Best Travel Tips for UAE
UAE Best Travel Tips
Welcome to our brief guide featuring the “Best Travel Tips” for UAE essential general information to keep you well-informed before your journey to the United Arab Emirates. If you seek further information, feel free to contact us. Our dedicated team of UAE travel experts is eager to assist you in ensuring you have the most perfect holiday experience possible.
UAE General Information
Entry Requirements: The UAE is served by several international airports, including Dubai International Airport and Abu Dhabi International Airport. These airports are well-connected to major cities worldwide, making travel to the UAE relatively easy. Visitors are advised to check their visa requirements before travelling to the UAE, as regulations can vary depending on their country of origin. Feel free to connect with us regarding any questions about the visa requirements.
Airport Information: Dubai International Airport (DXB) and Abu Dhabi International Airport (AUH) offer excellent connections to major international cities. Passengers have a choice of transportation options to choose from.
Currency & Money Exchange: The official currency of the UAE is the Emirati Dirham (AED), and it is advisable to exchange your money at authorized money exchange centers or banks to get competitive rates. Credit cards are also widely accepted throughout the country.
Plugs & Adapters: The electrical current in the UAE is 220-240 volts AC, 50 Hz. The power sockets used in the UAE are of the three-pin, Type G British-style variety. Visitors from countries that use a different type of plug will need to bring a travel adapter to use their electronic devices in the UAE. Adapters can be purchased at most electronics stores or online retailers.
Weather: The weather in the UAE can vary depending on the season. The summer months (June-September) are scorching, with temperatures often exceeding 40°C (104°F). Visitors are advised to wear light, breathable clothing and stay hydrated during this time. The winter months (December-February) are milder, with temperatures ranging from 15-25°C (59-77°F). Visitors are urged to check the weather forecast before traveling to the UAE and pack accordingly.
Wi-Fi: Most hotels, restaurants, and cafes in the UAE offer free Wi-Fi to their customers. Many public areas also have free Wi-Fi hotspots, including parks, shopping malls, and airports. If you need to stay connected while you’re out and about, you can also purchase a local SIM card with data from one of the major telecommunications service providers in the UAE.
Embassies & Consulates: If you need assistance in the UAE, your country’s embassy or consulate can provide you with consular services such as passport renewal, emergency assistance, and travel advisories. The UAE has embassies and consulates of most countries in Abu Dhabi, Dubai, and other major cities.
Transportation: Transportation in the UAE is convenient and reliable, with a well-connected network of buses, taxis, and metros. Taxis are readily available, and ride-hailing apps such as Uber and Careem are also popular. Driving in the UAE requires an international driving license.
Customs & Culture: The UAE is a Muslim country, and visitors are advised to respect local customs and culture. It’s essential to be mindful of your attire and dress modestly when visiting mosques and other religious sites. Public displays of affection should also be avoided, and alcohol is only permitted in licensed establishments.
UAE Travel Advisory
When to Visit: The ideal time to plan a trip to Dubai is between November to March, when the temperature ranges from 30°C to 12°C, and the weather is comfortable. This period also coincides with the famous Dubai Shopping Festival, held in December, where you can find an array of products from top global brands.
What to Pack: As you pack your luggage, remember to include large bottles of sunscreen. The unforgiving Dubai weather requires protection from the sun, and it is recommended that you carry sunscreen with the highest SPF formula available. Additionally, consider packing deodorants, body/face wipes, sunglasses, hats, water bottles, mosquito repellant, and other essentials.
Capturing Memories: When travelling to arguably one of the most buzz-worthy cities in the world, taking pictures is imperative! For all photography enthusiasts, it’s important to remember a few things. Always ask for permission before taking someone’s picture, avoid photographing Muslim women, and avoid capturing images of government buildings, airports, docks, military, or industrial installations.
Alcohol in the UAE: As far as alcohol is concerned, you can find a wide range of drinks at restaurants, bars, and hotels in the city, ranging from cheap beer and spirits to luxurious champagne. Remember that while the minimum age limit for drinking is 21 years old, some bars may not allow patrons under the age of 25 to consume alcohol. During Ramadan, it’s uncommon for restaurants or bars to serve alcohol, regardless of whether you’re a tourist or non-Muslim.
Eating in Public is Offensive (Especially during Ramadan): As a mark of respect for the holy month of Ramadan, the UAE enforces a strict rule prohibiting eating, drinking, or smoking in public from imsak, which is 10 minutes before dawn, until sunset, marked by the Iftar meal. Some regulations criminalize the consumption of food or drinks in public during Ramadan. It is essential for individuals, irrespective of their religion or fasting status, to comply with this rule or face potential imprisonment for up to one month or a hefty fine.
