The Dubai Explorer is one of those books that expats must have before they get to Dubai. It gives the lowdown on everything from restaurants to getting your visa, to the best hotels to local insight. In expat circles, they refer to this book as the 'Bible' of Dubai - and it probably is the highest selling book about Dubai in Dubai. If you are intending on moving, this is the books you need to purchase before you get here, so that you have a head start on the formalities.

The Abu Dhabi & Al Ain Explorer is the equivalent Abu Dhabi 'must have' before relocating. Since many of the formalities are the same in both the Emirates, it is only worthwhile purchasing either this or the Dubai Explorer, but not both. And with many more people now moving to Abu Dhabi, this book is becoming more of an essential.

The Lonely Planet series often provides detailed guidelines for the traveler. And the Dubai edition certainly doesn't disappoint. With the walking tours, excursions away and shopping guides, you certainly will make the most of your holiday to Dubai.

On first glance, you would wonder how a book so small in size could be worth buying. However, the writer, Zee Gilmore, gives an immersion insight into Dubai, from someone who actually was born there. Her hidden gems give a real sense of what Dubai is today, with perspectives on the best things to do and see rather than an all encompassing list of establishments.

The big plus that the Time out guys have over the other publications is that they also publish a weekly magazine for the region, so you know that they are on the ground and know their stuff. Their coverage is pretty spot on and insightful, and would make for a good purchase pre-holiday.