Essential Tips for Visiting the United Arab Emirates: Everything You Need to Know
The UAE is one of those places that feels ridiculously easy… once you understand the rules. The problem is, first-timers often land with “Dubai brain” and assume the whole country runs the same way, then get surprised by visa details, heat levels that feel personal, and cultural norms that are simple but not optional. 🧳☀️
This guide is your calm, practical shortcut. You’ll learn what to sort before you fly (passport validity, visa checks, meds), how to plan days so you’re not sightseeing at peak-melt, and how to dress and behave without doing the awkward “am I in trouble?” scan every five minutes. We’ll also cover getting around, money, apps that make life smoother, and the biggest differences between Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and the other emirates. You bring the sunglasses. I’ll bring the common sense. 🌇
United Arab Emirates Tips: Quick Facts at a Glance
✅ Passport validity rules are strict, don’t arrive with a nearly-expired passport
✅ Visa rules depend on nationality, confirm before booking anything non-refundable
✅ If you’re only transiting airside, passport rules can be different than entering
✅ Summer heat is intense, plan outdoors for mornings and evenings
✅ Dubai and Abu Dhabi are different vibes, and some emirates are stricter
✅ Alcohol rules exist and can vary by emirate and venue, don’t freestyle it
✅ Dress code is mostly common sense, but mosques and old areas need extra respect 🕌
✅ Public transport shines in Dubai, taxis are easy, inter-emirate travel is simple once planned
✅ This guide is for first-timers who want the fun bits and the “don’t mess this up” bits
🤚 Must-do: Screenshot your passport expiry date right now and do the maths for 6 months after arrival before you get attached to any flight deal.
🔥 My Recommended Tour to get you started in the UAE: Dubai: Premium Safari, Camel Ride & Al Khayma Camp 3-Buffets
Quick UAE Q&As
Do I need a visa to visit the UAE?
It depends on your nationality. Many travellers can get visa-free entry or a visa on arrival, but you must check your passport’s rules before booking.
How long does my passport need to be valid for the UAE?
If you’re entering the UAE, plan for at least 6 months validity from your arrival date. Transit rules can differ if you do not pass immigration.
Is the UAE safe for first-time travellers?
Generally yes, and it’s well set up for tourists. The main “issues” are heat, traffic, and accidentally breaking rules around alcohol or public behaviour.
What should I wear in the UAE as a tourist?
Light, breathable clothes that cover shoulders and knees in more traditional places. Beachwear is fine at the beach or pool, just cover up when you leave.
Can tourists drink alcohol in the UAE?
Yes, in licensed venues, mainly hotels and certain restaurants and bars. Public drinking and being drunk in public can get you into trouble, and Sharjah is a no-go.
What’s the best time of year to visit the UAE?
For most people, the cooler months are the sweet spot for outdoors. Summer is doable, but you’ll live on indoor plans and early starts.
What’s the easiest way to get around Dubai and Abu Dhabi?
Dubai’s Metro is a game-changer in the areas it covers. Taxis and ride-hailing fill the gaps, and Abu Dhabi is mostly taxi and car-based.
What apps do I need in the UAE?
Maps, transport apps, ride-hailing, and a delivery app make life easier. Also note that some internet calling features may not work as you expect.
👉 Good to know: If your trip includes multiple emirates, plan your “rules stuff” around the strictest one, not the loosest.
Visiting the UAE for the first time: the quick answer (what to prep so the trip feels easy)
If you prep four things, the UAE becomes the kind of trip where everything just flows: entry rules, heat strategy, money, and transport/apps. Do those before you land and you skip the airport panic, the “why is my phone not working” moment, and the midday heat regret.
Here’s the simple checklist I use for first-timers:
| Task | When to do it | Why it matters |
|---|---|---|
| Check passport expiry + blank pages | 4–8 weeks before | UAE passport rules are strict, airlines can refuse boarding |
| Confirm visa rules for your nationality | Before booking hotels/flights | Saves you from non-refundable mistakes |
| Plan outdoor hours | Before you build your itinerary | The heat can wreck a “walk all day” plan |
| Set up mobile data plan | 1–3 days before | Maps and ride-hailing are your best friends |
| Decide card vs cash approach | 1 week before | Helps with taxis, tips, small purchases |
| Review meds rules if you carry prescriptions | 2–4 weeks before | Some meds need approval, don’t wing this |
🔹 Tinker’s Tip: Put one note in your phone called “UAE Basics” with your hotel address, emergency contact, and your passport photo. You’ll feel invincible.
🗺️ Travel Essentials: Travel Essentials Checklist: Don’t Leave Home Without These!
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Entry rules and visas: what to check before you book anything non-refundable
I generally start with the boring stuff, because it’s the stuff that can stop your trip before it starts. For most travellers, the big two are passport validity and visa eligibility. The UAE checks documents carefully, and airlines often enforce the rules at check-in, so “I’ll sort it later” is not the vibe here.
What to do before you lock anything in:
- Passport validity: Aim for 6 months validity after your arrival date if you’re entering the UAE.
- Transit vs entry: If you’re staying airside in transit, rules can be different than passing immigration.
- Visa rules depend on nationality: Some travellers get visa-free entry or a visa on arrival, others need to arrange it in advance.
- Don’t rely on hearsay: “My mate didn’t need a visa” only helps if you share the same passport.
If your itinerary includes Dubai plus day trips to other emirates, you’re still entering the UAE as a country. Sort the entry requirements first, then plan the fun stuff.
👉 Good to know: Check visa rules before booking non-refundable hotels, because changing dates is easy, changing visa eligibility isn’t.
🗺️ Use our entry requirement checker: The Travel Tinker Entry Requirement Checker
Dubai vs Abu Dhabi vs “the other emirates”: what changes for travellers
Dubai gets the spotlight, but the UAE is a set of seven emirates, and they do not all feel the same. Dubai is the loudest, flashiest, most “you can do anything if you book it on an app” place. Abu Dhabi is a bit calmer, more spread out, and leans more towards culture, museums, and big landmark experiences.
Then you’ve got the others, where first-timers sometimes get caught out:
- Sharjah: more conservative, especially around alcohol and public behaviour.
- Ajman and Umm Al Quwain: quieter, more local, often a slower pace.
- Ras Al Khaimah: great for beaches and outdoors, including mountains and adventure activities.
- Fujairah: east coast vibes, diving and beaches, and a different scenery feel.
The main takeaway: plan your behaviour around where you are that day. Dubai rules do not automatically translate to Sharjah rules.
💡 Fact: The same outfit or behaviour can be ignored in one emirate and frowned on in another, so pack a light layer and a little awareness.
🗺️ Nobody likes the stress of the airport: How to Get Through the Airport Quickly: Expert Tips for Savvy Travellers
Best time to visit: weather reality, humidity, and the “outdoor hours” strategy
The UAE is sunny a lot of the year, but “sunny” is not always “pleasant”. In cooler months, you can actually enjoy walking around, deserts, beaches, and outdoor markets without feeling like you’re speed-running dehydration. In the hotter months, the outdoors becomes a morning and evening activity, and midday turns into museums, malls, long lunches, and anything with air-con that could chill a penguin.
A simple seasonal cheat sheet:
| Season | Weather vibe | Best activities | What to pack |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cooler months | Comfortable outdoors | Desert trips, beach days, long walks | Light jacket for evenings |
| Shoulder months | Warm, sometimes humid | Mix of outdoors + indoor | Breathable layers |
| Hotter months | Very hot, very humid | Indoor sights, evening outings | Sun protection + water bottle |
🤚 Must-do: Build your itinerary around early mornings and after sunset. The UAE is a completely different experience once the sun eases off.
🛂 Official Visa & Immigration Details
🚕 Airport Transfer just in case: Welcome Pickups Dubai
🗺️ Recommended Read about Car Rental: DiscoverCars: Your Ultimate Guide to Hassle-Free Car Rentals 🚗
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Heat survival: how to sightsee without melting into a puddle
Heat in the UAE is not just “bit warm”. It can be intense enough that you’ll feel tired faster, get headaches quicker, and suddenly become obsessed with finding shade like it’s a hobby. The good news: the UAE is built for it. There’s air-con everywhere, water is easy to find, and you can plan your days in a way that still feels fun.
Practical heat moves:
- Aim for outdoor sights before 10am, then again late afternoon onwards
- Carry water and sip constantly, not just when you feel thirsty
- Use indoor anchors: museums, malls, aquariums, cafés, hotel lounges
- Dress for airflow: loose, light fabrics beat tight synthetic outfits
- Families: plan playgrounds and outdoor attractions for the coolest hours only
Also, the sun can be sneaky because it’s bright and dry at times. If you’re beaching it, reapply sunscreen like it’s your part-time job.
🔹 Tinker’s Tip: Pack a thin long-sleeve shirt you actually like wearing. It saves you from sunburn and stops your shoulders sticking to everything.
Money and payments: cards, cash, tipping, and tourist taxes
Most places in the UAE are card-friendly, from cafés to taxis to big attractions. Cash still helps for small tips, quick snacks, and the occasional “my card machine is having a day” moment. If you like to keep things simple, use card for nearly everything, and carry a small amount of cash for backup.
Here’s a quick guide:
| Spend type | Card | Cash |
|---|---|---|
| Hotels, malls, attractions | ✅ | Rare |
| Taxis and ride-hailing | ✅ | ✅ (handy backup) |
| Tips, small markets, quick snacks | Sometimes | ✅ |
| Emergency backup | ✅ | ✅ |
A few cost notes to keep your budget realistic:
- Tourism fees: Hotels may add tourism-related charges depending on emirate and hotel category.
- VAT: Often included in displayed prices, but keep an eye on receipts.
- Example price: AED 200 is about £40 / €46 / $55.
👉 Good to know: Tipping is appreciated but not always expected. If service charge is already included, a small extra tip is more of a nice gesture than a duty.
🗺️ Best Apps for Navigation: Best Travel Navigation App: Google Maps, Apple Maps, or Waze?
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Getting around: metro, taxis, ride-hailing, and inter-emirate travel
Dubai is the easiest place in the UAE to use public transport as a tourist, thanks to the Metro and connected options. Abu Dhabi is more car and taxi-focused, but it’s still easy to move around. Between emirates, you’ve got coaches, private drivers, and car travel depending on your comfort level and itinerary.
Dubai Metro fares using a Red Ticket depend on zones, but the basic idea is simple:
- Within 1 zone: AED 4
- 2 adjacent zones: AED 6
- More than 2 zones: AED 8.50
Here’s a practical comparison table:
| Option | Best for | Typical cost | What to watch for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dubai Metro | Quick city hops | AED 4–8.50 | Coverage is great, but not everywhere |
| Taxis | Door-to-door ease | Varies by distance | Airport pick-ups usually start higher |
| Ride-hailing | App convenience | Similar to taxis | Surge pricing at peak times |
| Inter-emirate coach | Budget intercity | Varies by route | Timetables, last departures |
| Private driver | Comfort, families | Higher cost | Book reputable services |
💡Fact: If you stay somewhere Metro-connected in Dubai, your daily stress level drops immediately.
Dress code and etiquette: what’s respectful without overthinking it
The UAE is modern, international, and used to tourists, but it’s still a country where public behaviour and clothing standards matter. The good news is it’s mostly common sense: dress more modestly in malls and traditional areas, cover up for mosques, and keep public affection minimal.
A simple cheat sheet helps:
| Situation | Safe behaviour | Risky behaviour | Easy workaround |
|---|---|---|---|
| Malls | Shoulders and knees covered | Very short shorts, see-through tops | Carry a light layer |
| Beaches/pools | Normal swimwear in beach zones | Staying in swimwear off-site | Throw on a cover-up |
| Mosques | Modest, covered arms/legs | Tight or revealing outfits | Bring scarf/light shirt |
| Old areas/markets | Modest and relaxed | Loud or rude behaviour | Keep it low-key |
| Photos | Ask if unsure | Photographing people up close | Step back and be polite |
Pack this, skip that:
- Pack: linen trousers, midi skirt, loose shirts, a scarf
- Skip: ultra-short club outfits for daytime wandering
Alcohol, nightlife, and rules tourists should actually know
Yes, tourists can drink in the UAE, but it’s controlled. Think licensed venues, mostly connected to hotels, and a strong “do not take it outside” rule. The biggest tourist mistakes happen when people treat the UAE like a beach party destination and then get shocked when public drinking is not tolerated.
What to keep in mind:
- Drink only in licensed venues and follow their rules
- Do not drink in public and do not be drunk in public, including beaches
- Sharjah: alcohol is not permitted there, so plan accordingly
- Age matters: many venues expect you to be 21+
- Transport: don’t carry open containers, and don’t try to “walk it off” between venues
If you’re planning nightlife, base yourself where it’s easy to get back safely, and keep the fun inside the venue, not on the street.
Ramadan and religious holidays: what changes (and how to be a good guest)
Ramadan can be a brilliant time to visit, but it does come with a different rhythm. Days are quieter, evenings can feel lively, and opening hours can shift. The key is respect: be mindful about eating and drinking in public during daylight hours, and follow local guidance in the moment.
What usually changes:
- Some restaurants close or reduce daytime service outside tourist areas
- Attraction hours can shift, especially in the evening
- Public behaviour expectations get stricter
- Iftar (evening meal): a lovely cultural experience, and many hotels offer special dinners
How to enjoy it without being a nuisance:
- Eat and drink in designated places during the day
- Dress a bit more modestly than you might in other months
Be patient, staff and schedules can be stretched
👉 Good to know: Even if rules feel relaxed in tourist zones, it’s still worth behaving like you’re a guest in someone else’s home.
🗺️ More guides: Cultural Etiquette: The Do’s and Don’ts for Respectful Travel
Safety and scams: what happens, how to dodge it politely
The UAE is generally very safe, including for solo travellers, but “safe” does not mean “scam-free”. Most issues are small: overcharging, fake offers, and pressure selling. Your best defence is calm confidence and a polite no.
Common things to watch for:
- Taxi issues: insist on the meter, or use app-based rides
- Too-good deals: surprise add-ons and “fees” after you commit
- Tour sales pressure: especially in very touristy areas
- Photos with animals: avoid anything that feels sketchy or exploitative
A simple script that works almost everywhere:
- “No thanks, I’m sorted.”
- “Not today, cheers.”
- Repeat, smile, keep walking.
💡Fact: The fastest way to end a hard sell is to stop explaining. A short “no thanks” works better than a long story.
Connectivity and apps: maps, messaging, bookings, and staying online
Your phone is basically your UAE survival tool. Navigation, ride-hailing, food delivery, attraction bookings, and even some transport planning all go smoother with data. If your home plan is expensive abroad, grab an Airalo eSIM so you land connected and don’t spend your first hour hunting Wi-Fi like it’s a sport.
Apps worth having:
- Google Maps (plus saved pins)
- Careem for rides, and sometimes taxis and deliveries
- Uber in the cities where it’s available
- RTA S’hail for Dubai transport planning
- Darbi for Abu Dhabi transport and road info
One surprise for some travellers: internet calling features can be restricted on local networks, so have a backup plan like standard calls, carrier Wi-Fi calling, or an approved calling option.
🤚 Must-do: Download offline maps of your main areas before you fly, even if you plan to have data.
🗺️ Think again!: Travel Safety Essential: Why a Portable Carbon Monoxide Detector is a Must-Have ✈️
Where to stay for first-timers: areas that make life easy
Where you stay can make the UAE feel either effortless or oddly exhausting. The biggest mistake is picking a hotel that looks gorgeous but sits miles from what you actually want to do. In Dubai especially, being “close” can still mean a long taxi ride, so choose a base that fits your itinerary.
Dubai areas that work well for first-timers:
- Downtown: big sights, easy access, very tourist-friendly
- Dubai Marina/JBR: beachy vibe, restaurants, lots of hotels
- Old Dubai (Deira/Bur Dubai area): culture, markets, more traditional feel
- Near a Metro station: the ultimate convenience hack
Abu Dhabi bases:
- Corniche: central, easy waterfront walks
- Yas Island: theme parks and big entertainment
- Saadiyat: beach and museums
If you want to compare options quickly, I usually start with Booking.com UAE and filter by neighbourhood and transport access.
🏨 Recommended hotels: Booking.com UAE
🛌 Recommended Hostels: Hostelworld UAE
🏩 Accommodation from Agoda.com UAE
🗺️ Useful Guide: Direct vs Third-Party Travel: Your Ultimate Booking Decision Guide
🔹 Tinker’s Tip: In Dubai, “near Metro” often beats “near beach” for overall trip ease, unless your plan is 90% sunbed living.
What to book in advance: tours, big attractions, and day trips
The UAE is very bookable. That’s great, until you hit peak season or a weekend and discover your dream time slot is gone. If there’s one thing worth booking ahead, it’s anything timed, popular, or limited capacity.
Book in advance if you can:
- Iconic viewpoints and headline attractions (especially at prime sunset times)
- Mosque visits that require specific entry windows
- Desert experiences: prices and availability swing by season and demand
- Day trips: if your time is tight, pre-booking saves you taxi negotiation fatigue
If you like having options lined up, browsing Get Your Guide Tours can help you lock plans in before you land, especially for desert trips and the big-ticket landmarks.
Medical stuff and medicines: what to do before you pack your pharmacy
The UAE has excellent healthcare in the cities, but the rules around medication can be stricter than many travellers expect. Some prescription and over-the-counter medicines that are normal at home can be treated as controlled substances, and that’s not something you want to discover at customs.
Before you fly:
- Check your prescriptions against UAE controlled medicine guidance
- Carry meds in original packaging
- Bring a doctor’s letter and a copy of your prescription
- Don’t pack huge quantities “just in case”
- Heat awareness: dehydration and heat exhaustion are common tourist issues
This is also where travel insurance is genuinely worth it, not as a boring checkbox, but because heat illness, accidents, and trip disruption can get expensive fast.
Your first 72 hours in the UAE: a simple landing plan
Your first few days set the tone. If you land and try to do everything at once, you’ll end up tired, sweaty, and slightly annoyed at your own ambition. A smoother plan is to get the basics sorted, do one headline experience, and build momentum.
Day 1: Land and settle
- Get connected (data/eSIM), save your hotel address, set up ride-hailing
- Eat something simple and hydrate
- Do an easy evening walk somewhere lively
Day 2: One big “wow” + one culture hit
- Morning outdoors, midday indoors
- Book a landmark at a time that suits the heat
- Choose a neighbourhood dinner, not a mission across the city
Day 3: Expand
Day trip, beach time, desert plan, or Abu Dhabi swap depending on your itinerary
Tiny checklist:
- ✅ Cash backup
- ✅ Transport app
- ✅ Water bottle
- ✅ Light layer for malls
- ✅ Sunscreen
FAQs about Visiting the UAE
Do I need a visa to visit the United Arab Emirates?
It depends on your nationality, and the rules can change. Check your passport’s eligibility before booking anything non-refundable, especially if your trip is short or you’re transiting.
How long does my passport need to be valid for the UAE?
If you’re entering the UAE, plan for at least 6 months validity after your arrival date. If you’re transiting airside without passing immigration, the requirement can be different, so check your specific routing.
What should tourists wear in the UAE?
Aim for light, breathable clothes that cover shoulders and knees in malls, mosques, and traditional areas. Beachwear is fine at beaches and pools, but cover up when you head back into public areas.
Can tourists drink alcohol in the UAE?
Yes, in licensed venues, mainly in hotels and certain restaurants and bars. Public drinking and being drunk in public can cause serious trouble, and Sharjah is stricter than Dubai and Abu Dhabi.
What is the best time of year to visit the UAE?
Cooler months are usually best for outdoor sightseeing and the desert. Hotter months can still be enjoyable if you plan mornings and evenings outdoors and keep midday for indoor attractions.
Ready for the UAE?
The UAE is an easy, brilliant first-timer trip once you lock the basics in: confirm entry rules, plan around the heat, pick a base that fits your itinerary, respect local norms, and let apps do the heavy lifting. If you do that, you’ll spend your time eating well, seeing ridiculous skyline views, and actually enjoying the place, instead of constantly second-guessing yourself. 🌇🕌
If you’re visiting the UAE for the first time, tell me your dates, which emirates you’re thinking, your trip length, and the one thing you’re most nervous about. And if you want more first-timer guides, have a browse around TheTravelTinker.com for destination tips that keep it fun and sensible.👇🗣️
Adventure on,
The Travel Tinker Crew 🌍✨
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Author
Christine Choi
I’m Christine Choi, a Chinese travel writer and lifelong wanderer who loves trips that mix iconic sights with the small, unexpected moments you remember way longer. I’m all about chasing great food, local stories, and those “how did we end up here?” detours that turn a normal day into the best one of the week.
Growing up in China, I was surrounded by huge contrasts, buzzing cities one minute and quiet mountain towns the next. That’s probably why I travel the way I do now: I’ll happily spend a morning in a museum or temple, then finish the day elbow-deep in a night market, taste-testing everything that smells good (and occasionally something that looks suspiciously spicy). I’m especially drawn to places with strong culture, beautiful landscapes, and public transport that lets you actually relax and watch the world roll by.
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