United Arab Emirates

The Land of Skyscrapers
and Sands

Flag of United Arab Emirates

The United Arab Emirates, a federation of seven emirates in the Middle East, is renowned for its modern architecture, luxury tourism, and rich cultural heritage. Home to iconic landmarks like the Burj Khalifa in Dubai, the Sheikh Zayed Mosque in Abu Dhabi, and the Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilization, the UAE offers a unique blend of futuristic cityscapes and traditional Arab culture. The country's geography ranges from golden sand dunes to pristine beaches along the Persian Gulf and Gulf of Oman.

Emirati culture is deeply rooted in Islamic traditions, reflected in its art, music, and cuisine featuring dishes like machboos (spiced rice with meat) and luqaimat (sweet dumplings). Known for its world-class shopping, ambitious development projects, and warm hospitality, the UAE presents a captivating destination that combines ultramodern luxury with glimpses of traditional Bedouin life.

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Travel Documents: What You Need to Know

Passport Requirements

  • Non-EU/EEA/Swiss citizens: A valid passport is generally required for entry into the United Arab Emirates.
  • Passport validity: Ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond your planned stay in the UAE (3 months for some visa-free entries).

Visa Requirements

  • Visa-exempt countries: Citizens from over 80 nations (e.g., US, Canada, EU countries, Australia, Japan) can enter the UAE with a valid passport and stay for up to 90 days within a 180-day period without a visa (30 days for some, extendable by 30 days).
  • Visa-required countries: Travelers from nations not on the visa-exempt list (e.g., India, Pakistan, some African countries) must possess a valid passport and obtain a visa or Visa on Arrival (VOA) prior to entering the UAE through a UAE embassy, airline sponsor, or at designated entry points.

Special Entry Provisions

  • Holders of valid, multiple-entry Schengen visas (previously used in a Schengen state) do not automatically qualify for visa-free entry; visa requirements depend on nationality, though some (e.g., Indians) may enter with a pre-arranged VOA.
  • Citizens with valid, multiple-entry US or UK visas (previously used in the issuing country) can enter without a UAE visa if from eligible countries (e.g., India, Philippines) with a VOA option; otherwise, a visa is required unless visa-exempt.
  • Holders of valid residence permits from Schengen states, the US, or the UK do not qualify for visa-free entry unless from a visa-exempt country; a visa or VOA is required.
  • ID Card Entry: No countries are permitted to enter the UAE using only a national ID card; a passport is mandatory for all travelers.

Visa Types

  • Type "C" Visa: Allows entry and stay for 90 days within 180 days (tourist visa). Can be single, double, or multiple entry, with validity up to 5 years; extendable for another 30 days with approval from the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA).
  • Type "D" Visa: For stays longer than 90 days within 180 days (e.g., work, study, residency). Valid for one year with a 90-day stay period, allowing application for a residence permit with approval from GDRFA or sponsor (e.g., employer).

Important Links

Additional Considerations

  • Length of stay: Visa-free stays are typically limited to 90 days within a 180-day period (30 days for some, extendable by 30 days at GDRFA offices).
  • Purpose of visit: Different rules apply for work, study, or long-term stays; work visas require sponsorship from a UAE employer. Travel to restricted areas (e.g., military zones) requires special permission.
  • COVID-19 measures: Always check for current health-related entry requirements or restrictions, as the UAE may reintroduce measures like mandatory health declarations or vaccination proof via the Al Hosn app.
Toll

Driving in United Arab Emirates

Current Toll Roads

  • As of 2025, the main toll roads in the UAE include:
    • Salik Toll System: Operating on major roads in Dubai (e.g., Sheikh Zayed Road, Al Garhoud Bridge).
    • Darbi Toll System: Operating on highways in Abu Dhabi (e.g., Sheikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Road).

Toll Rates and Payment

  • Toll rates vary based on vehicle type and location. For example, a standard car pays AED 4 per Salik gate in Dubai or AED 4 per Darbi gate in Abu Dhabi during peak hours. For the most current rates, visit the Salik website: https://www.salik.ae/ or Darbi website: https://www.darb.itc.gov.ae/.
  • Payment Methods:
    • Cash: Not accepted; tolls are cashless.
    • Credit/Debit Cards: Linked to Salik/Darbi accounts for automatic deductions.
    • Electronic Toll Collection: Salik uses RFID tags (prepaid, topped up online or at service stations); Darbi uses license plate recognition with account registration.

Driving in the UAE

  • Drive on the right side of the road.
  • Seat belts are mandatory for all vehicle occupants.
  • Speed limits:
    • Urban areas: 40-60 km/h
    • Rural roads: 80-100 km/h
    • Highways: 120-140 km/h (e.g., Dubai-Abu Dhabi Highway)
  • Road conditions are excellent; highways like Sheikh Zayed Road are well-maintained, but rural roads (e.g., in Ras Al Khaimah) can be narrower or sandy during storms (November-March).
  • International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended alongside your national driver’s license, valid for up to 1 year. A UAE driving license is required for longer stays, obtainable from the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA).

Important Considerations

  • Vignette System: The UAE does not use a vignette system; tolls are collected electronically via Salik/Darbi.
  • Road Safety: Driving is safe but requires vigilance due to high speeds, aggressive drivers, and occasional sandstorms. Night driving is safe on major roads but riskier in rural areas due to wildlife (e.g., camels).
  • GPS and Maps: GPS is reliable; apps like Google Maps and Waze work well across the UAE. Physical maps are rarely needed due to clear signage.
  • Emergency Number: Dial 999 for police, ambulance, or fire.

Useful Links

United Arab Emirates Currency

The official currency of the United Arab Emirates is the UAE Dirham (AED).

Key Information

  • Banknotes: 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200, 500, 1,000 AED
  • Coins: 25, 50 fils; 1 AED
  • Symbol: د.إ (often written as AED)

Currency Exchange

  • Exchange services are available at banks, airports (e.g., Dubai International Airport), and authorized money changers in major cities like Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah.
  • ATMs are widely available across urban and tourist areas for direct AED withdrawals; most accept international cards.

Payment Methods

  • Cash is preferred for small transactions, especially at markets (e.g., Dubai Gold Souk) and rural areas.
  • Credit/debit cards are widely accepted in cities, hotels, malls, and larger establishments; contactless payments (e.g., Apple Pay) are ubiquitous in urban areas.

Travel Tips

  • Inform your bank of travel plans to avoid card issues.
  • Carry some cash for small purchases and in rural areas, though digital payments dominate in cities like Dubai and Abu Dhabi.
  • Check for currency conversion fees when using cards; the AED is pegged to the USD (1 USD ≈ 3.67 AED as of early 2025).
  • For current exchange rates, visit the Central Bank of the UAE website: https://www.centralbank.ae/
Laws

Legal Essentials for Traveling in United Arab Emirates

Understanding local laws and regulations is crucial for a safe and compliant visit. Below are key legal considerations for travellers in the UAE, updated as of 2025.

Local Laws & Restrictions

  • Drugs: Strict penalties for possession or trafficking, including lengthy prison sentences or the death penalty for trafficking; even small quantities (e.g., marijuana) can lead to severe charges and deportation.
  • Alcohol & Smoking:
    • Alcohol consumption is permitted in licensed venues (legal drinking age is 21); public intoxication can lead to arrest and fines. Non-Muslims can purchase alcohol with a liquor license in some emirates (e.g., Dubai).
    • Smoking is banned in indoor public spaces, on public transport, and in some outdoor areas (e.g., parks); vaping is regulated with restrictions on public use.
  • Cultural Sensitivities: Respect Islamic traditions; dress modestly in public (e.g., cover shoulders and knees outside tourist zones). Avoid discussing politics or religion (e.g., UAE governance, regional conflicts).
  • LGBTIQ+ Rights: Same-sex relationships are illegal, with penalties including imprisonment; same-sex marriage is not recognized. Public displays of affection may attract legal action or social backlash.
  • Photography: Restricted near military sites, government buildings (e.g., Burj Al Arab from certain angles), and critical infrastructure; always ask permission for portraits of locals, especially Emirati women.

Duty-Free Limits

  • Alcohol: 4L spirits (for non-Muslims entering via airports).
  • Tobacco: 200 cigarettes or 50 cigars.
  • Cash: Declare amounts over AED 60,000 (approximately USD 16,350 or equivalent).

Prohibited Items

  • Narcotics, weapons, pork products (except in designated areas), and materials deemed offensive to Islam or UAE culture (e.g., explicit media).
  • Counterfeit goods may face fines or confiscation.

Luggage Issues

  • Report lost/damaged luggage within 21 days via a Property Irregularity Report (PIR) at the airport (e.g., Dubai International Airport).

Complaints

  • Submit grievances to the UAE Tourism Authority or local police (e.g., Dubai Police Smart Services).

Beach Access

  • Public beaches (e.g., Jumeirah Beach, Yas Beach) must allow free access within 2.5 meters of the shoreline. Wheelchair access is legally mandated and well-implemented at major beaches.

Key Resources

United Arab Emirates Travel Safety

The UAE is exceptionally safe for travellers, with very low crime rates, modern infrastructure, and a reputation for orderliness. Travellers should remain aware of health precautions, road safety, and emergency protocols. Below is a concise guide to staying safe and healthy in the UAE.

Safety Overview

  • Crime: Petty theft (e.g., pickpocketing) is rare but possible in crowded areas like markets (e.g., Deira Souks) or tourist sites (e.g., Burj Khalifa). Violent crime against tourists is virtually nonexistent due to strict enforcement.
  • Solo/Female Travelers: The UAE is considered one of the safest places globally, with locals often respectful. Female travelers face minimal risks but should dress modestly outside tourist areas (e.g., Sharjah) and avoid isolated spots at night, though incidents are rare.
  • Road Safety:
    • Driving is safe but requires vigilance due to high speeds (up to 140 km/h on highways) and occasional aggressive drivers in cities like Dubai.
    • Night driving is safe on major roads due to excellent lighting; rural areas (e.g., Al Ain) may have sand drifts or wildlife (e.g., camels).
    • Seat belts and helmets (for motorbikes) are mandatory and strictly enforced.

Health Risks

  • Food/Water Safety:
    • Tap water is safe to drink across the UAE; bottled water is widely available and preferred by visitors.
    • Practice safe eating habits to prevent travellers’ diarrhea; street food (e.g., shawarma) is safe if from licensed vendors.
  • Vaccinations:
    • Recommended: Hepatitis A, tetanus, COVID-19, and rabies (for rural travel).
    • Yellow Fever: Required if arriving from a risk country.
  • Insect-Borne Diseases: Use insect repellent to guard against rare cases of dengue in urban areas during summer (June-August).
  • Altitude Sickness: Risk exists in areas above 2,500 meters (e.g., Jebel Jais at 1,934m, below threshold); not typically a concern.

Medical Facilities

  • Hospitals: World-class facilities like Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi and Mediclinic Dubai offer excellent care. Rural areas (e.g., Fujairah) have clinics, with advanced care in cities.
  • Pharmacies: Ubiquitous in urban areas; medications are easily accessible.
  • Insurance: Ensure coverage includes medical evacuation, though rarely needed due to top-tier local healthcare.

Emergency Contacts

  • General Emergency: 999 (police, ambulance, fire).
  • Ambulance: 998 | Fire: 997 | Police: 999.
  • Tourist Police (Dubai): +971 4-609-9999.

Travel Tips

  • Roads: Renting a car is common in Dubai and Abu Dhabi; a 4x4 is recommended for desert areas (e.g., Liwa Oasis). Check insurance coverage for rentals.
  • Hiking: Use designated trails in areas like Hatta or Jebel Jais; summer heat (40-50°C) poses risks, so hike early or in cooler months (November-March).
  • Cultural Sensitivity: Respect Islamic customs; avoid public affection or eating/drinking during Ramadan daylight hours in public. Dress modestly at sites like Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque.
  • Weather Risks: Summer heat (June-August) can cause heatstroke; sandstorms (November-March) may reduce visibility—monitor updates via the National Center of Meteorology.

Key Links

Flying to United Arab Emirates

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