Visiting United Arab Emirates
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UK FCDO travel advice: Exercise normal precautions when travelling to United Arab Emirates. Some areas may have increased risk — check conditions for the specific regions you plan to visit.
Discover
Top Attractions in United Arab Emirates
The most iconic and unmissable experiences this country has to offer.
Burj Khalifa, Dubai
The world's tallest building at 828 m. Ascend to the At the Top observation deck on the 148th floor for panoramic views across Dubai, the desert, and the Gulf.
Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, Abu Dhabi
One of the world's largest mosques, with capacity for 40,000 worshippers. Its 82 domes, 1,000 columns, and vast chandelier-lit interior are extraordinary.
The Dubai Mall
More than just a shopping centre — the world's largest mall houses an indoor ice rink, aquarium, VR park, and is the centrepiece of the Dubai Fountain, the world's largest choreographed water feature.
Desert Safari
Experience the Arabian desert — dune bashing, camel rides, falconry, sand boarding, and traditional Bedouin camp dinners beneath a blanket of stars.
Palm Jumeirah
The world's largest artificial island, visible from space — home to the iconic Atlantis resort, luxury hotels, beach clubs, and the Palm Monorail.
Al Fahidi Historic District, Dubai
Dubai's oldest surviving neighbourhood, a labyrinth of wind-tower architecture housing the Dubai Museum, art galleries, and authentic traditional cafés.
Where to Go
Top Cities to Visit in United Arab Emirates
Dubai
The city of superlatives — tallest, largest, most ambitious
Abu Dhabi
The UAE's capital — culture, Formula 1, and the Sheikh Zayed Mosque
Sharjah
The cultural capital of the UAE — museums, arts, and heritage districts
Ras Al Khaimah
Mountains, adventure sports, and quieter beaches away from the crowds
Travel Guide
Frequently Asked Questions About Visiting United Arab Emirates
Citizens of many countries — including the US, UK, EU, Canada, Australia, and Japan — receive a free visa on arrival valid for 30 days (extendable once for 30 more days). Citizens of GCC countries need only a national ID. Check your specific nationality via the Yoogo visa checker.
Most nationalities receive a 30-day visa on arrival, extendable to 60 days total. Some nationalities receive 90 days on arrival. Visa overstaying incurs significant daily fines.
A valid passport with at least 6 months validity, return or onward travel confirmation, and sufficient funds (accommodation booking is recommended). Entry is at the discretion of UAE immigration officers.
The UAE is one of the safest countries in the world. Crime is extremely low. However, be aware of strict local laws: public displays of affection, consuming alcohol outside licensed premises, and certain online behaviour are illegal and can result in serious penalties including arrest.
The UAE Dirham (AED, symbol د.إ). It is pegged to the US Dollar at approximately 3.67 AED per USD. ATMs are ubiquitous and credit cards are accepted almost everywhere.
Arabic is the official language. English is widely spoken and understood across all major cities — it is the primary language of business and tourism.
October to April is the ideal time to visit — temperatures are comfortable (20–30°C) and outdoor activities are enjoyable. May to September is extremely hot (often exceeding 40°C) and humid, though indoor attractions are always air-conditioned.
Ascend the Burj Khalifa, visit the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, go on a desert safari, experience the Dubai Mall and Dubai Fountain, explore the Palm Jumeirah, visit Abu Dhabi's Louvre museum, dine at world-class restaurants, and take a traditional dhow cruise in Dubai Creek.
Dubai International Airport (DXB) is one of the world's busiest international airports. Abu Dhabi International Airport (AUH) is the hub for Etihad Airways. Dubai's new Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC) is expanding.
Travel insurance is strongly recommended. Medical costs in the UAE are extremely high, and private hospitals are the standard of care.
No vaccinations are required for most tourists. Standard routine vaccinations are recommended. Check if any vaccinations are needed based on your origin country.
Citizens of many countries — including the US, UK, EU, Canada, and Australia — can drive in the UAE using their foreign licence for the duration of their visit, without needing an IDP. Drive on the right side of the road. Road conditions are excellent but speeds are high.
Alcohol can only be carried in checked baggage. Certain medications require prior approval. Items deemed offensive under UAE law — explicit content, drugs, gambling devices — are strictly prohibited. Declare cash over AED 100,000.
Tipping is not obligatory but appreciated. 10–15% is standard in restaurants if no service charge is included. Hotel staff, taxis, and tour guides appreciate small tips.
Tap water is technically safe as it meets WHO standards, but most residents and visitors drink bottled water due to taste and the desalination process. Bottled water is cheap and universally available.
The UAE uses Type G outlets (three rectangular pins — the same as the UK) at 220–240V / 50Hz. US travellers need both an adapter and a voltage converter for most devices.
999 (Police), 998 (Ambulance), 997 (Fire). 999 connects to all emergency services.
The UAE is consistently rated at the lowest advisory level by most governments. Normal precautions apply. Be fully aware of local laws, which are strictly enforced and may differ significantly from your home country — particularly around public behaviour, LGBTQ+ matters, and social media use.