United Arab Emirates

All travelers must have a valid passport to enter the UAE. Entry requirements depend on your nationality:

Visa-Free Entry

Citizens of several countries, including those from the European Union, United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, South Korea, and many others, can enter the UAE visa-free for stays up to 30 or 90 days, depending on nationality.

Visa on Arrival

Some nationalities can obtain a visa on arrival, usually valid for 30 or 90 days, depending on the agreements in place.

Visa Required

Citizens of countries that are not on the visa-free or visa-on-arrival list must apply for a visa in advance through a UAE embassy or an online portal. A valid passport and application are necessary for obtaining a visa.

Always check the latest entry requirements based on your nationality, as they may change due to government regulations.

Citizens of Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries, including Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Bahrain, Oman, and Qatar, can enter the UAE using their national ID cards. Other travelers must present a valid passport.

Toll Roads in United Arab Emirates

The UAE has a comprehensive toll system called "Salik" in Dubai and Abu Dhabi. Vehicles passing through toll gates are automatically charged via an electronic tag system. Drivers must register for Salik and top up the balance to pay for tolls.Toll Payment Methods:

• Salik Tag (Dubai): Tolls are charged via a prepaid Salik account linked to a Salik tag on your vehicle's windshield. It is automatically deducted when you pass through a toll gate, which is clearly marked with signs displaying "SALIK."
• DARB (Abu Dhabi): Abu Dhabi uses the DARB system, which is linked to the vehicle's license plate. Cameras on highways scan the plate to charge tolls automatically.
• Cash: Cash payment at toll booths is not available. Everything is managed through the Salik or DARB systems.

Driving Tips in the UAE:

• Right-Hand Driving: Drive on the right-hand side of the road.
• Seat Belts: Wearing seat belts is mandatory for all passengers.
• Speed Limits: Speed limits are clearly marked, with a common limit of 60-80 km/h in urban areas and 120-140 km/h on highways.
• Road Conditions: The road network is excellent, with well-maintained highways connecting major cities. Be aware of speed cameras, as fines for violations are strict.
• Speed Cameras: The UAE has an extensive network of speed cameras, with an average of one every 1 to 4 kilometers on highways. Be aware of speed limits and drive cautiously.

Weather in United Arab Emirates

The UAE has a desert climate, characterized by extremely hot summers and mild winters. Rainfall is minimal and generally occurs in the winter months.

Summer (June to September)

Temperatures during the summer often exceed 40°C (104°F), with high humidity, especially in coastal areas. It’s advisable to stay indoors or in air-conditioned environments during the peak of summer.

Winter (November to March)

Winters are mild, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F), making it the best time for outdoor activities and tourism.

Travel Tips

• Best Time to Visit: The winter months from November to March are ideal for visiting, with comfortable temperatures and minimal rainfall.
• Summer Precautions: If visiting during summer, stay hydrated, wear sunscreen, and avoid prolonged exposure to the sun.
• Beaches in United Arab Emirates: Most beaches in the UAE are not free, and some can be quite expensive, so it's advisable to research beforehand. However, there are a few free beaches available:
  • Public Beach
  • Kite Beach
  • Al Mamzar Beach
  Additionally, certain beaches or locations may have specific days or hours when they are only accessible to women and children under 6 years old. It's recommended to check this information before visiting.

Currency in United Arab Emirates

The official currency of the UAE is the United Arab Emirates Dirham (AED), abbreviated as AED and symbolized as د.إ or Dh.

Banknotes and Coins

AED banknotes are available in denominations of 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200, 500, and 1,000. Coins are available in denominations of 1 Dirham and 25 and 50 fils.

Currency Exchange

Currency exchange services are widely available in cities, airports, and major tourist areas. ATMs are plentiful, and international cards are accepted.

Credit and Debit Cards

Credit and debit cards are widely accepted across the UAE, including in hotels, restaurants, and shopping centers. However, it’s recommended to carry some cash, especially for small transactions or in rural areas.

Travel Tips

• Notify Your Bank: Let your bank know about your travel plans to avoid issues with card usage.
• Currency Conversion Fees: Be mindful of possible conversion fees when using international cards.
• Cash Availability: Carrying small denominations of cash is useful for tips, transportation, and smaller purchases.
• Avoid High Conversion Fees: To avoid high conversion fees when using Apple Pay, credit cards, or Mastercard's, consider using a Revolut card.
• ATM Withdrawals: If you prefer to withdraw cash, there are several ATMs that do not charge fees:
  • Emirates Islamic Bank
  • Emirates NBD
  • CitiBank
  • Barclays
  • BNP Paribas