Traveler’s Guide

Documents and Visas
Upon arrival, you can obtain a visa valid for 90 days. No prior visa application is required. The visa on arrival is valid for 90 days from the date of entry, with a validity period of 180 days from the date of first entry. This type of visa is not extendable. Passports must be standard and valid for at least six months.

Phone and Wi-Fi
Although free Wi-Fi is available in most hotels and many public areas and tourist attractions, you may opt for a local SIM card. Requesting a SIM card is quick and easy. Tourists over the age of 18 can receive a free tourist SIM card from the DU operator at immigration control at Dubai International Airport. Those holding a transit visa, visit visa, or visa on arrival, as well as all GCC citizens, can take advantage of this offer, which includes three minutes of calls and 20MB of data for free.
Travelers can then top up their cards at DU kiosks in the arrivals area of Dubai International Airport. Other local operators, Etisalat and Virgin, also have kiosks at the airport offering prepaid SIM cards for tourists and business travelers with various options, offers, and discounts on packages that include calls, data, and messages.
Visitor SIM cards are valid for 90 days, and you can purchase phone plans with packages that include calls and data, pay-as-you-go options, or rechargeable prepaid cards. Mobile numbers in the UAE have ten digits, and the UAE country code is +971. VoIP calls via FaceTime and WhatsApp are officially blocked, but chat features (text and voice messages) are not affected.

Electricity
The voltage is 220/240 volts, and a universal adapter may be required.

Currency
The local currency is the Dirham (AED or Dhs). 1 Euro is approximately equal to 4 Dirhams. The exchange rate for the US Dollar is fixed at 3.67 AED. Credit and debit cards are accepted everywhere. Foreign currencies can be exchanged at exchange counters, banks, and authorized hotels. It’s advisable to exchange money at shopping malls. You can also withdraw cash using ATMs.

Language
The official language is Arabic. English is widely spoken, and most road signs, shop signs, and restaurant menus are available in both languages.

Climate
Characterized by a subtropical arid climate, the UAE enjoys sunshine year-round. The "winter" months last from October to May, with warm temperatures ranging from 20° to 35°C. The summer season lasts from June to September, with hotter temperatures reaching up to 45°C. The wide range of indoor and outdoor facilities and attractions ensures that the UAE is a year-round destination.
Protect yourself from the sun’s rays! Make the most of the year-round sunshine by using sunscreen, drinking plenty of water, and taking frequent breaks in the shade. It’s also advisable to wear a hat and sunglasses for better protection. Keep in mind that the sun is strongest in summer between 11:00 AM and 3:00 PM.

The Best Season
The highest number of visitors is recorded during the winter months, from October to April, when the weather is sunny and relatively mild. However, some people prefer to visit the city during the summer months when temperatures are higher.

Winter Season
Even though temperatures are cooler in winter, it’s still advisable to use sunscreen and wear a hat and sunglasses to protect yourself from the sun’s rays. Remember to drink plenty of water throughout the day. Nights can be quite cool, especially from December to February, so it’s a good idea to bring a sweater if you plan to spend the evening outdoors. If you’re planning an overnight desert excursion, keep in mind that temperatures can drop significantly after sunset compared to the city, so it's best to bring some extra clothing.

Summer Season
During the summer months, the UAE remains a highly sought-after destination. There are many discounts throughout the season, as temperatures rise and prices drop in hotels and attractions.

How to Handle the Heat
Protect yourself from the sun, high temperatures, and humidity by regularly applying sunscreen and wearing a hat and sunglasses. Pack lightweight, breathable clothing to stay cool while out and about. Long-sleeved shirts can also be helpful to shield your skin from intense sunlight. If you spend time outdoors, it’s important to drink plenty of water to stay hydrated.

Purchases and Shopping
Tax-free shopping refers to the purchase of taxable goods in the United Arab Emirates that will be exported, subject to terms and conditions. Eligible tourists can request a refund of the VAT paid on their purchases after validating them at the point of exit. Refunds for tags that have already been validated for export can be requested within one year from the date of validation. Conditions for tourists to request VAT refunds include that refunds do not apply to items consumed, in whole or in part, in the UAE, and to goods not in the possession of the tourist at the time of departure from the country. Other conditions for requesting a refund include: the tourist must be at least 18 years old; goods must be purchased from a retailer participating in the "Tax Refund for Tourists" program; the tourist must physically present the tax invoice, "tax-free" tags, and the relevant goods. How to claim the VAT refund? Tourists can collect their refunds through designated devices located at the airport, seaport, or border. They must present: tax invoices related to their purchases from registered retailers; a copy of their passport; a copy of their credit card. After submitting these documents, tourists can receive the VAT refund in cash in UAE Dirhams or have it credited to their credit card.

Dress Code
The United Arab Emirates is a cosmopolitan country and a diverse melting pot where almost all clothing and cultural expressions are accepted. Swimwear is allowed at beaches, water parks, public pools, and wellness areas. Dressing conservatively is appreciated in historical neighborhoods and places of worship in Dubai and Abu Dhabi. There are specific requirements for entering a mosque, such as wearing clothing that covers shoulders, arms, and legs, and women are required to wear a scarf.

Greetings and Etiquette
Marhaba! The United Arab Emirates is a warm and welcoming country, and you will meet many people who greet you with a smile and wish you well. A handshake is customary, but if it’s with a woman, wait for her to take the initiative. Public displays of affection are kept to a minimum. Holding hands is acceptable, but kissing and hugging in public areas are not allowed. Alcohol is served in licensed establishments such as hotels, bars, and specialty shops to individuals over the age of 21. However, public drunkenness and driving under the influence are not tolerated. The use or possession of illegal drugs is also strictly prohibited.

Tips for First-Time Visitors
Dress modestly in public areas (for example, wearing a swimsuit or bikini is fine at the beach but not when visiting a shopping mall). Avoid excessive displays of affection in public. As in any other part of the world, be courteous and respectful to those around you.

Tips
Tipping is not mandatory, but it is commonly practiced. Tips for hotel staff, restaurant workers, or tour guides are at your discretion.

Medications
Many medications used worldwide are available in pharmacies and hospitals in Dubai. If you are traveling with prescription medications from your doctor, be sure to bring the prescription, which should specify the quantity of medication you intend to carry. It's important to check whether the medications are classified as "controlled" in the UAE. Your doctor should be able to assist you with this. If you are bringing controlled medications, you must obtain approval from the Ministry of Health (MoH) before traveling. For more information, consult the travel guidelines or contact the MoH.

Religion
Islam is the official religion of the UAE and is practiced by the vast majority of the population: 80% are Sunni, 16% are Shia, while the rest comprises Christian and Hindu minorities. The UAE Constitution guarantees freedom of religion, in accordance with prevailing customs. People of other religions are free to practice their faith. The holy day for Islam is Friday.

Accessibility
As one of the world's leading destinations, Dubai and Abu Dhabi aim to enhance accessibility for travelers with special needs, referred to in the UAE as "People of Determination." The cities are designed with a strong focus on inclusivity. Wheelchairs are available free of charge in all shopping malls and major tourist attractions.

Road Safety
If you plan to drive during your visit, it’s important to know the laws governing road safety in the city. An international driving permit is required to rent a car, and you must be over 21 years old. Seat belts are mandatory for everyone, and children under four years old must travel in a car seat. Penalties for driving under the influence of alcohol are severe, and it’s crucial to remain calm behind the wheel. Avoid cursing or making hand gestures towards other drivers, as such acts of road rage can lead to police intervention.

Safety at Sea
Swimming in the sea in the UAE is safe. However, you should take all necessary precautions when swimming. First, before entering the water, check the color of the flag: a red flag means that swimming is not safe, a yellow flag indicates to swim with caution, and a purple flag means that dangerous animals like jellyfish have been spotted. It is also advisable to swim only when a lifeguard is present. Lifeguards are available at all public and private beaches in the city, every day from dawn until dusk. It is recommended not to enter the water after sunset.

Useful Numbers
In case of emergency in the UAE, use the following contacts:
911 Police
998 Ambulance
997 Fire Department
996 Coast Guard

Other useful numbers for tourists:
+971 800 4438 for tourist safety inquiries
+971 800 342 to contact the Dubai Health Authority
+971 600 545 555 for customer assistance