£1 AED 4.93
Today
7:57 am
+4h from you
Travel warning
There is a serious security situation in the region which has caused flight cancellations and disruptions, and there is a chance of attacks in public places like hotels and beaches.
Weather in United Arab Emirates
United Arab Emirates
25°
Thunderstorm with slight hail
Wed
22
25
Thu
23
32
Fri
22
29
Sat
22
23
Sun
22
24
SPF level in United Arab Emirates
Recommended: SPF 50+
Spring
SPF 50
Summer
SPF 50+
Autumn
SPF 50
Winter
SPF 30
Suncream is often more expensive in tourist zones. Pack your preferred SPF from the UK, especially for beach holidays. Always carry travel-size (100ml max) for hand luggage.
Getting around United Arab Emirates
Languages in United Arab Emirates
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
Safety in United Arab Emirates
Tips for British travellers
United Arab Emirates is tourist-friendly but has some key cultural and legal rules:
Drinking or possessing alcohol is illegal in the Emirate of Sharjah, and it is illegal to be under the influence of alcohol in any public place in the UAE.
Do not take photos of people without their permission, especially of women on beaches, as you could be arrested.
Only swim at approved beaches with lifeguards and heed warning flags, as dangerous rip currents can occur.
It is illegal to cross the road anywhere other than a designated pedestrian crossing, and you may face a fine or imprisonment.
Dress modestly in public, covering shoulders and knees, and only wear swimming attire on beaches or at pools.
Bonus tips:
Swearing, making rude gestures, or posting critical material about the UAE online is illegal and can lead to jail or deportation.
Flashing your car headlights may be a warning that another driver is coming through, not an invitation for you to go.
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 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.
Emergency numbers
Universal emergency
999
Ambulance
998
Fire
997
Save 999 in your phone before travelling.
Electrical in United Arab Emirates
Voltage
230V / 50 Hz
Plug types
Type G, Type D
UK adapter needed?
No
The United Arab Emirates operates on 230V at 50 Hz. Plugs Type G (the same as the UK) and Type D are used. UK travelers may not need an adapter but should verify the plug type before travel.
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
ATMs in United Arab Emirates
Widely available in cities and tourist areas.
Local name
ATM
Chip & PIN required?
Yes
ATMs are readily accessible throughout the UAE, especially in urban centers and popular tourist destinations. Chip and PIN is generally required for transactions. Ensure your card is enabled for international use before traveling. Check with your bank about potential fees for international ATM withdrawals.
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 data package
5GB for 125 AED (~£27)
Network coverage
4G, 5G
Local carriers
Etisalat, du
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.
Health & vaccinations 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.
Vaccinations required?
No
Recommended
Hepatitis A
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.
Calling United Arab Emirates
Country code
+971
To call the UAE from the UK, dial 00 971 followed by the local number.
To call the British Embassy in Abu Dhabi, dial 00 971 2 610 1100.
The country code for the UAE is 971. When calling from abroad, replace the first 0 of the local area code with +971.
UK Embassy in United Arab Emirates
British Embassy Abu Dhabi
British Embassy, Abu Dhabi, P.O. Box 248, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
Airports in United Arab Emirates
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.