Citizens of Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries, including Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Bahrain, Oman, and Qatar, can enter the UAE using their national ID cards. Other travelers must present a valid passport.
All travelers must have a valid passport to enter the UAE. Entry requirements depend on your nationality:
Citizens of several countries, including those from the European Union, United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, South Korea, and many others, can enter the UAE visa-free for stays up to 30 or 90 days, depending on nationality.
Some nationalities can obtain a visa on arrival, usually valid for 30 or 90 days, depending on the agreements in place.
Citizens of countries that are not on the visa-free or visa-on-arrival list must apply for a visa in advance through a UAE embassy or an online portal. A valid passport and application are necessary for obtaining a visa.
Always check the latest entry requirements based on your nationality, as they may change due to government regulations.
The UAE has a comprehensive toll system called "Salik" in Dubai and Abu Dhabi. Vehicles passing through toll gates are automatically charged via an electronic tag system. Drivers must register for Salik and top up the balance to pay for tolls.
The UAE has a desert climate, characterized by extremely hot summers and mild winters. Rainfall is minimal and generally occurs in the winter months.
Temperatures during the summer often exceed 40°C (104°F), with high humidity, especially in coastal areas. It’s advisable to stay indoors or in air-conditioned environments during the peak of summer.
Winters are mild, with temperatures ranging from 15°C to 25°C (59°F to 77°F), making it the best time for outdoor activities and tourism.
The official currency of the UAE is the United Arab Emirates Dirham (AED), abbreviated as AED and symbolized as د.إ or Dh.
AED banknotes are available in denominations of 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200, 500, and 1,000. Coins are available in denominations of 1 Dirham and 25 and 50 fils.
Currency exchange services are widely available in cities, airports, and major tourist areas. ATMs are plentiful, and international cards are accepted.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted across the UAE, including in hotels, restaurants, and shopping centers. However, it’s recommended to carry some cash, especially for small transactions or in rural areas.