Maps

The first thing one will require for orientation, whether it be for research or directions to taxi drivers, is a reasonable map.  With Dubai being very e-savvy, the government have kindly provided an excellent site, Dubai Geographic Information Systems Centre , with downloadable maps that can then be printed.

 Get Google Earth and explore a bit via the web. Dubai is a sprawling city burb and can cost as much as $25US to get from the north to the south.