United Arab Emirates Holidays
Dubai beach clubs, Abu Dhabi island resorts, and year-round guaranteed sunshine. Find flights, hotels, and tips for your UAE beach holiday.
€1 = AED 4.23
Today
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Weather in United Arab Emirates
Sat
Sun
Mon
SPF level in United Arab Emirates
Autumn
SPF 50
Spring
SPF 50
Summer
SPF 50+
Winter
SPF 30
Entry requirements for United Arab Emirates
Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months from your arrival date in the UAE.
You can get a free 90-day tourist visa on arrival, which is stamped in your passport at immigration.
The visa allows a total stay of up to 90 days within any 180-day period from your first entry.
You risk fines for each day you overstay the 90-day limit on your tourist visa.
You must prove you have had a yellow fever vaccination if arriving from a country where it is a transmission risk.
Good to know:
It is illegal to bring pork products or pornography into the UAE.
You must get advance approval to bring many types of medication, with a limit of one month's supply for controlled drugs.
Safety in United Arab Emirates
United Arab Emirates is tourist-friendly but has some key cultural and legal rules:
It is illegal to drink or be under the influence of alcohol in any public place in the UAE.
Swim only at approved beaches with lifeguards and heed warning flags, as rip currents can be dangerous.
Dress modestly in public areas like malls, covering shoulders and knees, and only wear swimwear on beaches or at pools.
Swearing, making rude gestures, or showing affection like kissing in public can lead to arrest, jail, or deportation.
Do not take photos of people without permission, especially women on beaches, as you could be arrested.
Bonus tips:
Do not accept drinks from strangers or leave your drink unattended as it could be spiked.
Always use licensed taxis or recognised apps like Uber; authorised Dubai taxis are cream with different coloured roofs.
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Driving in United Arab Emirates
You can drive in the UAE using a UK driving license for a short period. It is advisable to obtain an International Driving Permit (IDP) for longer stays or if requested by rental companies or authorities.
Side of the road
Right
Motorway speed limit
120 km/h
Urban speed limit
60-80 km/h
Alcohol limit
0.0%
Remember: United Arab Emirates drives on the right. Take extra care at junctions if you normally drive on the left.
Health in United Arab Emirates
It's crucial to have comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical expenses, including repatriation, as medical care in the UAE can be expensive. Ensure your policy covers all planned activities.
No vaccinations required
Consult your GP or a travel clinic for personalized health advice before your trip. Ensure you are up-to-date with routine vaccinations. The UAE has a high standard of medical care, particularly in major cities. Be aware of heat-related illnesses; stay hydrated and avoid strenuous activity during the hottest part of the day.
Cards & payments
Widely accepted in major establishments, but smaller shops and local markets may prefer cash.
Visa
High
Mastercard
High
American Express
Medium
Lost card? Call Visa: +1-303-967-1095
Tipping in United Arab Emirates
Tipping is not mandatory in the UAE, but it is a common practice to show appreciation for good service. Service charges may be included in the bill at some establishments, so check carefully before adding a tip.
Restaurant
10-15% if service is not included
Bar/Café
10-15% if service is not included
Taxi
Round up the fare or 10 AED
Hotel Porter
5-10 AED per bag
Hotel Housekeeper
5-10 AED per day
Tour Guide
10-15% of tour cost
Mobile & roaming
Since Brexit, EU roaming agreements no longer apply. Check with your mobile provider for roaming charges in the UAE. Consider purchasing a local SIM card for potentially cheaper data rates.
Local SIM
5GB for 125 AED (~£27)
Network coverage
4G, 5G
Electrical in United Arab Emirates
Voltage
230V / 50 Hz
Plug types
Type G, Type D
WiFi & internet
Widely available in hotels, cafes, restaurants, and public areas.
Average speed
50 Mbps
WiFi is readily available in most hotels, restaurants, and cafes, especially in tourist areas. Some public areas also offer free WiFi. Mobile data is generally reliable with good 4G/5G coverage. Average internet speeds are robust.
Emergency numbers
Universal emergency
999
Police
999
Ambulance
998
Fire
997
Save 999 in your phone before travelling.
Calling United Arab Emirates
Country code
971
To call United Arab Emirates from abroad, dial 971 followed by the local number.
UK Embassy
British Embassy, Abu Dhabi, P.O. Box 248, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
Phone
+971 (0)2 610 1100
Website
Dubai International Airport
Abu Dhabi International Airport
Sharjah International Airport
Al Maktoum International Airport
Ras Al Khaimah International Airport
Al Ain Airport
Recent updates
Safety
Since 8 July there have been strikes and retaliatory attacks by Iran against US military and civilian infrastructure across the region.
There is now a risk of more attacks and unforeseen escalation in the region.
Do not approach or touch any drone or missile fragments or unusual objects.
British nationals should now be prepared for possible flight cancellations, periodic airspace closures, and potential travel disruptions.
Monitor updates relating to airports and airspace, which could close at short notice.
Iran has carried out further attacks on the region since the MOU was agreed.
The situation remains unpredictable and Iran could resume attacks at short notice.
All but essential travel warning has been removed; you can now travel for any reason.
Risk of Iranian strikes is now based on situation before the 8 April ceasefire; risk of renewed hostilities remains but strikes have decreased.
Previous detailed instructions on 'Shelter in place' and specific actions when 'Leaving UAE' have been consolidated into general guidance during regional tensions.
The scheme to 'register your interest in flights from UAE' has been paused and removed from the advice.
Beaches in United Arab Emirates
No beaches listed for United Arab Emirates yet.
Frequently asked Questions
While we strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, AtoBeach cannot be held responsible for any inaccuracies. We recommend verifying details with official sources before travelling.