while strengthening ties with South African travellers – a key market consistently showing double-digit growth in visitor numbers.

Across three cities, DET showcased a diverse range of offerings tailored for couples, families, and solo travellers, including luxurious and budget-friendly accommodations, world-class attractions, and innovative experiences designed to turn even short transits into full-fledged tourism journeys. Attendees were treated to detailed presentations, videos, and interactive discussions highlighting Dubai’s unique appeal – from its iconic skyscrapers to natural landscapes, cultural heritage, and family-focused attractions.

Busting Myths And Promoting Comfort

One of the roadshow’s key segments addressed common misconceptions about Dubai, particularly regarding dress codes and cultural etiquette. DET representatives reassured travellers that comfort is encouraged – shorts, dresses, and beachwear are perfectly acceptable, and visitors are welcome to explore the city in a way that feels natural and enjoyable.

The roadshow also emphasised Dubai’s diverse landscapes. Beyond the glittering skyline, travellers can enjoy the mountainous regions of Hatta for kayaking, trekking, and adventure sports; relax at public beaches such as Kite Beach; or immerse themselves in the desert with sandboarding, camel rides, and desert safaris. Dubai’s mix of urban excitement, natural beauty, and desert adventure ensures there’s something for every type of traveller.

Navigating Ramadan, Alcohol, And Affordability

For visitors planning trips during Ramadan, DET clarified that the city operates as usual. Restaurants, malls, and cultural sites remain open, offering a culturally rich experience along with an array of gastronomic options. Alcohol is available for purchase in licensed restaurants and hotels for those aged 18 and above.

Affordability was a key theme throughout the roadshow. While Dubai is renowned for luxury, travellers of all budgets can enjoy the city. Three-star hotels, for example, provide amenities comparable to four-star options in other destinations, while free or low-cost experiences – like the Abra ride along Dubai Creek or visiting the Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary to see flamingos – offer exceptional value.

Understanding South African Travellers

DET shared insights from studies on South African visitors to better shape tourism experiences. Findings revealed that South Africans travel to Dubai for four main reasons:
• Relaxation: Escaping the everyday and enjoying comfort.
• Adventure: Seeking thrilling activities, from skydiving to desert sports.
• Indulgence: Exploring gastronomy, shopping, and cultural offerings.
• Relationship-driven travel: Family trips, birthdays, and girls’ trips.

Nearly 60% of South African travellers visit Dubai once or twice a year, with an average stay of five to seven days, making them open to longer, more immersive itineraries.

Cultural And Family Experiences

Dubai’s rich cultural tapestry was a highlight of the roadshow. Attendees learned about traditional Abra rides along the creek, visits to the SMCC cultural center, and the historic Al-Fahidi neighbourhood, as well as the Dubai Coffee Museum. These experiences showcase the city’s heritage, from architecture to culinary traditions. Family-friendly attractions are equally abundant. Notable highlights include:
• Global Village and Miracle Garden, featuring over 150’000 natural flowers and cultural pavilions.
• Legoland Dubai, ideal for children aged 2–12.
• Dubai Mall, home to KidZania, the Dubai Aquarium, and countless family-centric activities.
• Aquaventure Waterpark, with more than 40 slides for kids and adults.

Adventure seekers were also catered for, with opportunities in Hatta’s mountains, desert safaris, sandboarding, camel rides, and immersive Bedouin experiences.

Shopping And Gastronomy

Dubai remains a shopping and culinary paradise, offering options for all budgets and tastes. Traditional souks sell textiles, spices, and perfumes, while modern malls provide everything from high-end fashion to family entertainment. Gastronomy was a particular focus of the roadshow, with options ranging from casual cafes to Michelin-starred restaurants. Kosher, halal, vegetarian, and international cuisines are all readily available, ensuring that every traveller finds experiences tailored to their tastes.

Accommodation Options For Every Budget

The roadshow also highlighted Dubai’s accommodation diversity, catering to a wide range of budgets from Alut, Palm Jumeirah at $90 USD to City Seasons Hotel: $64 USD. These options demonstrate that luxury and affordability can coexist, making Dubai accessible to travellers with varying needs and preferences.

Getting Around Dubai

Transportation options in Dubai were also detailed. Travellers can use the metro, segregated for safety and comfort, or opt for monorails, water ferries, bike rentals, bus tours, and Taxis/Uber. Most attractions are in close proximity, making it easy to plan itineraries that minimise travel time while maximising experiences.

New Experiences And Innovations

Dubai continues to innovate with exciting new attractions. The roadshow highlighted:
• Real Madrid Dubai, offering over 40 sports-related experiences for children and fans.
• Dubai Balloon, providing panoramic aerial views of the city, ideal for families or romantic excursions.

The Dubai DET roadshow successfully highlighted why Dubai remains a top destination for South African travellers. With cultural experiences, family entertainment, adventure, shopping, gastronomy, and a range of budget-friendly options, Dubai offers something for everyone.

The roadshow also emphasised that Dubai is constantly evolving, with new attractions and experiences added regularly, ensuring repeat visitors always have something fresh to discover. For South Africans, Dubai represents a city of adventure, relaxation, indulgence, and accessibility – all in one vibrant destination.

Whatever your budget, preference, or reason for visiting, Dubai has something to offer every traveller. Habibi – Come to Dubai!

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