Start here — the money-saving apps
Before anything else, these two apps will save you a meaningful amount of money and massively improve your experience of Dubai — particularly in the first few months when you're exploring the city.
The Entertainer
The Entertainer is a buy-one-get-one-free app covering hundreds of restaurants, cafes, experiences, and leisure activities across Dubai. The restaurant coverage includes many of the most popular spots in the city — not obscure places nobody goes to. If you eat out regularly (and in Dubai, most people do), this app pays for itself very quickly. It's one of the most universally recommended apps among Dubai's expat community and for good reason.
Privilee
Privilee gives you access to hotel pools, private beaches, and fitness facilities at partner hotels and gyms across Dubai and Abu Dhabi. For someone new to Dubai it's an excellent way to explore the city's hotels and beach clubs without paying full day-pass prices each time. Gym memberships in Dubai are expensive — Privilee is worth looking at as an alternative that gives you variety across multiple facilities.
Government and admin
ICP UAE
The Federal Authority for Identity app. Your digital Emirates ID lives here. Download this before you arrive — once your visa is processed, your digital ID appears automatically and you'll need it constantly.
Dubai REST
Used for Ejari registration (tenancy contracts) and checking the RERA rental index. Essential once you start looking for accommodation.
UAEPASS
The UAE's digital identity platform — a universal login for government services. Set it up once with your Emirates ID and it simplifies access to hundreds of services.
Transport
Careem
The regional ride-hailing app. Works well across Dubai with good coverage. Also offers bike rental and delivery services.
Uber
Also operates in Dubai. Have both Careem and Uber installed — one is often cheaper than the other depending on surge pricing at any given time.
RTA Dubai
For metro, tram, and bus routes. If you're using public transport, this is the route planning and nol card management app.
Salik
Dubai's road toll app. If you're driving, you'll need to top up your Salik balance here and can track toll transactions.
Daily life
Talabat
The main food delivery app in the UAE. Wide restaurant selection and fast delivery. Also delivers groceries through Talabat Mart.
Noon
The regional Amazon equivalent. Good for general shopping, with fast delivery across Dubai.
Carrefour
Grocery delivery from one of Dubai's main supermarket chains. Good selection and reliable delivery windows.
Money and transfers
Your bank's app
Whichever bank you choose, their mobile app is your primary banking tool for transfers, payments, and account management.
Wise
For international money transfers. If you're sending money home or receiving from abroad, Wise consistently offers better rates than UAE bank transfers. Set this up before you arrive.
Pro tip: Download all the government apps before you arrive and create accounts where possible. Some require a UAE phone number, but having the apps ready means you can activate everything the moment your SIM is live.