United Arab EmiratesTravel Tools
Useful from the moment you arrive: check reference exchange rates or translate a local phrase.
Entry & Visa
UAE entry permission depends on nationality, passport type, residence status and trip purpose. Some travellers receive a visa on arrival while others need an entry permit or visa in advance. Check the UAE government/ICP channels for the rule that applies to you.
Visa overview
Visa-on-arrival eligibility and visitor visa categories can change. Use the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security (ICP) or the relevant emirate authority rather than assuming that a rule applying to another nationality also applies to you.
Passport requirements
Check passport validity and airline requirements before departure. Your passport should match the identity used for your UAE visa or entry permission.
eVisa / Visa on arrival
The UAE provides digital visa and entry-permit services through official government channels. Some eligible visitors can receive entry permission on arrival; others must arrange it in advance.
Arrival requirements
There is no single TravelGoCo-style universal arrival form to rely on for every traveller. Follow the current instructions provided by your airline and the official UAE immigration authority for your route and status.
Money & Payments
The UAE dirham is the national currency. Cards and contactless payments are widely accepted in malls, hotels, restaurants and taxis, while some cash is useful for small purchases and backup. ATMs are widely available. When a terminal offers conversion into your home currency, compare the rate before accepting dynamic currency conversion.
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How to Use Wise When TravellingLanguage & Communication
Arabic is the official language, while English is widely used in tourism, business, retail and transport. Signs and service information are commonly bilingual in major cities. Basic Arabic greetings are appreciated but visitors can usually manage day-to-day travel in English.
SIM, Internet & Connectivity
The UAE has extensive 4G/5G coverage and major airports often have visitor SIM options. Physical SIM and eSIM availability depends on provider and device compatibility, and identity verification is normally required. Hotel, mall and airport Wi-Fi is widespread, but mobile data is useful for navigation, taxi apps and bookings.
Electricity & Plugs
Getting Around
Dubai has a metro, tram, buses, taxis and marine transport, while Abu Dhabi and other emirates rely more heavily on buses, taxis and private cars. Inter-emirate buses serve key routes, but a car can be useful for more dispersed itineraries. Allow extra time for peak traffic when moving between airports, business districts and neighbouring emirates.
Safety & Emergency
The UAE has strict laws and public-behaviour rules, so travellers should understand local regulations around alcohol, drugs, photography, online conduct and public behaviour. For emergencies call 999 for police, 998 for ambulance and 997 for fire/civil defence. Follow official heat, weather and road advisories, particularly during extreme summer temperatures.
Emergency numbers: Police 999 · Ambulance 998 · Fire 997
Health & Practical Information
Summer heat can be extreme, so hydration, shade and limiting strenuous outdoor activity during the hottest hours are important. Travel insurance should cover medical treatment and the activities in your itinerary. Prescription medicines that are legal at home may be controlled in the UAE, so check official rules before carrying medication.
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Mid to high
Accommodation, attractions and dining can range from modest to very expensive, with Dubai and Abu Dhabi offering a particularly wide premium market. Public transport can reduce local costs in Dubai, while taxis and inter-emirate travel can add up. Hotel prices fluctuate strongly around major events and the cooler winter season.
Culture & Etiquette
Dress expectations are relaxed in many tourism areas but modest clothing is appropriate in government buildings, mosques and more conservative settings. During Ramadan, respect local customs and venue-specific rules. Ask before photographing people and avoid photographing sensitive government, military or infrastructure sites.
Climate / When to Visit
The UAE has a desert climate with very hot summers and warm, drier winters. The cooler months are generally more comfortable for outdoor sightseeing, beaches and desert activities. Summer travel is still possible because indoor attractions are heavily air-conditioned, but outdoor plans require careful heat management.
Useful Links
Guides to United Arab Emirates
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Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a visa to visit the UAE?
It depends on your nationality, passport and sometimes residence status. Some travellers qualify for visa on arrival while others need prior permission. Check ICP or the official UAE government portal for your situation.
Can I use cards throughout the UAE?
Cards and contactless payments are widely accepted, especially in cities, but carrying a small amount of AED is useful as a backup.
Is English widely spoken in the UAE?
Yes. Arabic is the official language, but English is widely used in tourism, business, shops, hotels and transport.
When is the most comfortable weather?
The cooler months are generally more comfortable for outdoor sightseeing and desert activities. Summer can be extremely hot, so outdoor time needs careful planning.
What are the UAE emergency numbers?
Call 999 for police, 998 for ambulance and 997 for fire/civil defence from anywhere in the UAE.