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Visiting the United Arab Emirates
What to see and do, and travel essentials for visitors to the UAE
Quick facts
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10.749 million
Total population
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Emirati dirhams (AED)
Currency
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Abu Dhabi
Capital
Plan your visit
After getting a taste of all the world in one place during your visit to Expo 2020 Dubai, why not immerse yourself even further into the sights, sounds, tastes and thrills of the region? With seven emirates to choose from, each with their own distinct attractions, there’s something for everyone to delight in. Explore what the seven emirates have to offer.
Explore what the seven emirates have to offer
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Abu DhabiThe capital of the UAE, Abu Dhabi has more than 200 natural islands, one of the world's largest mosques, and a plethora of outdoor experiences. Abu Dhabi city centre is just one hour from Expo 2020.
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AjmanRich in heritage and archaeological discoveries, Ajman is situated on the Gulf coast and is ideal for those who want to mix history with recreation. Just 50 minutes from Expo 2020.
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DubaiDubai is well-known for its stunning beaches, impressive skyline, retail therapy, award-winning water parks and mouth-watering culinary treats. Dubai Marina is just 20 minutes from Expo 2020.
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FujairahOn the eastern coast of the UAE, Fujairah’s rugged mountains and quaint seaside getaways make for a welcomed relaxing stay. Just 90 minutes from Expo 2020.
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Ras Al KhaimahPerhaps the most scenic of all the emirates with its stunning deserts, mangroves, salt flats and mountains, Ras Al Khaimah is an adventurer’s dream. Just one hour from Expo 2020.
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SharjahThe region’s cultural jewel, Sharjah is renowned as a hub of fine arts, delighting visitors with its mix of museums and art galleries. Just 40 minutes from Expo 2020.
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Umm Al QuwainMixing historical and natural attractions, Umm Al Quwain offers a thrilling yet serene alternative to the other emirates. Just 50 minutes from Expo 2020.
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Must-knows for all travellers
All the practical information you’ll need for planning your trip to the UAE. Discover the lowdown on getting here, the culture and customs, weather, currency and more.
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Getting to the United Arab Emirates
By air
Seven major airports across all emirates bring travellers from around the world to the UAE within a four- to eight-hour flight. Emirates Airlines (Dubai) and Etihad Airways (Abu Dhabi) connect the UAE to most international destinations.
By sea
Many major cruise lines stop in the UAE as part of their itineraries. Modern facilities in Port Rashid (Dubai), Abu Dhabi Cruise Terminal, Port Khalid (Sharjah) and Ras Al Khaimah Port provide speed and ease of entry for visitors.
By land
An excellent network of roads and highways connect the UAE to neighbouring Arab countries, making travelling by car or bus across the seven emirates and adjacent GCC countries extremely convenient. -
Culture and customs
The UAE’s culture is firmly rooted in its strong local heritage. This, combined with international influences, has created a shining example of Islam’s true commitment to tolerance and hospitality. In the UAE, people are encouraged to dress modestly and visitors will find that for non-Muslims alcohol is available in hotel outlets and pork can be consumed in certain restaurants.
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Weather in the UAE
Year-round sunshine, blue skies and warm conditions make a visit to the UAE a true pleasure. Rainfall is rare, and temperature ranges from around 25C on a winter day, to a high of around 42C on a summer’s day. Since all public and private establishments are equipped with air-conditioning, even the summer months are ideal for a visit.
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Currency
The official currency of the United Arab Emirates is the dirham (abbreviated to Dhs or AED). USD $1 equals AED 3.673. Banks and money exchange bureaus can be found throughout all emirates, mainly in major shopping malls and key locations. All major hotels will also readily exchange currency for guests. If you are carrying cash of more than AED 40,000 or its equivalent in foreign currency, you must declare it to airport customs control on entry. Mastercard, Visa, American Express and Diners Club are all widely accepted in the UAE, as are traveller’s cheques.
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Telecommunications
Stay connected with a temporary SIM card on a pay-as-you-go basis. Etisalat and du provide mobile phone and internet services in the UAE, and both have excellent reception and speed. The plans have various options for making local and international calls, sending text messages and surfing the internet. Visitors to the UAE can buy their SIM card and ask about the various plans at Etisalat or du shops located at airports in the UAE.
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Time difference
Winter: GMT + 4 hours
Summer: GMT + 3 hours -
Health information
No health certificate or special immunisation is required when arriving in the UAE (unless you have visited a country infected by cholera or yellow fever within 14 days prior to arrival). The quality of healthcare in the UAE is generally very high and visitors should have no problem obtaining appropriate treatment and advice. This can be in a private hospital or, in case of emergency, in a government hospital. Common medications and health products are available from local pharmacies, often without prescription.
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Water and electricity
The electricity supply in the UAE is 220/224 Volts at 50Hz. British-style square, three-pin sockets are standard. Most hotels can supply adapters. Tap water is perfectly safe to drink in the UAE, but if you prefer the taste of bottled water, locally bottled mineral water is readily available in supermarkets and grocery stores everywhere.
