General Questions
The capital of the UAE is Abu Dhabi.
The official language is Arabic, but English is widely spoken and understood.
The currency is the United Arab Emirates Dirham (AED).
The UAE operates on Gulf Standard Time (GMT+4).
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FAQ
Here are some frequently asked questions (FAQs) about the UAE that travelers often seek answers to:
Travel and Visa Information
Visa requirements vary by nationality. Many travelers can obtain a visa on arrival or apply for an e-visa. You can check here if the visa for you is required: More-Information
The best time to visit is from November to April when the weather is cooler and more comfortable for outdoor activities.
Alcohol consumption is permitted in licensed hotels, bars, and private clubs. Public drunkenness and drinking in public places are prohibited.
Dress modestly, especially in public spaces. Swimwear is appropriate at beaches and pools, but not in public areas.
Transportation, Tours and Local Services
Options include taxis, ride-sharing services, rental cars, and public transportation such as the Metro in Dubai and buses.
Yes, the UAE offers a diverse range of international cuisines due to its multicultural population.
- Police: 999
- Ambulance: 998
- Fire: 997
Yes, credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops. However, it’s a good idea to carry some cash for smaller establishments.
Tours in the UAE include city sightseeing tours, desert safaris, cultural tours, luxury yacht cruises, and adventure activities such as dune bashing and skydiving.
Yes, there are many family-friendly options including theme parks like IMG Worlds of Adventure and Yas Waterworld, as well as educational and interactive tours.
Wear comfortable clothing and footwear suitable for the activity. For desert tours, light, breathable fabrics are recommended, while modest attire is advised for cultural and religious sites.
Some attractions may have dress codes or specific visiting hours. For example, religious sites require modest dress, and some high-end venues may have specific entry requirements.
Yes, travel insurance is highly recommended to cover unexpected events such as medical emergencies, trip cancellations, or lost belongings.
Yes, the UAE hosts various seasonal events and festivals such as the Dubai Shopping Festival, Abu Dhabi Film Festival, and cultural celebrations. These events can offer unique experiences and are worth checking out.
Useful applications
Careem: A popular ride-hailing app that offers taxi services, car rentals, and food delivery. It operates across major UAE cities.
Uber: Another widely used ride-hailing service that operates in various UAE cities, offering options like UberX, UberXL, and Uber Lux.
RTA Dubai: Provides information on public transportation in Dubai, including metro, bus, and tram schedules. It also offers features like Nol card management.
Google Maps: Essential for navigation, offering accurate maps, real-time traffic updates, and directions for driving, walking, and public transport.
Zomato: Useful for finding and reviewing restaurants, cafes, and eateries. It includes menus, ratings, and user reviews.
Talabat: A food delivery app that connects you with a wide range of restaurants for delivery or pickup. It’s available in several UAE cities.
Visit Dubai: Official tourism app providing information on attractions, events, and places to visit in Dubai, along with itineraries and travel tips.
Abu Dhabi Culture: Offers information on Abu Dhabi’s cultural landmarks, events, and exhibitions. It’s useful for exploring museums and heritage sites.
Alipay & Apple Pay: Mobile payment apps that facilitate secure transactions and are widely accepted at various retail outlets and restaurants.