Overview
The United Arab Emirates is a federation of seven emirates — Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain, Ras Al Khaimah, and Fujairah — situated on the southeastern tip of the Arabian Peninsula. It borders Saudi Arabia to the west and south, Oman to the east and northeast, and faces the Arabian Gulf to the north and the Gulf of Oman to the east.
The country has undergone a profound transformation since the discovery of oil in the mid-20th century, evolving from a collection of small fishing and pearl-diving settlements into one of the world's most visited destinations. Dubai and Abu Dhabi dominate international tourism, but the other five emirates offer quieter, more traditionally-oriented experiences.
Despite its reputation for gleaming towers and luxury retail, the UAE retains meaningful cultural depth. Visitors can explore historic forts, falconry traditions, souks selling gold and spices, and a genuinely warm tradition of hospitality rooted in Bedouin heritage. The country is also home to a large and diverse expatriate population, giving it a cosmopolitan character that coexists with its Islamic identity.
Before You Go
Visas
Visa requirements for the UAE vary significantly depending on nationality, purpose of visit, and point of entry. Many nationalities receive a visa on arrival or an electronic travel authorisation, while others must apply in advance. Check the TravelerPulse Visas section and the official UAE Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security (ICP) website for current, nationality-specific requirements before booking.
Health
No routine vaccinations are mandatory for entry from most countries, but standard travel immunisations are recommended. Tap water in major cities is generally safe, though many residents and visitors prefer bottled water. Travel health insurance covering medical evacuation is strongly advised, as private healthcare costs can be high.
What to pack
- Lightweight, breathable clothing for outdoor heat; layers for heavily air-conditioned interiors
- Modest clothing that covers shoulders and knees for visits to mosques and traditional areas
- High-SPF sunscreen and a hat for outdoor excursions
- Comfortable walking shoes suitable for both urban sightseeing and desert terrain
Currency and payments
The UAE Dirham (AED) is pegged to the US dollar. Credit and debit cards are accepted almost universally in cities. ATMs are plentiful. Carry some cash for souks and smaller establishments outside major urban centres.
Getting There
By Air
The UAE has multiple international airports. Dubai International Airport (DXB) is one of the world's busiest and serves as a hub for Emirates airline. Abu Dhabi International Airport (AUH) is the home base for Etihad Airways and is undergoing significant expansion. Sharjah International Airport (SHJ) is served by Air Arabia and offers budget-friendly connections to many regional and international destinations. Ras Al Khaimah International Airport (RKT) handles a growing number of international routes.
By Sea
Dubai and Abu Dhabi are major cruise ports. Numerous cruise lines include UAE ports as part of Arabian Gulf itineraries, typically between October and April. Ferry services connect the UAE to Musandam (Oman) from ports in Fujairah and other coastal points — verify schedules locally as they change seasonally.
Overland
The UAE shares land border crossings with Saudi Arabia and Oman. Several official road border posts connect the UAE to Oman, which is particularly relevant for travellers combining both countries in a single itinerary. Verify crossing hours and entry requirements before travel, as conditions change.
Getting Around
Within Dubai
Dubai has a well-developed metro system (Red and Green lines) that connects key tourist, residential, and commercial areas. The metro is clean, punctual, and affordable. Buses, water taxis (abras), and the Palm Monorail supplement the network. Ride-hailing apps including Uber and the locally dominant Careem operate throughout the emirate. Taxis are metered and generally reliable.
Within Abu Dhabi
Abu Dhabi's public bus network covers the main island and some outer areas, but most visitors rely on taxis or ride-hailing apps. The emirate is planning significant expansions to its public transport infrastructure — verify current options locally.
Inter-Emirate Travel
No passenger rail connects the emirates as of early 2026 — Etihad Rail is under development for freight and eventual passenger use, but verify status before your visit. Intercity buses run between the main emirates and are operated by multiple companies. Renting a car is a practical way to travel between emirates and to reach areas less served by public transport. Roads are modern and well-maintained; driving is on the right.
Taxis and Apps
Taxis are widely available across all seven emirates. Metered cabs are the norm in Dubai, while in smaller emirates fares may be negotiated — confirm before you ride.
Things to See & Do
Abu Dhabi
- Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque: One of the world's largest mosques and among the most architecturally significant. Open to non-Muslim visitors outside of prayer times; modest dress is required and abayas are provided at the entrance. Verify current visiting hours before going.
- Louvre Abu Dhabi: A genuine outpost of the French institution, showcasing universal art history in a stunning waterfront building designed by Jean Nouvel.
- Qasr Al Watan: The Presidential Palace, open to the public and exhibiting Emirati heritage, governance, and craftsmanship.
- Yas Island: Home to Ferrari World, Warner Bros. World, Yas Waterworld, and the Yas Marina Circuit (host of the Formula 1 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix).
- Mangrove National Park: Kayaking through Abu Dhabi's protected mangrove channels offers a rare contrast to the urban environment.
Dubai
- Burj Khalifa and Dubai Fountain: The world's tallest building offers observation decks with panoramic views. The fountain show at its base runs most evenings — verify the current schedule on the official Burj Khalifa website.
- Dubai Creek and the Historic Souks: The old city districts of Deira and Bur Dubai retain the atmosphere of a traditional Gulf trading port. The Gold Souk, Spice Souk, and Perfume Souk are within walking distance of each other.
- Al Fahidi Historic District (Al Bastakiya): Restored wind-tower courtyard houses, now home to small museums, galleries, and cafés.
- Desert Safaris: Numerous operators offer evening desert experiences including dune bashing, sandboarding, camel riding, and traditional camp dinners. Quality varies — choose licensed operators with verifiable safety records.
- Dubai Museum of the Future: An architecturally distinctive building hosting rotating immersive exhibitions on technology and humanity's future.
Other Emirates
- Sharjah: Known as the UAE's "Cultural Capital," with a well-regarded Archaeological Museum, the Heritage Area, and the Sharjah Art Foundation.
- Fujairah: Offers the UAE's only coastline on the Gulf of Oman, with coral reefs suitable for snorkelling and diving, and the historic Fujairah Fort.
- Ras Al Khaimah: Jebel Jais, the UAE's highest peak, features the world's longest zipline (verify operational status locally) and hiking trails with mountain scenery rare in the Gulf.
- Hatta (Dubai Exclave): A mountain enclave with a heritage village, dam reservoir, and mountain biking trails.
Food & Drink
Emirati Cuisine
Authentic Emirati food is less visible in tourist-facing restaurants than the global and South Asian cuisine that dominates the dining scene. Look for it in traditional restaurants and cultural centres. Key dishes include machboos (spiced rice with meat or fish), harees (slow-cooked wheat and meat porridge), and luqaimat (sweet fried dumplings with date syrup). Al Fanar in Dubai is a frequently cited restaurant for traditional Emirati food, though always verify it remains open and suitable for your visit.
Dining Diversity
The UAE's large expat population has created an extraordinary range of dining options. South Asian, Levantine, Southeast Asian, East African, and Western cuisines are all well-represented and often at very high quality. Food courts in major malls can offer good value alongside upscale options.
Alcohol
The UAE permits alcohol consumption, but with restrictions. Licensed restaurants, hotel bars, and designated outlets sell alcohol. Public intoxication is illegal and taken seriously. During Ramadan, alcohol service is restricted at many venues — verify locally. Sharjah emirate is entirely dry and does not permit alcohol sale or consumption.
Ramadan
During the holy month, eating, drinking, and smoking in public during daylight hours is expected to be avoided by all, Muslim and non-Muslim alike. Many restaurants close during the day or provide screened dining areas. Nights during Ramadan can be vibrant, with iftar (breaking of the fast) meals available widely.
Shopping
Dubai and Abu Dhabi are well-established shopping destinations. The Mall of the Emirates, Dubai Mall, and Yas Mall in Abu Dhabi house international luxury brands, mid-range retailers, and food courts under one air-conditioned roof.
For a different experience, the traditional souks in Deira (Dubai) and Sharjah's heritage souks offer gold jewellery, perfumes, spices, textiles, and handicrafts. Bargaining is expected and accepted at souk stalls, though fixed pricing is standard in malls.
Duty-free shopping at Dubai International Airport is extensive and popular, particularly for perfume, electronics, and tobacco. Prices are competitive but compare them before assuming you're getting the best deal.
Note that counterfeit goods are sold in some markets; purchasing them is technically illegal, and carrying counterfeit items may cause issues at customs on return to your home country.
Practical Information
Emergency Contacts
- Police: 999
- Ambulance: 998
- Fire: 997
- These numbers are standard across the UAE, but verify with your accommodation on arrival.
Electricity
The UAE uses UK-style three-pin plugs (Type G) at 220–240V, 50Hz. Travellers from the US, Europe, and many other regions will need an adapter.
Internet and Connectivity
Broadband and mobile data are widely available and generally fast. SIM cards with data plans can be purchased at the airport from local providers (Etisalat/e& and du). Note that VoIP services including FaceTime audio, WhatsApp calls, and similar applications are restricted or blocked by local telecom providers. Standard messaging, video, and browsing work normally.
Time
The UAE observes Gulf Standard Time (UTC+4) year-round. There is no daylight saving adjustment, which affects the time difference relative to countries that do observe seasonal clock changes.
Tipping
Tipping is not mandatory but is appreciated. Service charges are sometimes included in restaurant bills — check before adding a tip. A 10–15% tip is common in restaurants where service is not included. Rounding up taxi fares is customary.
Safety
The UAE consistently ranks among the world's safest countries for visitors. Violent crime against tourists is rare, and cities are generally safe to walk at night. Petty theft is uncommon but not unknown in crowded areas such as souks and transport hubs — basic precautions apply.
Road safety is a more significant concern. Traffic accidents are a leading cause of injury in the UAE. Speed limits are enforced by camera, but aggressive driving, tailgating, and high speeds are observed on highways. Exercise caution when driving, particularly on inter-emirate roads.
Heat is a genuine hazard from May through September, when temperatures regularly exceed 40°C and humidity along the coast is high. Limit outdoor exposure during midday hours in summer, stay hydrated, and recognise signs of heat exhaustion.
For the latest travel advisories, consult your home country's foreign ministry or travel advisory service before departure.
Local Culture & Etiquette
The UAE is a Muslim-majority country where Islamic values inform public life, law, and social norms. Visitors are expected to be respectful of local customs, particularly regarding dress, public conduct, and religious practices.
Dress: Modest dress is appropriate in public spaces, particularly in shopping areas, traditional districts, and when visiting mosques. Swimwear is acceptable at beaches and hotel pools but should not be worn while travelling to and from those areas. Some malls display dress code notices at entrances.
Public conduct: Public displays of affection beyond brief contact are frowned upon and can attract legal attention. Loud or disruptive behaviour, especially during prayer times, is considered disrespectful.
Photography: Always ask before photographing people, particularly women. Photographing government buildings, military installations, and certain infrastructure is prohibited. Be discreet and respectful in traditional areas.
Ramadan: The holy month moves through the calendar year based on the lunar calendar. Its observance significantly affects the rhythms of daily life, dining hours, entertainment, and working hours. Checking the expected Ramadan dates before travel is worthwhile.
LGBTQ+ travellers: Same-sex relationships are illegal in the UAE. Public displays of affection between same-sex couples carry legal risk. LGBTQ+ travellers should be aware of the legal context and exercise significant discretion.