Emirates Travel Information
For a Safer and Better Holiday with Pacetour
Stay Safe & Healthy
To ensure a worry-free holiday, make sure you have comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical treatment. While it's generally easy to access medications from pharmacies in the UAE, hospitalization and repatriation can be expensive. Fortunately, UAE hospitals are well-equipped and staffed with specialists offering state-of-the-art treatments. The country's successful immunization programs, clean water supply, and high standards of food hygiene significantly reduce the risk of illness for visitors. No special vaccinations are necessary, but it's advisable to check your health status if traveling from a high-risk area. Remember to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water, especially in the heat, and carry a bottle with you at all times. The UAE is recognized as one of the safest travel destinations globally, having been awarded this title twice by the international travel industry. However, we still recommend purchasing travel insurance and taking standard precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.
Check Your Visa Requirements
Before traveling to the UAE, verify if you need a visa. Citizens of certain countries can purchase a tourist visa upon arrival, while others must secure their visas beforehand. It's crucial to check with your country's embassy to ensure you have all the necessary documentation. For more information on UAE visa requirements, click here.
Be a Responsible Driver
In major Emirates like Dubai and Abu Dhabi, public transportation is readily available. In smaller Emirates, taxis are abundant, making transportation easy. If you plan to drive, you'll need an international driver's license. In case of an accident, stay with your vehicle and wait for the police; do not move it from the accident site. Be aware that road travel can be hazardous due to unsafe driving practices and other risks like roaming animals and shifting sands. Ensure your vehicle is well-maintained and equipped with sufficient water, and consider using a GPS, especially in desert areas.
Think Before You Click
Always ask for permission before photographing individuals not in your traveling party. Avoid taking pictures of government buildings, airports, and military installations unless permitted. It is also crucial to respect privacy, especially regarding photographing Muslim women. Avoid Public Alcohol Consumption While Dubai allows the sale of alcohol, it's restricted in most other Emirates. Alcohol can only be purchased at select Duty-Free shops upon entry, and each person can only bring in up to four bottles. Tourists cannot buy alcohol from local stores, as only residents with an alcohol license can do so. You can enjoy drinks at hotels and licensed venues, but be cautious, as public drunkenness and driving under the influence are strictly prohibited. Alcohol may not be served during certain public holidays or periods of mourning. Avoid Drugs & Check Your Prescriptions The UAE enforces a zero-tolerance policy on illegal drugs. Possession and trafficking can lead to severe penalties, including lengthy prison sentences. If traveling with prescription medications, verify their legality in the UAE and carry a letter from your doctor, ensuring you only bring the necessary amount. Avoid Public Displays of Affection Public displays of affection, including same-sex displays, can be considered offensive in the UAE. Under Sharia Law, it's recommended that unwed couples consider separate hotel arrangements.
Dress Modestly
As a predominantly Muslim country, it's essential to respect local customs and dress modestly. While beach attire is acceptable at the beach, it should not be worn in public spaces. Topless bathing is prohibited, and men should not walk shirtless in public. Avoid revealing clothing like short skirts and spaghetti straps in public areas. Protect Your Valuables When traveling abroad, use various methods to access your funds, such as credit cards, cash, and traveler's checks. Avoid exchanging currency on the street; use banks or ATMs for currency exchanges to prevent scams and theft. Carry minimal cash and secure your luggage with locks. Keep copies of essential documents like your passport, tickets, and visas separate from the originals.
Avoid Attracting Crime
While the UAE has a low crime rate, petty crimes like pickpocketing can occur. Women should exercise caution, especially in isolated areas after dark. Tip Wisely Tipping is customary but not obligatory. Gratuities at hotels and restaurants are at your discretion. Many restaurants include a service charge (typically around 10-16%), so consider this when deciding on tips. Taxi drivers generally do not expect tips. Illegal Imports The following items are prohibited from being imported into Dubai: Firearms or dangerous weapons Religious propaganda Unstrung pearls (unless for personal use) Raw seafood and produce from cholera-infected areas
Weather Considerations
Be prepared for extreme temperatures in the UAE, especially from July to September, when temperatures can exceed 50°C. Stay hydrated and avoid prolonged sun exposure. Sandstorms and flash floods can occur, so exercise caution during such conditions. Public Holidays Islamic holidays are based on lunar sightings, leading to varying dates. If a holiday falls on a weekend, the following week usually observes the holiday. Mourning periods for significant deaths in the ruling family or government will close offices temporarily. Electricity Adapters Standard electrical sockets in the UAE are designed for 3-pinned plugs of 13 amps. Consider purchasing an electrical adapter to avoid any inconvenience. At Pacetour, we aim to ensure that your holiday is both enjoyable and safe. Follow these guidelines to have a wonderful experience in the UAE!