Senior travel: Dubai
An easier pace for an older traveller: how many stops fit in a day, which places are step-free, and what the guide says about getting around, medicines and stairs.
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Pace for a day
About 2 stops a day. 5 h out − 45 min rest, divided by an average visit of 72 min (from this city’s guide) + 30 min to move.
Places, easiest access first
- Dubai FountainStep-free: yes · about 30 minLevel promenade and lifts in the mall; the bridge has steps with a ramp alternative (check).
- Dubai Marina WalkStep-free: yes · about 45 minLevel promenade with ramps and lifts at the malls.
- JBR Beach and The WalkStep-free: yes · about 60 minThe Walk is level; the beach has ramps and mats at some points (check).
- Burj Khalifa observation decksStep-free: yes · about 90 minLifts to the observation level; step-free route from the mall.
- The Dubai MallStep-free: yes · about 180 minLifts and escalators throughout; long distances.
- Abra crossing on Dubai CreekStep-free: partial (check before you go) · about 20 minA step down into the boat; helpful boatmen but not step-free.
- Gold Souk and Spice SoukStep-free: partial (check before you go) · about 60 minMostly level lanes with kerbs and crowds; the Old Souk landing has a ramp (check).
- Al Fahidi Historical NeighbourhoodStep-free: partial (check before you go) · about 90 minLevel lanes with some kerbs; old buildings have steps.
Getting around in Dubai
Dubai's malls, hotels and metro are step-free with lifts. The old quarters have kerbs and cobbles, and distances are long, so use taxis between clusters.
- Pavements:
- Wide in new districts, uneven in old quarters; kerb ramps at most crossings.
- Metro and tram:
- Lifts and ramps at stations; priority spaces on trains.
- Taxis:
- Accessible taxis are available on request via the RTA or apps (check).
- Heat:
- Heat is the main barrier; plan short outdoor legs.
- Toilets:
- Accessible toilets in malls, hotels and metro stations.
Medicines and health on the ground
- Prescriptions and doctor's letter · before packing: Original prescription for every medicine; approval for controlled ones — check the Emirates Drug Establishment rules.
- Heat:
- Drink water hourly, use sun cream, wear a hat, and do outdoor plans before 10:00 and after 17:00.
- Tap water:
- Treated and safe; bottled water is common.
- Medicines:
- Some ordinary medicines are controlled; carry a prescription and check the UAE list before you go.
- Sun and sea:
- Swim where lifeguards are posted; jellyfish and strong currents are rare but possible.
- Cold air conditioning:
- Cold indoor air after hot outdoors can cause colds; carry a light layer.
- Vaccines:
- Routine vaccines are enough for most visitors; check the official travel-health advice.
More: how much medicine to pack, medicine times across time zones.
Ask your insurer
Age limits and prices differ by policy and the guides do not hold them, so put these to the insurer before you buy.
- What is the oldest age the policy covers, at purchase and on the last day of the trip?
- Does the price or the cover change after a certain age?
- Are existing conditions covered, and what must be declared?
- Does the cover include medical evacuation and trip interruption?
Not medical advice. This page does not know anyone’s health. Ask a doctor before the trip, and carry a list of medicines and conditions.