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  • 10 Reasons Why You Should Never Visit UAE

12 Dec 2021

UAE is the last place on earth you’d want to visit! Apart from dull concretes the place is laden with arid deserts and is very socially conservative. Who’d want to go there? 

If that’s not convincing enough. Here are 10 reasons why you should never visit any part of UAE:

1. This is how the evenings in Dubai look like! Quite common place, isn’t it?

The skyline of dubiai

Image Source

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2. And this is the view from the famous Burj Khalifa! Obviously, it’s nothing you haven’t seen before.

The view from Burj khalifa

3. Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi would be the biggest let down! After all the frenzy, this is what it looks like. Bleh…

Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi

Suggested Read: Top 13 Places To Visit In Ajman In 2022 Presenting The Very Best Of Coastal Dubai!

4. Emeriti women are uneducated and very conservative!

Major Mariam Al Mansouri, the first female fighter pilot of UAE

Major Mariam Al Mansouri, the first female fighter pilot in UAE, led UAE’s airstrike on ISIS

5. And Emeriti men- they’re probably the most unpleasant ones! You wouldn’t want to fall for them…

Emirati men

…that is if you can resist succumbing to their charms! (This guy? Remember the Emirati who was expelled from Saudi for being too handsome?)

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6. And tourists are no exception! Get ready to get into a burka at all times while in UAE

party in Dubai

7. Also there’s absolutely nothing to do, you’ll get bored out of your mind!

skydiving in dubai_24th oct

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8. That food! You wouldn’t want to put in your mouth

Traditional UAE food

Stop drooling!

9. Can’t see what’s so awesome about riding through the arid sand in a desert safari?

Desert-safari-in-Dubai_23rd oct

Must Read: 20 Dream Roads Across The Globe Fetched Right Out Of A Traveller’s Fantasy

10. Surely, there’s no way that you’d like to visit UAE!

view of palm jumeirah

Every country has its flaws but UAE surely is a country that has thrived drastically in the recent years. It is without a doubt that it’s the most liberal destination among all arab nations and is more than welcoming towards tourists.

So, what are you waiting for? Flush down all your your stereotypes about UAE and visit the beautiful nation!

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why not travel to dubai

The Dark Side of Dubai (Is it Worth Visiting?)

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Dubai’s dark secrets: Discovering a toxic culture and slavery. Is it worth visiting?

What’s the first thing that comes to mind when you think of Dubai? Perhaps its sparkly skyscrapers that reach dizzying heights, flashy supercars driven by millionaires, and vast air-conditioned shopping malls that cater to your every taste and needs.

Though neighboring Abu Dhabi is the capital of the UAE, Dubai is the largest city in the country, as well as the most visited and more socially accommodating to Western standards.

There is more to Dubai than this stereotypical image, and though I was pleased to discover I could enjoy a week-long visit on a reasonable budget (which I initially thought was impossible), I made some shocking discoveries during my visit that left a bad taste in my mouth.

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It’s not a place I’d normally take an interest in, but the reasons we decided to visit were:

  • It’s halfway between myself (in the UK) and my partner Ariel who was in Hong Kong at the time
  • It was late December – we usually escape somewhere warm and sunny in the winter
  • With some of the best firework displays in the world, it seemed a good place to see in the New Year.

Before my trip to Dubai, I’d heard the bad press – rumors about modern slavery and the lack of authenticity of the place, but I wanted to see for myself, before passing judgement.

But, here’s the thing:

Not only did this trip confirm that all the bad stuff I heard prior is in fact, true, I also discovered it was much worse than I had anticipated.

What’s more, I found the place extremely overhyped, soulless and packed with some very sinister truths that I could not brush aside and pretend did not exist.

Don’t get me wrong, we enjoyed many things during our trip and made some great memories, but I feel I have to give an honest account of the reality you can expect behind the shiny veneer of luxury and paradise.

⚠️ If you’re thinking of visiting Dubai, here’s a word of advice: 1. Avoid swimming in the sea if you don’t want an eye infection, or worse. (I will explain why below). 2. If you’re a woman or LGBTQ+ traveler – take caution during your visit (I will explain more below.)

The Dark Side: Should I Visit Dubai? (14 Reasons Not To)

Learn the shocking discoveries I made during my visit, and why is Dubai is overrated and depressing. Plus 14 reasons why I was disappointed:

1. Dubai isn’t a walkable city

Dubai is a city that is spread out along 30 miles of coastline, with many places of interest being long distances apart from each other.

Add to that the bad traffic on crowded highways, in fact – Dubai’s traffic jams are some of the worst in the world. I can attest to this because I rented a car for 7 days there, and I live next to the M6 in the UK – the busiest stretch of highway in Europe.

Also, Dubai is not a pedestrian-friendly city, and walking opportunities are limited due to the extreme heat.

This is one of those cities where public transport is not the best way to get around either, as buses sit in traffic jams. Aside from renting your own car, taxis are the next best alternative, and are relatively inexpensive.

2. Everything looks and feels fake in Dubai

This is one of the biggest letdowns. Wherever you go in Dubai – be it the endless shopping malls, the spotless streets, the eateries, even the beach – everything feels so artificial, empty, and soulless.

Seeing as the city was built in the middle of the desert some 50 years ago, there’s hardly any historic sites here. And it might explain why there’s such an aggressive expansion of tourist attractions popping up all over the city, some of which are lack-lustre, such as the Dubai Frame and the overrated water fountain at Burj Khalifa.

The Palm Jumeirah – the iconic, man-made island, is particularly underwhelming, as are the views of the Palm Atlantis and the Burj Al Arab – the alleged ‘only’ 7-star hotel in the world. And is it really necessary to have an indoor ski slope here in the desert?

atlantis the palm

Everything in Dubai has to be the biggest and the best, the highest and the glitziest of all the world. The Emiratis take pride in this, despite not actually contributing anything other than cash, due to the vast reserves of oil that happens to be beneath their feet.

Indeed, the pampered Emiratis don’t lift a finger at all – the endless construction that you see across the city is the blood, sweat and tears of migrant workers from India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Nepal and the Philippines (and yes I mean literal blood sweat and tears – see point 9 below on modern slavery in Dubai).

Old Dubai (Deira) was the only place I could find a flicker of culture and history, at Dubai’s oldest fort Al Fahidi, and Dubai Creek, but even Old Dubai looks like a movie set.

The famous Gold and Spice souks look so modern it’s hard to tell they are a hundred years old, and they have sadly become over-commercialized, and they’re packed with aggressive merchants shoving overpriced souvenirs in your face.

With that said, you likely won’t meet an Emirati on your visit, after the immigration officer who stamps your passport. That’s because 90% of the population here is made up of foreigners who hold the city together – from the construction workers to the waiters, and the cleaners to the taxi drivers.

Artificial Tourist Traps of Dubai:

The following are several landmarks and locations in Dubai that were built with the sole aim of drawing in tourists and making profit.

If ever there was a definition of pure gentrification – ‘La Mer’, meaning the sea in French (how imaginative..!) was no doubt built for the sole purpose of milking profit.

la mer

Everything here is artificial AF . From the Mid-Western-themed streets with rustic buildings lined with fake, meaningless graffiti ‘art’ on the outside walls, to hipster restaurants and ‘chic’ cafes selling the most shockingly overpriced food and drink you’ll ever find on a beach. I spotted smoothie bowls selling for $20 (£15), I kid you not. I bought the cheapest drink available: a cold brew coffee for $8 (£5).

(Edit: this was December 2019. In 2023 you can expect prices to be higher).

The irony of La Mer is, it’s one of the most dreadful places in Dubai. You can tell the Emiratis went to great lengths in making this cash-cow project the ultimate hipster tourist attraction. But sometimes, you just can’t hide fakery and bullshit.

The saddest thing about this place, as with almost everywhere else in Downtown Dubai, is the laborers.

You’ll notice the Keralan and Filipino staff working in the scorching 50C heat.

The janitors often spend most of their 14+ hours work shifts standing inside the spotlessly-clean restrooms, forced to wear masks not because of the contents of the toilets (they clean the toilets after EVERY single usage), but because the restrooms are thick with toxic air fresheners.

la mer graffiti

If you peel your eyes away from the fantasy and see the reality, you’ll realize that these are human beings just like you and I, except they are suffering at our expense, and doing their best to hide the pain on their faces.

4. Marina Promenade

A day at the Marina Bay Promenade should be a highlight in any Dubai trip. For us though, it was a disappointment – just another artificial tourist trap.

Sure, the speedboat tour of the two famous landmarks (Burj Al Arab, Atlantis The Palm) wasn’t too bad for the price we paid (around $25 per person). It didn’t exactly blow us away though.

dubai marina

Strolling the Promenade you can see how spotlessly clean everything is. Again, the Marina Bay lacked any sign of culture. Instead, everything here was just overpriced, over-commercialized, international restaurant chains and malls. How many malls does a place need?

5. The Burj Khalifa

Conquering the world’s tallest building is without a doubt a bucket-list experience.

You’ll witness views atop a tower that you’ll never find anywhere else in the world (until they build a bigger tower of course).

To be fair, the Burj Khalifa is a highlight of any Dubai trip, though, you’ll need to book your tickets well in advance, and to get the best views – book the (slightly pricier) timeslots around 4pm, to ensure you make it to the top in time for sunset, and you can witness the stunning views during both daylight and nighttime, in one visit.

building-under-blue-sky

Something to bear in mind, is that the queues are incredibly long – we waited well over an hour when we visited, though if you pay more you could jump the queues. And once you’re up there, it’s packed to the rafters.

Getting back down to the ground is a different story though.

The queues for going down are just as long, but since there doesn’t appear to be any staff managing the queues, you’ll find selfish tourists scrambling and pushing aggressively to the front of the queues – causing anger and confrontation from others who now have to wait even longer .

dubai burj khalifa

So, I’m not suggesting the Burj Khalifa isn’t worth it, in fact we enjoyed the visit. It’s just that the experience didn’t quite exceed our expectations, and if you have a lot of patience, there’s no reason why you’ll not enjoy it too.

6. Mega Malls

Dubai is well-known for its numerous, vast, multi-storey shopping malls. If you’re a shopaholic, the malls would be a suitable experience.

For me, it wasn’t my cup of tea of course – as these malls are packed with the same Westernized stores you’d find in any metropolitan city. Starbucks, McDonalds, various global fashion outlets and household names everywhere, as well as an endless number of gold & jewelry outlets. The Dubai Shopping Mall is the world’s largest mall – spanning over 12 million square feet.

dubai mall

I suppose one positive I found from this, was that I could park our rental car at the car park all day for free, at the Marina Promenade, and at the Dubai Mall for our visit to the Burj Khalifa.

7. Overpriced, mediocre food

Savvy travelers will notice that while the price of food in Downtown Dubai is a bit on the costly side, the Middle-Eastern cuisine here is not as tasty as you’d expect.

In downtown Dubai you’ll find restaurants by world-famous chefs (think Gordon Ramsay, Alain Ducasse, Jamie Oliver) everywhere, though these spots are merely commercial ‘cash cows’ for those celebrity chefs – the actual quality of the food doesn’t match the price tag of the meal, which costs an absolute fortune.

Another example is the Afternoon Tea at the Burj Al Arab – its marketed as one of the best in the world , but it’s nothing more than mediocre.

I highly recommend checking out the small cafes and restaurants in Old Dubai  – especially at the places frequented by the local expat communities, and you’ll see what I mean. You can even go on a food trail in Old Dubai here .

The only thing thats ‘better’ in the expensive restaurants are more staff on hand, and stylish, modern decor, but even then – you’ll never escape the artificial feel and pretentiousness that represents downtown Dubai.

8. Dubai is swelteringly hot and polluted

Its no secret that Dubai is very hot, even in winter. The heat and humidity makes it a challenge to stay outside longer than a few minutes without getting soaked in sweat (unless you’re here to sunbathe).

Dubai_Marina

Indeed, just a few months before we visited, the mecury in Dubai rose to a record-breaking 50C (120F) for the first time, in July 2019.

But did you know that the UAE is also one of the most polluted countries in the world? Due to the extreme heat, humidity and pollution, the city gets quite hazy and the views are not quite as spectacular as you see on the photos.

Click here to read all about my WORST travel experiences – including missed flights, getting robbed, getting electrocuted, and that time my arm blew up!

9. In Dubai, construction at breakneck speed is everywhere

The explosion of tourism in Dubai is a result of the rapid expansion of the metropolis – you’ll see countless construction sites everywhere, as new skyscrapers are propping up around the city, each trying to outdo the other in height and glitz.

Add to this are yet more and more luxury apartments, infinity pools, and 5-star hotels, in fact, there are whopping 168 new hotel projects being planned in Dubai alone. Plus, more Michelin star restaurants, more shopping malls, and a series of pointless new attractions to lure in tourists, the latest being the Dubai Frame – an enormous, gold-plated literal rectangular frame built in Zabeel Park.

It was so unimpressive that we didn’t even bother going to check it out.

dubai frame

10. Modern Slavery of Dubai

Now we come to the biggest disappointment of Dubai.

There is no escaping the fact that the enormous expansion of the Dubai metropolis and all its glimmering splendour is down to the literal blood, sweat and tears of migrant workers trapped in Modern Slavery.

Are there slaves in Dubai?

Most people are blissfully unaware or ignorant of modern slavery in the UAE, and many people will even give awkward excuses at the mention of the word ‘slavery’, as if it was some dreadful thing of the past.

“The reality of Dubai is the complete opposite to what you see on TV and in magazines” – Ben Anderson, BBC undercover journalist

Lets get down to the facts: more than 88.5% of the population of the UAE are migrant workers, with South Asian immigrants making up 42.5% of the workforce.

These workers, mostly illiterate and impoverished villagers from rural communities in India, Pakistan and Bangladesh, respond to work ads and are lured to the UAE with the promise of $300 monthly salaries plus food and accommodation, in return for working 9-5, five days a week. If this were the case, they would be able to work their contract then bring money home to their families.

Except this is far from the truth.

The reality is this – as soon as they land in the UAE, their passports are confiscated immediately, they are told to work 14-hour shifts for 6-7 days a week in scorching 50C (122F) heat, and are promised just $175 a month.

And things get worse.

The workers are forced to shack up in squalid, shanty towns on the edge of the desert, with 10 people to a room, and 45 men share ONE outdoor bathroom.

This is the definition of modern day slavery, and it continues, today, in the UAE.

dubai-slave-labourers

How many slaves are there in Dubai? It’s impossible to know exactly how many slaves are in Dubai due to the absence of human rights and protections for people here, however, it is estimated that there are THREE MILLION slave laborers in the UAE alone. (Source: News.com.au )

But it gets even worse than that.

If you thought things couldn’t get any worse, think again (and by the way, watch the video below to see for yourself just how horrid and graphic the conditions are for these workers).

Not only do they have to endure such disgusting and inhumane living conditions, but the agreed-upon wages are almost never honored . With the average construction worker’s wage totaling $175 a month (in stark contrast to the per-capita income of $2,106 a month), wages are often withheld for months on end to ensure the workers don’t ‘quit’.

These foreign workers suddenly face the stark realization that it will be years before they can even begin to start paying back the mounting debts to their recruiters, let alone start sending money to their families.

Human Rights Watch describes this bonded labour (combined with squalid living conditions) as being ‘less than humane’ .

Add to that the fact that these workers are forced to work in dangerous conditions without adequate safety equipment in the 50C heat, and with their passports confiscated, no way of returning home to their loved ones, this can only be described as modern slavery in Dubai.

Sources: Human Rights Watch , legacy.npr.org , Wikipedia .

Documenting Dubai’s Labor Exploitations

Statistics on migrant worker abuse in Dubai are jarring, but hearing firsthand stories crystallized the magnitude for me. I’ll never forget Amit, a young construction worker from Bangladesh I spoke to. He detailed crippling recruitment debt, passport seizure by bosses, cramped dorms with a dozen men, and no pay for months of toil in 120°F heat.

His desperation to provide for family back home made him cling to hope of finally getting meager wages owed. How many lavish malls, towers, and islands did Amit help build with calloused hands while denied his own basic rights? The cognitive dissonance gave me pause about who the Emirates’ “economic miracle” is actually serving.

So, is Dubai built on slavery? The simple answer is yes. It is impossible for the city to expand at such a fast pace in a short amount of time, in the middle of the desert, AND be able to maintain itself against the extremely hot and dry conditions of the desert, without an enormous slave labour force.

Below is a YouTube video that was recorded undercover in Dubai, documenting the forgotten slaves brought to the UAE from Bangladesh, India and Pakistan. Ben Anderson, the BBC journalist who recorded the video, risked getting huge fines by the authorities to bring to light the truth of what is happening here.

Addressing Human Rights Restrictions

Dubai’s glamorous facade often overshadows conversations around some of the emirate’s more controversial human rights policies. As an influential global destination, understanding realities on the ground can help travelers make informed decisions and properly set expectations.

During my visit, I witnessed systemic inequality and lack of basic rights protections that gave me pause. The kafala sponsorship system binds migrant workers to employers, enabling rampant exploitation. Speaking with construction workers from Southeast Asia, I heard first-hand accounts of passport confiscation, unpaid wages, unlivable crowded housing – echoing humanitarian groups’ slavery concerns.

Domestic workers fare little better under kafala. Most Emirati homes employ migrant maids who face no caps on working hours and high instances of physical abuse and harassment due to lax enforcement. The level of fear shared in interviews left me questioning if Dubai’s breakneck growth disregards basic dignities.

11. Dubai’s complex social contradictions

Beyond human rights controversies, Dubai contains complex social contradictions where ultra-conservative Islamic laws and cultural norms create a dizzying maze of “dos and don’ts” for visitors. Penalties for infractions from public drinking to acts of homosexuality to premarital sex can include fines, detention, deportation – even years-long imprisonment.

Yet the emirate also cunningly bills itself as a Westernized playground bursting with booze-flowing luxury resorts and nightclubs. This superficial permissiveness papers over pervasive intolerance towards more vulnerable groups. Learning how to safely navigate norms and avoid legal trouble added stressful mental load to my stay.

The glittering Dubai travel bloggers promise obscures a patchwork system riddled with injustices. Still I discovered kindness amongst individuals I connected with. My advice? Visit with eyes wide open by looking beyond surface-level appeals and doing part in supporting equitable change.

12: The biggest carbon footprint per person in the world

Yep – believe it or not, a resident of Dubai has the largest carbon footprint of any human being on earth – more than DOUBLE that of an American!

This is because Dubai is a city living beyond its ecological means. In other words, it’s trying to defy its desert environment, the most water-stressed place on the planet. The city was built in a place with no usable water – no surface water, very little aquifer, and the lowest rainfall in the world.

So Dubai drinks the sea. Water here is the most expensive in the world – costing more than petrol to produce, and the enormous desalination plants that prop up the metropolis belch out vast amounts of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere.

13: Toxic beaches that make tourists SICK in Dubai

It’s no surprise these days that beaches at popular tourist spots have become very polluted and continue to do so, but wait until you hear the shocking experiences of tourists who swam at the beaches in Dubai.

jumeirah beach

A whistleblower working at one of the big hotels in Dubai had this to say:

“We received complaints from people using the beaches. The water looked and smelled odd, and they were starting to get sick after going into it. So I wrote to the ministers of health and tourism and expected to hear back immediately – but there was nothing. Silence. I hand-delivered the letters. Still nothing.”

The water quality got worse and worse. The guests started to spot raw sewage, condoms, and used sanitary towels floating in the sea. So the hotel ordered its own water analyses from a professional company. “They told us it was full of fecal matter and bacteria ‘too numerous to count’ .

Dubai had expanded so fast its sewage treatment facilities couldn’t keep up .

The sewage disposal trucks had to queue for three or four days at the treatment plants – so instead, they were simply drilling open the manholes and dumping the untreated sewage down them, so it flowed straight to the sea.

They said they would fine the truckers. But the water quality didn’t improve: it became black and stank. “It’s got chemicals in it. I don’t know what they are. But this stuff is toxic.”

Now the water is worse than ever. People are getting really sick. Eye infections, ear infections, stomach infections, rashes. Look at it!” There is feces floating on the beach, in the shadow of one of Dubai’s most famous hotels.

Source: Johann Hari, The Independent

dubai sewage trucks

14. Cautions for Women and LGBTQ+ Travelers

While female and LGBTQ+ travelers won’t likely endure harsh migrant worker extremes, they do face steep restrictions. Premarital sex, homosexuality, even getting pregnant from rape constitute crimes in Dubai. Mixed messages bombard women to dress modestly, or risk fines for cross-cultural “misunderstandings”.

Police actively entrap gay couples online. A trans friend described harrowing airport harassment. Stories of assault complaints backfiring on victims are common but rarely publicized. Before any marginalized visitors pack their bags, scrutinizing the patchwork system’s severe biases is essential.

Are there ANY good things about Dubai?

It’s not all doom and gloom as there were some good things I enjoyed in Dubai. Though I must point out that these were mostly in the Deira district (Old Dubai).

Though the gold and spice souks were a let down, the oldest fort in Dubai was somewhat interesting. The boat ride across the Dubai Creek was okay, and the Iranian Mosque looks impressive. The highlight for me was the Dubai Coffee Museum , definitely worth a visit. And the Arabian Tea House – though we didn’t go inside as all the tables were full and there was a long queue outside.

Plus, you get to see how the migrant communities of Filipinos, Indians, Pakistanis and Bangladeshis live – its refreshing to see them smiling and chatting amongst each other, because lets face it – working 14+ hour shifts in dirty or brutal conditions, in the 50C heat, on a pitiful wage, is nothing to smile about.

The Diverse Food Scene of Old Dubai

The food scene in Dubai is diverse, due to the huge expat population here. For authentic Philippine, Indian, Pakistani, and Arab cuisine at super affordable prices, the Deira district of Old Dubai is the place to be. Not only was the food a fraction fo the price of downtown Dubai, the portions were much bigger, and, believe it or not, the food was more flavoursome and delicious. This is one of the main reasons I loved Old Dubai more than the modern district down the highway.

dubai food

Meanwhile over in downtown Dubai  – you can expect mediocre food at high prices, as explained earlier in this post.

Dubai Travel Tips:

Use my top tips and advice below on how to travel around Dubai without breaking the bank:

Budget accommodation

Book your accommodation further away from the main tourist spots – consider Deira and Sharjah where we stayed, and you can find decent hotels at £20-30 per night (even on New Year’s Eve). Check out some great budget options on booking .

Eat tasty food at cheap spots

Consider dining where the locals eat, especially where the migrant communities (Filipinos, Indians, Pakistanis etc) live and eat, in places like Old Dubai and Sharjah. Trust me – the food is top quality, and super cheap!

Some of my favorites are the Pakistani restaurants in Sharjah where I had deliciously filling falafel wraps, with chips and salad, costing less than AED10 ($3). I also really enjoyed the South Indian food in Deira, which were very cheap, tasty and big portions.

Renting a car in Dubai

Renting a car is not expensive, and is the most convenient to get around – fuel is cheap, and some parking spots are free – including Dubai Mall and the Burj Khalifa. Street parking is also cheap – 2AED per hour (40p).

Haggle at the souks and shops

Seriously, always haggle when asking for prices on anything – from food, to clothing, to souvenirs. If you still feel it’s too high, walk away – they don’t like this, and will eventually come down to your price.

Word of advice: buy your SIM card immediately from the airport upon arrival. You can’t get a SIM at any shop like you can in most countries, and the waiting time is ridiculously long. Don’t make the mistake I made – waiting over an hour first thing in the morning for a SIM card at an official store on my first day.

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Dubai Travel: FAQs

Here are some of the most commonly asked questions about Dubai travel:

Does Dubai have strict laws?

Dubai strictly adheres to conservative Islamic laws. Violations related to drugs, harassment, relationships can mean jail and deportation. Visitors must research carefully.

What are the rules for couples in Dubai?

Unmarried couples cannot legally live together or show public affection. Having children out of wedlock and adultery are jailable offenses. Homosexuality is illegal. Hotels do permit some couples privileges.

Is Dubai a good place to live in?

Dubai offers tax-free salaries and lavish amenities many expats enjoy. However rights protections are weak, discrimination ubiquitous, and vague laws enable exploitation. Livability depends on your privileges.

Where do all the workers live in Dubai?

Majority of migrant construction workers live in cramped labor camp style dormitories on city outskirts to enable long work hours. Conditions are often unsanitary and inhumane but conveniently invisible.

What is the death penalty in Dubai?

Extreme sharia laws enable death sentences for offenses like consensual gay relations, adultery, and apostasy. However in practice, deportation and imprisonment are more common punishments than execution.

Can I bring a Bible to Dubai?

While proselytizing faiths outside Islam are prohibited, those practicing Abrahamic faiths may bring religious texts for personal use. Items are screened. Public evangelism risks fines or jail.

Can I kiss my girlfriend in Dubai?

Any unmarried couple interactions like kissing in public violate indecency standards. Though rarely enforced, fines, detention or deportation are legal. Restrain affection publicly and officially to avoid incidents.

Further Reading

  • North Bali Top 10 Things to See & Do
  • India Travel Guide for Beginners
  • How to Quickly Save $1000 for Travel (10 Easy Steps)
  • How to Find CHEAP Flights

📚 Books About Modern Slavery in Dubai and UAE:

  • The Dark Side of Dubai (by John Doglas and Karim Kanane) Amazon
  • I’m Not Your Slave (by Eric Reese) Amazon
  • Lost Riders (by Elizabeth Laird) Amazon

So there you have it – my 14 reasons why I was disappointed with Dubai.

Bottom line: I don’t mean to put anyone off visiting Dubai. I wrote this post with very frank and honest personal views based on my one-week experience there, and again, these are just the views of a traveller who is fascinated by history, and culture, as well as trying to be ethical and aware of injustice.

In regards to what I wrote about modern slavery – this is factual information and there are plenty of sources that verify this. So while it is sadly true – its the traveller’s choice whether they will be conscious of it, learn about it and share that knowledge, or, simply ignore it.

On a final note, you can head over to Quora here and read more, interesting personal experiences of expats who lived and worked in Dubai, all detailing their unique views on the dark and ugly side of Dubai.

If you enjoyed this post, share it on Pinterest so your followers can enjoy it too!

dubai 1

Billy Read is the owner and author of BRB Gone Somewhere Epic, a travel blog that helps travelers discover unique destinations and travel experiences on a budget. With more than 10 years of global travel filled with accidents, Billy aims to help readers avoid making the same mistakes as he did, and make the most of their epic trips.

When are the best and worst times to visit Dubai?

Ben Smithson

Although we're in the throes of summer now, it's never too early to plan that winter vacation. When temperatures start to drop and the days become shorter, you might start dreaming of warmer destinations, sunshine and beaches. Dubai is a popular destination for these reasons, especially in the winter months when it can get dark around 4 p.m.

Temperatures, prices and crowds can vary enormously throughout the year in Dubai, so here are our top tips for when to visit and when to avoid the city.

Dubai's iconic, sail-shaped and seven-star Burj al Arab. Photo courtesy of Shutterstock.

Best times to travel

You can expect consistently pleasant weather between November and March -- daily maximum temperatures will be in the upper-70s, which is warm enough to enjoy the beaches and those amazing luxury hotel pools, as well as getting out to explore the sights without having to constantly duck into air conditioning. Overnight, the temperature drops to the low-60s, which is comfortable for sleeping.

Mid-December to the end of February is peak period, so while the weather is great, Dubai can be really crowded and hotel rates rocket. The popular Atlantis The Palm hotel can be booked for a little as $250 per night during August while prices soar up to $850-plus per night in December. One of our favorite Dubai hotels here at TPG, the Park Hyatt , can be a steal at less than $120 per night in the hottest months but increases to $550 per night around Christmas.

Christmas is obviously a popular time to visit, and January also sees the Dubai Shopping Festival, where tourists flock to the city to enjoy huge discounts on all sorts of items. For instance, you could get 78% off gaming consoles and up to 80% off selected women's fashions at NissNass. So if you are planning to visit in January, make sure you leave some room in the suitcase .

For the best of both worlds, consider mid-November through mid-December as well as the month of March. Temperatures will still be good (though on the warm side), but there will be fewer tourists and prices should be lower. The slightly warmer daily temperatures should be just about perfect for enjoying the sea.

You may also experience some rain during the December to March peak season, as it is technically winter there. But don't expect this to have much impact on your trip -- it only rains on average five days per year in Dubai (compared to the 156 days a year the U.K. sees).

why not travel to dubai

Worst times

The months of June, July and August have searingly hot temperatures in Dubai. Think an average high of 106 degrees Fahrenheit every day, with temperatures not dropping below 86 overnight. Temperatures can even hit 117 degrees Fahrenheit in these months. It's likely to also be quite humid, which can drain your energy even more.

Most tourists will find these temperatures far too hot to even step outside (let alone lie by the pool or beach), which may be a big reason you are visiting. If you are willing to stay inside the entire time, you can expect cheap accommodation because there are so few other tourists.

The month of Ramadan, which changes dates each year but will be from April 12 in 2021, is a period where eating, drinking and smoking in public is banned during daylight. This means many businesses close during these times, which can be difficult for tourists who are not observing Ramadan themselves.

Bottom line

Dubai has much to offer in terms of hotels, beaches, shopping and night life. Plan carefully and you can avoid astronomical costs and maybe stay in the hotel of your dreams for a fraction of what you thought.

Top 10 things to know before visiting Dubai

Jul 19, 2019 • 5 min read

why not travel to dubai

Dubai Downtown Skyline in early morning fog, United Arab Emirates

Dubai is one of the most visited destinations in the world and home to a number of record-breakers, from the world’s tallest tower to the busiest international airport on the planet. Yet for all the city's accolades, there are still plenty of misconceptions about the glitzy Gulf emirate. Here are 10 things you to know before you arrive.

Foggy morning in downtown Dubai, United Arab Emirates. The city's many skyscrapers are poking through thick cloud, into a blue sky, with the Burj Khalifa in the centre of the frame.

You don’t have to be a millionaire

It’s regularly named one of the world's most expensive cities , but you can enjoy Dubai on a budget . As the city gears up to host Expo 2020, millennial-friendly mid-market hotel chains such as Rove and Hilton Garden Inn are booming. Metered taxis are cheap by international standards, and you can ride the metro for as little as Dh3. The city is brimming with cheap eats too, especially around Al Muraqqabat Rd and Al Rigga Rd in Deira . You can now avoid any roaming charges as well, with visitors receiving free Sim cards on arrival at Dubai International Airport .

There is culture

Contrary to popular stereotypes, there’s more to Dubai than shopping and skyscrapers. Look beyond the bling, and you’ll discover a rich cultural heritage that blends Bedouin, Arab and Islamic traditions . For a quick history lesson, visit the Etihad Museum and Dubai Museum and then head to the Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding for a no-holds-barred Q&A session on Emirati culture. Meanwhile, explore the burgeoning contemporary art scene at Alserkal Avenue and catch a performance at the ship-shaped Dubai Opera .

DUBAI, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES - MARCH 30: A Tandoori Tequila cocktail at Michelin-starred Indian chef Vikas Khanna's restaurant, Junoon at the Shangri-La hotel on March 30, 2016 in Dubai, United Arab Emirates.

Dubai is not dry

Think you can’t get a drink? Alcohol is available in licensed bars and restaurants, which are generally attached to hotels (although exceptions include some high-end eateries in Dubai International Financial Centre and City Walk ). Most bars have happy hours – Nola has one of the best – and the legal drinking age is 21, so take your photo ID. Ladies’ night, usually on Tuesdays, means women can enjoy free drinks, while all-you-ca n-eat-and-drink Friday brunches are a Dubai institution . Visitors can now also obtain a liquor licence to buy alcohol in Dubai .

Dubai is a top spot for foodies

With Michelin tipped to launch a guide to Dubai in the near future, dining out in the city has never tasted so good. Dubai’s multicultural mix means you can feast on everything from budget-friendly ethnic eats and traditional Emirati cuisine to French fine-dining and molecular gastronomy. Hip homegrown eateries like Sum of Us and Salt are leading the shift away from international chains, while Frying Pan Adventures offers fantastic foodie tours of old Dubai. Dubai will also be getting a Time Out food market in 2020 , where travellers can sample the best of what the city has to offer under one roof, as well as the world's first MasterChef restaurant .

People swimming in the sea and walking along the shore of Jumeirah Beach with the Dubai skyline in the background

Skip the burkini

Dubai is a cosmopolitan city, with expats making up almost 85% of the population. There’s no need to cover your hair, shorts and t-shirts are fine in many places, and you can wear a bikini at the beach or by the pool . It’s a glamorous city too, so dress to impress at brunch and out clubbing. In the malls, mosques and souqs, you should respect local Islamic culture by dressing modestly, which means shoulders and knees covered.

Dubai is incredibly forward-looking

Forget notions of a city fuelled solely by black gold; Dubai has successfully diversified its economy away from oil to become a thriving hub for transport, trade, finance and tourism. What’s more, the government is working with high-tech companies to develop self-driving cars, flying drone taxis and 3D organ printing. One of the most exciting partnerships is with Hyperloop One, which is developing a supersonic transport system that could link Dubai with Abu Dhabi in 12 minutes.

The weekend is Friday and Saturday

Most people have Friday off work, when Muslims gather for congregational prayers. Dubai Metro services start at 10am on Fridays, and businesses are traditionally closed for a few hours in the afternoon, although many now remain open throughout the day. If you’re looking to party, the busiest nights of the week are Thursdays and Fridays, while malls are also packed with shoppers until midnight.

Dubai wants to rival Orlando

Florida’s theme-park capital faces a new challenger, with four major theme parks opened in Dubai in 2016 . They include IMG Worlds of Adventure , the world’s largest indoor theme park with dedicated Marvel and Cartoon Network zones, and the Hollywood-inspired Motiongate , with rides based on blockbusters such as Madagascar and Ghostbusters . Dubai's biggest water park is also soon to become the biggest in the world , with the addition of a giant new tower as well as 12 new slides.

The moon rises over a darkened square in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. Th ground is elaborately tiled and there are wooden carts outside old-fashioned shop fronts.

Dubai is probably safer than your home city

Despite unrest in the region, the UAE is the second safest country in the world, according to the World Economic Forum. Dubai is very safe compared with other large cities across the globe, and street crime is rare. It’s safe to take taxis at night, and walking around on your own is fine in most areas. The biggest dangers are reckless driving and crossing the street, with many motorists ignoring pedestrian crossings.

There’s (almost) a new super-tall tower in town

Dubai is a city that loves a superlative. Not content with the world’s tallest tower, the 828m Burj Khalifa , the emirate is building another epic skyscraper. Located at Dubai Creek Harbour, The Tower will stand at 928m when completed in 2020 and house a 360-degree observation platform, along with a hotel, restaurants and vertical gardens. It's got competition for the ‘world’s tallest’ title though, with Saudi Arabia’s kilometre-high Jeddah Tower also set to open in 2020.

First published in June 2017, last updated July 2019.

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48-Hour Itinerary

Day Trips From Dubai

Top Things to See & Do

Free Things to Do in Dubai

Things to Do at Palm Jumeirah

Best Museums

Best Beaches in Dubai

Dubai's Coolest Architecture

Adventure Activities

Dubai Marina

Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque

Jumeirah Mosque

Must-Try Food

Best Restaurants

Nightlife in Dubai

Best Time to Visit

Weather & Climate

Dubai International Airport Guide

Public Transit

Currency in Dubai

Safety & Laws in Dubai

Is It Safe in Dubai?

why not travel to dubai

Davis McCardle / Getty Images

Travel Advisories

Is dubai safe for solo travelers, is dubai safe for female travelers.

  • Safety Tips for LGBTQ+ Travelers

Safety Tips for BIPOC Travelers

Safety tips for travelers.

In terms of crime, Dubai is one of the safest destinations in the Middle East. The largest city in the United Arab Emirates is a major tourist and business hub and one of the fastest-growing cities with international travelers in the world. Street crime including pickpocketing and bag snatching is uncommon, and thanks to the presence of security and cameras, you’ll feel safe using public transport in Dubai and wandering around most parts of the city by day and by night .

Dubai has some of the lowest crime rates—for both violent and non-violent crimes—of any city in the world and is ranked as one of the best places for personal safety.

The biggest risk to your safety in Dubai is unwittingly breaking a local law. Dubai has strict laws regarding alcohol consumption, dress, sexual conduct, and social behaviors in general that are important for visitors to take note of. Some of these laws include only drinking alcohol in your home and at licensed venues. That means living in Dubai will need to apply for a  license  to purchase alcohol and keep it at home. Tourists in Dubai can obtain a  temporary liquor license for one month .

Drug use is also prohibited in Dubai, with even transiting passengers in Dubai facing strict consequences for getting caught with illegal substances. Though punishments for recreational drug use have loosened, check the rules before departure. Not being aware of a law isn't an excuse for breaking it, so make sure you're familiar with at least the most common infractions before setting off.

The truth is that many of these laws are broken every single day and no one cares; bars will sell you an alcoholic beverage even if you don't have a permit, hotels will give rooms to couples without asking for a marriage license, and travelers will take selfies that have other people in the background. It usually isn't a problem, until it is. A nearby plainclothes police officer or an upset individual who reports you can quickly turn your harmless mistake into a punishable offense.

  • Due to COVID-19, the U.S. Department of State has issued a global travel warning to avoid all international travel indefinitely.  
  • Prior to COVID-19, the State Department advised travelers to "exercise normal precautions" when visiting the UAE, the lowest possible travel warning.  

Solo travelers have little to worry about in terms of personal safety. The city is safe to walk around and explore, and the ubiquitous cameras placed on every street provide a sense of security even when walking alone late at night. As long as you follow the local rules, you should be just fine while exploring Dubai.

The strict rules around sexual behavior and conservative culture also make Dubai an exceedingly safe location for female travelers. Women are expected to dress modestly and have most body parts covered (exceptions are made when at the beach), but even catcalling is rare to hear around the streets of Duba. And while sexual assaults are very rare in the city, the UAE legal system can potentially punish the woman as well as the attacker, giving victims little recourse. In fact, several human rights organizations, including Human Rights Watch, discourage victims from reporting sexual assaults to local police in case of retribution.

Safety Tips for LGBTQ+ Travelers

The United Arab Emirates has some of the strictest laws regarding LGBTQ+ rights in the world, and just because Dubai is a major cosmopolitan city doesn't mean it's more progressive than other parts of the country.   All types of same-sex acts are illegal and punishable by fines, imprisonment, deportation, flogging, or death, although the most extreme consequences are usually only applicable to Muslim defendants and when coupled with other crimes, such as adultery. In fact, any type of romantic relationship outside of marriage is unlawful, so heterosexual travelers need to be wary as well.

Trans travelers arriving in Dubai have been detained and questioned at the airport for not having their gender recognized by local officials, and have even been deported back to their home country.   Wearing clothes that don't correspond to your sex assigned at birth is also illegal in the UAE.  

Dubai is a remarkably diverse and international city that houses people from all over the world. In fact, the foreign-born population of the Emirate of Dubai makes up about 85 percent of the population, far greater than the number of native Emiratis.  

Just because Dubai is a cosmopolitan city doesn't mean that prejudice doesn't exist, but foreign residents and tourists are more likely to see discrimination based on nationality rather than skin color. Citizens coming from Western countries such as the U.S., Europe, or Australia enjoy privileges that other citizens do not. The capriciousness of the law in Dubai can be applied indiscriminately to anyone, but citizens from non-Western nations may have more trouble if they are caught doing something illegal.

  • It is legal for non-Muslims to consume alcohol in Dubai, so long as they’re drinking in a licensed venue (which are typically attached to a hotel). Once you’re outside of a legal venue, if you’re seen to be drunk or causing a raucous in public you could land yourself in jail.
  • The official legal alcohol limit for drivers in Dubai is zero—there’s no leeway here, so don't get behind the wheel even if you've had just one drink.
  • Kissing and holding hands in public is deemed “inappropriate behavior,” so keep it clean while you’re out and about. Any sexual relation between non-married couples is also illegal.
  • It is an offense to use rude language or aggressive hand gestures, including while driving.
  • It’s against the law to make defamatory statements or offensive comments about people and organizations in the UAE, so mind your language on social media posts—including review sites.
  • While Dubai is a conservative city year-round, it is doubly so during the month of Ramadan. During this time, it is forbidden to eat or drink in public during daylight hours (some restaurants and shopping malls have curtained areas for non-Muslims to dine in during Ramadan). Don't play loud music and be sure to dress extra-modestly.

OSAC.gov. "UAE 2020 Crime & Safety Report: Dubai." Retrieved on December 22, 2020.

The Economist. " Safe Cities Index 2019. " August 5, 2019.

U.S. Department of State. " Global Health Advisory. " March 31, 2020. Updated December 22, 2020.

U.S. Department of State. " United Arab Emirates. " May 17, 2019.

Khaleej Times. "Hefty fine, jail for staring at women, catcalling in UAE." Retrieved December 22, 2020.

Human Rights Watch. " World Report 2020. " 2020.

Human Dignity Trust. "United Arab Emirates." Retrieved December 22, 2020.

NBC News. "UAE imprisons transgender tourist, friend for their look." August 24, 2017. Retrieved December 22, 2020.

Human Dignity Trust. "HDT - Injustice Exposed - The Criminalisation of Transgender People and Its Impacts." Retrieved on December 22, 2020.

Global Media Insight. "UAE Population Statistics 2020 (Infographics)." July 7, 2020. Retrieved December 22, 2020.

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Wander Mum

5 Pros And Cons Of Visiting Dubai

I know a lot of people who have no interest whatsoever in visiting Dubai but then some who absolutely love it. I have been there on several occasions: as a stopover, for a week-long holiday and once to go to the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix (which was amazing).

There are some things I love about the UAE city  but some things I don’t like so much. W henever I think of a negative thing about Dubai, there always seems to be a positive to counter it. Here are my five pros and cons of visiting Dubai.

Dubai is a ‘bit fake’

I hear people saying this a lot and yes, it is a bit fake. Dubai is a very modern city which has rapidly expanded over the past 50 years following the discovery of oil.

The UAE Emirate is essentially a desert which has been developed on – in epic proportions – with an ever-expanding skyline of towering skyscrapers, including the Burj Khalifa , the largest building in the world ( read about our trip to the Burj Khalifa ).

Everything has been done to excess, with no expense spared. From the opulent hotels to the oversized malls (where you have the option to ski), man-made waterways and islands, huge cascading water features, and immaculately kept golf courses and green gardens. You name it, they will mimic it and they seem to pride themselves on doing it bigger and better than ever before. It is a very glitzy city without a huge amount of natural beauty. It certainly lacks the idillic setting of tropical places like the Maldives and Caribbean, especially with building work ongoing (see point 2).

Dubai pros and cons

Dubai is a vibrant city where people from all over the world come to work. It has got some great hotels and restaurants with some of the top chefs from around the world clamouring to set up restaurants so you have your pick of fine dining. As it’s all rather glad, there’s good excuse to put your glad rags on.

Some of the beaches may not be completely natural (like those on ‘The Palm’) but the golden sand is real and the beaches are large and wide with few rocks and stones. The sea is deliciously warm and calm so perfect for children (and people like me who aren’t keen on freezing cold water and large waves). Oh, and the (very natural) sunsets are pretty spectacular too.

Dubai pros and cons

Noise Pollution

There is a lot of construction work still going on in Dubai. You’d  think the building boom would have eased off a bit, certainly after the 2008 property crash but it continues. The massive land reclaim project, The Palm, is still being developed on (although work on another such project ‘The World’ has halted).

Dubai cons: Building work. Negative things about Dubai

Newer hotels and better transport links are being built to make the city easier to navigate for those who live there and boost business and tourism.  Although big, the hotels have excellent facilities. From water sports to volleyball, mini golf, massages or just plain sunbathing – there’s something for everyone. For the children, there’s water parks and kids clubs and the service is tip top too. Cold towel and fruit anyone? 

Sunbathing at the One and Only Dubai

Dubai lacks culture?

Dubai is a hugely diverse city where lots of different cultures converge so it’s very cosmopolitan but, as it’s so new, there isn’t a great deal of history. For culture, visit the docks and explore the gold and spice souks. Or you could indulge in a desert safari or camel racing for a slight taste of Emirati life. Of course, there’s the Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world  but overall, Dubai it is very much a hotel resort type place.

The Burj Khalifa, Dubai

Some hotels are so huge they are like a mini city of its own – with everything provided for you. There are  no little shops to nip out and get some water or cute towns to have a mooch around  like you get in Europe.  The hotels have been designed so you don’t even have to leave during your stay (and I suspect a lot of people do this).

Waterways at the Madinat Jumeriah, Dubai

As much as I like adventure and exploration, sometimes it’s good to relax and not have the pressure of cramming in loads of sightseeing (especially if you are visiting on a short stopover). Not having the option to do loads can be a pro and you don’t feel so guilty about chilling by the beach/pool.

The Madinat Jumeriah, Dubai

Although Dubai lacks culture, it’s still an interesting country to visit where you can learn lots from the people, of all different cultures, who live there. The ostentatious buildings are a wonder to marvel at – as well as the beautiful hotels, designed with incredible attention to detail channelling Arabian architecture and decor. Then there are the (nicely air-conditioned) malls like Dubai Mall which have every activity you can imagine at your disposal, particularly for children. You have to see it to believe it.

How Expensive is Dubai to go on holiday?

Dubai can be an expensive place to stay, with prices pretty much on a par with London (although certain things, like taxis, are cheaper). As it is a Muslim county, alcohol is particularly expensive.

You get what you pay for. In the luxury five star hotels the staff are friendly, welcoming and cater for (almost) every whim allowing you to relax. The beaches are private so you don’t get hassled and many of the children’s activities are free at the large resorts so you have the option to leave your little ones at the kids club while you chill.There are also some great deals which you can book, click here to find latest deals on hotels .

The food is of a very high quality so a great place for foodies. As it is a Muslim country, there are restrictions on licensed premises and bars have to be attached to the hotels. Wine and champagne is particularly pricey but we often get a bottle at duty free when we land to enjoy in our hotel room.

The waterpark at the Madinat Jumeriah, Dubai

What about the heat in Dubai?

In the summer months it can get incredibly hot and humid so avoid June, July and August, especially if you have young children. We once went en route to South Africa for our honeymoon in August. We struggled to sit outside even in the evening when temperatures are still 40 degrees. The humidity is crazy too. Every time we walked out of the hotel our sunglasses steamed up. It’s like one big sauna.

Dubai can provide a great winter break in the sun – when the UK temperatures plummet! January was one of the best times of year we have visited Dubai!

Dubai Pros and Cons

There’s certainly a number of reasons why the Emirate keeps drawing us back. Dubai is also a great stopover before going to explore countries further east.

We went before children and enjoyed going out to fancy restaurants, bars and chilling out on the beach but now we have little ones, I can see why Dubai is a great family holiday too. There’s so much to keep kids entertained from waterparks, giant fish tanks, large swimming pools, theme parks and much more. .

I know we will go back at some point, for as many negative things about Dubai, there are many good things about Dubai. It ticks a lot of boxes and it is somewhere you should experience at some point in your life. Click here to find top deals on where to stay in Dubai .

Have you been to Dubai? Would like to go? Do you love or hate Dubai or are you like me? I’d love to know your thoughts. Please comment below.

Other posts you may enjoy reading

Review: One&Only Royal Mirage 10 Things To Do At Dubai Mall (Other Than Shop) Going Up The Burj Khalifa 10 Reasons To Visit Dubai? 

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5 Pros and Cons of visiting Dubai, UAE

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I've always loved to travel so when my two daughters came along, I didn't stop. Travelling as a family can have its ups and downs but I love showing my children the world and helping others navigate travelling with children in tow.

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Ha, same. It can be a bit of a relief. I think a lot of people are put off a bit but, like so many things/places, it’s what you make it and there are things to see if you want and like I say, is worth seeing at some point… Maybe a stop off? X

Hope you get to go to Australia soon! Dubai would be a fab stop off. Thanks for linking to #citytripping – really enjoyed your Budapest post x

Ohhhh I am so rubbish! I’ve just realised that I wrote the reply to your email and never pressed send (its sat in my drafts, I wrote it night feeding!!) so sorry I missed you!

I love a good pros and cons list about places I know, Dubai is definitely all about bigger and better. There are some hidden gems though that people don’t know about, like the culture and history, if you go down to the old town you can find the history museum where it explains about how originally Dubai was all about the pearl diving and the old abra rides are incredible.

Ah, shame I missed you! (Although Im sure we’ll be back at some point). Hope all going well with baby boy. Was interested in your thoughts on this post…can imagine it’s pretty different living there but I bet it’s a fab place to be for a couple of years… Although tough in the summer! We once went in August during Ramadan… Double whammy! Haha. Need to do the museum at some point! Xx

It’s funny how it can be a bit polarising but I’m sure you’ll enjoy it. Just embrace it for what it is and go along with the ride. X

Thanks Ting! Dubai is a funny one – and glad I’ve helped you rethink it. I’m still pretty split but there must be a reason why we’ve been back a few times. You can’t beat the sunshine (especially in winter over here) and the service is brilliant. Plus the children love it. Thanks for hosting #mondayescapes great idea xx

We went to Dubai for the first time last year with our then two year old and I was pregnant. I was a bit dubious about going as it sounded so fake and OTT and I must admit it definitely was 🙂

But, it was also pretty interesting and I quite admired how proud the people of Dubai were of what they had achieved. Us Brits are always bashful about stuff and ridicule things we achieve but over there they loved having the biggest buildings and the bluest sea, whitest sand, even if it was man-made. I sort of thought, good on them.

I totally know what you mean -hahaha – I always seem to have a good time there too. As tourists we do see a bit of a fake version of Dubai but it does tick a lot of boxes! And when I talk to all the workers who come from all over, they seem pretty happy to be over there and working. You are right, they are very proud of it all and I think good on them too…they are playing a bit of catch up but doing it to the extreme. It is my guilty pleasure. Glad you had a great time there!! Thanks for stopping by xx

Have a fab time! It really is a fab stopover. Perfect for some pre-sun fun. Enjoy Thailand! Love that country! Oh, you have to go to that Grand Prix at some point it’s pretty spesh! X

Wow – how fascinating to have seen that change. We went for the first time in 2008 and even since then it has grown enormously. Shame you got ill… Sounds like a return trip is defo in order! Thanks for stopping by xx

Thank you! I’m glad I’m not the only one too but it does tick a lot of boxes too and is lots of fun. Thanks for hosting #mondayescapes x

Yes! Do it. It is worth seeing and the restaurants, bars, shopping – it’s all good- just submit to the glitz and opulence! Xxx

It’s definitely worth seeing! Just make sure you emphasise the pros to the other half

Thank you so much. Yes! You’re right. I have yet to do Vegas but probably will next year… It has to done!! Thanks for stopping by x

Thanks! Just been reading your post actually! It is a great place and we still have so much to explore there…you have given me some fab tips. Every time I think of a con the pros outweigh it and it’s so good for kids. Xx

Well I am glad I helped you make a decision… It’s a bit of a marmite place and I get that it isn’t for everyone. Thanks for stopping by. X

Oh no! Such a shame you can’t go exploring – well together anyway. Thanks for hosting #bigfatlinky

Yes, you should definitely go see it at some point. It’s somewhere you have see. Thanks for hosting #thelist xx

I know! It’s ridiculous later on in the summer. We went in May and it was 42 degrees x

I just moved back to the UK after having lived in Dubai for the last 8 years. There are many great (& not so great) things about the place and lots of things to do with kids. My family and I spent our final night in Dubai watching the fountains at the Dubai Mall/Burj Khalifa.

Wow! That’s a long time over there. How did you find it? From what I have seen, it is a great place for children! still need to see the fountains! Welcome back to the UK. Xx

Hey Keri, I will have to check out your Al Dhafra festival post. It would be great to see the more cultural side of the UAE so next I will I go I’ll make sure I do that… then I can write a whole other post about its cultural side!! Even so, I do like Dubai, there is certainly something which keeps drawing us back! Thanks for the tips. Enjoy National Day – sounds fun! x

Thank you! I love sunsets! Yes, there is – lots more than meets the eye x

Dubai is so, so perfect for a stopover. Kids LOVE it and it’s perfect for some pampering x

I really agree with you. Dubai isn’t somewhere I’d rush back to but I’m glad I’ve been. It is a fascinating place and the hotels are amazing. We stayed at the Ritz Carlton and loved it. I think if I was going back I might be tempted to combine it with something else, like a jeep safari into the desert.

Ooh yes! I really want to do to a jeep safari and do a night in the desert too. X

Yes, good shout. The construction work was annoying but you sort of got used to it.

Thanks Trish – glad you have found it helpful. It’s a bit of a marmite place but great for a few days to recharge.

You are so right – know what to expect and you won’t be disappointed! If we go to Dubai again I’m going to explore its cultural side a bit deeper…I’m sure it’s there! X

Hi Ruth, I think you’ll really enjoy it too.

Thanks Sarah! I’m still pretty divided on it but you can’t beat it for winter sun.

Glad your sister had a good time. We stayed at the Atlantis once before but during a really busy time of year – was a bit hectic – but tons of stuff for the kids! So good for winter sun and there are deals out there. X

Very true! You do just have to embrace the glitz, sun and shiny new buildings. X

Haha! Indeed not! X

My friends who recently returned from Dubai had the same pro & con arguments why visit / not visit Dubai. 🙂 #CityTripping

That’s interesting- glad I’m not alone with it. It’s definitely a bit marmite! X

Thank you so much Jo! There are so many pros but ultimately it is a city that’s still in development so there will be construction noise although some areas are definitely better than others!

Kind of like Las Vegas with humidity and a beach?

You’re not far off!

It was very great to read such an informative post! Great post about Dubai!

Thank you so much.

Wow.. love the way you’ve listed out the good and bad! Cheers!! 🙂

Thank you. It’s a bit of a marmite place!

I can understand all these pros and cons but I think if I got the chance to go I’d still jump at the chance! I mean, hot weather, swimming pools, amazing hotels. Yes please!

Hehe – very true. The positives are very alluring. The do hotels very well!!

Thanks Jessica, glad you found it helpful!

I lived in the UAE for 6 years, and then made regular business trips to Dubai to see clients for the next 10 years, so feel I know it pretty well. I agree with your pros and cons, but would add a couple. On the Pro side: if you want to see Arabia, then take the short taxi ride up to Sharjah which still has lots of old buildings and some wonderful museums. Sharjah also has a large Shiite population with links to Iran, and there are a couple of beautiful Iranian-style mosques with beautiful blue and green tilework, well worth a look. On the Con side: do not forget you are in a Muslim country with very strict laws. Be careful what you do in public. One of our friends worked as a lawyer and tried to help numerous Brits who fell foul of local laws. Some of his clients’ stories were very sad. Read the blog “Banged up in Dubai” for some eye-opening true stories.

Hi Fiona, thanks so much for those added pros and cons! I’d love to explore more of the country – great recommendations. Yes, I think it’s easy for some people to forget the local customs and laws. A cautionary tale!

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Dubai travel restrictions: all you need to know about the Covid flying rules

Life in the emirate is back to normal as covid-19 rules have been relaxed in most places, offering tourists plenty of options to keep busy and entertained.

Dubai, United Arab Emirates - May 6th, 2018: Standalone. Kite surfing takes place on the beach. Sunday, May 6th, 2018 at Jumeriah Beach, Dubai. Chris Whiteoak / The National

Dubai is set to see a busy winter tourism season with millions of tourists expected. Chris Whiteoak / The National

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Follow the latest updates on  the Covid-19 pandemic  here

Expo 2020 Dubai is less than a month away.

And the emirate is ready to welcome the world , with millions of visitors expected to fly in from abroad.

Wintertime is also the peak tourist season marked by idyllic weather, which attracts people from all over the world. This year, it will also offer tourists a sense of freedom as many continue to face restrictions in their own countries.

Life in Dubai is back to normal as Covid-19 rules have been relaxed in most places, offering tourists plenty of options to keep busy and entertained.

But travelling in the time of Covid-19 is not as simple as it once was and safety precautions must be followed at all times in public places.

So what procedures do tourists have to follow and what can they do while on holiday?

The National explains.

About 80 per cent of the buildings will remain in some form. Many were constructed so that they could be transformed to residential units or commercial space

About 80 per cent of the buildings will remain in some form. Many were constructed so that they could be transformed to residential units or commercial space

Do I need a visa?

It depends on your nationality. You can check whether you need a visa here .

Do I have to be vaccinated to visit Dubai?

No, travellers do not have to be vaccinated, but they must be tested for Covid-19 before travel, and in some cases on arrival.

What can I do during my stay in Dubai?

All public attractions are open to the public. Ain Dubai , the world's tallest observation wheel and the latest attraction in the emirate is set to open to the public on October 21, with tickets now available online.

Expo 2020 Dubai will be a major attraction and tickets to the event are now on sale worldwide. Precautions will be in place to protect visitors.

With more than 190 country pavilions, as well as themed exhibitions at the Opportunity, Mobility and Sustainability pavilions, 200 dining venues and up to 60 shows a day, tourists can add a few days to their itinerary to visit the expo site.

It will run from October 1, 2021 to March 31, 2022.

As of September 2, hotels can be at full occupancy (up from 70 per cent) while entertainment venues can increase capacity to 70 per cent (up from 50 per cent).

Restaurants and cafes can operate at 80 per cent capacity and can remain open until 3am.

The number of people who can sit at one table is 10 for restaurants and six at cafes.

Concerts, sports spectator events and social and institutional events are permitted providing the audience, participants and staff are inoculated against Covid-19 with an approved vaccine .

The maximum attendance for large public events that require permits is now 1,500 for indoors and 2,500 for outdoors.

Face masks are mandatory in public and in private gatherings and people are required to maintain a physical distance of two metres from others.

Have a look at Expo 2020's incredible Garden in the Sky

Have a look at Expo 2020's incredible Garden in the Sky

Do travellers need permission or register somewhere first to travel?

No. Tourists do not need approval from either Dubai's immigration authority, the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) or the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship (ICA) to travel to the emirate.

But passengers arriving from Bangladesh, Ethiopia, India, Nigeria, Pakistan, Sri Lanka, South Africa, Uganda, Vietnam and Zambia must follow specific rules. These include:

· Produce a negative PCR test certificate with a QR code issued within 48 hours prior to departure from an approved clinic, which can be found below using a link.

· Take a rapid PCR test, and be able to present the negative result in a QR code, from a test conducted at the departure airport within six hours of the flight.

Travel is not currently possible for those travelling directly from Bangladesh, Nigeria, Vietnam and Zambia to Dubai as there are no rapid PCR testing facilities at their airports.

Is a PCR test required for travellers from other countries too?

Yes, travellers arriving in Dubai from any destination must present a negative PCR result from a test taken no more than 72 hours before departure.

There are exemptions, which are set out below.

SMS certificates, antibody tests, NHS Covid Test certificates, plus results from rapid PCR tests and home-testing kits are not accepted. The test result must be official – either digital or printed – and written in English or Arabic, ready for presentation at check-in. Certificates in other languages are accepted if they can be validated at the point of departure.

Passengers travelling from Indonesia, Sudan, Lebanon, Egypt and Ethiopia must present a report linked with a QR code for verification purposes at check-in and on arrival in Dubai.

Where can I get tested before my flight to Dubai?

The UAE has approved a list of laboratories in every country, which can be found here .

I am travelling from India. Can I get a visa on arrival in Dubai?

Indian nationals who are travelling to or from India via Dubai can get a visa on arrival for 14 days if they have a visitor visa or a green card issued by the United States, or a residence visa issued by the United Kingdom or European Union. The visas must be valid for a minimum of six months. Anyone who does not have that can apply for a visit visa for the UAE .

Will I need to take a second test on arrival?

Perhaps. Some passengers must take a second test on arrival in Dubai.

The rule applies if the passengers are travelling from: Afghanistan, Angola, Argentina, Azerbaijan, Bahrain, Bangladesh, Bosnia & Herzegovina, Brazil, Cambodia, Chile, Croatia, Cyprus, Djibouti, Egypt, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Georgia, Ghana, Greece, Guinea, Hungary, India, Indonesia, Iran, Iraq, Israel, Ivory Coast, Jordan, Kenya, Kuwait, Kyrgyzstan, Lebanon, Malta, Moldova, Montenegro, Morocco, Myanmar, Nepal, Pakistan, Poland, Philippines, Qatar, Rwanda, Russia, Senegal, Slovakia, Somaliland, Somalia, South Africa, South Sudan, Sudan, Syria, Tajikistan, Tanzania, Thailand, Tunisia, Turkey, Turkmenistan, Uganda, Ukraine, Uzbekistan, Zimbabwe.

Do travellers have to quarantine in Dubai?

No. There is no quarantine on arrival in Dubai.

But anyone who takes a Covid test at the airport must remain in their hotel or residence until they receive the result. If it is positive, the traveller will have to isolate as per Dubai Health Authority guidelines. If it is negative, they are free to go out and explore the city.

Is anyone exempt from taking a PCR test, if it is required?

Children under the age of 12 and passengers who have a moderate or severe disability – including acute spinal cord injury, Alzheimer's disease, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, ataxia, autism spectrum, Bell's palsy, brain tumours, cerebral aneurysm, cerebral palsy, Down syndrome, epilepsy and seizures – are exempt from taking a PCR test.

But all other passengers, including those who are visually, physically or hearing impaired, must take a test if required.

A first look at Ain Dubai - in pictures

Ain Dubai will open to the public on October 21. Pawan Singh / The National

Ain Dubai will open to the public on October 21. Pawan Singh / The National

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8 Reasons Why You Should Visit Dubai at Least Once in Your Lifetime

Dubai

Dubai is undoubtedly one of the most unique cities in the world. For those with an untreatable case of wanderlust, this city is a traveler’s dream. Dubai has historic sights , futuristic architecture, active night life and out-of-this-world attractions.

See the desert.

Before the skyscrapers and luxurious automobiles, Dubai was only sand. Although the city has long evolved from the days of Bedouin villages, the desert is still a sight to see. When visiting Dubai , go on a desert safari and eat a traditional Arabic barbecue, go dune bashing, watch belly dancing and ride camels. Tours pick visitors up from hotels and take them to a camp in the middle of the desert, surrounded by sand dunes. This is an ideal way to better understand what life was like before the city boomed.

The desert of Dubai

Cultural Diversity

Unique architecture.

Dubai is known worldwide for its architecture. It’s hard to believe that only four decades ago, the city did not have a single building. Now, the Dubai skyline is full of unique skyscrapers designed by some of the best architects in the world. A drive down one of UAE’s main roads, Sheikh Zayed Road, will leave anyone in awe. Buildings come in all shapes, sizes and styles. Anything Dubai does, it does in style, so even the metro stations are architectural wonders.

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Dubai’s skyline

The Palm Jumeirah

For those looking for an island holiday, Dubai offers unique artificial islands. While most are still under construction, The Palm Jumeirah has been around for over a decade and offers beaches, hotels and restaurants. Inspired by Dubai’s traditional tree, this island is shaped like a massive palm tree spreading into the ocean. Even better than visiting the Palm Jumeirah is to take a helicopter tour and see it from above.

The Palm Jumeirah, Dubai

Burj Khalifa

The Burj Khalifa is the tallest building in the world, and making a trip to the top is a memorable experience. From the beach to the desert, the whole of Dubai can be seen from up there. The building is over 800 meters tall and has 163 floors. The Burj Khalifa is home to numerous hotels and restaurants, and is an ideal place to watch the sunset.

The Burj Khalifa, Dubai

Dubai’s Nightlife

For those who like to party, this city is all about its nightclubs and bars, open every night of the week. With some household names such as White Dubai , Blue Marlin and Cirque Le Soir , this city doesn’t take a single night off. Bars are also open every night and come in different themes and styles.

Gardens in the Desert

Considering Dubai’s climate and geography, it’s hard to believe that it would have any greenery. However, the artificial gardens will leave anyone amazed. In winter, when flowers bloom, driving around Dubai will allow visitors to see colorful and impressive gardens in the middle of the city. For those who love nature, Dubai Miracle Garden is a must visit, known for its sculptures made solely of flowers that mimic castles, airplanes and even the Burj Khalifa.

The Dubai Miracle Garden

The Gold Souk

Dubai is widely known for its amazing Gold Souk, which offers dozens of jewelry stores selling gold, silver and precious stones. Check out the world’s largest gold ring, weighing almost 64 kilograms. The gold souk is located in old Dubai, and is a real contrast to the newer side of the city. The traditional market looks simple until one starts window shopping and sees some of the most astonishing jewelry designs. The most impressive part? None of the stores have security guards protecting the priceless jewelry. Dubai is largely a safe city, and theft is not a concern in the Gold Souk.

The Gold Souk, Dubai

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Home » Middle East » Travel Safety

Is Dubai SAFE to Visit? (2024 • Insider Tips)

Dubai is definitely a cool place to visit. There is something satisfying about a giant urban oasis in the middle of the desert.

But beneath the veneer of shiny malls and luxury hotels, there are a lot of rules in Dubai. Local laws and customs forbid many things that you wouldn’t consider crimes at home, and a fair few tourists get caught out, fined, arrested, or even deported (if you’re unlucky).

These rules, plus a location amidst a few potential problem countries mean that it’s fair to ask “ Is Dubai safe ?”

In this guide, I’m going to be covering a whole range of relevant topics, from whether or not it’s safe to drive in Dubai to putting aside concerns   for the travelling ladies. Whatever your questions may be, I’m here to help you figure it all out and travel smart!

Let’s see what Dubai has to offer…

why not travel to dubai

There is no such thing as a perfect safety guide, and this article is no different. The question of “Is Dubai Safe?” will ALWAYS have a different answer depending on the parties involved. But this article is written for savvy travellers from the perspective of savvy travellers.

The information present in this safety guide was accurate at the time of writing, however, the world is a changeable place, now more than ever. Between the pandemic, ever-worsening cultural division, and a click-hungry media, it can be hard to maintain what is truth and what is sensationalism.

Here, you will find safety knowledge and advice for travelling Dubai. It won’t be down to the wire cutting edge info on the most current events, but it is layered in the expertise of veteran travellers. If you use our guide, do your own research, and practise common sense, you will have a safe trip to Dubai.

If you see any outdated information in this guide, we would really appreciate it if you could reach out in the comments below. We strive to provide the most relevant travel information on the web and always appreciate input from our readers (nicely, please!). Otherwise, thanks for your ear and stay safe!

It’s a wild world out there. But it’s pretty damn special too. 🙂

why not travel to dubai

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Is it Safe to Visit Dubai Right Now?

Safest places in dubai, 20 top tips for travelling safely to dubai, is dubai safe to travel alone, is dubai safe for solo female travelers, is dubai safe for families, getting around dubai safely, crime in dubai, dubai safety in a snapshot, faqs about staying safe in dubai, so, is dubai safe.

Yep, travelling to Dubai is typically safe . Crime rates are low, security is kept sharp, and general day-to-day existence is pretty menial.

But it’s still an Islamic country – many foreigners often find themselves on the wrong side of the law for things you wouldn’t think twice about doing at home. Needless to say, this isn’t the usual stuff that lands you in jail in your home country, and staying out of trouble can be a surprising task.

Some Dubai citizens recognise that their laws don’t keep up with modern-day society, but this doesn’t stop them from being real and acted upon.

On the other hand, because the laws are so strict and the penalty severe, it means Dubai has a low crime rate. Swings and roundabouts…

Another thing to know is, if you’re wondering about the safety when it comes to Dubai vs Qatar , it’s pretty darn similar.

Dubai's City Walk street art

Because of things going on in the  Middle East,  terrorists have been threatening the Gulf region.  So it pays to be vigilant and to keep an eye on local news reports, for any change in the Middle East peace situation.

There have been instances of terrorists targeting the UAE , especially from Yemen using missiles and drone strikes. While missiles are usually shot down, terrorism is a real threat that is difficult to prepare for. Thankfully, it is still a low risk .

Also, since June 2017 there have been no diplomatic relations with Qatar. Be careful what you say on Facebook. Sympathising with  Qatar  will not be taken well (with a high possibility of arrest and/or prison).

So whilst Dubai is safe to visit from a technical, it’s not a very liberal one and is extremely complicated. Consider thin ice, in a sense.

While pretty much all of the city is super safe, some neighbourhoods in Dubai are simply better than others. I’ve listed the best (and safest) below. It is well known that Dubai is a supremely expensive place to habit, so be prepared for some truly unfair prices!

How Safe is Dubai

  • Jumeriah : Jumeriah is a stunning district along the Persian Gulf shoreline and is where you will find the most diverse population. You’ll find the iconic Burj al Arab hotel near this area, Jumeirah beach, and many hidden gems that will blow your mind. The district is full of luxury resorts and hotels, plus some high-end shopping malls and top-notch restaurants.
  • The Marina: If you’re looking to enjoy a few drinks, dance the night away, and find the best restaurants in Dubai, then The Marina is the best neighbourhood for you. This area is more for business travellers and tourists, and is more glitzy and glamorous rather than historical. It’s quite touristy and so one of the safest neighbourhoods.
  • Downtown Dubai: You’ll find the most attractions in Downtown Dubai, such as the incredible Dubai Mall, Burj Khalifa, famous indoor ski slopes, and Dubai Fountain. There are some nice parks and recreation grounds here and it’s got easy transport links to anywhere you want to go. It’s probably the safest area to stay in and ideal for first-time visitors or families.

Places to Avoid in Dubai

Luckily, Dubai is a safe place and most neighbourhoods would be fine to stay in. There’s really only one or two areas in Dubai that are known for being slightly dodgy. However, they still have a low crime rate because of Dubai’s serious consequences. 

  • Sonapur – the ‘ghetto’ of Dubai, this district is packed with the low paid international ‘workers’ (Dubai has questionable ethics when it comes to LIC foreigners). It’s near the airport, and there is nothing to see, so it’s likely you won’t even know it is here.
  • Deserts (seasonal) – in the summer, the deserts become boiling seas of sand which can melt a man. Stay away!
  • Diera – this town just outside the city is home to another wave of international workers (mainly Asian). Whilst it is predominantly safe (more so than Sonapur), it might be worth avoiding if you really want to bubble-wrap your trip.

Dubai is predominantly a super-safe city. You should have no trouble travelling here and having an excellent time!

A well-lit buidling in Dubai

Dubai is a very cool and safe place to visit. All that city to explore with cocktail bars and infinity pools at your fingertips, excursions out into the desert, and islands to discover just off the coast. There’s a lot going for it and a lot of amazing places to visit in Dubai .

As we said, Dubai comes packed with a whole lot of rules. Maybe that’s what makes it so safe to visit, maybe not. But this city really is strict on everybody who finds themselves there, including tourists.   At the end of the day, to stay safe in Dubai and out of the eyes of the law, I’d recommend not breaking any of the extensive rules that are in place here: the best solution for a trouble-free trip!

So here are our travel tips for Dubai!

  • Be conscious of Ramadan  – Read up on the do’s and don’t’s of Ramadan before travelling to Dubai.
  • Keep away from any drugs – Serious consequences with almost zero tolerance. Even drugs in your bloodstream count as “possession”   – A very literal interpretation, but still, zero-tolerance applies.
  • No pornography and no pork products – Both are illegal.
  • Low crime doesn’t mean any crime – It may be safe, but you should still be mindful of your belongings and surroundings. Be smart and use a money belt when in Dubai.
  • Alcohol must be drunk in licensed venues  – Hotels, restaurants, bars, etc… Anywhere else and you could face arrest.
  • You cannot be drunk in public  – Tourists have been arrested because of this.
  • Get the approval of banned substances before you go – Some medications might contain “drugs” so you must get pre-approval.
  • Don’t swear in English or gesture obscenely  – Again, you could go to prison, especially when talking to officials or police. This includes online behaviour too.
  • Sex outside of marriage is illegal – If the UAE authorities find out, you might get arrested or deported.
  • Don’t share a hotel room – Or just say you’re married or related.
  • If you find out you’re pregnant in Dubai and you’re not married – You could get arrested and you won’t even be allowed to register the birth.
  • Photographers, be careful – You can’t snap government buildings, military installations, anybody (without permission), aeroplanes.
  • Don’t criticise or ridicule the UAE – Online or otherwise. Not just the government, but UAE organisations. People have been detained and prosecuted under this law.
  • Only swim at approved beaches  – Take heed of red flags and warning signs.
  • The desert is hot  – In the height of the extreme heat, not everything will be open.
  • Don’t accept “lifts” from strangers – It’s just not a good idea.
  • With all these laws to think about, keep a cool head – if you find yourself in trouble, being agitated or arguing won’t help you or your situation. It’ll probably make it worse .

Is Dubai safe to travel alone

Doing things on your own terms, planning a trip to Dubai your way, challenging yourself whilst you see the world, properly getting into different cultures, and learning a thing or two about yourself: these are just some of the reasons why we think solo travel is as great as it is.

But, like everything in life, there can be some downsides. One of those is the solo travel blues: a cocktail of one part loneliness, one part jaded cynicism, and one part needing a smoke and a lay. Ironically, that’s not allowed in Dubai.

All the same, Dubai has a ton of things to do and is a crazy interesting city most importantly, Dubai is safe to travel alone! Keep your nose clean and you’ll have a great time!  Here are some pointers to do it like a pro.

  • Book yourself a budget-friendly accommodation in Dubai. If you’re backpacking Dubai on a budget, there are hostels, however, make sure you do some research. You’re going to want to stay in a social hostel in Dubai , so read reviews and pick a hostel that suits you.
  • There also are 3-star hotels in Downtown Dubai , if you can afford them. There, you can stay amongst a ton of restaurants, and busy streets, and keep yourself active and interested in the city.
  • Plan the right time to go. Dubai is super hot in the summer and because of this, some attractions might not be open. Choose the best time to visit Dubai carefully to make sure you have the best holiday.
  • Another option for solo travellers in Dubai is Airbnb.  This is a good way to meet and interact with locals. You could also opt for a homestay, which will be a different way to see the city away from all the skyscrapers and luxury hotels.
  • Book yourself on an organised tour and make some friends. Dubai is generally a social city, but if you’re by yourself it can be pretty isolating. Booking a tour is a super good way to meet fellow travellers and make new friends.
  • Get yourself a Dubai SIM card at the airport. This way, you can use Google Maps and not get too lost whilst exploring the city. Not going off-grid will help if you find yourself in trouble; people will know where you are, where you’re staying in Dubai, and what you’re up to.
  • Men need to think about how they dress, too. You’ll need to be covering up at least to the knee and your upper arms should be covered. You’ll get respect for being respectful.
  • Take your time. Don’t feel like you have to do everything the guidebook tells you to. Take some time off and don’t get burned out by whizzing around the city trying to tick everything off.
  • Know what to pack for Dubai .  You don’t want to be lugging around a lot of excess baggage in any city anywhere in the world really – and definitely not in the heat of Dubai.
  • Don’t be afraid to head out into the city at night!  There are live music events or head to a bar – a good place to get chatting to fellow travellers and ex-pat.

Dubai is definitely safe for solo travellers, however, it’s not always the most social place. You may find yourself going to a lot of effort to try to make friends or even just get chatting to somebody.

Homestays might make the experience of a trip to Dubai a lot more interesting, but the most important thing is to remember the rules!

Is Dubai safe for women

Surprisingly, Dubai is safe for women travellers. In fact, it’s one of the safest Middle Eastern cities for women. A lot of females do go by themselves to Dubai either for travel or work… It’s definitely one of the more liberal cities you’re going to find in this region.

There are definitely some things to keep in mind when you’re travelling to Dubai as a solo female traveller but Dubai is one of the more liberal cities in the UAE. In general, you’re going to be safe here.

However, still, apply basic travel safety precautions . That means being careful walking around at night, watching your drink when you’re out in bars, asking the right people for help, etc. Some other unique precautions applicable to Dubai are – not looking men in the eye, not talking to taxi drivers, and in some instances, lying about being married.

  • Attacks and sexual assaults are pretty rare, but they do happen. Be careful if you’re heading out by yourself in places where there are not a lot of people.
  • If you are sexually assaulted or raped, the burden of proof is on the victim.  For example, in Dubai in 2013 a Norwegian woman who reported her rape to police was convicted of sex outside marriage and illegal consumption of alcohol.
  • Don’t leave your drink unattended. And don’t accept drinks from strangers. Drink spiking happens here, too.
  • Men in the Emirates often turn to foreign women for sexual encounters. Emirati women are supposed to be virgins until marriage, so Western women are seen as “the alternative”. Expect some attention.
  • It might be helpful to wear a wedding ring – even if you’re not married. And another thing you may want to do is wear dark glasses as even eye contact could be seen as flirting. When you’re walking around, walk confidently and try your best not to look lost even if you are.
  • Avoid walking around at night by yourself. Dubai may be generally safe, but best to be extra careful, especially in quieter areas of the city or on deserted streets. Some women travellers get mistaken for sex workers.
  • If you need to get around at night, get a taxi. Use a reputable taxi company and when you do get in, sit in the backseat and don’t be too chatty with the driver. This can be misconstrued.
  • Pink Taxis is a good service for women travelers and families. The drivers are all women who wear pink headscarves. Also, this company is super cool because these drivers do tours as well!
  • You might see other female travellers wearing shorts and t-shirts. But don’t do what they do – you should dress modestly. That means covering your legs and upper arms. You’ll get a warmer welcome from Emirati people for being respectful of their way of life, too.
  • On public transport, you should sit in the women-only section. This is usually at the front. Similarly, if you’re eating out by yourself, some establishments have family sections where you can choose to sit.
  • If you need any help, – it’s probably best to ask another woman . Although some men can be helpful too.

Dubai is really quite safe for families. You might think it’s all skyscrapers and deserts, but there’s a lot to do with your children here.

You can keep cool in the summer with loads of beautiful public beaches in Dubai , and those resorts come complete with kids’ clubs to keep the rugrats entertained. For those who are a little more adventurous, you can try out sandboarding or even go on an overnight desert safari.

In the hottest months of the year, temperatures hit the roof, so you’re going to want to stay out of the sun and keep in the shade as much as possible. The heat can be dangerous, but there are huts and places along the beach to rest up & hydrate. Picking the right time to visit Dubai is essential!

Is Dubai safe to travel to for families

You can take your kids to the more high-end restaurants, but it’s probably going to be a little stressful keeping them under control! Food courts in shopping malls are going to be filled with all the food they’re going to want anyway. Top tip: BookMunch Cafe is a fun place for kids.

Don’t expect cars to have car seats though, so bring your own if you need one. Pushchairs are ok too, especially around malls, but you won’t be walking a lot. There’s not a lot of pavements and it’s too hot. Plus, kids under five ride free on public transport anyway.

If a child is travelling with someone that has a different surname, you’ll need to have an authorised letter and a copy of the birth certificate. Split families/adoption are less of thing, so you’ll need this to prove guardianship.

Children can usually dress how they want, but teenagers will have to adhere to the same standards as adults – dress modestly.

The public transport in Dubai is safe, and you’re going to want to use it. As we mentioned before, it gets super hot in Dubai. Walking is not an option. If you try, be prepared to be a puddle in seconds.

First things first: get yourself a Nol Card. This is an IC card for all public transport in Dubai ( ‘Nol’ means ‘fare’ in Arabic). All you do is tap it and go. You have to have one for the bus, and the metro.

Is it safe to drive in Dubai

Buses run on 125 routes all over the city and they’re relied upon by every-day, working people of Dubai. They’re mercifully equipped with air-con… even the bus stops have air-con!

Then there’s the metro, which is ultra-modern. There are only two lines: the Red Line, which runs from Dubai International Airport to Jebel Ali and the Green Line, which goes from Dubai Airport Free Zone to Dubai Creek . It’s in Arabic and English, and what’s more: it’s driverless. The first of its kind in the world.

Men should be careful not to go into the female-only sections of the metro, or they’ll be fined. Also, there is no eating, no drinking, and no chewing gum allowed on the metro in Dubai, which saves on cleaning bills I am certain.

Taxis are pretty easy to find and are generally safe, and Uber is a good option too! For girls, the pink cabs are an excellent way to be extra safe when getting around.

As previously mentioned, the crime rate in Dubai is amongst the lowest in the world. The murder rate is minimal, with the most common crimes being drug-related or theft. However, even these are statistically unlikely to occur to you, given their low levels. It is more likely that you accidentally (or on purpose) commit an offence that is against the strict Sharia law. Staying out of trouble is a more difficult task than avoiding crime, especially if you plan on butchering a couple of nights out.

The U.S. travel authority places the UAE as a level 2 country and indicates that there is still a risk of terrorist incursions from Yemen. However, given the heightened security and location of Dubai, the risk is minimal in the city.

Laws in Dubai

Staying in top of the unfamiliar Dubai law is a must. Remember that mistakes (and disrepect) are particularly common during Ramadan, and if you are visiting religious sites. Here are some laws you should keep an eye out for during your stay in Dubai:

  • You must obtain a liquor licence if you plan on drinking alcohol at home. Restaurants and hotels are generally more relaxed.
  • Drinking in public/being drunk in public is illegal. The drinking age is 21.
  • If you engage in extra-marital relations, your partner (or any of your parents) can file a complaint which will result in heavy fines/jail time.
  • Sex between two adults over 18 is acceptable (even unmarried), but anyone under 18 is considered a minor. You could be in major trouble for sleeping with a 17-year-old.
  • Porn is very illegal, so make sure you aren’t carrying anything overly saucy!
  • Drug tolerance is extremely low. Even having small amounts in your bloodstream (weed, anything) can land you in jail or incur heavy fines.
  • Same-sex relationships are not allowed. If you are found to be doing it with another member of the same gender, it is jail for you!
  • Don’t show public affection. It is considered super unacceptable.
  • Don’t criticise the government (especially on social media). They will find you.
  • Don’t take photos of government buildings. They don’t like it very much.
  • Don’t cross-dress. They will know.

Dubai, whatever you might think of it, is still pretty cool. The fact that humans have managed to build gleaming skyscrapers on a stretch of desert coastline is enough to attract curious city lovers to see what it’s all about. Since the discovery of oil in the 1960s, the city has been on the rise.

Dubai actually has a really low crime rate. Violent crime is rare. You may get some petty theft and bag snatching in crowded areas but besides this, Dubai is safe to travel to.

It’s the law itself that you’re going to want to protect yourself from. It’s an interpretation of Sharia law, which makes petty things like cross-dressing illegal. And don’t even think about kissing in public; you could get arrested. There’s a whole host of intricacies you’ll need to stay on top of in order to backpack Dubai safely.

A peaceful Mosque and safe to visit in DUbai

There’s also a threat of conflict, due to its position on the Arabian Peninsula  and just how near Dubai is to the Middle East and  Yemen.

Simple stuff like swimming in the Gulf can also be dangerous: there are strong currents here. Even confident swimmers are at risk of being swept away. Also, the desert heat is sweltering.

The UAE as a whole ranks on 2022’s Global Peace Index at 52 out of 163 countries . Dubai Police Force is actually equipped with some pretty high-tech stuff and there’s CCTV all over the place. This combination means they’re actually pretty effective at catching crimes.

Dubai Travel Insurance

Before you get out your suitcase and start packing, there’s one other thing you might want to have a think about. Getting travel insurance for your vacation is not the most fun part of trip planning but it’s a good idea to consider it. 

Basically, travel insurance can really help out when things go wrong. It could be a delayed flight, an injury, or lost luggage. All of these mishaps can and do happen to people on vacation. Having that extra cushion can really ease any problems that might occur. 

There are plenty of providers out there to choose from but why not check Heymondo? Heymondo are up-to-date when it comes to combining travel insurance with technology in the digital world of 2024.

What truly sets them apart is their assistance app offering a 24-hour medical chat, free emergency assistance calls and incident management. How reassuring is that?! They also have a convenient and complication-free way to make a claim straight from your phone.

Wondering how big your travel budget for Dubai should be? The city is known for its over-the-top restaurants, lifestyles, and attractions, but that doesn’t mean the city isn’t visitable for backpackers. There are plenty of ways to keep money in your bank account while exploring Dubai! 

Here are some quick answers to common questions about safety in Dubai.

Is it Safe to Travel to Dubai as a Woman?

Yes . While you should consider dressing modestly to avoid unwanted attention, it is safe to travel to Dubai as a female traveller. Even dressing casually is becoming more and more acceptable in Dubai, and there is an exceptionally low crime rate throughout the city. Solo female travellers heading to Dubai should have no problem navigating the city!

Are there any Places to Avoid in Dubai?

Not really . While this is a suspiciously vague answer, it does encapsulate the situation. Dubai has a low crime rate throughout, and the risks of crime are exceptionally low wherever you go, however, some sources say that Sonapur can feel more dangerous, given it’s poorer inhabitants.

Is Dubai Safe at Night?

Yes, Dubai is safe at night. However, just like in any city, risks are increased after dark. Make sure you stay in lit areas and try to avoid quiet areas by taking taxis. Girls may be mistaken for sex workers in some cases, which is why it pays to cover up in Dubai. Generally, however, you should have no problems at night.

Is Dubai safe for LGBTQ+ members?

Unfortunately, the answer to this question is a clear no. The LGBTQ+ community has not been accepted in the UAE. All sexual relations outside of heterosexual marriage are criminalized. Punishments can include jail time, floggings, death, fines, and deportation.

Is it Safe to Live in Dubai?

A lot of non-Emirati people live in Dubai. The  United Arab Emirates  is home to over 200 different nationalities, with a lot of ex-pats living in Dubai safely. The country as a whole is actually home to the highest percentage of immigrants in the world. People make their homes here from across the globe. There are a lot of cool places in Dubai to live in. You can head to Mirdif,  which is a suburban sort of place with its own shops and schools. There’s also  Al Garhoud.  This place is close to a lot of Old Dubai establishments, including  Irish Village  – an actual pub with a beer garden. Jumeirah  is right on the beach if you like being near the beach. There’s also International City , which is a cheaper place to live. The name lends itself to, well, international people. Join the ex-pat community in Dubai! There’s a lot of stuff to enjoy and a lot of decent places to live in Dubai. However, there are limitations too. Aside from the extreme heat, there are laws and society in general. You will probably have to edit yourself and the way you dress to fit in. Also, you will need a liquor license to drink alcohol at your house. This is pretty mad if you’re from a Western country. You’ll also need a permit to even drink in a licensed venue. You won’t need to learn much Arabic as most people can speak English. You can if you want  –  and it’ll probably open up another world for you – but it’s not necessary (though it can be fun to learn a new language !) Dubai life is not laid-back. It’s a busy, fast-paced city that’s not very relaxing. High stress and low downtime… But if that sounds like you, you’ll love it. It’s an adventurous, high octane, business-minded sort of place to base yourself for a while. And if you’ve bagged yourself a job here already, chances are you’ll be earning a good amount of cash.

Usually, when we’re talking about how safe a country is, we mean pickpockets, robbery, and violence. But all of this is almost non-existent in Dubai! It does happen, but it’s not what you should be the most worried about when you visit here.

Keep an eye out for the laws and traditions that might not correspond to the ones you have at home, and you should sail through a visit here without a single problem.

Think of some things you wouldn’t think would be an issue  at all  – like kissing in public, or even just flipping someone off who’s annoyed you. These are punishable crimes in Dubai with fines, prison time, or deportation. Don’t even think about criticising the government. Bad move.

Dubai Water Canal

Disclaimer: Safety conditions change all over the world on a daily basis. We do our best to advise but this info may already be outdated. Do your own research. Enjoy your travels!

why not travel to dubai

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

Nina Az

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You’ve done great work. I’d like to say something. Police is equipped with advanced technology and have a zero-tolerance policy when it comes to crime. Dubai police is also known for quick response times and ability to quickly apprehend criminals. You see there is no guard in Gold souq eve at night. Another reason for the low crime rate in Dubai is the strict immigration policies.

Thank you for this information. this has helped me alot being a woman who has tattoos and also stuck about the dress code. this insider information has helped me and to reach a decision to come

Great added insight from a local, Sarah. Thank you.

I have been a resident in Dubai for over 6 years and feel it is prudent to share my ‘local know how’. There are 20 do’s and don’ts listed above; I think it is best to highlight that most of these come down to respect. Respect in the region is expected, as is cultural sensitivity; this extends past the Emirati culture and covers all of the nationality’s this cosmopolitan city has. There were a lot of law changes in 2020 with regards to unmarried couples being allowed to live together, drinking alcohol etc so I suggest this information is perhaps updated. 1. Dressing modestly: this is true in governmental buildings, hospitals and shopping malls. Aside from doing this out of cultural respect to the Arabic country you are visiting you will be very cold if you don’t cover up as their air conditioning systems are very effective to combat the summer heat. Normal western attire is worn at the beach, hotels, resorts, to lunch, cafes, restaurants, nightclubs etc (including shorts, strap tops, little dresses, and on the beach/waterparks/pools bikinis!) 2. Ramadan: all the rules have changed since your post and been updated. I suggest this is perhaps updated too. 3. Photographs: it is illegal to take photos of other people without their express permission: this is true however, I would disclaimer and say, this is true of local authorities, (as it is in most global countries) and local people. Locals wear local dress, they are not in a costume. Just be respectful! Buildings and aircraft? Never heard or experienced this. 3. Crime. There are cultural pockets across Dubai where some nationalities are heavily populated. Given the vast cosmopolitan nature of the Dubai, it is wise to stay in Western areas to avoid feeling uncomfortable as a result of cultural differences. If you want to embrace it all, cover up more. Some nationalities are not used to seeing scantily clad females and will stare. 4. Safety: to continue on from my last point, staring is common amongst certain nationalities in less Western places. I have never had any safety concern in the UAE. You will hear amongst many a resident that they don’t lock their apartment door or they’ve lost their latest phone/money and it’s been handed in. People are very honest here and very lovely. The locals are extremely lovely people. Treat everyone with respect and behave like you were told to behave when you were a child and you will genuinely have a lovely lovely time! Keep an eye on Groupon- especially for the tourist attractions there are lots of deals on to be had! (Khalifa too!)

Thinking of a trip to Dabui. Great info. Thanks

In my experience, the Government run taxis are much cheaper than Uber.

Amazing article about Safety Tips while traveling in Dubai. You have cover amazingly all the Safety tips and tactics to keep yourself safe in dubai. As it is so hot and difficult to travel but Dubai is pretty much wonderful place to visit and explore different places such as Desert Safari Dubai, UAE Desert Safari but due to COVID’19, it is not possible to do the entertainment. When will the Tourism back after the COVID do you have any idea?

Thanks and Regard

Heya Ahmett!

The good news is that Dubai is accepting international visitors again (although this is highly subject to change). You’ll need a few things though…

  • A negative PCR test certificate showing a clean bill of health from before departure.
  • Valid travel health insurance with COVID cover.
  • Undergoing a thermal scan upon arrival.

I dunno about safaris and other tourist activities resuming, but I know Dubai is pretty keen to get its tourism economy kicking back up as well as its status as an international hub of commerce. I imagine Dubai is one of the destinations that is going to fare better than most for the remainder of 2020.

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UAE travel advice: is it safe to travel to Dubai right now?

Following uk and us strikes on houthi bases in yemen, the foreign office has updated its travel advice for the uae, which includes dubai and abu dhabi.

why not travel to dubai

T he UAE is home to the two most popular Middle Eastern destinations for tourists, Dubai and Abu Dhabi. Each offers dazzling cities, vast deserts and gorgeous beaches. In Dubai, you’ll see the world’s tallest skyscraper, resort hotels that compete in extravagance, and dinky wooden boats that still ply the creek. Abu Dhabi, while smaller and less glitzy, is home to thrilling theme parks and stunning architecture. And just inland lies the desert from which all of this sprang, and where you can still get a sense of life in the tented camps of pre-oil days.

While there are concerns over rising tensions in the Middle East due to the conflict between Israel and Hamas, especially following the US and UK strikes on Houthi bases in Yemen, the United Arab Emirates hasn’t been affected. Here’s what you need to know.

Main photo: the Dubai skyline with the Burj Khalifa at dawn (Getty Images)

What’s the latest advice about travelling to the UAE?

A fountain show in Dubai (Alamy)

Currently the Foreign Office does not advise against travelling to the UAE. However, following the joint US and UK strikes on Houthi bases in Yemen on January 11, it cautioned that the situation could change.

The Foreign Office said: “Military activity is currently underway in response to attempts by Houthi militants to prevent movement of international shipping in the Red Sea. While the area of activity is limited to the Red Sea and Yemen, there is a possibility that travel advice for nearby countries could change at short notice. You should continue to monitor travel advice and follow any relevant instructions from local authorities.”

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In October 2023, the Foreign Office also updated its travel advice to state that terror attacks are “likely”, and that they could be “indiscriminate, including in places visited by foreigners.” They recommend that tourists should be vigilant in public places and at public events, stay alert and follow the advice of local authorities.

Has Dubai been affected by the Israel-Hamas conflict?

Dubai , Abu Dhabi and the rest of the United Arab Emirates are not currently affected by the conflict between Israel and Hamas.

Here’s what you need to know about the travel advice for neighbouring countries

• Is it safe to travel to Israel right now? • Is it safe to travel to Turkey right now? • Is it safe to travel to Egypt right now? • Is it safe to travel to Cyprus right now? • Is it safe to travel to Jordan right now?

Can I travel to Dubai without a visa?

Tourist visas are issued to British passport holders on arrival in Dubai so there’s no need to apply in advance. It will be a stamp applied by immigration officials in their passport. The tourist visa is free and lasts for 30 days.

If you’ve been to Israel in the past and there’s evidence of this in your passport, you can enter the UAE as normal as long as you don’t intend on doing any work. However, if you are planning to work, you may be subject to further checks and entry may be denied.

Can you drink in Dubai?

The bar at restaurant Pierchic, Jumeirah Al Qasr (Alamy)

Visitors and residents can drink at home and in licensed venues, such as hotels, restaurants and clubs. Visitors will need a liquor licence to buy alcohol from the two shops that sell alcohol in Dubai, which they can obtain with their passport and entry stamp.

Is Dubai safe for LGBTQ travellers?

Same sex activities are illegal in the UAE and same sex marriages are not recognised in the country. There have been reports of punishment for same sex activities, particularly where they have caused offence or there’s a public element. The Foreign Office says that the “UAE is in many respects a tolerant society and private life is respected”.

What should I wear in Dubai?

Clothes should cover the top of the arms and legs, with no underwear or swimwear showing (Getty Images)

Women should dress modestly when in public, in areas such as shopping malls and parks. This means that clothes should cover the top of the arms and legs, and no underwear or swimwear should be on show. It helps to take a scarf or shawl to cover your shoulders when you need to, for example at religious sites.

If you’re at the beach or a swimming pool, swimwear is acceptable.

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United Arab Emirates

Travel Advisory July 13, 2023

United arab emirates - level 2: exercise increased caution.

Reissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed.

Exercise increased caution in the United Arab Emirates due to   the threat of missile or drone attacks and terrorism.

Country Summary:  The possibility of attacks affecting U.S. citizens and interests in the Gulf and Arabian Peninsula remains an ongoing, serious concern.  Militant groups operating in Yemen have stated an intent to attack neighboring countries, including the UAE, using missiles and drones.  Missile and drone attacks in early 2022 targeted populated areas and civilian infrastructure.

Due to risks to civil aviation operating within the Persian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman region, including the United Arab Emirates, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has issued an advisory Notice to Air Missions (NOTAM). For more information U.S. citizens should consult the  Federal Aviation Administration’s Prohibitions, Restrictions and Notices .

While residents and visitors generally find a safe and secure environment in the UAE, the country continues to face the threat of terrorism.  Terrorists may attack with little or no warning, targeting tourist locations, transportation hubs, markets, shopping malls, and local government facilities.

Read the  country information page  for additional information on travel to the United Arab Emirates.

If you decide to travel to the United Arab Emirates:

  • Monitor local media for breaking events and be prepared to adjust your plans.
  • Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
  • Follow the Department of State on  Facebook   and  Twitter .
  • Review the  Country Security Report  for the United Arab Emirates.
  • Visit the CDC page for the latest  Travel Health Information  related to your travel.
  • Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the  Traveler’s Checklist .

Embassy Messages

View Alerts and Messages Archive

Quick Facts

6 months validity after date of arrival. 12-page U.S. emergency passports are not accepted. Passports with the “X” gender marker are not accepted.

One page required for entry stamp

Not required for tourist stays under 30 days

Embassies and Consulates

U.s. embassy abu dhabi.

Embassies District, Plot 38, Sector W59-02, Street No. 4. Abu Dhabi, U.A.E. Telephone: +(971) (2) 414-2200 Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(971) (0) 2-414-2200 Fax: +(971) (2) 414-2241 Email:   [email protected]

U.S. Consulate General Dubai Corner of Al Seef Rd. and Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Rd Dubai, U.A.E. Telephone: +(971) (4) 309-4000 Emergency Telephone: +(971) (4) 309-4000 Fax: +(971) (4) 311-6213 Email:   [email protected]

Note: The normal work week in the UAE is Monday through Friday.

Destination Description

Learn about the U.S. relationship to countries around the world.

Entry, Exit and Visa Requirements

COVID-19 Requirements: There are no COVID-related entry requirements for U.S. citizens.

U.S. citizens are subject to all UAE immigration laws.

  • Passport Validity:  A passport valid for at least six months beyond the date of entry is required to enter the UAE. The UAE government does not accept 12-page emergency passports for entry to the UAE. The UAE government also does not accept passports with the “X” gender marker for travel to, in, or through the UAE. Travelers with these passports will be denied boarding or entry.
  • Personal travel of 30 days or less:  A U.S. citizen with a regular (non-emergency) passport with an M or F gender marker may obtain a no fee visitor visa upon arrival. The UAE government does not accept passports with the “X” gender marker for travel to, in, or through the UAE. Travelers with these passports will be denied boarding or entry.
  • Stays longer than 30 days:  Visitors on a 30-day visa may request a visa extension, which is at the discretion of immigration officials. Anyone planning to work or study in the UAE must obtain the appropriate visa.
  • Medical Exam:  A full medical exam is required for work or residence permits. The exam and tests for HIV/AIDS, viral hepatitis B, tuberculosis, leprosy, and pregnancy must be performed after arrival. U.S. citizens have been detained and deported for testing positive for HIV, active tuberculosis, or hepatitis. Medical exams performed outside of the UAE will not be accepted.
  • Travel on Diplomatic or Official Passports:  U.S. citizens traveling to or through the UAE on diplomatic or official passports are required to obtain a visa before travel (transit passengers only require a visa if exiting the airport). This requirement is strictly enforced by UAE officials and those not meeting the requirement will be denied entry. U.S. military travelers should not assume military ID cards will be accepted, but should consult the Foreign Clearance Guide.

Land Exit Departure Fee:  All travelers who depart the UAE by land and who are not citizens of a Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) country must pay a departure fee. The fee is 35 UAE dirhams and is payable only in the local currency.

Please verify this information with the  Embassy of the United Arab Emirates  before you travel.

Exit Controls:  The UAE maintains tight exit controls. All travelers must exit the country with the passport on which they entered. Travelers should visit a UAE immigration office prior to departure to obtain an exit pass if they plan to leave the UAE without the passport on which they entered.

Travelers both departing the UAE and transiting will be barred from exiting the UAE if there are any criminal or civil legal cases against them. Travelers have been arrested at the airport and have had their passports seized due to outstanding financial cases, unsettled legal disputes, and late credit card payments, including for cases that were previously unknown to the traveler. In such cases, some individuals have been arrested and detained for long periods of time. Individuals will be barred from leaving the UAE until legal cases are settled in full. This affects all persons whether they are in the UAE as residents, tourists, or transit passengers with no intention of exiting the airport. UAE residents can verify with UAE authorities whether they have an exit ban due to outstanding cases in Dubai or Abu Dhabi. More information on this process can be found on the  UAE Government Portal .

The Government of the UAE requires that all persons residing in the country have a national identification card. U.S. citizens who are working or living in the UAE should visit the  Emirates Identity Authority website  for more information on card registration procedures and requirements.

Cancellation of Visas:  All UAE visas must be formally cancelled through the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) before a new visa can be issued. This includes visas that have already expired or have never been used. Travelers may be denied entry to, or not permitted to depart, the UAE if previous visas have not been properly cancelled. More information on the process is available on the  UAE Government portal .

Dual Nationality:  The UAE does not recognize dual nationality. The UAE recognizes only the citizenship of the passport on which a person enters the UAE. The embassy may be prohibited from providing certain consular services to those who did not enter the UAE on a U.S. passport.

The UAE has imposed HIV/AIDS travel restrictions on all foreigners seeking residency. Travelers for tourism are not tested or requested to provide information about HIV/AIDS status. Please verify this information with the  Embassy of the UAE  before you travel. Information about  dual nationality  and the  prevention of international child abduction  can be found on our website. For further information about customs regulations, please read the embassy’s  Customs Information page .

Current restrictions:

Weapons and Law Enforcement Equipment:  The transportation of arms or items that may be considered law enforcement or military equipment is strictly prohibited without written approval from the UAE government. Do not transport any arms or items that may be considered law enforcement or military equipment. Such items include, but are not limited to:

  • Weapon parts and tools
  • Functional, inert, or decorative ammunition, even one bullet
  • Empty or spent shell casings
  • Any other military or police equipment

U.S. citizens, military personnel, and U.S. government/military contractors found to be carrying such items, even in the smallest quantities, will be arrested and face strict criminal penalties, including imprisonment, large monetary fines, forfeiture of the items, and deportation , even though airlines and U.S. authorities allowed shipment on a U.S.-originating flight.

Other prohibited items:  Importation of the following items is also prohibited under UAE law: pornographic material, non-Islamic religious pamphlets for missionary activities, e-cigarettes, fireworks, ivory, chemical and organic fertilizers, laser pointers, radar jammers/other unauthorized communication devices, products and medications containing cannabidiol (CBD), endangered animal species, and any objects, sculptures, paintings, books or magazines which do not adhere to the religious and moral values of the UAE. Possession of any of these items can lead to detention and lengthy jail sentences.

Safety and Security

Terrorism: Terrorist groups and those inspired by such organizations are intent on attacking U.S. citizens abroad. Terrorists are increasingly using less sophisticated methods of attack – including knives, firearms, and vehicles – to more effectively target crowds. Frequently, their aim is unprotected or vulnerable targets, such as:

  • High-profile public events (sporting contests, political rallies, demonstrations, holiday events, celebratory gatherings, etc.)
  • Hotels, clubs, and restaurants frequented by tourists
  • Places of worship
  • Shopping malls and markets
  • Public transportation systems (including subways, buses, trains, and scheduled commercial flights)

U.S. citizens in the United Arab Emirates should exercise a high level of security awareness. The possibility of terrorist attacks against U.S. citizens and interests in the Gulf and Arabian Peninsula remains a serious concern. The UAE’s normalization of relations with Israel in September 2020 increased the potential for attacks in the UAE, including by Iran-backed entities. Separately, rebel groups operating in Yemen have stated an intent to attack neighboring countries, including the UAE, using missiles and unmanned aerial systems (drones). Yemen-based Houthi rebels claimed responsibility for missile and drone attacks against the UAE on January 17 and 24, 2022, targeting populated areas and civilian infrastructure.  The January 17 attack resulted in multiple impact sites in Abu Dhabi and three fatalities. The Houthi rebels have publicly stated their intent to continue such attacks. In the event of a missile and/or drone strike, follow the guidance found here .

Both historical and current information suggest that the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS), al-Qaida, and affiliated organizations continue to plan attacks against Western targets; these attacks may employ a wide variety of tactics, including suicide operations, assassination, kidnapping, hijacking, and bombing.

For more information, see our Terrorism page.

Boating: The UAE and Iran have had a long-standing dispute concerning jurisdiction of Abu Musa, approximately 20 miles from Dubai. Fishing or sailing in these waters may result in seizure of vessels and detention of passengers and crew in Iran. Obtaining consular assistance in Iran for U.S. citizens is difficult and can only be done through the Swiss Embassy in Tehran , which acts as a Protecting Power, providing limited U.S. consular services.

Crime: Violent crimes and crimes against property are rare. U.S. citizens should take the same security precautions in the UAE that one would practice in the United States or any large city abroad.

Harassment and Assault: U.S. citizens, especially women, should take precautions against the possibility of verbal and physical harassment or sexual assault when walking alone, consuming alcohol, or riding in a taxi cab. Taxi passengers should avoid sitting in the front seat of a taxicab and should be sensitive that "small talk" can be misinterpreted as over-friendliness or even a form of propositioning by some taxi drivers. Taxis driven by women for the exclusive use of female passengers are available in some airports and by dispatch. Female travelers can identify these dedicated vehicles by their pink roofs.

Some victims of sexual assault have been prosecuted for violating laws against sexual relations outside of marriage. The law puts a high burden of proof on the victim to demonstrate that sex was not consensual. In cases where the victim has failed to demonstrate so, both parties have been prosecuted, and sometimes sentenced to jail time, followed by deportation.

International Financial Scams:  See the  Department of State  and the  FBI  pages for information.

Internet romance and financial scams are prevalent in the UAE. Scams are often initiated through Internet postings/profiles or by unsolicited emails and letters. Scammers almost always pose as U.S. citizens who have no one else to turn to for help. Common scams include:

  • Romance/Online dating
  • Money transfers
  • Lucrative sales
  • Gold purchase
  • Inheritance notices
  • Work permits/job offers
  • Bank overpayments

Victims of Crime: U.S. citizen victims of sexual assault are encouraged to contact the U.S. Embassy for assistance. Report crimes to the local police at 999 and contact the U.S. Embassy at +971 2 414 2200. Remember that local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crime.

See our webpage on help for U.S. victims of crime overseas .

  • Help you find appropriate medical care
  • Assist you in reporting a crime to the police
  • Contact relatives or friends with your written consent
  • Provide general information regarding the victim’s role during the local investigation and following its conclusion
  • Provide a list of local attorneys
  • Provide our information on victim’s compensation programs in the U.S.
  • Provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States and/or limited medical support in cases of destitution
  • Help you find accommodation and arrange flights home
  • Replace a stolen or lost passport

Domestic Violence:  U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence may contact the Embassy or Consulate General for assistance.

Tourism:  The tourism industry is generally regulated and rules with regard to best practices and safety inspections are regularly enforced. Hazardous areas/activities are identified with appropriate signage and professional staff is typically on hand in support of organized activities. In the event of an injury, appropriate medical treatment is widely available throughout the country. Outside of a major metropolitan center, it may take more time for first responders and medical professionals to stabilize a patient and provide life-saving assistance. U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance. See our webpage for more information on  insurance providers for overseas coverage .

Local Laws & Special Circumstances

Criminal Penalties: You are subject to local laws. If you violate local laws, even unknowingly, you may be expelled, arrested, or imprisoned. Individuals establishing a business or practicing a profession that requires additional permits or licensing should seek information from the competent local authorities, prior to practicing or operating a business.

As each emirate has its own independent judicial system, legal procedures and penalties vary throughout the country.

Furthermore, some laws are also prosecutable in the United States, regardless of local law. For examples, see our website on crimes against minors abroad and the Department of Justice website.

Arrest Notification:  UAE authorities do not routinely notify the U.S. Embassy or consulate of a U.S. citizen’s arrest.  If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to notify the U.S. Embassy or consulate immediately.  If you are not allowed to do so, ask a friend or family member to contact the U.S. Embassy or consulate. See our webpage for further information.

Alcohol:  Alcohol is sold only in very limited areas including certain restaurants and hotels. Public drunkenness and driving under the influence, regardless of one’s blood alcohol content level, are considered very serious offenses. Persons arrested on alcohol-related offenses are regularly detained for many days as they await a court hearing. Penalties may include hefty jail sentences, substantial fines and, for Muslims (even those holding U.S. citizenship), lashings. Note: The possession and consumption of alcohol is prohibited in the emirate of Sharjah.

Drugs: UAE law imposes the death sentence for convicted drug traffickers. Possession of even trace amounts of illegal drugs (including in the bloodstream) can result in lengthy prison sentences of up to 15 years. Bail generally is not granted to those accused of drug crimes.

Possession or consumption of marijuana in any form, including detections of trace amounts in the bloodstream, is illegal in the UAE, even if a doctor’s medical card is presented. Products containing cannabidiol (CBD) are illegal in the UAE. Possession or importation of CBD products, including those found in prescription and over the counter medications in the United States and other countries, are prosecuted in the same manner as marijuana possession. The UAE's anti-narcotics program also includes poppy seeds on its list of controlled substances. The importation and possession of poppy seeds in any and all forms, including as dried decorative plants, are strictly prohibited.

Persons may be charged and convicted even if the controlled substances were ingested outside of the UAE as long as traces are still present in the bloodstream upon arrival in the UAE. If suspected of being under the influence of drugs or alcohol, individuals may be required to submit to blood and/or urine tests and may be subject to prosecution.

Travelers with questions regarding the items on the list of controlled substances should contact the U.S. Embassy in Abu Dhabi or the U.S. Consulate General in Dubai .

Codes of Behavior and Dress: Public decency and morality laws throughout the UAE are much stricter than in the United States. Penalties for public displays of affection or immodesty may be imposed. Sexual relations outside marriage are illegal in the UAE and convicted individuals have been punished by lengthy jail sentences. Pregnancy outside of marriage can result in arrest and detention. Doctors may ask for proof of marriage during pre-natal visits, and those giving birth in the UAE must present a marriage certificate to receive medical care and register the child’s birth. Failure to do so has resulted in the arrests of both unmarried mothers and fathers, as well as deportation.

Individuals may be arrested, fined, and/or deported for committing any of the following acts: making rude gestures, swearing, touching another person without his/her permission, and making derogatory statements about the UAE, the royal families, the local governments or other people. Travelers should keep in mind the cultural differences among the many people who coexist in the UAE and should be cognizant that unwitting actions, including clothing choices, may invite unwanted attention.

Debt and Financial Crime:  Crimes of financial fraud, including passing bad checks and non-payment or late payment of bills (including hotel bills, hospital bills, traffic or parking fines, and late payment of credit cards, utility bills, etc.), are regarded seriously in the UAE and often result in imprisonment and/or fines. A personal check written as a guarantee for the payment of a personal or business debt may be submitted to a local bank for collection at any time for the full amount of the check. If the account holder does not have sufficient funds, he/she may be charged with passing a bad check. Bail generally is not available to non-residents of the UAE who are arrested for crimes involving fraud. Debtors can be held in prison until their debts are paid or until an agreement is reached between the parties. Passports may be seized by the UAE government to guarantee that debtors settle their cases. Financial cases may be further complicated by debtors being unable to work in the UAE without passports while still being held responsible for their debts.

Photography:  Taking photographs of UAE military facilities, sensitive civilian sites, airports, some beaches, or foreign diplomatic missions – including the U.S. Embassy or Consulate General – may result in arrest, detention, and/or prosecution by local authorities. Travelers should be aware of signs which indicate where photography is prohibited. Note that it is illegal to take photographs of other people without their consent. In addition, engaging in mapping activities, especially mapping that includes the use of GPS equipment, without coordination with UAE authorities, may have the same consequences. (This does not apply to use of publicly available online maps.)

Drone Operation: The flying of drones is prohibited in certain areas and may result in arrest and imprisonment. Individuals should not operate drones without prior approval from local authorities.

Social Media:  The UAE has strict laws regarding use of the internet and social media. Individuals have been arrested and criminally convicted for posting information on social media sites (such as Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, etc.) that local authorities determined was disturbing to the order of the UAE. Users of social media should be cautious about online posting of information that might be deemed to insult or challenge the local or national government. Individuals should avoid posting insults or derogatory information about governments, institutions, or individuals.

Charity and fundraising activities are closely regulated by the UAE government, and it is against the law to conduct any private fundraising activity online (including those conducted on popular fundraising websites for personal causes).

The UAE National Media Council has rules for conducting business as a social media influencer in the UAE. Influencers must apply for trade and e-media licenses in order to promote brands on social media in the UAE. 

Terrorist Organizations List: On November 15, 2014, the UAE government announced a list of 85 groups it considers to be terrorist organizations. Individuals who are associated with groups on the UAE list could be detained at UAE borders, have their assets frozen, and/or be prosecuted for membership in a terrorist organization.

Religious Proselytizing: While individuals are free to worship as they choose, and facilities are available for that purpose, religious proselytizing is not permitted in the UAE. Persons violating this law, even unknowingly, may be imprisoned or deported.

Employment in the UAE: Although it is common for a local sponsor to hold an employee's passport, it is illegal to do so under UAE law. Many contractual or labor disputes can be avoided by clearly establishing all terms and conditions of employment or sponsorship in the labor contract at the beginning of any employment. Should a dispute arise, the UAE Ministry of Labor has established a special department to review and arbitrate labor claims. If an employee leaves his/her job without properly canceling the employment visa, the employer can file charges that can lead to imprisonment, fines, and/or deportation. The U.S. Embassy and Consulate General do not intercede in employment disputes.

U.S. citizens have become involved in commercial or financial disputes that have prompted local firms or courts to take possession of the U.S. citizen's passport, effectively preventing the individual from leaving the UAE. In addition, local firms have been known to file criminal complaints, which may lead not only to travel restrictions but possible criminal penalties, including jail time. A list of local attorneys is available from the U.S. Embassy in Abu Dhabi and the U.S. Consulate General in Dubai.

Document Authentications: U.S. citizens intending to reside and work in the UAE are generally required by the UAE government to present authenticated personal documents for themselves and accompanying family members such as marriage and birth certificates, adoption and custody decrees, certificates of good behavior from police, and educational documents to include diplomas and certificates. The authentication of U.S. documents is done completely in the United States. For information, contact the State Department’s Office of Authentications . Determining the exact requirements with one’s prospective employer is strongly recommended before arrival in the UAE.

LGBTQI+ Travelers: The UAE government does not accept passports with the “X” gender marker. This applies to travel to, in, or through the UAE. Although the U.S. Embassy and U.S. Consulate General are not aware of any recent arrests or prosecutions for consensual, same-sex relations and cross-dressing, they remain illegal in the UAE. See our LGBTQI+ Travel Information page and section six of our Human Rights report for further details.

Travelers with Disabilities: While in the UAE, individuals with disabilities may find accessibility and accommodations somewhat different from what they find in the United States. The law prohibits discrimination against persons with disabilities in employment, education, air travel and other transportation, access to health care, or the provision of other state services, and the law is enforced. The UAE government refers to persons with disabilities as “people of determination.” Social acceptance of persons with disabilities in public is as prevalent as in the United States. The most common types of accessibility may include accessible facilities, information, and communication/access to services/ease of movement or access.

The UAE has several modern cities with good services and accessibility of lodging, public transportation, sidewalks, and buildings. Outside of newly constructed areas, accessibility is not comparable to the United States and navigating with a visual impairment or using a wheelchair is difficult due to sidewalks in disrepair or without curb cuts, poor road crossings, and inaccessible buildings and public transport. Public transportation in Dubai is wheelchair accessible. However, the buses that connect Dubai with the other emirates in the UAE are not wheelchair accessible. See the UAE government information on accessible transport and parking facilities. See our  Traveling with Disabilities  page.

Women Travelers: See our travel tips for Women Travelers .

Students: See our Students Abroad page and FBI travel tips.

Adequate health facilities are available, but health care in rural areas may be below U.S. standards. While most common conditions can be appropriately treated in the UAE, complex medical conditions may be better treated in the United States. Providers may recommend a large number of procedures and tests, some of which may be unnecessary.

  • Hospitals usually require advance payment or proof of adequate insurance before admitting a patient, except in emergencies.
  • Travelers should make efforts to obtain complete information on billing, pricing, and proposed medical procedures before agreeing to any medical care.
  • Patients bear all costs for transfer to or between hospitals.

For emergency services in the UAE, dial  999 .

Ambulance services are widely available.

We do not pay medical bills.  Be aware that U.S. Medicare does not apply overseas. Most hospitals and doctors overseas do not accept U.S. health insurance.

Medical Insurance:  Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage overseas. Most care providers overseas only accept cash payments. You may be denied care, even in an emergency, if you are unable to provide a cash deposit up-front. See  our webpage  for more information on insurance providers for overseas coverage. Visit the  U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention  for more information on type of insurance you should consider before you travel overseas.

We strongly recommend  supplemental insurance  to cover medical evacuation.

Medication:  Many prescription and over-the-counter medications are prohibited in the UAE, and possession of such substances without the appropriate approval is generally treated the same as possession of illegal narcotics. All tourists and residents of the UAE should seek prior approval, via an online form, before carrying certain types of medications, narcotics, or chemical substances to or through the UAE. The service can be accessed directly on the Ministry of Health and Prevention’s  website . Travelers can also find updated lists of prohibited medications requiring prior approval on the same website.

Travelers with prescription medication must have their prescriptions issued by licensed doctors and authenticated by the appropriate authorities. In order for a U.S. prescription to be fully authenticated, it must be authenticated by the Secretary of State of the U.S. state in which the prescribing doctor is licensed, then by the U.S. Department of State, and finally by the UAE Embassy in Washington, DC.  Additional information on authentication of documents  can be found on the State Department’s website and on the  Embassy and Consulate General website . Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription.

Further queries may be directed to the  UAE Ministry of Health’s Drug Control Department  in Abu Dhabi.

Vaccinations:  Be up-to-date on all  vaccinations  recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

For further health information, go to:

  • World Health Organization
  • U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention  (CDC)

Air Quality:  Visit  AirNow Department of State  for information on air quality at U.S. Embassies and Consulates.

  • Air pollution is a significant problem in UAE. Consider the impact seasonal smog and heavy particulate pollution may have on you, and consult your doctor before traveling if necessary.
  • People at the greatest risk from particle pollution exposure include:
  • Infants, children, and teens
  • People over 65 years of age
  • People with lung disease such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), which includes chronic bronchitis and emphysema;
  • People with heart disease or diabetes
  • People who work or are active outdoors

The U.S. Embassy and Consulate General maintain a  list of doctors and hospitals . We do not endorse or recommend any specific medical provider or clinic.

Travel and Transportation

Road Conditions and Safety: Traffic accidents are a leading cause of death in the UAE. Drivers often drive at high speeds. Unsafe driving practices are common, especially on inter-city highways. On highways, unmarked speed bumps and drifting sand create additional hazards. Pedestrians should also use great care on the roads of the UAE – over 25 percent of road fatalities are pedestrians.

The police emergency number and ambulance number is 999 . Response time by emergency services is adequate; however, medical personnel emphasize transport of the injured to the hospital rather than treatment on site.

Traffic Laws: Country-wide traffic laws impose stringent penalties for certain violations, particularly driving under the influence of alcohol. In the UAE, there is zero tolerance for driving after consuming alcohol.

Persons involved in an accident in which another party is injured automatically go to jail until the injured person is released from the hospital. Should a person die in a traffic accident, the driver of the other vehicle is liable for payment of compensation for the death (known as "dhiyya"), usually the equivalent of 55,000 U.S. dollars. Even relatively minor accidents may result in lengthy proceedings, during which both drivers may be prohibited from leaving the country.

In order to drive, UAE residents must obtain a UAE driver's license. Foreign driver’s licenses are not recognized for residents of the UAE; however, U.S. citizen visitors who are not UAE residents can drive using a valid driver’s license issued by his or her state. An international driver’s license may be required in some emirates. The UAE recognizes driver's licenses issued by other Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) states only if the bearer is driving a vehicle registered to the same GCC state. Under no circumstances should anyone drive without a valid license.

If you are in an accident, UAE law mandates that you remain at the scene until authorities arrive. The use of front seat belts is mandatory in the UAE. Driving is on the right side of the road. Speed limits are posted. Making a right turn on a red light is not permitted unless there is a special lane to do so with a yield sign. Parking is not allowed where the curb is painted black and yellow. Digital cameras are used extensively on Emirati roads for registering traffic violations, including speeding. Fines can be substantial and must be paid prior to departure from the UAE. Individuals with outstanding traffic fines may be detained at airport immigration.

Please see our Road Safety page for more information .

Aviation Safety Oversight: The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has assessed the Government of the United Arab Emirates’ Civil Aviation Authority as being in compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards for oversight of the United Arab Emirates’ air carrier operations. Further information may be found on the FAA’s safety assessment page.

Maritime Travel: Mariners planning travel to the UAE should also check for U.S. maritime advisories and alerts . Information may also be posted to the U.S. Coast Guard Homeport and the NGA Broadcast Warnings website.

For additional travel information

  • Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
  • Call us in Washington, D.C. at 1-888-407-4747 (toll-free in the United States and Canada) or 1-202-501-4444 (from all other countries) from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
  • See the  State Department’s travel website  for the  Worldwide Caution  and  Travel Advisories .
  • Follow us on  Twitter  and  Facebook .
  • See  traveling safely abroad  for useful travel tips.

United Arab Emirates was cited in the State Department’s 2023 Annual Report to Congress on International Child Abduction for demonstrating a pattern of non-compliance with respect to international parental child abduction. Review information about International Parental Child Abduction in  United Arab Emirates . For additional IPCA-related information, please see the  International Child Abduction Prevention and Return Act ( ICAPRA )  report.

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Everything you need to know about traveling to Dubai

Dubai villa overlooking a body of water

A futuristic desert metropolis oozing with style and excess, Dubai is a sparkling destination for travelers looking to enjoy the high life. Extravagant hotels, world-class shopping and dining, the biggest and tallest attractions - Dubai checks all the boxes for an indulgent holiday.

With so much to see and do in the City of Gold, we’ve compiled the best attractions Dubai has to offer, whether it’s traversing the sprawling dunes of the Arabian desert in a four-wheel drive or spending the afternoon lounging on one of the many private beaches.

Things to do in Dubai

Get your adrenaline pumping at the atlantis aquaventure waterpark.

Aquaconda, Dubai Aquaventure Waterpark

Dubai’s biggest water park is home to a number of world-famous rides, including the ‘Leap of Faith’ , which tests even the bravest of thrill-seekers by putting them through a near-vertical, nine-story drop. For an adrenaline-pumping free-falling experience, the Poseidon’s Revenge lets you feel the wind (and water) in your face as you hit speeds of up to 60km/h before being sent tumbling through an upside-down double loop.

Visitors seeking a more laid-back family-friendly experience can head to the Sea Lion Point and Dolphin Bay , located within the Aquaventure Waterpark. Wade into waist-high water and come face-to-face with the whiskered residents of Sea Lion Point, or enjoy an up-close encounter with the playful bottlenose dolphins. These charismatic creatures are bound to leave a smile on your face!

For first time visitors, our ultimate guide to Atlantis should get you started with everything you need to know, from the best places to eat to the steepest discounts you can get on your bookings.

Go dune-bashing in a 4WD

4WD Dune bashing in Dubai desert

Looking to get away from the bustling city? Head to the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve - home to over 43 mammals and reptiles, including the iconic Arabian Oryx - for an adventure-filled desert safari excursion.

There’s a desert safari experience for everyone, depending on your interests and travel preferences. Culturally inclined travelers can experience the Bedouin culture firsthand through a host of traditional activities (including henna painting and belly dance performances) on an evening desert safari tour. Adventure seekers can transform the sprawling sand dunes into their personal playground on a red-dune desert tour , which features several desert pursuits including ATV-riding and sandboarding.

Dreaming of a different desert safari experience? Check out our guide on the various desert safari experiences in Dubai , which includes everything you need to know to make your first desert safari experience a memorable one.

Ski on powdery white slopes

A group of friends on a ski lift at Ski Dubai

In a city full of contrasts, it comes as no surprise that you can get your skiing fix in the middle of the Arabian desert. Ski Dubai, set within the Mall of the Emirates , covers an expansive 22,500 sqm (242,187 sq ft), and is the perfect entertainment complex for anyone looking to escape the heat.

Skiers and snowboarders of all skill levels can enjoy the slopes, as Ski Dubai features five slopes of varying difficulty, height and gradient. Beginner lessons are available for those snowboarding for the first time. After spending some time on the slopes, be sure to check out the 4,500 sqm snow park, where you can build your very own snowman, or tumble down the slopes in a Zorb ball. Before you leave, be sure to set aside time to check out the penguin parade which takes place every day between 2 p.m. and 4 p.m.

Cool off with these other activities Ski Dubai has to offer with our in-depth guide to skiing in Dubai .

Tee off at an 18-hole championship golf course

Golfers at a golf course in Dubai with view of Dubai skyline in the background

Dubai is home to some of the finest golf courses in the world, including the Jumeirah Golf Estates , which hosts the DP World Tour Championship, and the Emirates Golf Club , which hosts the Dubai Desert Classic every year.

Amateur golfers can improve their skills at Dubai’s many coaching academies, while experienced golfers can enjoy some of the best layouts and features designed by leading golf course architects like Karl Litten and Gol Hanse.

Given the subtropical desert climate, the best time to golf in Dubai is between December and February when temperatures are cooler and more pleasant.

Embark on a scenic day trip to Abu Dhabi

A boy jumps in the courtyard at the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque

With most of the neighboring emirates located a short distance from Dubai, it’s easy to plan a day trip to catch some of the major sights the UAE has to offer.

For architecture aficionados, be sure to visit the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi, about 87 miles from Dubai. This iconic landmark incorporates architectural styles from different Muslim civilizations. It features a collection of 82 domes and four minarets with each minaret comprising three different geometric shapes. The interior of the mosque sparkles with chandeliers from Faustig.

Art connoisseurs should also set aside time to wander the galleries of the Louvre Abu Dhabi , which features a well-curated collection of paintings and pieces from around the world. For ease of mind, consider booking a full-day tour of Abu Dhabi city from Dubai , which includes round-trip transportation and a professional English-speaking guide.

Regulations for entering Abu Dhabi from Dubai

Visitors arriving in Abu Dhabi by land via other emirates will be allowed entry to Abu Dhabi upon presenting a negative PCR test, valid for 48 hours. Visitors planning to travel to Abu Dhabi from Dubai must also take a COVID-19 PCR test on arrival, regardless of their vaccination status .

Additionally, entry into public places will also be limited to vaccinated individuals with a negative COVID-19 PCR test result taken within the last 30 days, or unvaccinated individuals who have a negative COVID-19 PCR test result taken in the last seven days. Visitors are required to produce a green status on the Alhosn App for entry into public spaces.

For more information on where to get tested in Dubai before entering Abu Dhabi, refer to this list of approved laboratories .

COVID-19 travel guidelines for international travelers

To speed up your trip planning, we’ve compiled everything you need to know about Dubai’s COVID-19 travel restrictions. Since these regulations are constantly changing, please refer to the official UAE website for the latest updates.

Who can travel to Dubai?

Before making any bookings, travelers should first check if they need a visa . Depending on your nationality, you can get a tourist visa on arrival, or apply for a tourist visa through selected airlines or travel agencies/hotels .

All visitors (regardless of vaccination status) traveling into Dubai from any country of origin (including GCC countries) must produce a negative COVID-19 RT-PCR test certificate issued no more than 72 hours prior to departure. PCR test certificates must be official and printed in English or Arabic, and must display a valid QR code linking back to the original report for verification purposes (SMS and digital certificates are not accepted).

Additionally, RT-PCR test certificates must be issued by an authorized facility in the visitor’s country of departure. Certificates which have been presented for travel to another destination cannot be used for entry, even if they are still within the validity period.

Visitors arriving in Dubai from certain countries will also be required to take another COVID-19 PCR test on arrival at Dubai International airport.

Where can I obtain an official RT-PCR test certificate?

The UAE government has compiled a list of designated laboratories where you can get your COVID-19 RT-PCR test, depending on your country of origin. You can use either the recommended laboratories, or any trusted and certified laboratory of your choice.

If you’re flying from India, Pakistan, Nigeria or Bangladesh, you must get your certificate from one of the labs listed in the designated laboratories document to be accepted on the flight.

What else do I need to prepare in advance of my trip?

Prior to departure, all travelers must also complete a health declaration form , and download the COVID-19-DXB Smart App from the App Store or Google Play to receive personalized support from designated paramedics in case they are infected.

Is there anything else I should know before visiting Dubai?

What’s open.

Starting August 12, hotels can operate at full capacity. Restaurants and cafes can also operate at 80% capacity, with a 1.5m social distance imposed between tables. Entertainment venues (cinemas, recreational facilities, exhibitions and museums) are also allowed to operate at 80% capacity.

Events have also expanded to 60% capacity, and COVID-19 vaccination is not mandatory for entry. However, entertainment activities with free movement (like concerts) are limited to a maximum of 5,000 vaccinated attendees.

What are the current safety measures in place?

Standard safety measures are compulsory, including mask-wearing and maintaining a 2m social distance. Wearing a mask in outdoor spaces is also required, unless you’re exercising, eating or drinking.

For the latest information on travel restrictions and requirements, refer to the official UAE website . Frequently asked questions regarding COVID-19 safety measures can also be found on the Visit Dubai website .

All information is current as of September 13, 2021.

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COVID-19: travel health notice for all travellers

United Arab Emirates travel advice

Latest updates: The Need help? section was updated.

Last updated: January 16, 2024 07:50 ET

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Safety and security, entry and exit requirements, laws and culture, natural disasters and climate, united arab emirates - exercise a high degree of caution.

Exercise a high degree of caution in the United Arab Emirates due to the threat of terrorism.

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There’s an ongoing threat of terrorism. Terrorist groups have indicated their intention to target the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Enhanced security measures are in place, and Emirati authorities may reinforce them on short notice.

Terrorist attacks could occur at any time.

Targets could include:

  • government buildings, military installations and schools
  • places of worship
  • airports and other transportation hubs and networks
  • public areas such as tourist attractions, restaurants, bars, coffee shops, shopping centres, markets, hotels and other sites frequented by foreigners

Always be aware of your surroundings when in public places. Be particularly vigilant during sporting events, religious holidays and other public celebrations. Terrorists may use such occasions to mount attacks.

Missile strikes and drones

Conflicts in the Middle East and the Gulf region can affect the UAE. Regional tensions can flare up at any time, resulting in an unpredictable and volatile security situation.

Armed groups in the region have publicly stated their intention to target neighbouring countries, including the UAE, with drones and missiles.  Drone attacks continue to either reach UAE territory or be intercepted over the country.

 Missiles and drones have reached:

  • urban areas
  • military installations
  • oil industry infrastructure
  • public facilities, such as airports

Their interception may cause scattered debris or fragments.

During missile and drone strikes:

  • seek shelter
  • stay away from doors and windows
  • follow the instructions of local authorities

If you encounter debris or fragments:

  • don’t get close to or touch them
  • move away from them immediately
  • contact local authorities

The crime rate is low. Petty crime, such as pickpocketing, purse snatching and theft from cars may occur.

During your stay:

  • make sure that your personal belongings, including your passport and other travel documents, are secure at all times
  • don’t leave personal items and documents in plain sight in a vehicle
  • keep your car doors locked and windows closed at all times

Violent crime is rare.

Credit card and ATM fraud

Credit card and ATM fraud occur. Be cautious when using debit or credit cards:

  • pay careful attention when your cards are being handled by others
  • use ATMs located in well-lit public areas or inside a bank or business
  • avoid using card readers with an irregular or unusual feature
  • cover the keypad with one hand when entering your PIN
  • check for any unauthorized transactions on your account statements

Cybercrime, malware attacks and online extortion are common in the UAE. Perpetrators may compromise public Wi-Fi networks to steal credit card or personal information.

  • Avoid using public Wi-Fi networks
  • Avoid making purchases on unencrypted websites
  • Be cautious when posting information on social media
  • Be particularly vigilant when contacting or meeting individuals known over the Internet

Telephone scams

Foreigners have received calls from scammers claiming to be local authorities or financial institutions. The caller may try to collect personal information or request a fund transfer to resolve administrative or customs issues.

Don’t send any money or personal information in this type of situation.

Romance scams

Romance scams are common. Victims of these types of scams have lost thousands of dollars. Before travelling to the UAE to visit someone you met online:

  • keep in mind that you may be the victim of a scam
  • inform yourself about the country’s customs and laws on conjugal relations and marriage
  • be sure to retain possession of your return plane ticket, money, and passport

Useful links

  • Overseas fraud
  • Cyber security while travelling

Women’s safety

Although rare, women travelling alone may be subject to some forms of harassment, verbal abuse, or physical assaults.

Local authorities may not respond adequately to reports of sexual violence and harassment. Emirati authorities have detained women reporting sexual assault. The victim must prove that the sex was not consensual to avoid being charged. The notion of sexual consent may differ substantially from the Canadian context.

If you are the victim of a sexual assault, you should report it immediately to the nearest Government of Canada office.

  • Avoid travelling alone, especially at night
  • Remain particularly vigilant in less populous areas

Be careful when dealing with strangers or recent acquaintances

Advice for women travellers

Spiked food and drinks

Snacks, beverages, gum and cigarettes may contain drugs that could put you at risk of sexual assault and robbery.

  • Be wary of accepting these items from new acquaintances
  • Never leave food or drinks unattended or in the care of strangers

Water activities

Coastal waters can be dangerous. Rip currents occur at beaches and can sweep swimmers out to sea.

Rescue services may not be consistent with international standards. Some beaches don’t have lifeguards or warning flags.

  • Only participate in scuba diving and other water activities with a well-established company
  • Don’t swim alone, after hours or outside marked areas
  • Consult residents and tour operators for information on possible hazards and safe swimming areas
  • Monitor weather warnings
  • Follow the instructions of local authorities

Water safety abroad

Adventure tourism

Desert expeditions or trekking can be dangerous, especially if they are not well organized. Trails are not always marked, and weather conditions can change rapidly.

If you undertake desert expeditions:

  • never do so alone
  • always hire an experienced guide from a reputable company
  • travel in a 4 x 4 vehicle
  • buy travel insurance that includes helicopter rescue and medical evacuation
  • ensure that your physical condition is good enough to meet the challenges of your activity
  • avoid venturing off marked trails
  • ensure that you’re properly equipped and carry sufficient water supply
  • know the symptoms of dehydration and heatstroke, both of which can be fatal
  • ensure that you’re well informed about weather and other conditions that may pose a hazard
  • inform a family member or friend of your itinerary, including when you expect to be back
  • obtain detailed information on each activity before setting out

Road safety

Road safety varies across the UAE.

Accidents causing fatalities are common.

Pedestrians should be particularly careful and should always use designated crossings, pedestrian bridges or underpasses.

Road conditions

Road conditions are excellent throughout the UAE. Driving conditions may be hazardous during sandstorms or foggy conditions due to limited visibility.

  • Avoid off-road driving unless you’re in a convoy of 4 x 4 vehicles
  • Leave your travel itinerary with a third party
  • Ensure that you’re well prepared with a cell phone and a sufficient supply of gasoline, water and food

Driving habits

Drivers can be reckless. They often tailgate and drive at excessive speeds.

If you choose to drive in the UAE:

  • always drive defensively
  • maintain distance from other vehicles on the road
  • familiarize yourself with your itinerary before leaving
  • always carry a cell phone and charger
  • keep a list of emergency numbers with you

Public transportation

The emirates of Abu Dhabi, Dubai and Sharjah, have reliable and modern public transportation systems. Public transportation options are more limited in the other emirates.

Public buses in the UAE are generally modern, safe and efficient. Most emirates have public buses and inter-emirates buses operating on their own schedule.

Taxis are convenient to travel within cities and between the emirates.

Street taxis use meters while private taxis have flat rates.

Pink taxis (in Dubai) and purple taxis (in Abu Dhabi) are reserved for and driven by women.

Special taxis for people with special needs or disabilities are also available.

  • Use only officially marked taxis or trusted ride-sharing app
  • Avoid sharing a taxi with strangers

If using a private taxi, negotiate the fare in advance

  Pink taxis  - UAE Government

There are territorial disputes between the UAE and Iran in the Gulf over the islands of:

  • Greater Tunb
  • Lesser Tunb

Be cautious if you travel by sea in the Strait of Hormuz due to tense encounters that could lead to vessel and passenger detention.

We do not make assessments on the compliance of foreign domestic airlines with international safety standards.

Information about foreign domestic airlines

Every country or territory decides who can enter or exit through its borders. The Government of Canada cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet your destination’s entry or exit requirements.

We have obtained the information on this page from the authorities of the United Arab Emirates. It can, however, change at any time.

Verify this information with the  Foreign Representatives in Canada .

Entry requirements vary depending on the type of passport you use for travel.

Before you travel, check with your transportation company about passport requirements. Its rules on passport validity may be more stringent than the country’s entry rules.

Regular Canadian passport

Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your date of entry into the United Arab Emirates.

Passport for official travel

Different entry rules may apply.

Official travel

Passport with “X” gender identifier

While the Government of Canada issues passports with an “X” gender identifier, it cannot guarantee your entry or transit through other countries. You might face entry restrictions in countries that do not recognize the “X” gender identifier. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Other travel documents

Different entry rules may apply when travelling with a temporary passport or an emergency travel document. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

  • Foreign Representatives in Canada
  • Canadian passports

Other entry requirements

The authorities of the United Arab Emirates only accept Canadian temporary passports for exit and transit. Travellers cannot enter the UAE when travelling with a temporary passport or an emergency travel document.

Tourist visa: not required Business visa: required Student visa: required

If you’re entering the UAE as a tourist, you must obtain an entry stamp at the port of entry. This entry stamp is free and valid for 30 days. Ahead of the expiry of the initial 30-day period, you may request a validity extension for an additional 30 days.

  • Foreign Representatives in Canada
  • Visa/Entry Permit Information  – UAE Government
  • Smart services  - Federal authority for identity and citizenship of the UAE

Health entry requirements

Medical tests, including tests for human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and tuberculosis infections, are required to obtain or renew a work or residency permit. Emirati authorities don’t recognize foreign-issued HIV test results.

If you test positive for HIV or another communicable disease such as hepatitis or tuberculosis, you may be subject to:

  • deportation
  • mandatory treatment

It’s also forbidden to enter the UAE with HIV/AIDS antiretroviral medication for personal use. If you do so, you may be subject to:

Exit requirements

You must exit the UAE with the passport you used for entry.

If you obtained a new passport during your stay in the UAE, you should consult the immigration authorities before travelling to ensure your visa was properly transferred to the new document.

Previous or expired visas must be formally cancelled by the organization or the individuals sponsoring your work or residency visa. If your previous visa has not been cancelled, you may be prevented from leaving the UAE or face difficulties returning in the future.

UAE authorities may place an exit ban on certain individuals to prevent them from leaving the country.

An exit ban can relate to investigations into:

  • an individual, their family or an employer
  • criminal and civil matters, including business disputes
  • employment without a valid work permit
  • unpaid financial debts

An exit ban can be requested by people involved in any of these circumstances. You may not be aware that authorities have placed an exit ban on you until you try to leave the country.

Your passport may be seized until the case is fully investigated and settled.

If you face an exit ban, you should seek legal advice.

Children and travel

Children born to a father who holds Emirati citizenship acquire UAE citizenship at birth, regardless of where they were born.

They must enter and leave the country on a UAE passport.

  • Travelling with children

Yellow fever

Learn about potential entry requirements related to yellow fever (vaccines section).

Relevant Travel Health Notices

  • Global Measles Notice - 31 August, 2023
  • COVID-19 and International Travel - 31 August, 2023

This section contains information on possible health risks and restrictions regularly found or ongoing in the destination. Follow this advice to lower your risk of becoming ill while travelling. Not all risks are listed below.

Consult a health care professional or visit a travel health clinic preferably 6 weeks before you travel to get personalized health advice and recommendations.

Routine vaccines

Be sure that your  routine vaccinations , as per your province or territory , are up-to-date before travelling, regardless of your destination.

Some of these vaccinations include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, varicella (chickenpox), influenza and others.

Pre-travel vaccines and medications

You may be at risk for preventable diseases while travelling in this destination. Talk to a travel health professional about which medications or vaccines may be right for you, based on your destination and itinerary. 

Yellow fever   is a disease caused by a flavivirus from the bite of an infected mosquito.

Travellers get vaccinated either because it is required to enter a country or because it is recommended for their protection.

  • There is no risk of yellow fever in this country.

Country Entry Requirement*

  • Proof of vaccination is required if you are coming from or have transited through an airport of a country   where yellow fever occurs.

Recommendation

  • Vaccination is not recommended.
  • Discuss travel plans, activities, and destinations with a health care professional.
  • Contact a designated  Yellow Fever Vaccination Centre  well in advance of your trip to arrange for vaccination.

About Yellow Fever

Yellow Fever Vaccination Centres in Canada * It is important to note that  country entry requirements  may not reflect your risk of yellow fever at your destination. It is recommended that you contact the nearest  diplomatic or consular office  of the destination(s) you will be visiting to verify any additional entry requirements.

There is a risk of hepatitis A in this destination. It is a disease of the liver. People can get hepatitis A if they ingest contaminated food or water, eat foods prepared by an infectious person, or if they have close physical contact (such as oral-anal sex) with an infectious person, although casual contact among people does not spread the virus.

Practise  safe food and water precautions and wash your hands often. Vaccination is recommended for all travellers to areas where hepatitis A is present.

In this destination, rabies  may be present in some wildlife species, including bats. Rabies is a deadly disease that spreads to humans primarily through bites or scratches from an infected animal. 

If you are bitten or scratched by an animal while travelling, immediately wash the wound with soap and clean water and see a health care professional. 

Before travel, discuss rabies vaccination with a health care professional. It may be recommended for travellers who will be working directly with wildlife. 

Measles is a highly contagious viral disease. It can spread quickly from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

Anyone who is not protected against measles is at risk of being infected with it when travelling internationally.

Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are fully protected against measles.

  Hepatitis B is a risk in every destination. It is a viral liver disease that is easily transmitted from one person to another through exposure to blood and body fluids containing the hepatitis B virus.  Travellers who may be exposed to blood or other bodily fluids (e.g., through sexual contact, medical treatment, sharing needles, tattooing, acupuncture or occupational exposure) are at higher risk of getting hepatitis B.

Hepatitis B vaccination is recommended for all travellers. Prevent hepatitis B infection by practicing safe sex, only using new and sterile drug equipment, and only getting tattoos and piercings in settings that follow public health regulations and standards.

Coronavirus disease (COVID-19) is an infectious viral disease. It can spread from person to person by direct contact and through droplets in the air.

It is recommended that all eligible travellers complete a COVID-19 vaccine series along with any additional recommended doses in Canada before travelling. Evidence shows that vaccines are very effective at preventing severe illness, hospitalization and death from COVID-19. While vaccination provides better protection against serious illness, you may still be at risk of infection from the virus that causes COVID-19. Anyone who has not completed a vaccine series is at increased risk of being infected with the virus that causes COVID-19 and is at greater risk for severe disease when travelling internationally.

Before travelling, verify your destination’s COVID-19 vaccination entry/exit requirements. Regardless of where you are going, talk to a health care professional before travelling to make sure you are adequately protected against COVID-19.

 The best way to protect yourself from seasonal influenza (flu) is to get vaccinated every year. Get the flu shot at least 2 weeks before travelling.  

 The flu occurs worldwide. 

  •  In the Northern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs from November to   April.
  •  In the Southern Hemisphere, the flu season usually runs between April and   October.
  •  In the tropics, there is flu activity year round. 

The flu vaccine available in one hemisphere may only offer partial protection against the flu in the other hemisphere.

The flu virus spreads from person to person when they cough or sneeze or by touching objects and surfaces that have been contaminated with the virus. Clean your hands often and wear a mask if you have a fever or respiratory symptoms.

Safe food and water precautions

Many illnesses can be caused by eating food or drinking beverages contaminated by bacteria, parasites, toxins, or viruses, or by swimming or bathing in contaminated water.

  • Learn more about food and water precautions to take to avoid getting sick by visiting our eat and drink safely abroad page. Remember: Boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it!
  • Avoid getting water into your eyes, mouth or nose when swimming or participating in activities in freshwater (streams, canals, lakes), particularly after flooding or heavy rain. Water may look clean but could still be polluted or contaminated.
  • Avoid inhaling or swallowing water while bathing, showering, or swimming in pools or hot tubs. 

Typhoid   is a bacterial infection spread by contaminated food or water. Risk is higher among children, travellers going to rural areas, travellers visiting friends and relatives or those travelling for a long period of time.

Travellers visiting regions with a risk of typhoid, especially those exposed to places with poor sanitation, should speak to a health care professional about vaccination.  

Insect bite prevention

Many diseases are spread by the bites of infected insects such as mosquitoes, ticks, fleas or flies. When travelling to areas where infected insects may be present:

  • Use insect repellent (bug spray) on exposed skin
  • Cover up with light-coloured, loose clothes made of tightly woven materials such as nylon or polyester
  • Minimize exposure to insects
  • Use mosquito netting when sleeping outdoors or in buildings that are not fully enclosed

To learn more about how you can reduce your risk of infection and disease caused by bites, both at home and abroad, visit our insect bite prevention page.

Find out what types of insects are present where you’re travelling, when they’re most active, and the symptoms of the diseases they spread.

There is a risk of chikungunya in this country.  The risk may vary between regions of a country.  Chikungunya is a virus spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. Chikungunya can cause a viral disease that typically causes fever and pain in the joints. In some cases, the joint pain can be severe and last for months or years.

Protect yourself from mosquito bites at all times. There is no vaccine available for chikungunya.

Animal precautions

Some infections, such as rabies and influenza, can be shared between humans and animals. Certain types of activities may increase your chance of contact with animals, such as travelling in rural or forested areas, camping, hiking, and visiting wet markets (places where live animals are slaughtered and sold) or caves.

Travellers are cautioned to avoid contact with animals, including dogs, livestock (pigs, cows), monkeys, snakes, rodents, birds, and bats, and to avoid eating undercooked wild game.

Closely supervise children, as they are more likely to come in contact with animals.

Cases of locally-acquired   Middle East respiratory syndrome  (MERS) have been reported in this country.

MERS is a viral respiratory disease caused by the Middle East respiratory syndrome coronavirus (MERS-CoV).

Some people infected with MERS-CoV experience no symptoms, while others may experience mild flu-like or more severe pneumonia-like symptoms. About one-third of reported cases have result ed in death.

Eat and drink safely ,   and   avoid close contact with animals, especially camels. If you must visit a farm or market, make sure you practise good hygiene and  wash your hands  before and after contact with animals.

There is currently no licensed vaccine to protect against MERS.

Person-to-person infections

Stay home if you’re sick and practise proper cough and sneeze etiquette , which includes coughing or sneezing into a tissue or the bend of your arm, not your hand. Reduce your risk of colds, the flu and other illnesses by:

  •   washing your hands often
  • avoiding or limiting the amount of time spent in closed spaces, crowded places, or at large-scale events (concerts, sporting events, rallies)
  • avoiding close physical contact with people who may be showing symptoms of illness 

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) , HIV , and mpox are spread through blood and bodily fluids; use condoms, practise safe sex, and limit your number of sexual partners. Check with your local public health authority pre-travel to determine your eligibility for mpox vaccine.  

Medical services and facilities

Good health care is available throughout the emirates. However, it may vary significantly from facility to facility, particularly outside of large cities.

Private clinics and hospitals are well equipped. Services may be expensive, but they usually have sufficient qualified medical personnel speaking English well.

Make sure you get travel insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation and hospital stays.

Travel health and safety

Prescription medication

Some prescription medications may not be available in the UAE.

If you take prescription medication, you’re responsible for determining its legality in the country.

  • Bring enough of your medication with you
  • Always keep your medication in the original container
  • Pack your medication in your carry-on luggage
  • Carry a paper and an electronic copy of your prescriptions

Keep in Mind...

The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller. The traveller is also responsible for his or her own personal safety.

Be prepared. Do not expect medical services to be the same as in Canada. Pack a   travel health kit , especially if you will be travelling away from major city centres.

You must abide by local laws.

Learn about what you should do and how we can help if you are arrested or detained abroad .

Penalties for breaking the law in the UAE can be more severe than in Canada, even for similar offences. No transfer of offender's treaty exists between Canada and the UAE. If you’re convicted of a serious crime, you must serve your jail sentence in the UAE.

Legal process

UAE authorities routinely notify the Embassy of Canada or Consulate following the arrest of a Canadian citizen.

If you are arrested, request that the arresting authorities immediately notify the nearest Canadian government office of your arrest .  If you are not allowed to do so, ask a friend or family member to contact the Embassy or Consulate of Canada.

The UAE and Canadian criminal law systems are significantly different. Laws, penalties and legal procedures vary according to the emirate.

Detention during the investigative period is common and can be lengthy. You may be held without access to legal counsel or consular assistance. You may also have to remain in the UAE for a parole period after your release.

If you’re involved in legal proceedings, local authorities can prevent you from leaving the UAE by withholding your passport or enforcing an exit ban. Familiarize yourself with the rules and laws of each emirate to which you intend to travel.

Overview of the criminal law system in the United Arab Emirates

Death penalty

Although rarely carried out, the death penalty can be applied in the UAE.

If you are convicted of a crime, you can face:

  • corporal punishment
  • the death penalty

Penalties for possession, use, or trafficking of illegal drugs are severe.

 Convicted offenders can expect:

  • heavy fines
  • jail sentences
  • the death penalty for severe offences, including drug trafficking

The UAE has a zero-tolerance policy towards drugs, even for travellers in transit. Detection of drugs (including cannabis) in blood or urine tests can also lead to a conviction.

Although it’s legal to consume alcohol in private homes and licensed venues, it’s a punishable offence to drink or be under the influence of alcohol in public. Even passengers in transit through the UAE can be arrested if they’re under the influence of alcohol.

Don’t drink alcohol outside private homes or licensed venues.

Drugs, alcohol and travel

Medications

Certain prescription and over-the-counter medications legally available in Canada, such as codeine and psychiatric medications, are classified as controlled substances in the UAE. It’s illegal to bring them into the country, even in small quantities, without prior permission from the UAE Ministry of Health.

If you attempt to bring banned medication into the UAE without prior approval and required documentation, you may be subject to:

  • confiscation of medication

Medical tests are mandatory to obtain or renew your residency permit. You could face prosecution if traces of prohibited substances are detected in your urine or blood sample, even if you haven’t imported the medication into the UAE.

Consult the Ministry of Health and Prevention’s list of controlled medicines to determine if you must obtain a permission to import any required medication. You can obtain a permission by creating a profile online and completing an electronic form.

  • List of controlled medicines  – UAE government
  • Issuing permission to import medicines for personal use  – UAE government

2SLGBTQI+ travellers

UAE law criminalizes sexual acts and relationships between persons of the same sex.

2SLGBTQI+ travellers could be detained based on their sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, or sex characteristics. They could also be detained and face other charges such as:

  • cross dressing
  • gross indecency
  • offence to public morals

2SLGBTQI+ travellers could face:

They should carefully consider the risks of travelling to the UAE.

Travel and your sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression and sex characteristics

Dress and behaviour

UAE customs, laws and regulations adhere closely to Islamic practices and beliefs. Public displays of affection, including holding hands and kissing, may attract the attention of local authorities. Verbal insults and obscene gestures may be considered criminal acts.

Foreign female travellers are not expected to wear head covers. However, revealing clothing is considered inappropriate.

To avoid offending local sensitivities:

  • dress conservatively
  • behave discreetly
  • respect religious and social traditions
  • interact on social media with the same care as you would in person
  • seek permission from locals before photographing them

In 2024, the lunar month of Ramadan is expected to begin on or around March 10.

In public, between sunrise and sunset, refrain from:

In Abu Dhabi and Dubai during Ramadan, restaurants remain open, serving food as normal. Most government and public sector businesses have reduced working hours.

Religious proselytism

Religious proselytism is illegal.

You should avoid engaging in religious activities that contradict or challenge Islamic teachings and values. This includes preaching, possessing or distributing religious literature or material.

Lèse-majesté

It’s illegal to criticize or disrespect the UAE’s:

  • ruling families
  • political system
  • institutions

This includes comments made on social media.

Punishment can be severe, including lengthy jail terms.

Dual citizenship

Dual citizenship is legally recognized in the UAE.

If you are a Canadian citizen, but also a citizen of the UAE, our ability to offer you consular services may be limited while you're there. You may also be subject to different entry/exit requirements.

Emirati authorities determine your citizenship based on the passport you use to enter the country. Ensure you use the same passport to enter and exit the country. Using different passports may lead to detention and delays.

General information for travellers with dual citizenship

UAE family law is different from Canadian family law. Decisions are based on Islamic law.

Children of an Emirati father automatically acquire Emirati citizenship at birth.

Although the courts will review each case individually, custody of boys under the age of 11 and girls under 13 is normally awarded to the mother. Custody is normally transferred to the father once boys reach 11 and once girls reach the age of 13.

Regardless of which parent is awarded custody, fathers are normally given guardianship responsibilities for the children by the courts, granting them significant legal rights. Guardians have the right to hold the child’s passport and can legally prevent the child from exiting the UAE.

International Child Abduction

The Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction is an international treaty. It can help parents with the return of children who have been removed to or retained in certain countries in violation of custody rights. It does not apply between Canada and the United Arab Emirates.

If your child was wrongfully taken to, or is being held in the United Arab Emirates by an abducting parent:

  • act as quickly as you can
  • consult a lawyer in Canada and in the United Arab Emirates to explore all the legal options for the return of your child
  • report the situation to the nearest Canadian government office abroad or to the Vulnerable Children’s Consular Unit at Global Affairs Canada by calling the Emergency Watch and Response Centre.

If your child was removed from a country other than Canada, consult a lawyer to determine if The Hague Convention applies.

Be aware that Canadian consular officials cannot interfere in private legal matters or in another country’s judicial affairs.

  • International Child Abduction: A Guidebook for Left-Behind Parents
  • Canadian embassies and consulates by destination
  • Emergency Watch and Response Centre

Cohabitation outside of marriage

Heterosexual sex and cohabitation outside of marriage for individuals over 18 years of age was recently decriminalised in all Emirates except Sharjah. This applies only to couples in which both partners are from countries that don’t follow Islamic Shariah marriage laws. While the practice is decriminalised, it may still be viewed negatively by parts of Emirati society.

Extramarital sex remains illegal in certain cases where a case is brought forth based on a complaint from the husband or guardian.

Online behaviour

Laws related to online behaviour, which also apply to the use of social media, are strict. Comments or behaviours considered defamatory, antisocial, culturally insensitive, or contrary to morality may be punishable by:

  • imprisonment

The authorities also restrict the use of virtual private networks (VPNs). Social media influencers receiving compensation for advertisements and product placement require a UAE influencer licence. If you do so without a licence, you may be fined or detained.

  Social media influencers licensing  - UAE Government  

Photography

There are restrictions on photographing and filming:

  • military installations and military personnel
  • government buildings
  • individuals without their permission

If you are in or around these areas, always:

  • verify if photography is allowed or if a special permit is required
  • request permission in advance if people are featured in your photos
  • refrain from photographing or filming if in doubt
  • comply with all requests from local authorities

Illegal activities

The following activities are illegal in the UAE and punishable by heavy fines or jail time:

  • engaging in prostitution
  • possessing pornographic material
  • issuing bounced checks or failing to pay a debt
  • possessing pork products in the emirate of Sharjah
  • littering in public places and on roads from a vehicle
  • spitting in public places, including on beaches

Imports and exports

There are strict import and export regulations on:

  • firearms and ammunition
  • body protection gear

Failure to comply may result in imprisonment or deportation.

  • Prohibited items  - UAE Government
  • Customs clearance  - UAE Government

Fundraising

Fundraising and charity activities are strictly regulated in the UAE.

It’s illegal to raise funds or organize a crowdfunding campaign without proper authorization. Make sure that you donate funds only to government-approved charities.

Government-approved charities  - UAE Government

Working in the UAE on a tourist visa is forbidden. You must be sponsored by your employer to work legally.

Certain local sponsors may attempt to retain your passport, even if UAE law forbids this practice.

  • Clearly establish the terms and conditions of employment in writing before your arrival
  • Never leave your passport or any other identity document with anyone

You must carry an international driving permit to drive and rent a car in the UAE, except in Dubai where you can use your Canadian driver’s license. If you become a resident of the UAE, you can convert your Canadian driver’s license to the UAE driving license at the Traffic Department of each Emirate. For Abu Dhabi, you can do this via TAMM services .

The country has a zero-tolerance policy for drinking and driving. The legal blood alcohol limit is zero.

Penalties for drinking and driving are severe.  If the police suspect you of drinking and driving, they could oblige you to provide a blood or urine sample. If alcohol or drugs are detected, you may be prosecuted.

If you’re convicted, you can expect:

  • heavy fines and a lengthy jail sentence
  • vehicle confiscation
  • driver’s license suspension

If involved in an accident:

  • don't leave the scene
  • don't move your vehicle
  • call the police

Failure to remain at the site may be considered an admission of guilt depending on the emirate in which the accident occurred.

The UAE government may prevent you from leaving the country until all injury claims have been settled, regardless of which party is at fault. If the accident has resulted in death, you may be legally required to provide financial compensation to the deceased’s family.

Local judicial resolution process may take several months, even for minor accidents.

International Driving Permit

The currency of the United Arab Emirates is the dirham (AED).

ATMs are available across the emirates.

Credit cards are widely accepted at main hotels, shops and restaurants. Smaller businesses may only accept cash.

If you are carrying AED 60 000 or more, or the equivalent in other currencies, you must make a declaration to customs when you enter of leave the country. The sum can be in:

  • money orders
  • traveller’s cheques
  • other convertible assets

Humidity and heat may be most severe during the hot season, from June to September.

Know the symptoms of dehydration and heatstroke, which can both be fatal.

Dust storms

Sandstorms and dust storms may occur any time, particularly during the summer months.

Winds carrying sand can blow at high speeds for days, creating difficult driving conditions. Poor visibility can affect flights. These storms can also cause respiratory problems, which can be fatal for some individuals.

During a storm:

  • stay indoors
  • keep windows closed
  • follow the instructions of local emergency services personnel
  • monitor local media for up-to-date information on the situation

Drought and flooding

The UAE has been facing a water crisis in recent years, leading to drought and desertification.

Although rare, heavy rain does occur in winter months from December to March. It can result in flash floods in dry riverbeds and canyons.

Flash floods and landslides can hamper overland travel and reduce the provision of essential services. Roads may become impassable and bridges damaged.

  • Monitor local news and weather reports
  • Follow the instructions of local authorities, including evacuation orders

During winter, periods of severe fog can hinder transportation and visibility.

  • Exercise caution, particularly while driving
  • Expect travel delays
  • Follow the advice of local authorities

Weather forecasts and warnings  - National Center of Meteorology

Local services

In case of emergency, dial:

  • police: 999
  • ambulance: 998
  • fire department (civil defence): 997

Consular assistance

For emergency consular assistance, call the Embassy of Canada to the United Arab Emirates, in Abu Dhabi, or the Consulate General of Canada to the United Arab Emirates, in Dubai, and follow the instructions. At any time, you may also contact the Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa.

The decision to travel is your choice and you are responsible for your personal safety abroad. We take the safety and security of Canadians abroad very seriously and provide credible and timely information in our Travel Advice to enable you to make well-informed decisions regarding your travel abroad.

The content on this page is provided for information only. While we make every effort to give you correct information, it is provided on an "as is" basis without warranty of any kind, expressed or implied. The Government of Canada does not assume responsibility and will not be liable for any damages in connection to the information provided.

If you need consular assistance while abroad, we will make every effort to help you. However, there may be constraints that will limit the ability of the Government of Canada to provide services.

Learn more about consular services .

Risk Levels

  take normal security precautions.

Take similar precautions to those you would take in Canada.

  Exercise a high degree of caution

There are certain safety and security concerns or the situation could change quickly. Be very cautious at all times, monitor local media and follow the instructions of local authorities.

IMPORTANT: The two levels below are official Government of Canada Travel Advisories and are issued when the safety and security of Canadians travelling or living in the country or region may be at risk.

  Avoid non-essential travel

Your safety and security could be at risk. You should think about your need to travel to this country, territory or region based on family or business requirements, knowledge of or familiarity with the region, and other factors. If you are already there, think about whether you really need to be there. If you do not need to be there, you should think about leaving.

  Avoid all travel

You should not travel to this country, territory or region. Your personal safety and security are at great risk. If you are already there, you should think about leaving if it is safe to do so.

I'm an American who visited Dubai for the first time. Here are 11 things I wish I knew before I went.

  • When I visited Dubai for the first time, there were some things I wish I knew beforehand.
  • The weather during my stay was amazing so I think the winter season is definitely the time to visit.
  • The city is bigger than I expected so I'd recommend hiring a guide to see as much as possible.

Insider Today

I visited Dubai for the first time and loved my time there. However, there were a few things I wish I had known before I went on the trip .

Here are a few things I would've wanted to know before I went to Dubai.

Now I know the winter season is the best time to visit, mostly because of the pleasant weather.

why not travel to dubai

Dubai has year-round sunshine but I now know the best time to visit the city is during the winter, which, according to US News , spans from November to early March.

When I went in January 2022, the temperature ranged from 75 to 80 degrees Fahrenheit without any humidity. It was warm enough to enjoy touring and being out and about.

The temperature was also perfect when I stayed in the city and went to the desert. There was a slight breeze by the sea and marina, but nothing that required a jacket during the day. The sundresses and lightweight dresses I packed worked perfectly, but I advise bringing a jacket or long-sleeve shirts since it can get a bit chilly in the evening.

There are so many activities, you likely won't be able to do them all.

why not travel to dubai

I didn't realize just how big Dubai was until I visited . There is an endless amount of activities, so I would suggest trying to identify your priorities before landing in the city.

Based on my experience, I recommend visiting the Burj Khalifa (the tallest building in the world), going on the Ain Dubai, wandering the souks, and strolling along the Jumeirah Beach Residence Walk.

At night, it's worth snagging tickets to see the La Perle show and walking around the Dubai Mall to see the fountain show and lights around the Burj Khalifa.

Dubai is filled with record-breaking attractions but also tons of history and culture.

why not travel to dubai

Though the world's tallest building and highest observation wheel were worth seeing , don't skip the historical part of the city. Visiting Al Seef, the souks, and taking an abra (a boat) across the river were definitely highlights of the trip.

Parts of the city are extremely innovative and new but older areas showcase its history and culture. Seeing both allowed me to appreciate how the city has evolved over time.

Abu Dhabi is definitely worth a day trip and is only about an hour and a half away.

why not travel to dubai

Though I originally planned on visiting only one of the seven emirates, the emirate of Dubai , my friends told me I had to incorporate a day trip to Abu Dhabi.

Abu Dhabi is the capital of the United Arab Emirates and is located in the eponymous emirate. We hired a tour guide to take us on the hour-and-a-half drive to Abu Dhabi and around the main sites.

Dubai isn't the only city with gorgeous sites and history — there are incredible places to visit nearby.

why not travel to dubai

In Abu Dhabi, we visited the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, the Qasr Al Watan ( a working Presidential palace ), and Heritage Village.

I loved the emirate so much that I'd love to go back just to see more of it.

In addition to offering traditional Middle-Eastern food, Dubai seemed to have every other cuisine imaginable.

why not travel to dubai

I'm allergic to sesame, so I was worried about what I'd eat on this trip, since Middle-Eastern food and Emirati cuisine use this ingredient quite often.

However, Dubai had every cuisine I could imagine. Everything from Italian food to Chinese options was available, so my choices were not limited.

Though everything we tried was delicious, the food could be pricey.

Palm Jumeirah and Dubai International Financial Centre are closer to the main attractions than some other popular areas where visitors stay.

why not travel to dubai

Since Dubai is such a large city, I think it's best to stay close to its attractions . I selected the Four Seasons Hotel Dubai International Financial Centre because it was only a two-minute drive (or a 20-minute walk) to the Burj Khalifa and the Dubai Mall and close to restaurants and shops.

Since it was in the center of the city, grabbing taxis and finding transportation was easy.

Many visitors also opt to stay in Palm Jumeirah, which has waterfront hotels with larger properties and private beaches. It's still close to the city but has some privacy.

Hiring a tour guide ended up being the best decision I made on my trip — and it was quite affordable.

why not travel to dubai

I hired tour guides to maximize my time in Dubai , which was one of the best decisions I made. 

We hired guides to take us around the city on our first day, as well as on our day trip to Abu Dhabi, the desert, and a nightlife tour. We made the most of our time in the city and we saw a ton.

We booked most of the guides through the hotel or by recommendations from friends and family who have visited. Each guide was relatively affordable and was accompanied by a driver.

You must bring appropriate attire for mosques and other holy sites.

why not travel to dubai

The holy sites we visited had a dress code . Men should wear a shirt with sleeves that are at least elbow length with long trousers. In mosques, women need to wear an abaya and shayla, which covers their body and hair.

You can purchase an abaya and shayla at many tourist sites or borrow them ahead of entering. I didn't realize the mosques had a dress code, but I would have planned my outfit beforehand if I had.

Don't let your worries about sand and heat cause you to pass up a trip to the desert.

why not travel to dubai

I typically stay away from deserts, but dune bashing — driving at varying speeds over sand dunes — in Dubai was one of my favorite activities on the trip . It was almost like riding a roller coaster on the sand and we got to see a beautiful sunset before heading back to the city. 

Don't miss dune bashing if you take a trip to the emirate.

Souks are some of the best places to buy souvenirs or spices.

why not travel to dubai

You can grab souvenirs from just about any attraction in Dubai, but I think you'll get the best prices and selection at the souks, or marketplaces.

Dubai has a multitude of open-air souks, ranging from one for gold to a market for spices, and they each sell a wide variety of items. I purchased spices, jewelry, and souvenirs from different souks and strongly believe they're worth checking out.

why not travel to dubai

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As it happened: uae rescue teams battle floods, severe weather; rains to continue tomorrow, as bad weather peaked on saturday, march 9 — khaleej times brought residents the latest updates from across the uae.

why not travel to dubai

Meher Dhanjal

Nasreen abdulla, angel tesorero, neeraj murali, mazhar farooqui, nandini sircar, sm ayaz zakir, waad barakat, muhammad sajjad, laraib anwer, ahmed waqqas alawlaqi.

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Embracing the bright side: A guide on how to cultivate optimism

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why not travel to dubai

Published: Sat 9 Mar 2024, 9:45 AM

Last updated: Sun 10 Mar 2024, 3:24 PM

The severe weather conditions forecast to strike the UAE over the weekend began on Saturday, March 9.

Heavy rain and thunder lashed several parts of the country overnight, with many residents waking up to showers, dark skies and strong winds.

Stay up to date with the latest news. Follow KT on WhatsApp Channels .

Everyone had been advised to stay indoors. Events were cancelled and popular leisure spots were closed .

As bad weather peaked on Saturday, March 9 — Khaleej Times brought residents the latest updates from across the UAE.

11.20pm: Signing off

It's good night from Team KT for now. We'll be back with all the latest in the morning, so be sure to check back in when the sun is up (hopefully, sooner than later). Stay safe!

11.15pm: A quiet night settles, rain expected tomorrow

As the night comes to an end on a day hit by heavy rains, thunderstorms and lightning, the NCM issued a country-wide orange alert. Despite today being the peak for turbulent weather across the UAE, residents have been warned of rainfall tomorrow as well.

Authorities across emirates were seen pumping water from streets, managing traffic and many even braving floods and severe weather to rescue people stuck in overflowing wadis. Teams have been working around the clock to ensure smooth travel and safety for residents today, as well as tomorrow.

Many residents were transported back in time to March 9, 2016, when the Emirates experienced adverse conditions — except this time, authorities have taken measures beforehand, ensuring life doesn't come to a halt in the bustling country.

10.35pm: Will it rain tomorrow?

Residents who are hoping to enjoy the weekend in the outdoors tomorrow, be aware since there is a chance of rainfall during the day.

As per the NCM, weather tomorrow will be clear to partly cloudy and occasionally cloudy in some areas with a chance of rainfall eastward and southward during the day. Temperatures are expected to rise with humidity expected at night.

10.21pm: Medical fitness centres to remain closed

Sharjah's Municipality announced the continued closure of medical fitness centres tomorrow, Sunday, March 10 due to unstable weather conditions.

10.12 pm: Residents reach out for help

As water fills up their yards and furniture is submerged in their homes, residents in Dubai's Green Community Motor City reached out to Khaleej Times to bring their situation to light. Hoping to get help from authorities, they said flooding has not yet subsided in their locality and tankers that were supposed to pump out water have not yet arrived.

In a video shared with KT, a villa can be seen filled with water inside the community.

why not travel to dubai

9.57pm: RTA deploys teams across city

Teams in Dubai have been working round the clock to ensure motorists and residents can easily travel to their destinations during unstable weather.

Dubai authorities deployed a total of 2,300 personnel from across various entities to respond to emergencies and mitigate the impact of heavy rains that struck the UAE this weekend.

why not travel to dubai

Teams were equipped with over 700 units of equipment including 250 tankers, 300 rainwater pumps, over 180 emergency vehicles, field survey vehicles, machinery and other heavy equipment to deal with water-logged conditions.

تواصل فرق الإنقاذ في شرطة دبي، بالتعاون مع الشركاء الاستراتيجيين، العمل على مدار الساعة لضمان سلامة كافة أفراد المجتمع والحفاظ على ممتلكاته. pic.twitter.com/NFAKezYzQd — Dubai Policeشرطة دبي (@DubaiPoliceHQ) March 9, 2024

why not travel to dubai

Dubai Police reported receiving a total of 10,232 calls today between 6am and 3pm on its emergency and non-emergency hotlines.

why not travel to dubai

9.45pm: Dubai residents out and about

As rains came to a halt in most parts of Dubai, some residents decided to make most of the quiet and cold night by meeting up with friends and family.

Some residents stepped out and to grab a bite at local eateries in Karama.

Residents gather in Karama's Urban Tadka

9.24pm - Car damaged in Fujairah? Here's how to attain a police certificate

If your car has been damaged due to heavy rains, flooding or winds in Fujairah, police in the emirate have created a simple route for motorists to attain a police certificate.

Firstly, they must access the 'Fujairah Police' application and then select the 'certificate for whomever it may concern'.

Motorists have to then attach a picture of the vehicle along with its license plate and vehicle ownership.

9.05pm: Sheikh Hamdan hails cops, authorities

Taking to his Instagram stories, Dubai's Crown Prince Sheikh Hamdan posted a video thanking police officials, traffic safety personnel, officials at RTA and workers who were on the scene helping pump out water from streets.

Watch the video below:

8.44pm: Own a farm? Take these precautions

There's something for everyone. With unstable weather, farm owners and workers have to take extra precaution, since it's not only their lives at stake, but also that of their livestock.

Authorities in Abu Dhabi revealed measures such individuals can take to ensure safety during these times.

  • They must ensure fencing and panelling is properly installed and is resistant to weather conditions
  • They must keep manual lighting around in case of power outages
  • They must avoid using mobile phones near trees, power cables and fencing during thunderstorms
  • They must avoid valleys and flooded areas
  • Maintenance for installed wires and electrical installations must always be up to date
  • They must monitor fences, food containers and animal shelters to ensure they are secure and won't be affected by wind or rain

8.20pm: Safety tips at home

With forecast for a rainy day tomorrow as well, authorities have advised residents to take precautionary measures while being indoors.

Residents living in buildings and homes must take the following measures:

  • Stay away from windows and glass doors
  • Place barriers to prevent flooding in basements
  • Always keep firefighting equipment ready in case of any emergency
  • Securely fasten loose objects, including satellite dishes and furniture

7.40pm: Free parking in Ajman

Ajman's Municipality announced free parking for motorists in the city due to prevailing unstable weather conditions.

The free parking has been declared from 5pm to 10pm on Saturday, March 9.

7.27pm: Back to usual

Dubai's RTA announced the return of traffic to normal on Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Road.

Due to heavy rains earlier, the authority had warned motorists of increasing traffic on the busy road, along with advising them to take alternate routes.

7.10pm: Lighter rains in Umm Al Quwain

In comparison to the unstable weather conditions in most parts of the UAE, residents in Umm Al Quwain experienced scattered showers.

Authorities closed off some roads as they worked on draining water ponds on roads and return them to safer conditions.

6.40pm: Overflowing underpass, flooded streets in Sharjah

Streets in Sharjah were filled with residents moving around throughout the day, in comparison to much more empty streets across other emirates. In videos shared with KT, people were out and about despite roads and footpaths being flooded in Sharjah's Yarmouk area.

In another video, an underpass is seen overflowing due to excess water from streets above.

6.10pm: Colourful umbrellas come out

Colourful umbrellas, sheets of plastic and carrier bags were just some of the shields that residents utilised as they made their way through flooded streets.

In pictures captured by KT journalist Muhammad Sajjad, Sharjah residents are seen getting across through ponds of water, with some holding up their pants and others walking hand in hand.

why not travel to dubai

5.43pm: Dubai wadis overflow, authority takes action

As wadis in Dubai's Hatta region overflowed, dams helped divert the flow in the area.

Hatta resident, Banaris, shared videos of Leem lake and Wadi Hab overflowing during the day. "Dams made the situation way better, thank God. This is around 11.30 -12pm, but it is still raining."

Dubai Police's rescue teams have already reached the area to handle any emergency situations.

Highlights of the onsite efforts of #DubaiPolice teams in #Hatta . pic.twitter.com/PYv3WRt0Sj — Dubai Policeشرطة دبي (@DubaiPoliceHQ) March 9, 2024

5.20pm: Lightning strikes the iconic tip

How can any rainy spell go without an iconic picture of lightning striking Dubai's Burj Khalifa. As rains mellowed down in some parts of the country, lightning took over in the evening. With a cloudy sky around it, Burj Khalifa had its own moment in the spotlight.

Photo: DXBMediaOffice

5.08pm: Roads turn into rivers

Neighbourhoods across Dubai were flooded, as cars were seen submerged halfway. Some residents even covered their car tops with fabrics and materials to avoid damage to their vehicles.

In videos shared with KT by readers in Karama, Mirdif and Garhoud, residents are seen driving through partially-filled streets in their vehicles.

4.51pm: A sight for sore eyes

In some areas of UAE, as rains came to a halt and skies started slowly clearing up, residents were able to witness a stunning rainbow, with all seven colours lifting up an otherwise dull, grey sky.

Al Batha resident Arnav Chandanani's captivating photo reveals a rainbow gracefully arching over Executive Towers, with the iconic Burj Khalifa standing tall in the background as the rains subside.

4.36pm: Authority denies rumours

The National Centre of Meteorology has denied the reports claiming that the surface depression is over, clarifying that there is no truth to these circulating rumours.

"This news is not true. Currently, the country is still affected by the surface depression. As at the moment, we are experiencing heavy rain in Abu Dhabi and Dubai," stated weather forecaster Maha Al Hashemi from the National Centre of Meteorology to the 'Direct Line' program broadcast.

4.32pm: Finding the silver lining

As several UAE residents chose to stay home as rain battered the country, some Muhaisnah residents decided to have fun in the downpour in Dubai.

In a video shared with KT, many of them are seen taking to the streets, joined by youngsters as they play ball while waddling through almost knee-deep water.

4.20pm: A rare sight

Sharjah resident Zaheer had gone for a drive along the Mleiha area when he spotted this “river” in the middle of the desert. He stopped to take a video of this rare sight.

4.12pm: UAE-wide orange alert

Orange alert has now been raised for all emirates. This means hazardous weather events are expected across the country.

Just half an hour ago, the orange warning was placed on some areas. Now, almost the entire UAE is covered:

#تنبيه #المركز_الوطني_للأرصاد #Alert_#NCM pic.twitter.com/N7Gsfs4Jh4 — المركز الوطني للأرصاد (@ncmuae) March 9, 2024

4pm: Rains across the capital city

At 3pm, Reem Island and other parts of the Abu Dhabi islands started to experience heavy rain accompanied by strong gusts of wind. Meanwhile, parts of outer Abu Dhabi, such as Al Falah, Shakhbout, and Khalifa A, only had mild to moderate rain and wind.

Videos taken by KT journalist Ahmed Waqqas Alawlaqi show rainfall across parts of Abu Dhabi.

While residents in Abu Dhabi City experienced light spells of showers, heavy rainfall has been reported in Khalifa City, Mohamed bin Zayed City, and other suburban areas like Bani Yas and Al Shamkhah

“It was heavily cloudy for the past few hours. Heavy rainfall started at 3 pm. But it has lessened in intensity. However, we will not face a flood-like situation as Khalifa City and other places have an efficient drainage system in place,” Jijo Joseph, a resident from Khalifa City, said.

With the local authorities urging community members not to leave their homes unless “absolutely necessary”, several residential areas wore a deserted look.

“It was overcast since morning. We have packed food essentials for the next two days. We are staying at home but also enjoying this brief rain from our windows,” Hakkim, a resident living in Hamdan, a popular place in the Abu Dhabi, said.

Photo: Noorul Hasan/ KT Abu Dhabi Bureau

3:48pm: RAK dam overflows

A road leading to Ras Al Khaimah’s Wadi Shawka has been closed as the dam overflows.

Taking to X, RAK's police alerted residents of the closure through a video showing police cars blocking the adventure spot. The authority has given warnings to residents to refrain from venturing to these spots.

إغلاق الطريق المؤدي إلى سد وادي شوكة pic.twitter.com/ty589h8hTe — شرطة رأس الخيمة (@rakpoliceghq) March 9, 2024

3.35pm: Eight years ago...

In an uncanny coincidence, the adverse weather condition the UAE is experiencing today, happened exactly the same day – March 9 – eight years ago.

But unlike now when it’s a weekend and authorities have forewarned residents days ahead of the impending storm, it was a Wednesday back in March 2016 and the incessant rain brought life to a halt across the country.

That day in 2016, the country was affected by strong storm and heavy rain, accompanied by hail. Raindrops iced up and fell as hail in some parts of the country on that day as well.

3.30pm: Stunning moment lightning strikes Dubai South

KT Photographer Neeraj Murali captured an iconic moment when lightning struck a residential area in Dubai South.

why not travel to dubai

3.23pm: Orange alert area expanded

The NCM has taken to social media to put up an updated map of the area where an alert has been issued.

The authority has now expanded the area under the orange alert, where residents are expected to 'be alert'.

why not travel to dubai

3.15pm: Water seeps into homes across Dubai

Water has been seeping into homes across Dubai, with several residents complaining of leaks in their houses.

French expat Christine Quartier La Tente shared her frustration, saying: “It's a real struggle for tenants and owners. We're constantly sealing windows, and waterproofing roofs more than once, and even then, new leaks keep popping up, often due to structural issues. Locating and fixing these problems takes time – it takes many rainy seasons to check it all and get it sorted.”

Christine has found a creative way to collect water from the ceiling. She attached a yarn to the ceiling, guiding water into a bucket.

Most Dubai residents that have found water seeping into their homes through the door. Springs resident Juliette Dupont and Jumeirah Islands resident Anjali Garg woke up and found water in their homes – after which they placed towels under their doors.

KT reader: Anjali Garg

3.05pm: Yellow, orange alerts issued till tomorrow

The National Centre of Meteorology has issued several alerts – its latest one asks residents to "be alert".

The authority has issued the alerts till 4pm, tomorrow. Take a look at the map of where the alerts have been issued below:

why not travel to dubai

2.57pm: Captivating cloud cover

As the intensity of rainfall decreased in some parts of the country, visibility improved, giving way to wonderful sights.

Dark grey clouds covered skies as they changed hues from their usual calming blue.

KT Photo: Shihab

2.45pm: Drive carefully!

Navigating a rain-soaked afternoon can be treacherous, as one motorist learned on Al Safa Bridge. Just as he thought he had a clear view, a passing bus decided to give his windshield an impromptu car wash, momentarily blinding his vision.

Dubai Police has asked motorists to exercise caution when driving during the rains. The authority even put up several guidelines for residents.

2.40pm: Heavy rains continue

The National Centre of Meteorology has taken to Instagram to update residents on the changing weather conditions.

It informed residents of rains being recorded in parts of Abu Dhabi and Al Ain.

The authority also uploaded this video of heavy showers pouring.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by المركز الوطني للأرصاد (@officialuaeweather)

2.30pm: Stuck at home? This Dubai resident can't step out of work

Afsha Noori, a businesswoman in Deira's Abu Hail was stuck in her shop due to the heavy rains.

"My team of tailors and I can't step outside as the footpath is flooded with water. We are planning to wait it out until the water level reduces."

They are hoping the rains stop soon, otherwise there's a risk of water entering the shop.

2.24pm: Breathtaking views

KT reader Salem AlQaydi recorded the early morning rains creating waterfalls along Maliha mountains.

These streams were forming into wadis, irrigating foliage in desert areas and valleys.

2.19pm: Traffic update from Dubai Police

In an update, Dubai Police has said that traffic has been diverted on Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Street from the Mirdif City Centre Bridge to Tripoli Street.

They also informed motorists of water accumulation on several roads including Amman Street, Aleppo Street, Al Nahda Street, Al Ittihad Street, Al Khawaneej Street, Al Yalayis Street, and Al Yalayis Street.

2.10pm: The real superheroes battling the rain

Protecting heads with makeshift capes, wielding shovels to battle the deluge and unclog drains, these workers were the real superheroes during the rains.

why not travel to dubai

"If we don't clear the mud, it will turn into a muddy stream and reach parking lots, causing problems," said an Indian worker outside a building in Business Bay. "We have a busy day as similar problems have been reported from other areas."

2.03pm: Combatting the downpour

Workers deploy sandbags to prevent water from flooding the basement parking of a high-rise in Business Bay. The relentless downpour has led to water inundating parking lots, and in some cases, even homes.

KT Photo: Mazhar Farooqui

1.55pm: Marine transport resumes

Abras, ferries had been temporarily suspended early today, however, services have now resumed, the RTA has said in a post on Instagram.

1.45pm: Finding the little joys!

As rains poured, cafes thrived on warm drinks, but for these little ones, the real delight was twirling umbrellas outside this charming Jumeirah spot!

KT Photo: Mazhar Farooqui

1.40pm: Parts of roads being blocked

As of 1.45pm, service roads around Sheikh Zayed Road were flooded. It has slowed down traffic considerably and now, security is on site blocking the road.

why not travel to dubai

1.33pm: Calls for help flood recovery teams

Irfan, a recovery car driver KT met at a petrol station just off Emirates Road, said he has been receiving several calls this morning to rescue cars caught in Dubai floods.

why not travel to dubai

1.25pm: Some parts of Abu Dhabi still dry

Some parts of Abu Dhabi are yet to experience the extreme weather.

KT reporter Ahmed Waqqas Alawlaqi said that it's business as usual in Al Muroor. The area is still relatively dry and delivery riders are still continuing to deliver orders as normal.

why not travel to dubai

1.15pm: Rain rain, go away? Residents get creative in taking cover

Umbrellas are now a thing of the past as several residents caught by the incessant rains use innovative ways to cover up.

KT Photo: Muhammad Sajjad

1.10pm: Some Sharjah residents struggle to return home

Ahmed Ibrahim, a Sharjah resident said he was unable to get to work and couldn't return home because Al Ittihad Street had been left flooded.

"The street was literally flooded. I went out at 9am because I had pending work that needed to be done, but I couldn't get there. I returned home at 11am because there were no public transport options or taxis available – or they did not accept passengers. I walked a very long way until I found a way to get home."

1pm: Ajman residents face repercussions of heavy rains

Residents of Ajman were battling terrible weather conditions and its effects early today.

A family faced a lunchtime dilemma when their cooking gas cylinder ran out. Unfortunately, the agency responsible for refills wasn't keen on wading through knee-deep waters to reach them. Even calling a restaurant for delivery proved fruitless, as they were met with a firm refusal to brave the conditions and deliver to their doorstep.

In another part of the emirate, vehicles were immobilized in standing water, incapable of advancing. Meanwhile, a handful of drivers were grappling with the challenging task of navigating their vehicles through the submerged roads.

12.55pm: Dubai Municipality working to clear roads

In several posts made by RTA and Dubai Municipality, the authorities have said that they are taking all possible measures to clear roads.

why not travel to dubai

12.45pm: Bus delays possible: RTA

The Roads and Transport Authority of Dubai has taken to social media to inform residents of a possible delay in in bus schedules due to the adverse weather.

12.30pm: Stunning visuals from Al Madam

A resident of Al Madam, Sharjah, Alreem said, "Heavy rain started in the morning, but now it has stopped. My family and I went to see the valleys and pools of water, making the most of it."

why not travel to dubai

12.15pm: Hail, heavy rains cause floods in UAE

KT readers have sent in videos and photos of the heavy rains across the country.

Instagram user 'MoHsIn' sent in a clip of hail pelting early today morning.

KT reader Dr Reshma Koshy sent in a video of rains from early today morning at Al Ittihad Road:

12pm: Dubai residents change plans after rains begin pouring

Some residents were visiting Kite Beach as part of their fitness routine. However, they had to cut their plans short due to a sudden heavy downpour.

“It wasn't raining in the morning, and we decided to go for a jog. We reached the beach around 6.30am. It was very windy and cloudy, but there were no signs of rain. However, around 7am, it started raining heavily,” said Vani, a resident of Nad Al Sheba.

“When it started raining heavily, all my focus was to find shelter and run towards my vehicle. It was not normal rain. I saw the seas, and they were very rough,” added Vani.

11.50am: New road closures

Sharjah Police has said in an update that all road exit tunnels extending on Sharjah Maliha Road, Sharjah Al Dhaid road, and Khor Fakkan Road are closed due to rainwater accumulation.

An underpass used for U-turns along Emirates road has also been closed, motorists have noted.

KT Photo: Angel Tesorero

11.45am: Kalba recovery teams prepared for potential emergencies

Shahid Kamal, a recovery truck driver in Kalba, said that he and his team have prepared for potential emergencies by having five trucks on standby to extract vehicles in the event of flooding.

“Two of the trucks have come from Sharjah to help residents extract vehicles from the water. Many people have parked their cars at higher altitudes. It is not raining much right now. Police have informed us that it may rain heavily and to be prepared,” said Kamal.

“Drawing from past experiences, many cars were stuck in water when it rained heavily, and the repair cost was very expensive. We need to take proactive steps to reduce the impact on the vehicles,” added Kamal.

11.35am: Intercity buses suspended temporarily

Dubai's RTA has temporarily halted intercity bus service between Dubai and Sharjah (Route E315), it said in a tweet.

11.30am: Dubai residents pay more for parking

why not travel to dubai

Motorists who parked their cars in RTA spaces found themselves navigating water puddles to retrieve their vehicles before the 8am deadline when free parking ends.

With the hope of relocating to an unpaid spot, one driver in Dubai described their frustrating morning. "I initially extended my parking until 9am, aiming to find a free space later," said the motorist. "Yet as the rain persisted, I had to prolong it hour by hour. It seems I might be doing this the entire day."

11.22am: Water accumulation on and near Sheikh Zayed Road

Dubai residents travelling on and near Sheikh Zayed Road have witnessed pools of water forming on the major road.

Nasreen Abdulla, who was driving by said, "The exit from the service road to Sheikh Zayed Road near the first interchange is so flooded that cars are turning around and people are taking alternative routes."

11.15am: Rainfall 'not heavy' in Kalba, residents prepared

Residents in Kalba had been anticipating heavy rain that could potentially lead to flooding on roads and water entering homes. However, to their surprise and relief, the anticipated heavy rainfall did not occur as expected.

“Last evening, a policeman informed the residents that there would be heavy rain and advised us to be prepared. We took precautions by placing our important household items on the first floor and packing our bags,” said Promod Pattanoor, a resident of Kalba.

“It started raining in the morning at around 8am, but it was not heavy. However, we are all prepared if the situation goes out of our hands,” said Pattanoor.

“The situation did not escalate as feared, bringing a sense of relief in anticipation of adverse weather conditions,” added Pattanoor.

11.10am: Landslide in Ras Al Khaimah, residents cautioned

A road in Ras Al Khaimah caved in due to a landslide after heavy rains pounded the Emirates overnight.

The Ras Al Khaimah Police have cordoned off a part of Al Shuhada Street after the mishap. The landslide happened on the street leading towards Emirates Road.

why not travel to dubai

The police shared photos that showed a section of the road collapsed.

11am: Residents indulge in comfort food

The rain began gently before transforming into a torrential downpour that flooded the streets around the Business Bay Metro Station.

KT Photo: Mazhar Farooqui

With it being the weekend, the usual throng of commuters refrained from using the metro, opting to stay home instead. They sought solace in sipping hot tea and indulging in pakodis—a type of fritter beloved in many Asian households.

"We typically reserve fritters for iftar during Ramadan, but the rain-drenched weather inspired me to whip up a batch today," said an Indian housewife. "I'm absolutely enthralled by this weather—the dark clouds and the sight of cars splashing water as they speed along Sheikh Zayed Road. It's quite a spectacle from my balcony."

10.55am: Dubai-Sharjah traffic update

Informing residents driving to Sharjah that there is heavy traffic in that direction, it urged motorists to use alternative roads such as Beirut Street and Emirates Road.

10.45am: 13 inbound Dubai flights diverted

Thirteen inbound flights to Dubai International Airport (DXB) on Saturday morning have been rerouted to nearby airport , a DXB official told Khaleej Times.

“Dubai Airports can confirm that normal operations at Dubai International (DXB) have been affected due to the adverse weather conditions since early hours on Saturday, March 9. Consequently, 13 inbound flights have been rerouted to nearby airports. We are actively collaborating with our service partners and airlines to minimise any inconvenience experienced by our valued guests,” DXB said in a statement.

10.35am: Water pockets on major roads

Dubai resident Shihab was out on a drive with his friend near Dubai Trade Centre roundabout when he encountered water pockets.

Drivers are advised to drive slowly and carefully during the rain.

10.25am: Cars break down on flooded road

In Hatta, drivers splash through muddy floodwaters as thick, gray clouds hover above the mountains.

Here's a clip shared by Galadari Brothers Group chief Mohammed Galadari:

Some cars broke down, so these men, in another part of Dubai, were left with no choice but to push the vehicle:

why not travel to dubai

10.15am: Boots on the ground

All geared up for rain, the Dubai Police brave floodwaters to manage traffic and keep motorists safe:

10am: Fewer cars on road, no queue of commuters

KT Photo: Waad Barakat

In Al Furjan, only a few vehicles are on the road.

Usually, there's a long line of commuters waiting for the bus — but, today, there's no queue. Puddles of water are also starting to form in different spots.

9.52am: Deliveries continue despite rains

Delivery riders continue working despite the inclement weather conditions outside. Food delivery applications have informed users of possible delays as rains persist.

Deepak, a delivery rider from Nepal, has said to KT Reporter Angel Tesorero that deliveries continue but riders take shelter when it rains. He has just finished delivering food ordered from Motor City to Dubai South, a distance of about 18kms.

KT Photo: Angel Tesorero

Food delivery outlets have asked some users to pick up their meals instead, due to bad weather.

why not travel to dubai

9.45am: Residents step out and battle weather

UAE residents have pulled out all stops when it comes to battling severe weather conditions that have been persisting all morning.

As some step out to work, they can be seen dressed in raincoats and carrying colourful umbrellas.

why not travel to dubai

9.30am: Rains pour, motorists asked to slow down

Rains continue pouring down, as cars are seen wading through wet roads. This video shared by KT reader Nicola, shows a car slowly driving into a road where water has accumulated.

Motorists have been asked to exercise caution while driving as inclement weather persists. The Ministry of Interior has put out an alert urging residents to drive safely.

9.15am: Restaurants open, not many to serve

Some restaurants have opened but residents have not started heading out yet.

KT Photo: Laraib Anwer

9am: Unstable weather forecast today

Weather conditions will continue to be unstable today, the National Centre of Meteorology has said. Rainfall of different intensities will take place, along with lightning and thunder.

JLT resident Dominic Keogh Peters shared a video of heavy rains pelting the area, early today morning.

Temperatures are set to decrease today and could be as low as 20ºC in Abu Dhabi and 19ºC in Dubai and 10ºC in mountainous regions.

Visibility is also set to dip, as heavy rains and strong winds will cause dust and sand to blow.

  • Unstable weather in UAE: Roads, beaches, Global Village; full list of closures due to rain
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E-scooters banned on Dubai Metro and Tram: All the rules you need to follow in Dubai

Living in uae.

Fines, permits, speed limit, age limit, rules and where to ride e-scooters

e-scooter / electric scooter

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Dubai: If you are a regular Metro user there is an important change that comes into effect from today. e-scooters are no longer allowed on the Dubai Metro and Dubai Tram, after Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) announced that it was prohibiting their use on the two modes of public transport.

But what happens if you take an e-scooter to your nearest Metro station? According to the RTA, you can use the parking stands designated for bicycles outside various Metro stations to park your e-scooters as well.

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Here are some other questions that the RTA answered on its official X account, that can help you navigate this change.

Can I still take my cycle?

Foldable cycles have been allowed on Metros and Trams in the past by the RTA, and you are still allowed to take them with you. Responding to an X user’s query, RTA said: “Foldable bicycles without any batteries are allowed inside the Dubai Metro and Tram cabins. These bicycles must adhere to the size regulations for luggage and should be stored in the designated luggage area within the train.”

For more details on the rules bicycle riders need to follow, click here .

Can I use the Metro footbridge with an e-scooter?

Yes, as per the RTA. Responding to another X user’s query, the authority said that commuters were only prohibited from taking e-scooters into Metro and Tram cabins.

“You may carry the e-scooter inside the Metro stations across the footbridge as long as it is folded and following any safety instruction announced,” the post read.

Other rules e-scooter users need to adhere to in Dubai

Apart from this latest announcement, there are also other rules that e-scooter users need to follow when riding around the streets in Dubai. For example, yu can never ride an e-scooter against the flow of traffic. You cannot carry a passenger with you. And you can only ride your e-scooter in areas designated for e-scooters.

These are just some of the top rules that e-scooter riders should follow to make sure that they stay safe and they are not a hazard to other road users, either.

Last year, Dubai Police raised an alert on e-scooter safety, when it announced that in eight months, accidents involving e-scooters and cycles had led to five deaths, with 32 accidents being recorded. The numbers were released by Dubai Police in October 2023 , which included the number of fines that had been issued to electric bicycles and e-scooters during this period - 10,031.

Over the past few years, e-scooters have become a popular choice for residents as they are affordable and easy to ride and maintain. But, if you are inexperienced or do not follow the rules, it can lead to fines, impoundment of the e-scooter and - in serious cases – injuries or fatalities.

To ensure your safety and of others around you, here is a comprehensive guide on the regulations surrounding the use of e-scooters in Dubai.

Do I need a permit to ride an e-scooter in Dubai?

If you have a valid driving licence, you are exempt from obtaining an e-scooter permit, according to Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority (RTA). You will need to carry your driving licence with you when riding the electric scooter and present it to a police officer, when asked.

If you do not have a driving licence, you will need to apply for an e-scooter permit.

How to apply for an e-scooter permit in Dubai

You can apply for the permit through RTA’s official website – rta.ae, and it is free of cost. All you have to do is complete online training courses, and take a test.

Once you pass the test, you will then receive an electronic permit for the e-scooter licence through the RTA website. After obtaining the permit, you must download it and save it on your phone.

For a detailed guide on how to apply for the permit, click here .

This is needed even if you are renting an e-scooter .

Do I have to follow a speed limit?

According to RTA, the speed limit on bicycle and e-scooter paths changes depending on the location:

• 20 km/h on designated paths in residential areas and beaches. • 30 km/h on the Meydan track and streets shared with vehicles.

Where can I use the e-scooter?

In Dubai, there are areas which have designated lanes for cycles and e-scooters. Some of these areas, include Kite Beach, Dubai Water Canal, Jumeirah Street, and Al Marsa Street in Dubai Marina.

However, places like Al Qudra Cycling Track, Mushrif Mountain Bike Trail and Meydan Track are only for cyclists. According to the RTA, you should avoid riding the e-scooter in undesignated areas.

RTA cycle and e-scooter map

How old do I have to be to ride an e-scooter?

You must be 16 years old and above to ride an e-scooter in Dubai. This is as per Executive Council Resolution No. (13) of 2022 issued by Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of the Executive Council of Dubai in March 2022 .

14 traffic signs you should know

According to RTA, there are specific ground markings and traffic signs that e-scooter riders must follow to stay safe.

E-scooter traffic signs Dubai

How do I make sure I am riding my e-scooter safely?

According to the RTA and Dubai Police , most incidents involving e-scooters occur because of the riders’ failure to abide by basic safety rules. The most common violations are failure to wear required safety gear, riding in the wrong direction, and unauthorised use of designated vehicle paths .

It is extremely important for e-scooter riders to keep these basic rules in mind at all times, to ensure they stay safe and so do other road users:

1. Ride on designated tracks, adhere to traffic instructions and regulations, and warning signs on the tracks. 2. Avoid riding e-scooters outside designated or shared lanes. 3. Avoid reckless driving that endangers the public. 4. Leave a safe distance between e-scooters, bikes and pedestrians. 5. Wear a helmet and reflective jacket. 6. Do not carry anything or any passenger that can cause the e-scooter to lose its balance. 7. When you reach a pedestrian crossing, get off the e-scooter and cross the strip walking. 8. Ride the e-scooter individually. You must be above the age of 16 years. 9. Obtain the e- scooter driving permit or carry your driving licence. 10. Refrain from using headphones.

Fines you face for violating rules

Executive Council Resolution No. (13) of 2022 lists the violations and penalties pertaining to the use of e-scooters and other such vehicles in the emirate.

As per the resolution, these are the fines that are applicable to e-scooters:

• Dh200 - Riding against traffic. • Dh300 - Riding a pedal cycle or an electric bike on a road with a speed limit of more than 60 kmph. • Dh200 - Failure by a cyclist to comply with the obligation to ride his cycle only in the cycle lanes determined by the RTA. • Dh300 - Riding a cycle in a manner that endangers the life and safety of the cyclist or other persons. • Dh200 - Riding or leaving a cycle on a lane designated for walking or jogging. • Dh200 - Using an electric scooter, or any other type of cycles determined by the RTA, without first obtaining a rider’s permit. • Dh300 - Carrying a passenger on an electric scooter. • Dh200 - Carrying a passenger on a pedal cycle or an electric bike that is not fitted with the required equipment, or failure by a cyclist or passenger to wear the required vest and helmet. • Dh100 - Failure to comply with the speed limits prescribed by the RTA for cycle lanes. • Dh200 - Failure by a cyclist to meet the security and safety requirements prescribed in the Executive Council Resolution No. (13) of 2022 and the resolutions issued in pursuance hereof. • Dh300 - riding a cycle which does not meet the technical requirements stipulated in this Resolution and the resolutions issued in pursuance hereof. • Dh200 - Parking a cycle at a place other than the parking places designated for this purpose, or parking a cycle in a manner that obstructs the traffic of vehicles or pedestrians or in a manner that constitutes a hazard to road users. • Dh200 - Failure to comply with the instructions displayed on the information signs on roads and cycle lanes. • Dh200 - Failure to dismount the cycle when on a pedestrian crossing. • Dh300 - Failure by a cyclist to report to the RTA, the Dubai Police or the ambulance service any accident caused or sustained by him or her which results in any injury or material damage. • Dh200 - Using the left-hand side of the road when riding a pedal cycle or an electric bike, or failure to ensure that the road is clear before changing lanes. • Dh300 - Parking or driving a vehicle, or attempting to obstruct traffic, on a cycle lane. • Dh300 - Having the cycle towed by a vehicle or using the cycle for towing.

The article was first published on October 25, 2023 and has been updated since.

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The Independent

Why you should escape Dubai for Ras Al Khaimah, the UAE’s ‘other emirate’

G liding across the calm, turquoise waters through the mangroves of Al Rams, I gaze at the towering Hajar mountains in front of me. The wooden boat I’m travelling in is transporting me to a remote pontoon, home to the world’s first Arabian pearl farm . In waters filled with flamingoes and turtles, a small team of Emiratis is reviving the ancient trade, cultivating exquisite pearls with modern-day pearling techniques.

Mountain ranges and ancient pearling traditions might not be the first thing that springs to mind when you think of the United Arab Emirates , with Dubai ’s famous skyscrapers and luxurious resorts tending to take centre stage. But I’m in Ras Al Khaimah (also known as RAK), one of the UAE’s ‘other’ emirates.

Just over an hour’s drive from the heart of Dubai , the northernmost emirate was historically considered a significant trade centre. In more recent years, it’s become an attractive escape for those seeking a truly authentic UAE experience. Like the other emirates, it’s not short of luxury hotels , but Ras Al Khaimah also offers tranquil beaches, a wealth of cultural heritage sites, and a nature-centric experience that is a perfect getaway from bustling Dubai . The city has long been a hidden gem in the Middle East – and after attracting 1.22 million visitors in 2023, it won’t remain a secret for long. The region’s new focus on tourism means now is the perfect time to visit.

Adventurous souls and laid-back beach bums can find plenty of things to do that suit all budgets in Ras Al Khaimah. The emirate has many options, whether you want breathtaking views or thrilling excursions.

Unique cultural excursions

No visit to Ras Al Khaimah would be complete without learning about the region’s history of pearling. Descending from a long line of pearl divers, Abdulla Al Suwaidi keeps the region’s pearl traditions alive with Suwaidi Pearl Farm . The farm offers tours, with opportunities to learn about age-old techniques and hear tales of the region’s pearl divers. Guests can travel on a traditional pearling boat – and you can even take home an Arabian pearl if you’re lucky enough to find one inside an oyster.

Discover ancient heritage sites

Al Jazeera Al Hamra is a village with 500 impressive buildings where archaeologists have continued to discover ancient relics. Visitors can explore the location, marvel at the traditional architecture of a historic mosque and fort, and get lost in the meandering stone alleyways. Each February, the area is also home to the Ras Al Khaimah Art Festival , displaying the work of emerging artists in the region.

Another spectacular historical site is Dhayah Fort , which offers panoramic views from the mountains to the ocean – if you climb its 239 stairs. Currently, on the Unesco World Heritage Tentative List, Dhayah Fort is the last remaining hill fort in the UAE, and its historical significance lies in an 1819 battle between British troops and regional tribes. Various tombs and buildings are dotted around the location, which can be covered within an hour or two. However, there’s no step-free access – and with temperatures topping 40C in summer, it’s best to avoid climbing in the midday sun.

Mountainous adventures

Ras Al Khaimah is home to the highest peak in the UAE, meaning there are plenty of mountain activities to enjoy. One of the highlights is catching the sunrise from the summit of Camp 1770 . At 1,770m above sea level, this is the highest camp in the country and a fun way to explore the great outdoors. Visitors can embark on day or night hikes, listen to stories around a campfire, and indulge in Emirati-cooked food while disconnecting from the bustle of city life.

Ras Al Khaimah’s mountains are also the perfect location for thrill-seekers, thanks to the opening of Jais Flight , the world’s longest zipline. Starting at a hair-raising altitude of 1,680m above the Arabian Gulf, daredevils can enjoy breathtaking views as they descend on the 2,832m-long zipline. You can reach speeds of up to 160km per hour during the three-minute experience.

Those seeking a calmer experience can still enjoy the impressive mountain views from 1484 . This luxury restaurant, located 1,484m up the mountain, is the highest place in the UAE to enjoy a bite. There’s afternoon tea, a selection of hearty local meals, and international favourites like fish and chips on the menu.

Where to stay

Luckily, Ras Al Khaimah doesn’t have the same price tags as neighbouring Dubai. If you’re on a budget, Al Hamra Village Hotel is one of the more affordable options in the area. Located in upscale Al Hamra, it is a perfect springboard for visiting the Al Hamra heritage site, Al Hamra Mall and several secluded white sandy beaches.

With a convenient central yet tranquil location, the Hilton Garden Inn Ras Al Khaimah is an urban oasis surrounded by lush gardens and a view of the expansive harbour. The classic rooms at this mid-range hotel in the heart of RAK provide all the modern comforts.

Ras Al Khaimah also has plenty of luxury hotels for those with a bigger budget. One of the most impressive is the super-modern InterContinental Ras Al Khaimah Resort & Spa . The luxury beachfront escape sits on the shores of the Arabian Gulf and comes with world-class dining options and several elegant pools for indulgence and relaxation. The breakfast is unparalleled, and the idyllic location is a perfect starting point for exploring Ras Al Khaimah.

How to get there

Ras Al Khaimah does have an international airport, but most travellers from the UK can expect to fly directly into neighbouring Dubai. One of many airlines that fly this route is Emirates , which offers six daily flights between Dubai and London Heathrow. You can also take direct flights from other UK cities including Manchester. Flight time from the UK to Dubai is just under seven hours.

From Dubai, it's a little over a one-hour drive to Ras Al Khaimah. Renting a car is the easiest way to travel from Dubai to RAK and the best way to get around while sightseeing. However, public transport is also available; book the Ras Al Khaimah Shuttle Bus or take a taxi from Dubai Airport to Ras Al Khaimah.

Read more on UAE travel:

  • 8 of the best things to do in Abu Dhabi
  • Hipster Dubai: How the UAE's glitziest city embraced avocado on toast
  • The best time to visit Dubai for a holiday – and how to avoid sweltering temperatures

The Independent is the world’s most free-thinking news brand, providing global news, commentary and analysis for the independently-minded. We have grown a huge, global readership of independently minded individuals, who value our trusted voice and commitment to positive change. Our mission, making change happen, has never been as important as it is today.

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IMAGES

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COMMENTS

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    Read this satirical blog about UAE and why and how it's so amazing. From staggering infrastructure to amazing people, UAE has it all for a booming tourism. ... This is how the evenings in Dubai look like! Quite common place, isn't it? Image Source. ... Book memorable holidays on TravelTriangle with 650+ verified travel agents for 65+ domestic ...

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    Worst times. The months of June, July and August have searingly hot temperatures in Dubai. Think an average high of 106 degrees Fahrenheit every day, with temperatures not dropping below 86 overnight. Temperatures can even hit 117 degrees Fahrenheit in these months. It's likely to also be quite humid, which can drain your energy even more.

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    Safety Tips for Travelers. In terms of crime, Dubai is one of the safest destinations in the Middle East. The largest city in the United Arab Emirates is a major tourist and business hub and one of the fastest-growing cities with international travelers in the world. Street crime including pickpocketing and bag snatching is uncommon, and thanks ...

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  11. Dubai travel restrictions: all you need to know about the Covid flying

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  12. 8 Reasons Why You Should Visit Dubai at Least Once in Your Lifetime

    The Burj Khalifa is the tallest building in the world, and making a trip to the top is a memorable experience. From the beach to the desert, the whole of Dubai can be seen from up there. The building is over 800 meters tall and has 163 floors. The Burj Khalifa is home to numerous hotels and restaurants, and is an ideal place to watch the sunset.

  13. Is Dubai SAFE to Visit? (2024 • Insider Tips)

    Dubai is a very cool and safe place to visit. All that city to explore with cocktail bars and infinity pools at your fingertips, excursions out into the desert, and islands to discover just off the coast. There's a lot going for it and a lot of amazing places to visit in Dubai. As we said, Dubai comes packed with a whole lot of rules.

  14. Coronavirus (Covid 19) Advisory

    Requirements for touristsArriving in Dubai. Before you travel. Effective 8 November 2022, passengers are no longer required to present COVID-19 vaccination certificates or negative PCR test results to enter the UAE. Please check the following before you travel: 1. Ensure you meet entry visa requirements to visit the UAE.

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    17 January 2024 4 min read. In light of recent events in the Middle East, many travellers are seeking clarity on the safety of visiting Dubai on holiday. The destination is still considered safe but the Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) has issued updates that are crucial for potential tourists to consider. In this explainer, we ...

  18. United Arab Emirates International Travel Information

    Call us in Washington, D.C. at 1-888-407-4747 (toll-free in the United States and Canada) or 1-202-501-4444 (from all other countries) from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays). See the State Department's travel website for the Worldwide Caution and Travel Advisories.

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  20. 6 Do's & Don'ts of Travelling to Dubai During Ramadan

    However, in Dubai, Maghrib is accompanied by the firing of a cannon. In a regional tradition which has stood since the 60s, five cannons are let off across the city to mark sunset. Get along to either Burj Park, Dubai City Walk, Madinat Jumeirah or the Eid prayer grounds in Al Mankhool or Al Baraha for a front row seat to the firing.

  21. Travel advice and advisories for United Arab Emirates

    During your stay: make sure that your personal belongings, including your passport and other travel documents, are secure at all times. don't leave personal items and documents in plain sight in a vehicle. keep your car doors locked and windows closed at all times. Violent crime is rare.

  22. What to do When in Dubai? 25 Do's and Don'ts of Visiting Dubai

    Stay Ahead of Time When Booking a Flight to Dubai. Book a Hotel in Advance When Planning a Visit to Dubai. Pack Your Clothing According to the Month of Your Visit to Dubai. Do Stick to the Dress Code When in Dubai. Respect the Islamic Traditions During Ramadan. Embrace Dubai's Local Traditions During Your Visit.

  23. Things I Wish I Knew Before Visiting Dubai As an American

    Here are 11 things I wish I knew before I went. Rachel Dube. Updated. Feb 2, 2024, 2:09 PM PST. I learned quite a few things when I visited Dubai. Rachel Dube. When I visited Dubai for the first ...

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