Travel Tips
UAE
Glittering Dubai, the grand mosque of Abu Dhabi and golden desert make the UAE a striking stopover or short trip.
What I love about the UAE
People often ask me what I love most about a country. Every country has its good and bad sides, but here I share the positives I found on my travels.
How quickly Dubai was built. In just a few decades it turned into a modern, developed city, right in the middle of the desert.
- Capital
- Abu Dhabi
- Currency
- UAE dirham (AED)
- Language
- Arabic, with English widely used
- Best overall
- November to March
- Emergency
- Police 999, ambulance 998, fire 997
- Electricity
- 230V, plug types C, D and G
Top Destinations
Many nationalities get a visa on arrival or visa-free entry. Check the rule for your passport with the official UAE government site. Passport validity rules vary, so check the requirements before you book.
Read about visa on arrival, e-visas and online registration →
Still have specific visa questions?
November to March is warm and pleasant. Summer is extremely hot, so plan indoor time and early starts.
Not sure which month suits your trip?
Dubai
The Burj Khalifa, huge malls and the old creek.
Abu Dhabi
Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque and the Louvre Abu Dhabi.
Dubai Desert
Dune drives and desert camps.
Liwa Oasis
Vast dunes at the edge of the Empty Quarter.
Need help choosing where to go?
- Days 1 to 4 Dubai
- Day 5 Dubai Desert
- Days 6 to 7 Abu Dhabi
- Day 8 Sharjah
Want a route planned around your dates?
- Dubai's metro is clean and cheap. Taxis are also reliable.
- Buses and tours link Dubai and Abu Dhabi easily.
Not sure how to get between places?
- Cards work almost everywhere. Carry a little cash for souks and small traders.
- Buy an eSIM before you fly or a local SIM on arrival, so maps work from day one.
Questions about costs, cash or SIM cards?
- Shawarma from a local shop.
- Machboos: spiced rice with meat.
- Luqaimat: sweet dumplings with date syrup.
Want tips on what and where to eat?
- Laws are strict. Avoid public drunkenness and displays of affection, and check rules on medications.
- Dress modestly at mosques and government buildings.
Planning a trip to the UAE?
Book a one-on-one call and bring your questions about your route, costs and visa.
Information on this page may change, so please confirm the latest visa and entry requirements and your government travel advice on official websites before you travel.