travel to dubai to work

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Want to travel to Dubai for work or as a tourist? These are your visa options

Living in uae.

Explained: Visa procedure, cost and documents needed

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Dubai: Want to visit Dubai but don’t know how you can start the process? Do you need a visa? How can you apply for one?

A Gulf News reader based in Mauritius reached out to us through our Facebook page with a simple question: “I would like to know what the visa procedures for Dubai are, for both a work visa and a tourist visa.”

If you, too, want to come to Dubai but are not sure how to start the process, here is a guide on the visa options you can avail of.

How to get a tourist visa for Dubai

Do i need a visa to enter dubai.

Any foreign national wishing to come to Dubai, whether on a visit or to live here, is required to have the relevant visa. However, if you are coming to Dubai on a tourist visa, you may not need to apply for a visit visa in advance, as nationals of some countries get a visa on arrival in Dubai.

What is the validity period of my visa?

All visas are valid for 60 days from the date of issue until entry to the UAE, except the 48-hour and 96-hour Transit Visa, which is valid for 30 days.

What should I check before travelling to Dubai?

You would need to ensure that your passport is valid for at least six months at the time of entry. You may also need to apply for your tourist visa in advance, depending on your nationality.

Can I get a visa on arrival?

Citizens of more than 50 countries do not require a pre-arranged visa to enter Dubai. As per the website of the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA), citizens of GCC countries and citizens of the following countries can get a visa on arrival:

1. Australia 2. Austria 3. Belgium 4. Brunei 5. Bulgaria 6. Canada 7. China 8. Croatia 9. Cyprus 10. Czech Republic 11. Denmark 12. Estonia 13. Finland 14. France 15. Germany 16. Greece 17. Hong Kong 18. Hungary 19. Iceland 20. Ireland 21. Italy 22. Japan 23. Latvia 24. Liechtenstein 25. Lithuania 26. Luxembourg 27. Malaysia 28. Malta 29. Monaco 30. Netherlands 31. New Zealand 32. Norway 33. Poland 34. Portugal 35. Russia 36. Romania 37. San Marino 38. Singapore 39. Slovakia 40. Slovenia 41. South Korea 42. Spain 43. Sweden 44. Switzerland 45. The Vatican 46. United Kingdom 47. United States of America

Indian citizens

Some Indian citizens may also be eligible for a visa on arrival. This includes Indian citizens holding a normal passport and either:

• a visit visa issued by the USA or • a green card issued by the USA or • a residence visa issued by the UK or • a residence visa issued by the EU

In such cases, you can obtain a visa on arrival for a maximum stay of 14 days, provided that the visa or the green card is valid for at least six months from the date of arrival into the UAE.

If you are not eligible for a visa on arrival, here are all the other visa options you can avail of:

1. Tourist visa – 30-day or 90-day

Tourist visas can be obtained by tourists from around the world. Depending on your plan, tourist visas to the UAE can be issued for 30-days or 90-day durations and allow single entry or multiple entries.

Who can apply for your tourist visa?

1. Airlines

Each airline has some conditions, which must be met for your visa to be arranged by them. One of the conditions is flying with them. When booking your ticket, you can also enquire about applying for a visit visa.

2. Tourist visas through agencies and hotels

Licensed travel agents and hotels in the UAE can arrange a tourist visa for you, provided you purchase the ticket through them and maintain a hotel reservation with the specific hotel.

You can also contact travel agencies in your country for any tourist packages available to the UAE in collaboration with a local tour operator.

3. Through UAE-based family and friends

As per the VisitDubai website, UAE residents (friends or relatives) can apply on your behalf subject to guidelines.

How can I extend the visa?

While the first time you apply for a visit visa you may not be inside the UAE, when extending the visa for another period of 30 or 90 days, you would need to apply for an ‘inside country visa change’, according to Sirajudeen Ummer, Business Development Manager at Supreme Business Services.

“The visa can be extended by providing the necessary documents and making the fee payment,” he said.

Documents required for processing inside the country visa change:

• Passport copy (which should be valid for at least six months) • Passport size photograph • Old visa tourist/cancelled visa copy • On arrival nationalities would only require Passport copy and photograph if they have entered UAE using on-arrival facility. • If the visa was applied for by a relative or friend, they may need to submit a copy of their residence visa page and UID number.

Visas can cost approximately Dh320 for a one-month visa and Dh700 for a three-month visa. If you are inside the UAE and are applying for a new visa, the cost for a one-month would be Dh960 and a three-month visa would cost Dh1,250.

2. Visit visa to visit relatives and friends

With the UAE introducing new visa categories and updating its visa system from October 2, 2022, you can now consider applying for a visit visa yourself under the category of 'visit visa to visit relatives and friends'.

3. Transit visa – for 48 to 96 hours

This type of a visa, which is available for all passport holders, from 48 to 96 hours, is ideal for a short stopover in the UAE.

According to GDRFA, here is how you can apply for a 96-hour transit visa – or an entry permit – when you arrive in the UAE.

Service requirements

To be able to get a transit visa issued at the immigration counter, you would need to present the following:

• Original passport • An airline ticket showing the continuation of your journey, where the connecting flight should not be less than eight hours after you land in the UAE and not exceeding 96 hours and the destination of arrival and departure are not similar. • Present a valid hotel reservation in UAE.

Service procedures

To apply for a transit visa, follow these steps:

• Visit the airline’s website or service centre. • Submit a request to issue a 96-hour entry permit with the airline’s service officer. • If the request is approved, you will receive an approval of the request. • Approach the passport officer at the immigration counter and complete the procedure.

Who needs a transit visa?

As per the UAE government’s official website – u.ae – if you are not one of the nationalities that are eligible for visa on arrival or a visa-free entry to the UAE, then you need a transit visa.

Who can apply for your transit visa?

UAE-based airlines you are travelling with can arrange your transit visa prior to your journey. If your trip is through a travel agency, the agency can also help you get the visa, but all visas are routed through the airline.

4. Long-term, multiple entry tourist visa for five years

In case you are looking to visit the UAE regularly over the next few years, a new visa option has opened for tourists. The Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship (ICA) has provided details of the five-year multiple entry tourist visa for all nationalities through the authority’s website.

Is a UAE-based sponsor required for the visa?

According to the details provided when the visa was announced, the visa does not require a UAE-based individual or organisation to sponsor the visa. Tourists can apply for the visa on self-sponsorship.

What is the maximum duration of stay on the visa?

As per the announcement, a tourist can stay for 90 days on each visit. This can be extended for another 90 days.

Up until now, tourists could only get visas for 30-day or 90-day durations.

How to apply for the five-year tourist visa

Step 1: Log on to the ICA website – www.ica.gov.ae Step 2: Select ‘E-channel Services’ from the main module on the website. Step 3: Select ‘Public services'. Step 4: Select the service ‘Visa – multi-trip / tourist long-term (5 years) for all nationalities / visa issuance’ Step 5: Fill in the application form with your personal details as well as your passport details. Step 6: Attach the following documents: • Coloured photograph • Passport Copy • Medical Insurance copy • Bank statement for the last six months with a balance of at least $4,000 (Dh14,700) or its equivalent in foreign currencies in the last six months.

Step 7: Review your application. Step 8: Make the payment for the fees. The application fee is Dh650.

• How you can apply for five-year UAE tourist visa through typing centres
• How to apply for the five-year multiple entry tourist visa for businesses in Dubai

Looking for work or business opportunities in the UAE?

The UAE has also introduced several visa options for people to come to the UAE to work or invest. Here are all your options.

1. Visit visa for jobseekers

You can get started on the job hunt by applying for a jobseeker visa, which allows you to visit the UAE to explore job opportunities. You can stay in the UAE for up to four months without needing a UAE-based individual or company to sponsor you.

In April 2022, the UAE cabinet announced a new UAE visa system, and one of the new entry permits introduced was the job exploration entry visa, which is aimed at attracting young talent and skilled professionals to explore job opportunities available in the UAE. The new visa system came into effect on October 3, 2022.

However, you must meet a few conditions to apply for this visa, which includes:

• Those classified in the first, second or third skill level as per the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation (MOHRE). To find what skill levels are, click here. • Fresh graduates of the top 500 universities in the world. • The minimum educational level of the applicant should be a bachelor’s degree or its equivalent.

If you are interested in exploring the job market in Dubai, and plan on settling in the Emirate, you have to apply for the visa through the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA), which is the authority responsible for issuing visas in the Emirate of Dubai. Click here to find out how you can apply for the jobseeker visa for Dubai and the cost, click here .

However, if you are interested in job opportunities in other Emirates such as, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, Ajman, Ras Al Khaimah, Fujairah and Umm Al Quwain, the authority in charge of issuing visas is Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Ports Security (ICP). Click here for a step-by-step guide on how to apply for the visa through ICP here .

2. Visit visa for exploring investment oppurtunites

If you are an investor and entrepreneur looking to invest in the UAE or want to explore business opportunities, you can apply for a visa designed specifically for such a purpose. The single entry visa to ‘Search for investment opportunities’ can be applied for by the candidate themselves, without requiring a UAE-based sponsor.

According on how long you plan on staying in the UAE, the visa validity can be for two, three or four months.

You can apply for the visa through the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Ports Security (ICP). ICP is the immigration authority that issues visas in the Emirates of Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, Ajman, Ras Al Khaimah, Fujairah and Umm Al Quwain.

To find out how you can apply for the visa, click here .

How to get a work visa in Dubai

If you want to move to Dubai to work, you can start your job hunt even before you come to the UAE. You can find out about vacancies at UAE-based companies through online portals like getthat.com

If you have received an offer letter from a company, always make sure you verify the authenticity of the offer letter. In the UAE, you can check an offer letter with the Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation. To know more, read our detailed guide here.

1. Standard employment visa

Once you sign the offer letter, the employer will begin the recruitment and visa application process. This begins with an e-visa or entry permit being issued for the employee, which will be sent to you. You can travel to the UAE on this entry permit.

Once you are in the UAE, your employer will then begin the visa application process. This involves getting your medical fitness test, giving your fingerprint biometric for the Emirates ID, getting visa stamped on your passport in some cases and the Emirates ID delivered to you.

Once you have completed this process, your residency paperwork is complete.

• Unlock your UAE career: A guide to all 13 work permit options (2024 Update)

Documents required

- Original passport and copy (the passport should be valid for the next six months) - Passport-sized photograph - Attested educational degrees - the degrees need to be attested by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in your home country, the UAE Embassy in your home country as well as the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation (MOFAIC) in the UAE.

Cost of employment visa

It is important to note that as per the UAE Labour Law the employer is required to cover all the recruitment and visa-related costs , which includes work permit, visa application, medical fitness and any other occupation licence-related costs that may be applicable.

2. Five-year Green Visa

Whether you are a freelancer or IT professional looking for long-term residency options in the UAE, you can apply for the UAE Green Visa or Green Residency, which is for highly skilled professionals and freelancers.

The Green Visa has a validity of five years and is a part of the UAE’s new updated visa system which came into effect on October 3, 2022. Besides, allowing professionals to stay in the UAE for five years, it also allows the visa holder to sponsor their first-degree relatives and a longer grace period after the visa is cancelled – allowing them to stay in the UAE for up to six months.

There are three categories of Green Visa, they are:

• the green residency for the skilled worker; • the green residency for self-employment; • the green residency for the investor or partner in a commercial activity.

• UAE visa: How freelancers can apply for five-year Green Visa through ICP
• Want to become a freelancer in Dubai? Here is how you can apply for the five-year Green Visa through GDRFA
• Green Visa for professionals – how to apply in Dubai

3. 10-year Golden Visa

Another option that people have as a long-term residency option is the 10-year Golden Visa, which is available to several categories of workers and investors. If you are planning to move to the UAE and apply for a Golden Visa, you can even get a special six-month visit visa , which will allow you to enter the UAE to complete all the visa application procedures.

To know more about how you can apply for the Golden Visa, read our detailed guide here .

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Work in Dubai

Although this is a travel guide, we often receive inquiries about the possibilities of working in Dubai. Here we will outline a few of the important things you need to know if you are looking to make that big leap in life:

Requirements for working in Dubai

The first thing you need if you are planning to live and work in Dubai is a residency visa. This then allows you to obtain a work permit. The easiest way to bypass the bureaucracy is to secure an employment contract before arriving in the UAE. Your company is then legally responsible for the visa application process and the financial costs involved. Once in the country, you are also required to undergo a medical check at any state clinic or hospital, to obtain a health certificate.

Another requisite is to be fluent in communicating in the English language  unless you know Arabic.

What type of work is needed in Dubai?

It is important to know that the majority of positions in demand in Dubai are for highly skilled workers or in senior management . If you are looking for low skilled work, please bear in mind that Dubai has a high number of immigrants from poorer, neighboring countries who perform this work for a very low salary.

Construction workers, house cleaners, and other low skilled workers can earn less than €200 a month without breaks or holidays. Their accommodation often involves sharing one bedroom with other people.

Cost of living

Although not quite as expensive as the major European cities such as Barcelona or Paris, the cost of living in Dubai is constantly rising. One of the main concerns of residents in Dubai is that inflation is increasing at a faster rate than salaries.

If you aim to save money over a short period, then working in Dubai is not a bad option. However, there are other cities such as Abu Dhabi and Doha which are cheaper and have a larger ex-pat community.

Before throwing yourself headfirst into the adventure, you should consider that due to the culture, religion, and climate, the UAE is not necessarily an easy place to live. The name Dubai is synonymous with success, wealth, and status within the business world. However, this should be the sole consideration when thinking about relocating.

How to find employment in Dubai?

The best option is to work in a well-established company, or one which plans to open its headquarters in Dubai. Alternatively, you can look for jobs on the following websites:

• Jobs in Dubai
• FoundIt Gulf

You may also be interested in

Jumeirah is the most famous beach area in Dubai and the preferred choice of home for many foreign ex-pats living in the city. It is bordered by Bur Dubai to the north and Palm Jumeirah to the south.

In our photo albums, you will find the best pictures of Dubai. All the photos of Dubai which appear in our guide are compiled in this section.

Working In Dubai – How to Find A Good Job In The UAE

Working in Dubai can be a brilliant opportunity for many skilled expats to advance their careers, accumulate personal wealth, and have a taste of a different culture and a different country. How do you go about finding a job in Dubai?

This vibrant and ambitious city is trying to reinvent itself and set to become the world’s innovation hub in sectors such as green energy, healthcare, education, technology, etc.

The emirate also has a lot to offer in terms of an amazing lifestyle. It’s also worth noting that Dubai is tax-free or nearly tax-free, so there are opportunities to explore there.

Why working in Dubai can be great for you

In Dubai, personal salaries are earned tax-free – this is a leading draw for many considering going to the UAE to work.  

If you think that tax isn’t such a big deal, look at our list of 10 best countries to work in to make money and see for yourself how the top ten leaders change after the tax is deducted from the average expat salary. It’s exactly why Dubai is such an attractive destination.

Employment packages are also often very appealing – with the best employers offering everything from an accommodation allowance to flights home and even money for an employee’s children’s education.

The lifestyle in Dubai is as good as you can find anywhere in the world – assuming you can afford it!  

There are beach clubs, shopping malls, a ski slope, cinemas, concerts, waterparks, museums, golf courses, riding schools, a grand prix circuit, public parks, mosques, temples, canals, a zoo, and of course, many of the world’s most stunning buildings and luxurious hotels.

If you like to work hard and play hard, then Dubai could be a brilliant choice for your next career move.

The only downside that you really need to keep in mind is that the lifestyle can also be very expensive. Your tax-free salary can be eroded by the cost of housing, and certainly, if you have children because the cost of schools in Dubai is phenomenal.

If you want to work in Dubai, make sure you look carefully at salaries and whether your likely salary will afford you the lifestyle you aspire to.

Types of jobs available in Dubai

If you’re a skilled worker, Dubai likely wants and needs you.  The top sectors that are employing in Dubai right now range from construction to medicine, from hospitality to education. 

The UAE wants to come off oil and start mining the IT sector

Many middle-east countries are desperate to diversify and reduce their oil dependency, hence the emphasis on developing service industries. 

Currently and in the foreseeable future, IT is the hottest sector in the region pushing back even banking and e-retail. 

The governments see the future in technology and are frenziedly competing for foreign investors, technology companies, start-ups, and skilled professionals from all over the world.

No doubt, the UAE is a perfect location for a tech company. It boasts a highly developed internet infrastructure and connectivity, making it ideal for connected start-ups. 

There are funds and initiatives to support start-ups developing all kinds of innovations in technology, including alternative energy, robotics, and space exploration.

Top paying jobs in Dubai

These are the skills that are most in demand in the region:

1.     Statistical analysis and data mining

2. Public policy and international relations

3.      Algorithm design

4.      Web architecture and development framework

5.      SEO/SEM marketing

6.      Middleware and integration software

7.      User interface design

8.      Renewable and sustainable energy

9.      Mining and commodities

10.   Corporate law and governance

IT and innovation jobs are dominating the list, and that’s not the end of the good news. Professionals working in these industries can expect to get paid more compared to the previous years.

Popular expat employment sectors in Dubai

To determine where there are likely to be jobs in Dubai that can interest you, why not look more closely at the Free Trade Zones? It’s where the majority of international companies operate, and most international employers are concentrated.

You have Dubai Internet City, where most jobs are ICT-related, and Dubai Media City, which incorporates companies and, therefore, jobs in the broadcasting, advertising, publishing, and production sectors.  

DIFC (Dubai International Financial Centre) is home to banking, finance, and insurance type companies and jobs. 

Dubai Maritime City is a service center for the maritime industry.

The Airport Free Zone is where there’s everything from straight airline-related jobs to companies specializing in import and export.

Also, what about the Jebel Ali Free Zone, which is the oldest of all the FTZs, the Biotechnology and Research Park, Healthcare City, Logistics City, or Knowledge Village.

All of these free zones house companies employing expatriates in everything from management to engineering, construction to finance, education to healthcare, and information technology to consultancy.

There are even jobs in the tourism industry; there are opportunities for those who teach English as a foreign language. And if you set your mind to it and look more objectively at your own skill and experience set, you will probably find an employment sector that could benefit from your valuable self.

Working in Dubai – where to start

In many locations popular with expats around the world, it’s quite easy to turn up and look for work – this is absolutely not the case in Dubai.

You need a visa to be legal and work in Dubai. The consequences for not having one are so harsh they aren’t even worth thinking about, with extradition being the least of your worries.

So, the best way to find jobs in Dubai is to apply before even traveling to the emirate.

Update your CV and make sure it fits the Dubai job market, contact recruiters, look at firms in your sector with a presence in the emirate, and contact their HR department directly to find out whom to send your CV to.

Look on Linkedin and even online at the local papers in the UAE, such as gulfnews.com and Khaleej Times to find jobs in Dubai.

Follow up on any application made with phone calls to ensure your application has been received and by the right person.

Please note: don’t ever pay a recruitment company to find you a job .

It’s worth doing background information on any company you apply to make sure your CV and cover letter are correctly targeted to the company in question.

A one size fits all CV won’t work  – and a one-size cover letter will be a disaster.

You can travel to Dubai if you want to and do some on-the-ground research and networking on a visit visa, but be ready to fly home again and actually apply for jobs from your own home country.

• How To Write A Winning Dubai CV – Top Tips From An Expert

Even if you were lucky enough to find a job whilst visiting Dubai, the law requires you to leave the UAE and apply for your employment visa from abroad.

Tips on job hunting in Dubai

It takes time and effort to secure a well-paying job in Dubai, and you might find it harder than many people think.

Here is what you need to keep in mind while you are looking for your dream job in Dubai:

1. The job market in Dubai is saturated

You are not an exception in your pursuit of a professional career in Dubai. Thousands of professionals are trying to get a job there. As a result, there is an oversupply of candidates in some industries. Many of the candidates are prepared to accept lower salaries to win the bid for the job. 

The competition is especially high and fierce, especially for those working in Finance, IT, HR, and Administration. 

It can be a bit easier for those skilled professionals working in Healthcare, Education, Consumer & Industrial Products, and Engineering & Construction.

2. Make yourself stand out

Make it easier for your potential employer to choose you over other candidates. Make sure you advertise your skills and experience that differentiate you from the masses of other applicants. 

Your chances of getting a job will improve greatly if you speak multiple languages, have worked for big multinational companies, have had the experience of working outside of your home country, and have acknowledged qualifications or certifications.

3. Your CV is important

Your CV should be honed to perfection: no bad formatted, spelling or grammar errors, or irrelevant information. It should be professional, correct, and to the point. 

Look for online resources to help you craft a good CV for Dubai . Also, if you have a professional agent helping you to find a job in Dubai, they usually consult on CVs and cover letters.

4. One step at a time

Many Dubai employers will prefer somebody with job experience in the Middle East (especially in Dubai) over a candidate who has never worked in Dubai. Or they will offer such candidates a lower salary. 

Accepting a lower salary for your first job in Dubai is ok. Consider it the first step in your career in Dubai. It will help you to get a better job offer in the future.

5. Use job portals

Check out and sign up for major regional job portals. The ones worth trying are Dubai Task, Naukrigulf, Khaleej Times Jobs, Dubizzle, Gulftalent, Efinancial Careers, and don’t forget Indeed.

6. Is your LinkedIn profile up to date?

Make sure your LinkedIn profile states your country of residence, your visa status, especially if you have a valid work visa, and all major info about you and your skills.

Be active on Linkedin. Check the recruitment pages of Dubai companies. Approach the right people in the right way. If you send a Linkedin request, it has more chance of getting accepted when you send it with a personal note. You can mention your skills, visa status, etc., in the note.

7. Try recruitment agencies

It’s worth sending your CV to as many recruitment agencies as possible. Your best chance is with those recruitment companies that have strong track records in the Middle East and are specialized in your industry.

Here are some of them:

• Jivaro Partners (marketing and communications jobs)
• Education 1st Recruitment (education jobs)
• ESP International (conferences, events, hospitality)
• MCG & Associates (PR, publishing, marketing, and communications jobs)
• Robbert Murray (development, construction, engineering, and public sector jobs)
• Robert Half UAE (finance, law, technology )
• BAC Middle East (engineering, marketing, and management jobs)

The important thing to remember when looking for a job through an agency is to find companies that take a commission on the employer’s end, not yours. Be wary of recruiters that collect high fees from job-seekers: these tend to be scams.

8. Check Dubai’s major companies’ websites 

Visit the websites of the major companies in Dubai and check their vacancies pages. If you find a suitable vacancy, it’s worth applying directly through a company’s website. 

If you need professional advice on your Dubai CV and job search, contact our international career expert Hannah Mason or leave a comment below, and we will do our best to help.

You’ve been offered a job in Dubai. What’s next?

Next is an all-important visa. You will need a visa to start working in Dubai, and it’s your employer’s responsibility to sponsor your work permit and residency permit.

Do everything in the right order: get a secure job offer first. It is not advisable to travel to the emirate on a visit visa and speculatively start seeking work before taking up a job and trying to get an employment visa.

Employment visas and sponsors in Dubai

As mentioned above, you have to have an employment visa to work in Dubai; you also have to be sponsored by your employer.

When you have a firm job offer, your employer becomes your sponsor and sorts out your employment visa.

The sponsorship approach in Dubai is effectively a means of controlling immigration.

Your sponsor is responsible for you and gets in trouble if you contravene any regulations.  It’s their job to check that you’re reliable and trustworthy.

Your sponsor will also try to ensure that you don’t inadvertently step out of line.  For this reason, your sponsor is an important source of help and advice and a valuable ally.

Contrary to popular misconception, however, your employer should not hold your passport while you are working in Dubai – this is illegal.

Note, in the past, some people have been advised to work on a visit visa for the short term whilst an employment contract and visa are finalized – do not take this risk.  If caught, you risk immediate deportation and being banned from re-entering the UAE. 

Instead, your employer should issue you with an employment visa which is valid for 30 days.  This will enable you to enter Dubai and begin the application process for your work permit and then your residency permit.

Your employer will advise you about the documents required to obtain your work permit, and you will need to undergo a medical examination.

Obtaining a residency permit in Dubai

Everything happens in this order: you get a job offer, obtain your entry permit from your employer, enter Dubai, obtain a work permit with your employer’s help, and then you go to a government hospital or medical clinic for a health check.

You will undergo a blood test and chest X-ray and be screened for HIV/AIDS, hepatitis B and C, tuberculosis, leprosy, and syphilis.  Note: if your results for any of these tests come back positive, you will be deported (with the exception of syphilis, for which treatment is available).

You then return to the residency department with your passport, medical test results, and, if required, other documents such as a salary certificate, etc.  Ideally, your employer will assist you with all this, as there are often additional paperwork requirements revealed at the last minute!

At the residency department, or DNRD (which stands for Dubai Naturalisation and Residency Department – which has been superseded by the name General Directorate of Residency and Foreign Affairs Dubai but which still gets referred to as DNRD), you go to the typing office and obtain your application form and hand over required fees.

Eventually, you will be asked to return to collect your passport with your resident’s visa stamped in it.  If your employer employs someone to do the running for you, ensure you get your passport back, it is not acceptable for your employer to retain it.

Sponsoring your family to live in Dubai

It’s common for a sponsored expat who is working in Dubai to be able to sponsor their spouse and children to join them.  Most of the time, the expat who sponsors the spouse will be the male of the partnership.

It is almost unheard of for female expats to be the main employee in the household and to sponsor their husbands to join them.  Exceptions in high-level professional roles do apparently exist.

So once you have your residency permit, you can sponsor your family to live in Dubai with you. 

Each sponsored individual will also have to undergo a health check as described above.  Once again, the DNRD will process your application.

Negotiating your employment contract

Because of the global economic climate at the current time, you may think that if you get any offer of a job, you should be grateful and quickly commit. 

However, when it comes to living and working in Dubai, you need to be prepared to negotiate hard to get the right terms in place for your employment contract.

For a start, the cost of living in Dubai is high.  It’s pushed up by the likes of accommodation costs, schooling, and healthcare fees.  So, you need to negotiate some form of compensation into your contract to cover such elements.

Here’s a list of points that expatriates negotiate on when it comes to their employment contracts.  These are a guide for you to know what is typically offered by an employer. It will be up to you to know how far and how hard you can negotiate:

• Housing – some employers offer expat workers an allowance; you can then top this up if you want to live somewhere even more expensive.
• Estate agent fees – they may charge for finding you a rental property in Dubai ; sometimes employers refund this.
• Car/fuel – you will need a car in Dubai to get around because, aside from anything else, it’s too hot to walk most of the time!  Some employers have car schemes and offer fuel cards.
• Annual leave ticket – many expats are given the cost of their flights home once a year, and they take the ticket during the summer months when the weather is unbearably hot.
• Education and school fees – getting your children into a good school in Dubai is just a part of the problem. Affording the school fees is the other part; costs are exorbitant, but standards across some institutions are excellent, and your employer may help you afford the best.
• Medical insurance – employers have company schemes for their staff, but are not obliged to insure dependents, try to negotiate your family health insurance in Dubai .
• Notice period and severance pay – it is critical that you negotiate this point carefully.  Defaulting on debt in Dubai is illegal. You need a decent notice period and severance pay agreement in place to give you the time to find another job so that you can continue to meet your living costs in the emirate in the event that you lose your job.
• Relocation/repatriation – if you’re being headhunted aggressively to work in Dubai, you can negotiate on these points. Otherwise, you’ll struggle.

Changing jobs in Dubai

As your sponsor is your employer, and you have to be sponsored to remain in Dubai, changing jobs can be a bit stressful.

If you’re made redundant, you may need to leave the emirate as your sponsored status will be revoked – be ready to leave and apply for a new job and a new sponsor from overseas.

If you’re unhappy with your work and want to change your job, or if your contract has a fixed term and you want to continue living and working in Dubai after its conclusion, you need to find a new employer willing to take over sponsorship.

It may be easier for you to leave your job, leave the emirate, apply for a new job and start working in Dubai with your new sponsor, believe it or not.  However, you may have to remain outside the emirate for six months before re-entering.

Otherwise, be prepared for a lot of hard work on your part negotiating a change of sponsor.

In theory, you can transfer to a new employer if your old employer gives you the go-ahead in the form of a NOC – that’s a ‘no objection certificate.’

If you’re going to work for a competitor, you’re less likely to be given a NOC, of course.

However, you can try negotiating and pointing out that the alternative to a NOC at the end of your contract is that your employer has to pay for you to return to your original home country.  A NOC will be cheaper.

Ultimately try and stay on good terms with your employer, negotiate a good salary and benefits package at the very outset, spending as much time as needed to get this right, bearing in mind how hard it is to change jobs and even renegotiate terms once you’re living and working in Dubai.

Finally, spend time online on forums and social media to find out what it’s like living in Dubai from fellow expats.  You will be given the most up-to-date tips and tricks and can even begin your networking from afar in this way.  Good luck!

You might find useful:

• Living In Dubai – a complete guide to relocating and settling down in Dubai
• Dubai Income Tax & Taxation Advantages For Expats
• Health Insurance In Dubai: Essential Benefits Plan
• Best Areas To Live In Dubai For Families
• Didn’t find what you were looking for or need further advice? Comment with your question below, and we will do our best to help.

Helpful external links:

• Explore Dubai business and work visas on the Government of Dubai site.
• The most in-demand jobs in Dubai – TheNationalNews.com .
• Freelance visa in the UAE – Go Freelance .
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Living in Dubai: The Essential Expat Guide

Dubai Income Tax & Taxation Advantages For Expats

7 Best Places To Live In Dubai For Families

Dubai (UAE) Rules And Laws You Must Know

Dubai Vs. Qatar: Which Is Best For Expats?

How To Retire In Dubai – A Guide For Expat Retirees

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A Step-by-step Guide to Dubai’s Remote Work Visa – The Digital Nomad Visa for Dubai

As one of the countries that joined the race of offering Digital Nomad Visas, the UAE — through Dubai — has announced its Virtual Working Programme on 14 Oct 2020. On the visa provided by this program, you can live in Dubai and enjoy the benefits of being a UAE resident without needing to be sponsored by an employer or invest hundreds of thousands of dollars.

This Digital Nomad visa guide will give you all the essential information about living in Dubai as a digital nomad, the benefits of Dubai’s remote work visa, and an in-depth guide on how to obtain this visa.

What is Dubai Digital Nomad Visa?

The Dubai Digital Nomad visa, officially referred to as the Remote Work Visa, is more or less a mix of the regular Employment Visa and Tourist/Visit Visa . Its main advantage is that it gives you the benefits of being a Dubai resident without the need to be sponsored by a UAE-based employer. The validity of the Dubai Remote Work visa is one year, and the main requirement to make you eligible for this visa is to have a monthly income of $3500 from overseas. 

Why Live and Work Remotely from Dubai?

Aside from the shiny touristy attractions and the luxurious facilities, the benefits of living in Dubai as a digital nomad are indeed different. Here are some of the benefits of living in Dubai on the digital nomad Dubai visa:

Safety and Quality of Life: While the cost of living in Dubai is relatively high, the city’s quality of life is worth it. Dubai has a variety of good neighborhoods to live in, from the modest to the high-end to the luxurious ones. The city is a very safe place to live, with one of the lowest crime rates in the world. Its infrastructure is one of the best in the world, and so is its public transportation.

Healthcare System: Dubai offers top-notch medical care facilities. Private and public hospitals are supervised by the Dubai Health Authority, ensuring high-quality medical services in both. 

Banking and Digital Infrastructure: Since the status of a digital nomad in Dubai is like that of a resident, you get an Emirates ID that enables you to get the benefits available to a person with a resident visa. You can open a bank account, apply for a loan, rent a house, and get a local phone number. If you have a family, you can also sponsor your family to Dubai on dependent visas and even enroll your kids in school. 

High-Speed Internet: A reliable internet connection is the lifeline of remote working professionals. Dubai promises an internet speed of at least 100 Mbps wherever you go. Be it a hotel, rental apartment, co-working space, or a café, be assured that you will get internet speed for uninterrupted video calls and seamless workflow. Free Wifi is even available in the city taxis and metro.

Networking: Besides the growing digital nomad community, Dubai never runs out of meetups, events, workshops, and conferences. Those events can help create a solid professional network. You can also connect with fellow professionals at co-working spaces all over the city.

Tax Benefits: One thing that attracts people to Dubai is its Zero Income Tax policy. The city does not impose taxes on professionals so that you can enjoy your total salary. But you may have to pay taxes in your home country though. So, consult a tax specialist to understand the tax cuts as a digital nomad before you apply for a visa.

Entertainment Options: This is a no-brainer, as Dubai is a home for high-end tourism. You can explore its architectural structures, theme parks, beaches, shopping malls, museums, mosques, art galleries, and cultural centers. Even the neighboring emirates of Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, and Ras Al Khaimah have much to offer. In case you want to travel out of the country, Dubai is an international hub operating direct flights to 254 international destinations .

What are the Dubai Remote Work Visa Requirements?

The application process for the Remote Work Visa is done 100% online. You need to submit scanned copies of the following required documents along with filling out the online visa application form:

Passport: Your passport must have a minimum validity of six months.

Photographs: A digital photo that measures 45mm x 35mm. The photo must be a high-resolution photo, in color, and with a white background. The quality of the personal photo is essential. The system can reject a low-resolution or unclear picture, making your application process longer.

Accommodation Proof: Since you will be applying for a residency visa, you need to provide proof of your living arrangements in Dubai in the application documents. A hotel reservation or a short-term rental contract will do for the application purpose.

Medical Insurance: Health insurance that covers you in UAE is mandatory. Don’t worry if your current insurance doesn’t cover the UAE. You can use SafetyWing’s Nomad Insurance which starts at $45 per month.

Work and Financial Documents: You must provide proof of employment through a work contract for at least a year or company incorporation documents if you are a business owner. Your monthly income should be at least $3500. As proof of income, you will provide a three months bank statement and the previous three months’ pay slips.

What are the Steps to Apply for Dubai Remote Work Visa?

The following are the steps to follow in order to obtain the Remote Work visa, from the start of the application to arriving in Dubai and receiving your Emirates ID. Following these step-by-step instructions will make applying for a digital nomad visa a smooth process:

• Go to the Official Government of Dubai portal , select Issuance of Residency without work permission , then select Issuance of the virtual work residence permit , and click Start Service . 
• If this is your first time applying for a Dubai Government Service, you will be prompted to create an account. Otherwise, you can log in using your previously created account.
• Log in, then enter your personal information including name, address, email address, phone number, etc. Ensure you enter the correct information here, as a representative will contact you to move the application forward.
• Attach the required documents. Make sure to attach clear scanned copies of your documents.
• Finally, pay the visa fee. The Remote Work visa fee includes visa processing, application, and Emirates ID charges.
• Keep an eye on your email for 3-7 business days. This is the average time it takes for approval. Once approved, you will receive your entry visa via email. With this visa, you can travel to Dubai to complete the residency procedures.  
• After arriving in Dubai, you need to undergo a medical test. This is the first step to convert your 2-month entry permit to a 1-year resident visa. Usually, you get the results within 24 hours delivered to your email.
• After receiving the medical test results, you will receive an appointment date at a biometrics office. Visit the office location received with the appointment on the assigned date. Make sure to arrive on time because you will most likely have to reschedule if you arrive late. The procedure will take 5-10 minutes in total.
• You will receive a resident visa stamp after providing the biometrics. The UAE doesn’t stamp resident visas to passports anymore. You will receive the visa in PDF format.
• After the biometrics, it is about time to get your Emirates ID delivered. You will need this ID to open a bank account, register a SIM card, rent a property, or benefit from any government services. You can track the progress of issuing and printing your Emirates ID from the ICP website , Android app , or iPhone app .

The processing time of the Dubai Remote Work visa can vary based on the time of the year. You may experience some delay if your application will require further verification. On average, the whole process takes from one to two months. After receiving your visa and Emirates ID, you can stay in Dubai for 12 months and reapply for a new one if you want to stay in the UAE for more than a year.

Is it for you?

It is understandable that big cities aren’t preferred destinations for many digital nomads who prefer to live in remote places with surrounding nature . Being based long-term in such a place is better for the peace of your mind, but it may take a negative toll on your career development and lessen the opportunities to grow your professional network.

Basing yourself in a city like Dubai for a year or even less has its own advantages. It is an international business and innovation hub. Thus, living there can help you explore networking opportunities and experience life in this growing metropolis which is a melting pot of cultures and home to people from all over the world. You can also use it as a base to travel around since it is a centrally located international flight hub. So, it might be something worth considering.

An avid blogger who writes about of travel, food, adventures and cultural experiences. She traveled and wrote about various cultural hotspots in the world, including India, UAE, Egypt, Turkey to enjoy their richness of history and culture.

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The founder and the main author of Nomadic Memoir. Working remotely since 2015 and location-independent since 2016, with professional background is in the software industry as a web/mobile developer, a technical writer, and a project manager, in addition to running a digital agency and a 3d printing service for a year. fds

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One response

Nice post. How much does the remote work visa cost? Also are you permitted to work in the UAE as EU National working for a company outside the EU without a nomad visa if it is relatively short, e.g. 6 weeks?

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7 Tips for Expats Moving to Dubai to Work

These days, if you go around asking people: “Which country would you like to work in?” For sure, many of them will answer: “Dubai.” Indeed, what used to be a vast, desert area in the UAE is now one of the most popular business and tourist destinations in the world.

Even today, the list of people dreaming and planning to work in Dubai seems endless. But before you decide to pack your bags and hop on the next flight, make sure that you are well-prepared. In this article, we present seven tips for those who are keen on working in the emirate.

Tips for People Who are Planning to Work in Dubai

Tip #1 – Find a job in Dubai. Ideally, it is best to to apply for a job even before you arrive in Dubai. You can apply online and wait for the company to call, although some companies also entertain walk-in applicants. Check out these job opportunities in Dubai and the UAE  that you could apply for.

Tip #2 – Prepare the necessary documents. Obviously, you’ll need papers to work legally in Dubai. Getting a work visa permit , for example, requires several documents. Usually, these include original and photocopies of the following:

• Passport (valid for at least 6 months)
• Educational Certificate (attested or authenticated)
• Marriage Certificate (attested or authenticated)
• Driver’s License (from home country or International Driving License)
• Medical and Dental Records
• Passport-sized Photos

In addition, if you are bringing your family with you, you will need to prepare:

• Passports of family members
• Birth Certificates of family members
• School Records of children (including a School Transfer Certificate)

Tip #3 – Bring enough money with you. To avoid financial problems, be sure to bring money that is enough for three months, at least. You will need it to secure your accommodation, food, transportation, and household utilities.

An unfurnished, two-bedroom apartment, for instance, may cost you around AED 8,000 a month. You will also need to prepare about AED 700 for basic utilities. Meanwhile, the cost of transportation depends on whether you plan to drive your own car or use public buses and trains.

To have a better idea of how much you will need, check out our guide on the cost of living in Dubai .

Tip #4 – Apply for a Driver’s License. If you decide to travel around using your own car, you will need to carry a driver’s license. As soon as you get your residence visa, you can start applying for a UAE driver’s license. Another option is to obtain an international driving permit (from your home country), which you can use while waiting for your UAE license. Here are the steps to getting a driver’s license in Dubai .

Tip #5 – Open a bank account as soon as possible. Opening a bank account is always a wise idea, wherever you go. To open an account, most banks require the following documents: passport, residence visa, no-objection letter from your employer, and proof of address. To make it easier for you, we have put together this guide to banking and money matters in Dubai .

Tip #6 – Consider your schooling options. If you are planning to live in Dubai with your family, then you should consider their schooling options as early as possible. There are plenty of private schools in the emirate. For Filipino expats, have a look at this list of Philippine schools in the UAE .

Tip #7 – Travel and mingle. Once you have settled into your new job, secured a house and transportation, you can start traveling and socializing! There are so many places in Dubai where you can meet new friends, relax, and enjoy the sights. Here are some  places to visit in Dubai that you shouldn’t miss.

Working in another country may seem like a daunting task, but you can always take it as a challenge. Rather than be scared, consider it as an opportunity to grow. If you have finally decided to work in the emirate, here are more tips for relocating to Dubai  that you should know.

Five Things You Have To Know Before Working In Dubai

by Sam Barker April 14, 2020

• Before You Go

Working in Dubai can be lucrative for many, with high wages and low taxes, it is a mecca for anyone wanting to earn big bucks . That being said however, it is still important to bear in mind that Dubai is an Arab city, situated within a Muslim country. With both tradition and law held in high regard, it is important for anyone living and working in Dubai to know exactly what they are walking into and what will be expected of them .

If you plan on finding jobs in Dubai  in the near future, here are five things you need to know before working in Dubai:

1. Clothing Is Very Conservative

Although considered very liberal when put into context compared to other places in the Middle East, Dubai still maintains conservative dress codes. Any clothes that are somewhat transparent, low-cut, or short should be left at home, and what’s more, it is absolutely imperative for women that the stomach, shoulders, and back are completely covered when in public. Men must cover their chest, and all underwear should be out of sight. Such rules are more relaxed when it comes to the beach and at swimming pools owned by hotels, but topless sunbathing is a big “no” in any location. At the end of the day, make sure you are maintaining modesty in your dress everyday, no matter what job in Dubai you find.

2. Premarital Relations Are Illegal

Crime rates are particularly low in Dubai as the laws are strict and there are severe punishments for people who break them. One of these laws is sex outside of marriage, which can also be applied to expats and visitors from any country too. In fact, even if you have been living with your partner for decades, you cannot legally live together while living and working  in Dubai – even in hotels. It is important that you do not take any risk in regards to this law, as you can be jailed and then deported from the country. You should definitely consider this before you begin your search for jobs in Dubai, especially if you already have a long-term partner you plan to move with.

3. Public Displays of Affection Are Rarely Tolerated

Along the same lines, although holding hands is generally okay (if you are married), kissing, and hugging is not tolerated in public. In regards to dancing, however, the rules are slightly different, as it is allowed in the privacy of your own home or at licensed clubs, but dancing in public is deemed to be provocative. It is deeply frowned upon for men to take photos of women without permission, be sexual or harassing in nature toward them, or even randomly speak to a woman. If you are a man searching for jobs in Dubai, make sure you are aware of these gender expectations.

4. Islamic Values Must be Respected

Muslims pray five times a day, which is when mosques call people through their speaker systems. During this time, it is important that you turn off all music so that daily prayers can be given. During Ramadan, it is also important to know that drinking, smoking, playing loud music, and dancing during daylight hours are strictly forbidden. Nothing can enter your body, not even your finger, so no picking your nose or nail biting. Breaking these observations can result in heavy punishments – even for non-Muslims living and working in Dubai. 

In general, any disrespect toward religious beliefs or practices is considered deeply offensive and is likely to result in a heavy fine and or imprisonment. That being said, all religions are respected in the UAE, and may therefore be followed by expats working in Dubai. An aversion toward other religions and cultures is perhaps the biggest misconception people have about the Middle East .

5. Alcohol Consumption & Inebriation Is Illegal in Public 

It is forbidden to drink alcohol in Islam, although this was not always the case. At first Muslims were only forbidden to be intoxicated during prayer, until finally, some years later the Qur’an stated that, "intoxicants and games of chance" were "abominations of Satan's handiwork,” and so Muslims were ordered to abstain. This means that public consumption and inebriation in public is illegal, though it is legal for non-Muslims to enjoy alcohol in licensed premises, as long as they themselves have their own liquor licences to drink. Non-Muslim residents must even attain a liquor licence in order to drink alcohol at home. What’s more, the licence that you are issued is only valid in the Emirate in which you applied for it. 

You will be able to buy and consume alcoholic drinks within licensed hotels and clubs, but remember that doesn’t change the legality beyond the doors. It is strongly advised that if you are leaving the premises, you get straight into a taxi and do not wander around the area.  If you are a social drinker or enjoy a glass of wine or bottle of beer at the end of the day, be sure to consider this law before working in Dubai.

In Dubai the legal drinking age is 21, but this is not consistent throughout the Emirates. For example, the legal age to drink alcohol is 18 in Abu Dhabi (although a by-law allows hotels to serve alcohol only to those over 21). In Sharjah, drinking is totally illegal. It is also worth mentioning that passengers in transit through the U.A.E. under the influence of alcohol may be arrested, so don't take advantage of the free wine and beer on-board your international flight too much.

If all of these things sound A-okay to you, it is time to  find jobs in Dubai !

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United Arab Emirates

Entry requirements.

This advice reflects the UK government’s understanding of current rules for people travelling on a full ‘British citizen’ passport from the UK, for the most common types of travel. 

The authorities in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) set and enforce entry rules. If you’re not sure how these requirements apply to you contact the UAE Embassy in the UK . 

COVID-19 rules 

There are no COVID-19 testing or vaccination requirements for travellers entering UAE. 

Passport validity requirements

To enter the UAE, your passport must have an ‘expiry date’ at least 6 months after the date you arrive in the UAE.

If you have a residence permit, your passport’s expiry date must be at least 3 months after the date you arrive in the UAE.

If you’re travelling through the UAE and not passing through immigration, your passport must have an expiry date at least 3 months after the date you will transit.

Visa requirements

You can get a visitor or tourist visa issued free of charge when you arrive in the UAE. You do not need to apply in advance of travel. Your passport will be stamped with the visa as you go through immigration. It will be valid for up to 40 days.

You can be fined for overstaying your visa. If you want to extend your stay, contact:

• for Dubai: General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs
• for the rest of the UAE: Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship

Living and working in the UAE 

If you have entered Dubai on a visit visa and want to start working, you must get a probationary work permit valid for up to 3 months from the Ministry of Labour. If you are caught working on a visit visa, you could get a fine or a prison sentence, and you risk deportation. 

You risk arrest if you have lived or worked in the UAE and return when:

• your previous visa is not in order - for example if you did not cancel your work visa
• you have outstanding debts
• you have an unresolved legal issue

If you have any doubt about your status before returning to the UAE seek advice from a local lawyer . 

If you have any questions on the validity or expiry of your visa, or on how to work or stay in the UAE, contact UAE Immigration directly: 

• for Dubai: General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs  
• from the UK: UAE Embassy in the UK  

Residence visas

If you apply for a residence visa, you will have to take a blood test. If you test positive for any communicable diseases like HIV, hepatitis or tuberculosis, you may be detained and then deported, without appeal. Check the health and fitness requirements on the  United Arab Emirates’ government portal .  

When applying for a UAE residence visa, it is common practice for your sponsor’s representative to give their details as the contact information on your application. When your residence visa is issued, update these details using ICP Smart System services . These details are used by the local authorities when they contact you.

Previous travel to Israel 

UAE immigration authorities have advised that British nationals with valid or expired Israeli visas or stamps in their passports should not face any difficulties entering the UAE as long as they do not intend to work. If you do intend to work, further checks may be required and there is a risk that entry may be refused. 

If you are a British-Israeli dual national and have any concerns about entering the UAE, contact the UAE Embassy in the UK .

Leaving the UAE 

If you are subject to a travel ban, involved in legal proceedings, have unpaid debt or are a child subject to a custody dispute, you may be prevented from leaving the UAE.

Vaccination requirements  

At least 8 weeks before your trip, check the vaccinations and certificates you need on TravelHealthPro . 

Customs rules 

There are strict rules about goods that can be brought into and taken out of UAE . You must declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty. 

It is illegal to bring pork products or pornography into the UAE. Videos, books, and magazines may be subject to scrutiny and may be censored. 

Medication 

There are strict rules about what medications can be brought into the UAE. You will need approval from the UAE authorities to bring in medication that the UAE classes as narcotic, psychotropic, controlled or semi-controlled. 

You must request approval in advance to bring in medication. Apply online using the electronic application form on the UAE Ministry of Health website. The UAE authorities advise that applications are normally processed within 5 working days. 

If you arrive in the UAE without evidence of prior approval, the medication will not be allowed into the UAE and you may be prosecuted. For information on controlled medicines or the process for obtaining permission, contact the UAE Ministry of Health on [email protected] or call +971 800 11111. 

In all cases, there are limits on the amount of medication that can be brought into the UAE legally. The Ministry of Health advise you can bring up to 3 months’ supply of medication as a visitor, reduced to one month’s supply if the medication is included in the list requiring approval. 

You do not need to complete this approval process if you are only transiting airside through a UAE airport and will not pass through UAE immigration to enter the UAE.

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Dubai residency visa information

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Whether a five-star resort, a chic boutique hotel or a spacious villa with a beach at your doorstep - pick from an incredible range of options around the city.

Traveling to Dubai for the First Time (2024): 19 Tips & Tricks

By Author Jurga

Posted on Last updated: March 26, 2024

Traveling to Dubai (United Arab Emirates) for the first time  and not sure where to start? Indeed, planning a trip to Dubai might be overwhelming, even more so if this is your first time in this rapidly growing and continuously changing city!

When is the best time to visit? How much time do you need in Dubai? What are the best areas to stay in and how to travel around? Do you need to pre-book tickets or can you just go with the flow? How to save time and money and still see the best that Dubai has to offer?

Dubai is a city of contrasts, a place where modern extravagance and traditional values go hand in hand. From its towering skyscrapers to its pristine beaches and bustling souks, visiting Dubai is like stepping into a different world…

To help you plan your first trip to this dynamic and unique city, in this guide we share some of our top travel tips for visiting Dubai .

We have visited Dubai several times and all the information and tips in this article are based on our personal experience. Some of these tricks we only learned after several trips…

This practical guide includes all the info I wish we had known before planning a trip to Dubai. These tips will not only help you plan your trip, but will also show you how to make the best of your visit, time, and budget. Find out!

Top 5 Experiences in Dubai:

• Burj Khalifa (book in advance + opt for the level 148 ticket for priority access).
• Desert Safari.
• Museum of the Future (book well in advance!).
• Luxury Yacht Tour .
• Abu Dhabi Day Trip .

Here are our top travel tips for visiting Dubai:

1. Avoid Traveling in Summer

Dubai is known for its scorching temperatures, especially during the summer months. To give you an idea, average daytime temperatures during June, July, and August are well over 40°C (104°F). Even in April or November, Dubai temperatures usually still exceed 30°C (86°F).

The best time to visit Dubai is during the winter months – between December and February. The daytime temperatures at this time of the year are usually around 25°C (77°F). So it’s still warm enough to enjoy beaches, pools, and waterparks, but the temperatures are also pleasant for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

Good to know: Winter is also the peak tourist season in Dubai. So expect accommodation prices to be higher and more crowds at the main attractions. However, with some advance planning and preparation, you can still have a very enjoyable visit, more than in the summer.

The shoulder season – the months of March-April or October-November – can be a good time to visit Dubai as well. If you don’t mind temperatures of around 30-35°C (86-95°F), you can take advantage of somewhat lower prices and fewer crowds than in the winter.

In addition, you may want to check when Ramadan is. During this month, most Muslims do not eat from sunrise to sunset, so many restaurants will be closed during the day. This may might impact your experience, depending on the places you visit.

TIP: No matter when you visit Dubai, be prepared for the heat by wearing lightweight, breathable clothing, using sun protection, and staying hydrated. Plan outdoor activities for the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the peak heat.

READ ALSO: What It’s Like to Visit Dubai in February

2. Book Attraction Tickets in Advance

One of the biggest mistakes you can make when planning a trip to Dubai is not to plan/book attraction tickets in advance.

Booking in advance means more time slots to choose from, better prices, and less time wasted queuing.  After all, you want to make the most of your trip to Dubai and not spend all your precious time standing in lines.

Good to know: Tickets to many popular attractions in Dubai are often sold out at least a few days in advance. Furthermore, many tickets are cheaper if booked online. In addition, some attraction tickets, e.g. Atlantis Aquaventure , cost less if you book at least a week before your visit.

For some places, not reserving in advance means that you won’t be able to visit at all.  For example, the Museum of the Future is so popular that all tickets are usually sold out at least 2-3 weeks upfront. If you want to be able to choose the time slot that fits you best, you need to book at least a month in advance.

If you want to visit observation decks at Burj Khalifa or Dubai Frame , you also need to book ahead. In most cases, a few days in advance is sufficient, but it really depends on the period when you travel and how flexible you are. Also, consider visiting these attractions early in the morning or late in the evening for smaller crowds and better photo opportunities.

PRO TIP: For Burj Khalifa, we recommend getting a ticket that includes Level 148 . Not only you get to visit another level which is not included with standard tickets, but you also get skip-the-line access through the security check and at the elevators, and it includes some snacks and drinks. It’s well worth it.

Overall, we always recommend booking tickets and tours at least a month before your trip. But keep in mind that for many popular destinations worldwide booking a month or even two upfront is not sufficient anymore.

Tickets don’t get cheaper and there’s less availability the longer you wait. Plus, if you use GetYourG u ide for all attraction tickets and tours like we do, you can take advantage of their very flexible cancelation policy.

Good to know: Booking tickets/tours via websites like GetYourGuide , Viator , or Tiqets also saves you money on exchange rates. The exchange rate they use is the official rate and transactions are in your currency. Whereas if you pay on the spot, it will usually cost you quite a lot more (not only because many tickets are more expensive at the counter, but also because of credit card fees, exchange rate deviations, etc.).

Plus, booking and paying ahead makes it easier to budget for your vacation and keep your credit card’s spending limit available for other expenses during your trip.

READ ALSO: Top Places to See & Things to Do in Dubai

3. Foresee Enough Time & Plan Wisely

There is one thing that you may not realize as a first-time visitor to Dubai and that’s how huge the city is. It’s not a place that you can compare to cities like Rome or London , or even New York City where you can still walk between many attractions and see a lot in a short time…

Dubai is totally different! It’s big, not really walkable (except in some areas), and the attractions are spread out all over the enormous and ever-growing city.

Plus, road works and traffic jams turn every ride into an expedition. The same trip that takes 20 minutes at night or early in the morning can take you an hour or even longer during the day. And yes, public transport can be a good option, but it also has its limitations – more about it further below.

Good to know: When planning your sightseeing itinerary, you will see that most Dubai attractions work with timed entry slots. Be sure to foresee plenty of extra time everywhere though! Even with timed entry tickets, you will often be standing in line for an hour or even longer, not to mention the time that it takes to actually visit the place or get from one attraction to the other.

TIP: So while planning what to see and do, foresee enough extra time between the sights and don’t try to do too much in a single day. Also, group the attractions based on their location, and go for a mix of top attractions with some lesser-known ones. That way, you don’t have to rush from one queue to another and your trip will be much more relaxed.

This brings us to the next tip – see below.

4. Don’t Try to See Everything

There is so much to see and do in Dubai that you could easily stay here for a few months and still not experience everything the area has to offer. So resist FOMO and the urge of having to see ‘everything’. It’s simply impossible, especially if you are only traveling to Dubai for just a few days or a week.

TIP: Choose a few places, attractions, and experiences that interest you the most and focus on those rather than ticking off boxes just because some guidebook told you that one or the other place is ‘a must’.

If you absolutely want to go to the top of Burj Khalifa, well – just do it and tick it off your bucket list. After all, how often will you get a chance to visit the world’s tallest building… In that case, book tickets in advance and be prepared to queue, or save time and avoid the crowds with priority access .

On the other hand, maybe you are perfectly content just seeing the building from the outside and rather spend your time visiting other viewing platforms like Sky Views , the View at The Palm , or Dubai Frame …

Or maybe you don’t care about any of these at all and much rather spend a day at a water park , exploring the old town souks (markets), or enjoying the views from a luxury yacht …

Dubai has so much to offer to all types of travelers. So personalize your itinerary based on what you really want to do, taking into account the time that you have, your interests, and your budget. If you are visiting Dubai with the family, try to incorporate some fun activities for the kids in your itinerary as well, even if it means that you’ll have less time for sightseeing.

READ ALSO: Dubai Itinerary (detailed guide for a week in Dubai)

5. Consider Tours & Private Drivers

If you want to see a lot of Dubai in a short time or you don’t know where to even start deciding where to go, consider booking tours or private guides/drivers .

Sometimes, a private driver can also be cheaper than taking a taxi between all those places, and often, you can also find cars that can take up to 6 passengers (vs 4 in most taxis).

Just to be clear, I am talking about quickly seeing multiple places all over the city in a single day. If you want to spend more time exploring the sites, you better go on your own.

There are tons of different ‘city highlights’ tours that bring you to many of the main landmarks of Dubai in (half) a day. Keep in mind that in most cases, your ‘visit’ will be just a quick photo stop, so it’s not comparable to actually visiting the sights. But it’s a good way to get an introduction to Dubai and catch a glimpse of the top spots.

PRO TIP: If you do a city highlights tour, do it at the beginning of your trip! That way, you can later come back to some of the places that you like the most. An ideal way to explore Dubai is to take an introductory city tour first as you arrive and then thoroughly visiting some of the main landmarks and attractions on your own later.

Abu Dhabi day trip tip: One of the best guided tours we recently did in Dubai was this highly-rated tour. If you want to see the top sights of Abu Dhabi in a day, this tour has by far the best itinerary (I compared many tours before we chose this one and it didn’t disappoint).

READ ALSO: Best Abu Dhabi Tours from Dubai (+Review of the Tour We Chose)

6. Save Time & Money with Combination Tickets

Dubai is expensive, there is no arguing about it. But with some smart planning, you can save some money on some of the main attractions.

One of the best ways to do this is by opting for combination tickets and/or city cards that include several popular places.

Here are some of the most popular deals:

• Burj Khalifa + Dubai Aquarium (+-$20 savings per person).
• Atlantis Aquaventure + Lost Chambers Aquarium (+-$25-30 savings per person).
• GoCity Explorer Pass (up to 50% savings, depending on the attractions you visit).

Good to know: Some tickets cost more during the most popular times. For example, Burj Khalifa around sunset. So if you want to save money, be sure to check prices for different time slots/days when making reservations.

7. Stay Longer

You might be wondering how much time you need to see the best of Dubai. Well, there is really no straightforward answer to this and so much depends on your interests.

That being said, I recommend planning at least a week for a first visit to Dubai. But if you have time and your budget allows it, stay longer. You won’t get bored!

With a week in Dubai, you will be able to visit most of the top landmarks, explore several different parts of the city, and also find some time to relax and unwind. If you want to spend more time at the beach or by the pool, visit a water park or a theme park with your kids, or make a day trip to Abu Dhabi, ideally, you plan at least 10-12 days for Dubai.

But don’t worry if your trip is shorter and you can’t extend it. You can have a perfectly enjoyable visit and see a lot even if you only have a day or two in Dubai. Via the link below, you can find plenty of ideas for planning a shorter visit.

LEARN MORE: Dubai Stopover: How to See The Best of Dubai in 1-2 Days

8. Choose the Location of Your Hotel Wisely

Deciding where to stay in Dubai might not be as straightforward as you may think, especially if the main purpose of your visit is to explore the city.

There is not one perfect place to stay in Dubai – it’s simply much too big and too spread out for that.

However, some areas are better than others and some are really a disaster for commute. If you pick the wrong location, you might be stuck in traffic for hours every time you want to go anywhere and do some sightseeing. On the other hand, that same spot might be perfect for those who are mainly interested in swimming and dining, and are just looking for a relaxing vacation with maybe one or two excursions that include a pick-up and drop-off at the hotel…

TIP: I strongly recommend that you look at the map and the location of the places that you want to visit before deciding where to stay in Dubai. Also, consider how you will travel around.

For example, staying within walking distance of a metro station might save you a lot of time and money on commuting if you plan to do lots of sightseeing. Whereas staying in a nice walkable area with lots of shops and restaurants will be ideal if you like to go out at night.

Here are two of the very best areas to stay in Dubai:

• Dubai Downtown (the area around Dubai Mall – Burj Khalifa) is very central and is perfect for those who want to do a lot of sightseeing, but also for shopping and dining. Sofitel Dubai Downtown is a great choice in this area, close to Dubai Mall and just near a metro station. Remember, however, that this is the heart of the city, so very busy and far from the sea.
• Dubai Marina in the south of the city is another popular area to stay in Dubai. It’s a great choice for those who are looking for a more relaxing vacation, boat trips, water parks, dining, shopping, etc. The beach is not too far from here, however, it will take at least 45-60 minutes to reach the city center. Millennium Place is a very popular hotel not too far from the main Marina area and close to the metro. On a somewhat higher budget, JW Marriott Hotel Marina is a wonderful choice if you want to be in the heart of the Marina.

TIP: On our most recent visit to Dubai, we stayed at Rove La Mer Beach Hotel . It’s close to the downtown area, so quite convenient for sightseeing, but also with direct access to a private beach – the best of both worlds. We loved this hip modern hotel, also because it’s much smaller and more intimate – a kind of place where you don’t have to worry about losing your kids at breakfast. It also offers great price/quality for Dubai. The only downside is that the area around the hotel is still developing with lots of construction going on, but it will only get more attractive in the future.

9. Beware of Tourism Taxes

Hotel stays (including hotel apartments, guesthouses, holiday homes, etc.) in the United Arab Emirates are taxed with various fees, surcharges, and taxes. These amounts might vary depending on the hotel, but it’s not abnormal that these taxes add over 20-25% to your room rate.

For example, our recent hotel invoice in Dubai showed a 10% service charge, 7% municipality fees, 5 % VAT, and an additional 10 AED (+-$3) Tourism Dirham Fee per night.

Altogether, we paid about 24,4% on top of the official room rate. The good thing is that we knew in advance how much we had to pay. Otherwise, this could be a very unpleasant surprise…

So when looking for accommodation in Dubai and comparing prices, make sure that you are actually comparing the same thing!

Many hotel websites show prices without (some/any) taxes, so you may think that booking directly with them is cheaper. Often, it’s not the case at all!

TIP: We always use Booking.com for our accommodation bookings, also in Dubai. With them, you see the total price, including all fees and taxes, so you know exactly how much you will spend. (Depending on booking conditions, you may have to prepay for the stay in advance whereas the taxes are charged separately when you arrive at the hotel, but the total amount you see when making a reservation is correct).

10. Use Public Transport & Local Taxis

Dubai’s public transport system is efficient and inexpensive. Depending on where you are staying and traveling to, it might be very convenient to use the Dubai Metro, Tram, Monorail, or even local buses.

However, this depends on the exact trip you are planning to make and also on the size of your group. Sometimes, public transport is the best way to get around the city quickly and affordably. But there are also many situations when it’s a real hassle and doesn’t make your trip faster or much cheaper.

In those cases, you will be glad to know that taxis are rather affordable in Dubai . The most expensive taxi ride we recently took in Dubai was 25 kilometers, it took over 50 minutes, and it cost us 76 AED (+-$21).

However, be careful that you only use official taxis! Because e.g. Uber is often quite a lot more expensive. Not even to mention that they sometimes charge twice the price during peak times of increased demand. We learned this the hard way, after taking a few overpriced Uber rides…

Also, unlike in many other countries where we use Uber all the time, in Dubai, you never really know how much you will pay until the end of the ride. The price you see in the beginning is usually just an approximate indication.

TIP: Install Careem app on your smartphone and use it to request ‘Hala Taxi’. That’s the best way to get an official taxi in Dubai. If you request ‘Rides’, it works similar as Uber and is more expensive. We learned this from a local taxi driver after a few very unpleasant experiences with Uber and private drivers randomly offering their services at the main tourist spots, and it saved us a fortune.

To give you an idea, we were quoted 120 AED ($33) by Uber and 150 AED ($40) by random ‘kind strangers’ for a ride that in the end cost us 22 AED ($6) by official taxi. When it comes to busy times and popular tourist hotspots, getting a taxi ride in Dubai can feel like navigating the Wild West…

LEARN MORE: Tourist Guide to Dubai Public Transport

11. Start Your Days Early

One of the best ways to make the most out of your trip to Dubai is to start your days early.

There’s much less traffic in the morning, so you can get everywhere much quicker. But the main advantage is that there are hardly any other people, even at the most popular attractions. In addition – if you are visiting Dubai in the warmest months – getting up early is the best way to avoid the biggest heat.

Good to know: Be sure to check opening times of the places you want to visit. While some attractions don’t open until noon, many others are open from 9-10 AM. There are also places – like e.g. Burj Khalifa – that you can visit at 7 AM, and on some days even earlier if you like…

For example, we recently went to the Aquaventure Water Park at Atlantis around opening time. There were no lines at the entrance and we could also do many popular slides without any wait. A few hours later, people were queuing for 45-60 minutes at the same rides…

In addition, the taxi ride to get there in the morning took us just 22 minutes. That same ride to get back to our hotel in the evening was over 50 minutes, not counting more than 10 minutes for a taxi to arrive… So yes, it really pays to explore Dubai in the morning!

READ ALSO: Tips & Tricks for Visiting Atlantis Aquaventure

12. Stay Connected

While pretty much all public places and tourist attractions in Dubai offer free Wi-Fi, we highly recommend getting a local SIM card for your visit to UAE. There are so many situations when it’s just much easier to stay connected. For example, if you need to book a taxi ride, or book some tickets on the go, etc.

Depending on your data plan, roaming can cost a fortune in Dubai. My provider sent me an sms saying that using data in UAE will cost me 15 euros per megabyte (ouch! and no, thank you!). So the first thing I did after landing in Dubai was disconnect roaming.

There are several ways to approach this:

• Pocket Wi-Fi. One of the easiest ways to stay connected on the go is by renting a pocket WiFi at Dubai airport . This is a very convenient option if you don’t want to change anything on your phone. It’s also convenient if you are traveling with a family/friends since you can connect up to 10 devices to it.
• Local SIM card. Alternatively, you can opt opt for a physical SIM card, which is also available at the airport . With this option, you will need to place this card into your phone. If you want to keep your ‘own’ phone number working as well, see if your phone has a dual SIM option – then you can use both. Otherwise, you may want to bring an old phone to use with this local card.
• eSIM. There are many providers available (just search online), but what’s included and the prices vary a lot. Depending on which one you choose and also on your device, this can be a very easy and simple process, but it’s also not very straightforward if you have never done it before. Also, not all phones allow eSIM – so be sure to double-check if your smartphone has this capability.

13. Respect Local Culture

While Dubai is a very cosmopolitan city, it’s also a place with different cultural norms and traditions. Overall, UAE is very ‘Western’ and Dubai in particular is very laid back and relaxed. With over 200 nationalities living in Dubai, it’s a true melting pot of different cultures. Still, remember that you are a visitor here, and be respectful.

Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites or public places. Also, avoid public displays of affection, as these can be considered disrespectful.

If you’re visiting during Ramadan, be mindful of local customs and traditions. Keep in mind that many traditional restaurants and cafes will be closed during the day but will come to life after sunset. If you are visiting during Ramadan and are planning sightseeing during the day or a day trip to e.g. Abu Dhabi, it’s advisable to pack your own lunch.

One of the most common questions we get is what to wear when traveling to Dubai. Well, you will see people wearing all kinds of clothing – from burkas that cover the entire body to revealing summer clothes that hardly cover much at all. However, while a lot is tolerated, it’s not always appreciated.

So when in doubt, remember that it’s always safer to cover your knees and shoulders. See-through clothing is also not the best idea, unless on a beach.

TIP: Wear loose light clothes – not as much for religious or cultural reasons, but also because of the heat. Long skirts/dresses or wide summer pants will be much more comfortable than tight clothes.

LEARN MORE: What to Wear in Dubai

14. Use Credit Cards

The official currency in Dubai is the United Arab Emirates Dirham (AED) and all the prices are displayed in this currency. All regular businesses accept cash and electronic means of payment, such as credit cards or smartphone payments.

We haven’t encountered a single place in Dubai that wouldn’t accept a credit card. So if you want to make it easy and simple for yourself, you don’t even need to exchange money and can simply use cards everywhere.

Important! Inform your bank about your visit so that they don’t block your cards for ‘suspicious activity’. And even then… Despite precautions, one of my cards got blocked by a credit card company after a random payment at a restaurant in one of the main malls in Dubai. We had to call the bank to get them to unblock it again and they say that this happens when ‘the systems’ suspect anything suspicious, despite us having notified our bank in advance…

If you want to leave a tip to someone or purchase something small, you may want to have some local currency at hand. In that case, you can get some cash from local ATMs which you will find in malls all over the city. I strongly encourage you to only use ATMs attached to local bank offices as some others might charge additional fees and/or give the worst exchange rates.

PRO TIP: When using ATMs to withdraw money or paying by card, you always get an option between local currency (AED) and your own currency. Always choose local currency (AED) – that way, your bank will do the exchange and you will always get a better rate than the one offered by ATMs or pay terminals.

Good to know: We heard it on quite a few occasions that money is king in Dubai and it doesn’t matter in which currency you want to pay – they will accept it. Indeed, this is the case at the markets (souks) and some smaller private businesses. On a recent trip to Dubai, I could use Euros at the souk. The sellers also told us that they accept credit cards (just make sure to haggle – see below).

15. Shop Smart

Dubai is a shopper’s paradise, but prices can vary a lot depending on where you shop. The prestigious locations like the Dubai Mall are home to some of the most expensive brands in the world and the prices here are usually very high. You will be able to find much better deals at the Dubai Outlet Mall, for example.

Also, if you go to various local markets (souks), be sure to shop around for better deals. Also, don’t forget to haggle – and not a little! Many sellers take advantage of tourists asking ridiculously high prices. Often, 3-4 times higher than what you should pay, and likely even more… Don’t be shy, offer the price that seems correct to you, and be prepared to walk away.

On a recent trip, I got intrigued by a perfume someone put on me while walking through the Dubai Spice Souk (this is common practice – people will (try to) put all kinds of stuff on you – from scarfs to perfumes etc.). So I asked how much it was. The prices depend on the size and the design of the bottle, they said, and so we settled on a medium-sized simple bottle and they told me it was 280 AED (+- 70 euros).

No way I would pay 70 euros for a tiny bottle of perfume at a market! And so we started the negotiations. In the end, I paid 20 euros in cash which – to me – felt like a correct price. The seller was telling me that this was way too low and he was only willing to do it because it was our last day in Dubai and my kids were cute… 😉

After that, I saw similar perfumes at Dubai Airport souvenir store and indeed, most of them were about 20-25 euros for about the same size I got. So don’t be afraid to negotiate and if you don’t feel comfortable with the price or the quality, simply walk away.

16. Explore Beyond the Glitz

While Dubai is best known for its skyscrapers and extravagant landmarks, don’t miss out on its cultural gems as well.

One of the best places to catch a glimpse of authentic culture is Old Dubai. Visit the historic Al Fahidi neighborhood, explore the spice and gold souks, and take a traditional abra ride along Dubai Creek. These experiences are also quite touristy, but they are also totally different from the main attractions in Dubai.

TIP: There are many excellent guided tours that visit Old Dubai . They all take you to the same area, do the traditional boat ride on Dubai Creek, and visit the same local markets. Most tours also include local coffee and dades, and some also food tasting. While you can just visit the area on your own, these tours are really affordable and give you a somewhat deeper insight and insider tips.

On our recent visit, we chose this walking/food tour . It started with some traditional food tasting at a local restaurant, followed by a visit to the old town, a boat ride, and ended at the gold and spice souks. A nice way to spend a few hours and get to know a different side of the city.

READ ALSO: Best Tours in Dubai

17. Avoid Weekends

If you think Dubai is busy on a weekday, try to imagine it on a weekend or on public holidays.

So if you can adjust your plans, avoid visiting the most popular attractions on weekends (Friday afternoon, Saturday, and Sunday).

If you are in Dubai for more than a few days, this is really not difficult to do. Visit the most popular places such as Burj Khalifa, Dubai Mall, Global Village , Miracle Garden , or theme parks and water parks on weekdays.

On weekends, you can do more relaxing activities such as a sightseeing a yacht trip , a speedboat tour , spend time at the beach or by the pool, go parasailing or jetskiing , or take a desert tour – see below.

18. Experience the Desert

No trip to Dubai would be complete without experiencing its desert. Book a desert safari tour for an adrenaline-pumping ride over the dunes, followed by a traditional Bedouin-style dinner under the stars. It’s an unforgettable experience!

There are many desert tour options , but when you look closely, they are very similar in what they offer. Depending on the option you book, you have one main activity – usually, dune bashing in a jeep, quad, or camel ride. Afterward, you spend time in a desert camp where you can partake in all kinds of different experiences.

Some of these experiences include taking pictures with falcons and camels, sandboarding, various shows (traditional dance, belly dance, fire show), henna tattoos, etc. There is always lots of local food and it’s surprisingly good.

Our experience: We have done two desert tours in Dubai (on different trips) and they were both very similar and both excellent. The first time we went on this dune safari tour and on a recent trip, we opted for this highly-rated tour that includes a longer camel ride . In both cases, the second part of the tour was quite similar, the main difference was that the first tour included an exhilarating jeep ride through the dunes, and the second one – a 45-minute camel ride.

The whole family really enjoyed these tours and I couldn’t say which one is better. All I can tell you is that it’s a nice experience that will make your trip to Dubai even more memorable.

19. Don’t Forget Little Important Details

Here are some additional travel tips for Dubai:

• Bring a reusable water bottle. Dubai is so warm and dry that you will want to carry a bottle of water on you at all times. If you want to minimize plastic waste, you may want to bring your own reusable water bottle. Tap water is, in general, safe to drink. In addition, you will also see free water taps at some public areas, where you can refill your bottles.
• Pack a travel adapter. UAE uses  Type G  plugs, same as in the UK. However, we noticed that in most hotels you can also simply use European plugs and sometimes a simple USB cable. Still, we always pack a Type G adapter just to be safe.
• Bring a power bank to charge your phone on the go. Also, carry extra batteries for your camera.
• Know that you are not obliged to tip, but it’s also appreciated. Many people tip 10-15% at the restaurants or give a small tip to tour guides. If you like to tip, make sure you have some small bills of local currency.
• Bring a small crossbody bag for sightseeing. At some landmarks, you will be asked to leave bigger bags/backpacks in a locker. I like Hedgren crossbody bags for travel – they are light, sturdy, and very durable. The one I have is big enough to hold my camera, a power bank, documents, and even two water bottles, and I was never asked to use a locker. But pack the smallest backpack and you’ll often have to leave it behind…
• Don’t forget sun protection. A sun hat, sunscreen lotion, and sunglasses are a must when visiting Dubai!

So, these are some of the most useful travel tips for Dubai that you may want to know when traveling to this fascinating city for the first time. I hope that this helps you make the most of your visit.

Have a great trip!

Before you go, you may want to learn a bit more about Dubai with some surprising and interesting facts that will leave you fascinated and eager to explore more. Check it out: Fun & Interesting Facts About Dubai .

More tips for visiting Dubai:

• Budget:  How Expensive is Dubai
• Getting around:  Public Transport in Dubai
• With kids:  Best Things to Do in Dubai with Kids
• Fun to do:  Best Free & Cheap Things to Do in Dubai

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Friday 23rd of February 2024

Thanks for the article. It is very informative.

Glad to help. Have a great time in Dubai!

Dubai Work Visa: Your Essential Guide

Dubai is one of the largest city in UAE (United Arab Emirates), If you’re looking for job opportunities abroad, Dubai is a popular destination that is famous for its thriving economy and employment prospects. Work visas for Dubai can lead to a variety of opportunities, In this article, we cover all the essential information you need to know about obtaining a Dubai work visa.

Table of Contents

Understanding Dubai Work Visa

Foreign nationals can easily work lawfully in Dubai with Dubai work visa, often known as an employment visa. Anyone searching for work in the city must meet the qualification. In order to work and live in Dubai for a predetermined amount of time, individuals must have visas that are sponsored by employers.

Types of Work Visa

Foreign nationals must need a visa to enter in UAE to get a work permit in Dubai. United Arab Emirates issues different type of visas and work permits to foreigners, some of them are given below:

• Multiple Entry Visa
• Student Visa
• Medical Visa
• Visit Visa]
• Entry Permit
• Traveler Visa

Requirements for Dubai Work Visa

Understanding the conditions established by the Dubai Government is essential before applying for a work visa. These are some typical requirements:

Passport validity: Your passport is valid for six months

Offer of Employment: A Dubai-based firm must have extended you a job offer.

Medical fitness test: A medical certificate as a proof of good health.

Educational requirements: Above all educational certifications or degrees, depending on the employment profile.

Experience and abilities: Depending on the position, employers may need a certain level of expertise and abilities.

Step-by-Step Process for Obtaining Dubai Work Visa

Job search/offer.

Begin by searching for suitable job opportunities in Dubai. Once you secure a job offer, make sure that the employer is willing to sponsor your work visa.

Employer Sponsorship

Firstly, the employer should initiate the visa application process on your behalf. They will act as your sponsor and submit the necessary documents to the relevant authorities.

Document submission

Prepare the required documents, such as passport copies, educational certificates, and the employment contract, as per the employer’s instructions.

Application submission

Your employer will then submit the visa application to the Dubai immigration authorities. Then they will pay the visa fee on your behalf.

Medical fitness test

Moreover you might have to take a medical fitness examination at a medical facility that has authorized your application after submitting it.

Visa approval

You will be informed of the outcome once the authorities have processed your application. The work visa will be given to your employer if it is accepted.

Visa stamping

You can proceed with getting your visa stamped at the UAE embassy or consulate in Pakistan once you have the work visa in hand.

After receiving your visa stamp, make the appropriate travel arrangements for Dubai. Also remember to bring all relevant documents, including your passport and work visa.

Benefits of Dubai Work Visa

• Jobs: The finance, technology, hotel, and construction sectors make up a large portion of Dubai’s labor market.
• Professional growth: Working in Dubai can provide valuable international work experience and enhance your professional growth.
• Cultural diversity: Dubai is a multicultural metropolis where people may live and work, and it has a lively and diversified atmosphere.
• Life quality: Dubai boasts a high standard of living, modern infrastructure, and excellent medical care.

Tips to get Dubai Work Visa Sucessfully

Competitiveness: The job market in Dubai can be highly competitive. Enhance your chances by gaining relevant skills and experience.

Language proficiency: English is widely spoken in Dubai. Improve your English language skills to communicate effectively in the workplace.

Document preparation: Pay attention to detail when preparing your documents. Ensure they are accurate, complete, and properly attested.

Professional assistance: Consider seeking professional assistance from reputable immigration consultants to navigate the visa application process smoothly.

Patience and persistence: The visa application process may take time. In short be patient and follow up with your employer regularly.

How much time it take a Pakistani national to receive a visa?

Processing can take a variety of times, although it often takes a few weeks to a few months.

Can i apply without a job?

No, a job offer from a company must required

Can I switch employment in after receiving a work visa?

You can change occupations, but only if you complete the right steps and have a new work visa.

Is knowledge of Arabic language mandatory for obtaining a visa?

No, English is widely spoken and sufficient for most work environments in Dubai.

Can my family travel to Dubai with me on a work visa?

Yes, you could be able to sponsor your family members based on your employment title and compensation.

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Work and Travel in United Arab Emirates

Help us grow. share what you know about getting work in united arab emirates for travellers., volunteer and paid work opportunities in united arab emirates for travellers.

The United Arab Emirates includes Abu Dhabi and Dubai, two of the most modern and rich cities in the world, and certainly the two Middle Eastern locales most open and accepting to foreign working travellers. You’ve perhaps known someone who has gone to the UAE to earn money - and now you’re interested as well. But what should you know before making your way to these “cities of gold” in the Persian Gulf? Read our travel guide below to find out everything you need to know about the Emirates. 1. Teach English in the UAE These opportunities in the UEA typically require established qualifications. Unlike different parts of the world, you can’t just walk in and expect to find a job just because you’re a native English speaker. Like in neighbouring countries like Qatar, things are more formal here. There is a big demand for native speakers, however, and if you apply through the correct channels you can stand to make more money teaching English here than nearly anywhere else in the world. 2. Work in retail or as a customer service professional   A lot of the appeal for tourists to come to Abu Dhabi and Dubai involves shopping and fashion. A lot of tourists find shopping for gadgets and apparel in Dubai less expensive since it is tax-free. Therefore, shopping centres and supermarkets never run out of need for retail associates and customer service professionals. 3. Work in bars or restaurants  This is another industry in which many working travellers already have experience. Like with teaching English, if you bring these skills to the UAE you’ll likely be making more money than you would be for performing the same work in Europe or North America.

VOLUNTEER WORK VISA / PERMIT REQUIREMENTS FOR UNITED ARAB EMIRATES

Entry requirements to the UAE are in constant flux and can be quite complex depending on what type of visa you require. Always obtain the latest requirements from the UAE embassy in your home country. Free visas on arrival (either 30-day or 90-day depending on country) are available for passport-holders of 60 nations. Lonely Planet has an excellent list of entry and exit formalities and visa information for the UAE.

SEASONAL BACKPACKER SKILLS NEEDED IN UNITED ARAB EMIRATES

Spring work.

Spring in the UAE is warm by European standards. March is sometimes accompanied by intermittent rain, but there is little precipitation as the season continues. As one of the busiest seasons in the year, spring in the UAE is filled with events, from trade shows to entertainment and cultural happenings. This is a great time to begin if you are seeking work in event planning, or have skills in catering or theatre and music production.

SUMMER JOBS

As the hottest season of the year, midday temperatures average around 42 degrees Celsius. Malls and indoor theme parks often host cultural events and concerts throughout the hot season, but water parks and ice rinks are also popular. Summer is therefore a great time to work and travel in the UAE if you are seeking to pick up work in retail or customer service, or if you have sports training experience to lead tourists through the water parks and ice rinks.

Autumn in the UAE is the start of the outdoor season, and residents typically use the period to take advantage of the country’s stunning beaches. If you are in the country as a volunteer, now would be the time to seek opportunities to help with beach cleanups or conservation projects, such as supporting the endangered green turtles that are found along the coast of the Arabian peninsula.

The climate is the most welcoming in the UAE in the winter. Long drives and camping expeditions into the desert are common.  If you have tour guide experience or skills in sand-based sports such as ATV riding or sand surfing, winter will be the busiest season for you as a working traveller.

ATTITUDE TO FOREIGNERS WORKING OR VOLUNTEERING IN UNITED ARAB EMIRATES

Rich in cultural heritage, the UAE is a place where tradition meets modernity. Living and working in the Gulf region you'll be able to explore Islamic culture but to avoid getting in trouble with the law you'll need to respect local laws and customs. There can be severe penalties for breaking these. Also, there’s more severe punishment for skirting the rules when it comes to working “under the table.” So, make sure you are legally registered to work and travel or volunteer in the UAE before you arrive. Tax-free income, affordability, safe environment, bureaucracy, world-class facilities, and the country’s multicultural approach are just some of the primary reasons that working travellers choose to come to the UAE. Are you ready for an adventure in the UAE?

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Dubai: A Business Traveller's Guide

Travelling to dubai.

Once a modest fishing village nestled on the shores of the Arabian Gulf, Dubai emerged shimmering from the desert sands as an economic powerhouse with global ambitions.

The city is almost unrecognisable from its pearl-diving past. Dhows cruise the waterways beneath a soaring skyline punctuated by the iconic Burj Khalifa which pierces the heavens at nearly 3,000ft. The Dubai Mall thrums to the ebb and flow of shoppers seeking luxury. Neon lights and colours soak the streets at night.

But history has not been lost to the march of modernity. Traditional souks fill the air with scents of spice and tales of a bygone era. The 200-year-old Al Fahidi Fort to the south of Dubai Creek still stands in defiance of time. Local restaurants serve machboos and harees just as Emiratis did hundreds of years ago.

Dubai Fact File

The official language is Arabic with widespread fluency in English. Hindi, Urdu, Malayalam, Tagalog, and Bengali are also used among expatriates.

UAE Dirham (AED)

Avg. Temperatures

As a desert climate, the traditional four-season model doesn’t precisely apply. Instead, it is more accurately divided into a hot and cold season.

Getting To Dubai

Dubai’s primary airport is Dubai International Airport (DXB), located in the Al Garhoud district. Emirates, the flagship carrier of the UAE, is based in Dubai and offers an extensive network of flights to and from the city.

Business Culture & Etiquette

It is a common misconception that the economy of Dubai is built on oil. In reality, oil production accounts for less than 1% of the emirate’s GDP (as of 2018) with international trade, tourism, aviation, and real estate the major sources of revenue. This rich tapestry of business interests is part of the reason why the city is so rewarding as a work trip destination.

Dubai is a melting pot of cultures, with a diverse expatriate population. The business environment is characterised by a mix of nationalities, and English is widely used as a business language.

Though the city is culturally diverse, it is important to recognise the significant role Islamic values play in the local business culture. Respect for religious traditions is important and any business practice should align with Islamic principles.

For those who embrace these practices, the rewards are significant. The government of Dubai is notoriously vocal in its support of business and actively promotes initiatives that are favourable to corporate environments. Policies and regulations are often designed to attract foreign investment, create tax-free zones, or encourage foreign ownership.

Another top business tip:

• Unlike Western tradition, the official workweek in Dubai is generally Sunday to Thursday , with Friday and Saturday being the weekend. Standard working hours are typically from 9 am to 6 pm, though many businesses operate under other schedules.
• Dubai’s drinking laws underwent a significant change on November 7, 2020, making alcohol consumption legal without requiring a license. Applicable to those aged 21 and above, residents and visitors can drink in private spaces or licensed public establishments like hotels, bars, and restaurants. 

Crime & Safety

Dubai is known for being one of the safest cities in the world – violent crime is extremely rare, and the city has a low incidence of street crime. The government of Dubai places a strong emphasis on maintaining law and order via a legal system based on Islamic law (Sharia)enforced by a highly visible police presence.

The city has strict anti-drug laws, and the possession or trafficking of illegal substances is heavily penalised. Travellers should be aware of the stringent drug regulations and exercise caution to avoid legal complications. It is advisable to check the United Arab Emirates list of controlled medicines before travelling and to speak to your doctor if you are unsure whether your medication is safe to bring along.

While Dubai is open and welcoming to people from various cultures, it’s essential for residents and visitors to respect local customs and traditions. Understanding and adhering to cultural norms can ensure you have a positive experience in the city.

Here are a few of our other top safety tips:

• Dubai has efficient emergency services, including police, ambulance, and fire departments. The emergency contact number is 999, and response times are typically quick.
• The local government has invested significantly in cybersecurity technology, and active efforts are made to safeguard individuals and businesses from cyber threats.

Getting Around Dubai

Dubai metro (مترو).

Taxis (سيارة اجره)

Taxis are readily available in Dubai and are a convenient and comfortable way to travel. The city’s taxis are metered, and drivers are generally knowledgeable about the city’s landmarks. Both government-operated and private taxi companies serve the city.

Ride-sharing (مشاركة الرحلة)

Top 3 things to see or do in dubai.

If you find yourself with a bit of free time on your business trip, Dubai is an interesting and vibrant city with plenty to explore. Here are our top 3 recommendations…

1. The Burj Khalifa (برج خليفة)

2. Palm Jumeirah (نخلة جميرا)

3. Dubai Mall (مول دبي)

In conclusion.

The city’s allure for business travellers lies not only in its strategic location as a global hub but also in its capacity to cater to the diverse needs of the modern professional. The vibrant corporate culture is underpinned by a government that is keen to invest in creating an environment where businesses can thrive.

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United Arab Emirates

Travel Advisory July 13, 2023

United arab emirates - level 2: exercise increased caution.

Reissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed.

Exercise increased caution in the United Arab Emirates due to   the threat of missile or drone attacks and terrorism.

Country Summary:  The possibility of attacks affecting U.S. citizens and interests in the Gulf and Arabian Peninsula remains an ongoing, serious concern.  Militant groups operating in Yemen have stated an intent to attack neighboring countries, including the UAE, using missiles and drones.  Missile and drone attacks in early 2022 targeted populated areas and civilian infrastructure.

Due to risks to civil aviation operating within the Persian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman region, including the United Arab Emirates, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has issued an advisory Notice to Air Missions (NOTAM). For more information U.S. citizens should consult the  Federal Aviation Administration’s Prohibitions, Restrictions and Notices .

While residents and visitors generally find a safe and secure environment in the UAE, the country continues to face the threat of terrorism.  Terrorists may attack with little or no warning, targeting tourist locations, transportation hubs, markets, shopping malls, and local government facilities.

Read the  country information page  for additional information on travel to the United Arab Emirates.

If you decide to travel to the United Arab Emirates:

• Monitor local media for breaking events and be prepared to adjust your plans.
• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Follow the Department of State on  Facebook   and  Twitter .
• Review the  Country Security Report  for the United Arab Emirates.
• Visit the CDC page for the latest  Travel Health Information  related to your travel.
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the  Traveler’s Checklist .

Embassy Messages

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Quick Facts

6 months validity after date of arrival. 12-page U.S. emergency passports are not accepted. Passports with the “X” gender marker are not accepted.

One page required for entry stamp

Not required for tourist stays under 30 days

Embassies and Consulates

U.s. embassy abu dhabi.

Embassies District, Plot 38, Sector W59-02, Street No. 4. Abu Dhabi, U.A.E. Telephone: +(971) (2) 414-2200 Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(971) (0) 2-414-2200 Fax: +(971) (2) 414-2241 Email:   [email protected]

U.S. Consulate General Dubai Corner of Al Seef Rd. and Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Rd Dubai, U.A.E. Telephone: +(971) (4) 309-4000 Emergency Telephone: +(971) (4) 309-4000 Fax: +(971) (4) 311-6213 Email:   [email protected]

Note: The normal work week in the UAE is Monday through Friday.

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Entry, Exit and Visa Requirements

COVID-19 Requirements: There are no COVID-related entry requirements for U.S. citizens.

U.S. citizens are subject to all UAE immigration laws.

• Passport Validity:  A passport valid for at least six months beyond the date of entry is required to enter the UAE. The UAE government does not accept 12-page emergency passports for entry to the UAE. The UAE government also does not accept passports with the “X” gender marker for travel to, in, or through the UAE. Travelers with these passports will be denied boarding or entry.
• Personal travel of 30 days or less:  A U.S. citizen with a regular (non-emergency) passport with an M or F gender marker may obtain a no fee visitor visa upon arrival. The UAE government does not accept passports with the “X” gender marker for travel to, in, or through the UAE. Travelers with these passports will be denied boarding or entry.
• Stays longer than 30 days:  Visitors on a 30-day visa may request a visa extension, which is at the discretion of immigration officials. Anyone planning to work or study in the UAE must obtain the appropriate visa.
• Medical Exam:  A full medical exam is required for work or residence permits. The exam and tests for HIV/AIDS, viral hepatitis B, tuberculosis, leprosy, and pregnancy must be performed after arrival. U.S. citizens have been detained and deported for testing positive for HIV, active tuberculosis, or hepatitis. Medical exams performed outside of the UAE will not be accepted.
• Travel on Diplomatic or Official Passports:  U.S. citizens traveling to or through the UAE on diplomatic or official passports are required to obtain a visa before travel (transit passengers only require a visa if exiting the airport). This requirement is strictly enforced by UAE officials and those not meeting the requirement will be denied entry. U.S. military travelers should not assume military ID cards will be accepted, but should consult the Foreign Clearance Guide.

Land Exit Departure Fee:  All travelers who depart the UAE by land and who are not citizens of a Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) country must pay a departure fee. The fee is 35 UAE dirhams and is payable only in the local currency.

Please verify this information with the  Embassy of the United Arab Emirates  before you travel.

Exit Controls:  The UAE maintains tight exit controls. All travelers must exit the country with the passport on which they entered. Travelers should visit a UAE immigration office prior to departure to obtain an exit pass if they plan to leave the UAE without the passport on which they entered.

Travelers both departing the UAE and transiting will be barred from exiting the UAE if there are any criminal or civil legal cases against them. Travelers have been arrested at the airport and have had their passports seized due to outstanding financial cases, unsettled legal disputes, and late credit card payments, including for cases that were previously unknown to the traveler. In such cases, some individuals have been arrested and detained for long periods of time. Individuals will be barred from leaving the UAE until legal cases are settled in full. This affects all persons whether they are in the UAE as residents, tourists, or transit passengers with no intention of exiting the airport. UAE residents can verify with UAE authorities whether they have an exit ban due to outstanding cases in Dubai or Abu Dhabi. More information on this process can be found on the  UAE Government Portal .

The Government of the UAE requires that all persons residing in the country have a national identification card. U.S. citizens who are working or living in the UAE should visit the  Emirates Identity Authority website  for more information on card registration procedures and requirements.

Cancellation of Visas:  All UAE visas must be formally cancelled through the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) before a new visa can be issued. This includes visas that have already expired or have never been used. Travelers may be denied entry to, or not permitted to depart, the UAE if previous visas have not been properly cancelled. More information on the process is available on the  UAE Government portal .

Dual Nationality:  The UAE does not recognize dual nationality. The UAE recognizes only the citizenship of the passport on which a person enters the UAE. The embassy may be prohibited from providing certain consular services to those who did not enter the UAE on a U.S. passport.

The UAE has imposed HIV/AIDS travel restrictions on all foreigners seeking residency. Travelers for tourism are not tested or requested to provide information about HIV/AIDS status. Please verify this information with the  Embassy of the UAE  before you travel. Information about  dual nationality  and the  prevention of international child abduction  can be found on our website. For further information about customs regulations, please read the embassy’s  Customs Information page .

Current restrictions:

Weapons and Law Enforcement Equipment:  The transportation of arms or items that may be considered law enforcement or military equipment is strictly prohibited without written approval from the UAE government. Do not transport any arms or items that may be considered law enforcement or military equipment. Such items include, but are not limited to:

• Weapon parts and tools
• Functional, inert, or decorative ammunition, even one bullet
• Empty or spent shell casings
• Any other military or police equipment

U.S. citizens, military personnel, and U.S. government/military contractors found to be carrying such items, even in the smallest quantities, will be arrested and face strict criminal penalties, including imprisonment, large monetary fines, forfeiture of the items, and deportation , even though airlines and U.S. authorities allowed shipment on a U.S.-originating flight.

Other prohibited items:  Importation of the following items is also prohibited under UAE law: pornographic material, non-Islamic religious pamphlets for missionary activities, e-cigarettes, fireworks, ivory, chemical and organic fertilizers, laser pointers, radar jammers/other unauthorized communication devices, products and medications containing cannabidiol (CBD), endangered animal species, and any objects, sculptures, paintings, books or magazines which do not adhere to the religious and moral values of the UAE. Possession of any of these items can lead to detention and lengthy jail sentences.

Safety and Security

Terrorism: Terrorist groups and those inspired by such organizations are intent on attacking U.S. citizens abroad. Terrorists are increasingly using less sophisticated methods of attack – including knives, firearms, and vehicles – to more effectively target crowds. Frequently, their aim is unprotected or vulnerable targets, such as:

• High-profile public events (sporting contests, political rallies, demonstrations, holiday events, celebratory gatherings, etc.)
• Hotels, clubs, and restaurants frequented by tourists
• Places of worship
• Shopping malls and markets
• Public transportation systems (including subways, buses, trains, and scheduled commercial flights)

U.S. citizens in the United Arab Emirates should exercise a high level of security awareness. The possibility of terrorist attacks against U.S. citizens and interests in the Gulf and Arabian Peninsula remains a serious concern. The UAE’s normalization of relations with Israel in September 2020 increased the potential for attacks in the UAE, including by Iran-backed entities. Separately, rebel groups operating in Yemen have stated an intent to attack neighboring countries, including the UAE, using missiles and unmanned aerial systems (drones). Yemen-based Houthi rebels claimed responsibility for missile and drone attacks against the UAE on January 17 and 24, 2022, targeting populated areas and civilian infrastructure.  The January 17 attack resulted in multiple impact sites in Abu Dhabi and three fatalities. The Houthi rebels have publicly stated their intent to continue such attacks. In the event of a missile and/or drone strike, follow the guidance found here .

Both historical and current information suggest that the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS), al-Qaida, and affiliated organizations continue to plan attacks against Western targets; these attacks may employ a wide variety of tactics, including suicide operations, assassination, kidnapping, hijacking, and bombing.

For more information, see our Terrorism page.

Boating: The UAE and Iran have had a long-standing dispute concerning jurisdiction of Abu Musa, approximately 20 miles from Dubai. Fishing or sailing in these waters may result in seizure of vessels and detention of passengers and crew in Iran. Obtaining consular assistance in Iran for U.S. citizens is difficult and can only be done through the Swiss Embassy in Tehran , which acts as a Protecting Power, providing limited U.S. consular services.

Crime: Violent crimes and crimes against property are rare. U.S. citizens should take the same security precautions in the UAE that one would practice in the United States or any large city abroad.

Harassment and Assault: U.S. citizens, especially women, should take precautions against the possibility of verbal and physical harassment or sexual assault when walking alone, consuming alcohol, or riding in a taxi cab. Taxi passengers should avoid sitting in the front seat of a taxicab and should be sensitive that "small talk" can be misinterpreted as over-friendliness or even a form of propositioning by some taxi drivers. Taxis driven by women for the exclusive use of female passengers are available in some airports and by dispatch. Female travelers can identify these dedicated vehicles by their pink roofs.

Some victims of sexual assault have been prosecuted for violating laws against sexual relations outside of marriage. The law puts a high burden of proof on the victim to demonstrate that sex was not consensual. In cases where the victim has failed to demonstrate so, both parties have been prosecuted, and sometimes sentenced to jail time, followed by deportation.

International Financial Scams:  See the  Department of State  and the  FBI  pages for information.

Internet romance and financial scams are prevalent in the UAE. Scams are often initiated through Internet postings/profiles or by unsolicited emails and letters. Scammers almost always pose as U.S. citizens who have no one else to turn to for help. Common scams include:

• Romance/Online dating
• Money transfers
• Lucrative sales
• Gold purchase
• Inheritance notices
• Work permits/job offers
• Bank overpayments

Victims of Crime: U.S. citizen victims of sexual assault are encouraged to contact the U.S. Embassy for assistance. Report crimes to the local police at 999 and contact the U.S. Embassy at +971 2 414 2200. Remember that local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crime.

See our webpage on help for U.S. victims of crime overseas .

• Help you find appropriate medical care
• Assist you in reporting a crime to the police
• Contact relatives or friends with your written consent
• Provide general information regarding the victim’s role during the local investigation and following its conclusion
• Provide a list of local attorneys
• Provide our information on victim’s compensation programs in the U.S.
• Provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States and/or limited medical support in cases of destitution
• Help you find accommodation and arrange flights home
• Replace a stolen or lost passport

Domestic Violence:  U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence may contact the Embassy or Consulate General for assistance.

Tourism:  The tourism industry is generally regulated and rules with regard to best practices and safety inspections are regularly enforced. Hazardous areas/activities are identified with appropriate signage and professional staff is typically on hand in support of organized activities. In the event of an injury, appropriate medical treatment is widely available throughout the country. Outside of a major metropolitan center, it may take more time for first responders and medical professionals to stabilize a patient and provide life-saving assistance. U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance . 

Local Laws & Special Circumstances

Criminal Penalties: You are subject to local laws. If you violate local laws, even unknowingly, you may be expelled, arrested, or imprisoned. Individuals establishing a business or practicing a profession that requires additional permits or licensing should seek information from the competent local authorities, prior to practicing or operating a business.

As each emirate has its own independent judicial system, legal procedures and penalties vary throughout the country.

Furthermore, some laws are also prosecutable in the United States, regardless of local law. For examples, see our website on crimes against minors abroad and the Department of Justice website.

Arrest Notification:  UAE authorities do not routinely notify the U.S. Embassy or consulate of a U.S. citizen’s arrest.  If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to notify the U.S. Embassy or consulate immediately.  If you are not allowed to do so, ask a friend or family member to contact the U.S. Embassy or consulate. See our webpage for further information.

Alcohol:  Alcohol is sold only in very limited areas including certain restaurants and hotels. Public drunkenness and driving under the influence, regardless of one’s blood alcohol content level, are considered very serious offenses. Persons arrested on alcohol-related offenses are regularly detained for many days as they await a court hearing. Penalties may include hefty jail sentences, substantial fines and, for Muslims (even those holding U.S. citizenship), lashings. Note: The possession and consumption of alcohol is prohibited in the emirate of Sharjah.

Drugs: UAE law imposes the death sentence for convicted drug traffickers. Possession of even trace amounts of illegal drugs (including in the bloodstream) can result in lengthy prison sentences of up to 15 years. Bail generally is not granted to those accused of drug crimes.

Possession or consumption of marijuana in any form, including detections of trace amounts in the bloodstream, is illegal in the UAE, even if a doctor’s medical card is presented. Products containing cannabidiol (CBD) are illegal in the UAE. Possession or importation of CBD products, including those found in prescription and over the counter medications in the United States and other countries, are prosecuted in the same manner as marijuana possession. The UAE's anti-narcotics program also includes poppy seeds on its list of controlled substances. The importation and possession of poppy seeds in any and all forms, including as dried decorative plants, are strictly prohibited.

Persons may be charged and convicted even if the controlled substances were ingested outside of the UAE as long as traces are still present in the bloodstream upon arrival in the UAE. If suspected of being under the influence of drugs or alcohol, individuals may be required to submit to blood and/or urine tests and may be subject to prosecution.

Travelers with questions regarding the items on the list of controlled substances should contact the U.S. Embassy in Abu Dhabi or the U.S. Consulate General in Dubai .

Codes of Behavior and Dress: Public decency and morality laws throughout the UAE are much stricter than in the United States. Penalties for public displays of affection or immodesty may be imposed. Sexual relations outside marriage are illegal in the UAE and convicted individuals have been punished by lengthy jail sentences. Pregnancy outside of marriage can result in arrest and detention. Doctors may ask for proof of marriage during pre-natal visits, and those giving birth in the UAE must present a marriage certificate to receive medical care and register the child’s birth. Failure to do so has resulted in the arrests of both unmarried mothers and fathers, as well as deportation.

Individuals may be arrested, fined, and/or deported for committing any of the following acts: making rude gestures, swearing, touching another person without his/her permission, and making derogatory statements about the UAE, the royal families, the local governments or other people. Travelers should keep in mind the cultural differences among the many people who coexist in the UAE and should be cognizant that unwitting actions, including clothing choices, may invite unwanted attention.

Debt and Financial Crime:  Crimes of financial fraud, including passing bad checks and non-payment or late payment of bills (including hotel bills, hospital bills, traffic or parking fines, and late payment of credit cards, utility bills, etc.), are regarded seriously in the UAE and often result in imprisonment and/or fines. A personal check written as a guarantee for the payment of a personal or business debt may be submitted to a local bank for collection at any time for the full amount of the check. If the account holder does not have sufficient funds, he/she may be charged with passing a bad check. Bail generally is not available to non-residents of the UAE who are arrested for crimes involving fraud. Debtors can be held in prison until their debts are paid or until an agreement is reached between the parties. Passports may be seized by the UAE government to guarantee that debtors settle their cases. Financial cases may be further complicated by debtors being unable to work in the UAE without passports while still being held responsible for their debts.

Photography:  Taking photographs of UAE military facilities, sensitive civilian sites, airports, some beaches, or foreign diplomatic missions – including the U.S. Embassy or Consulate General – may result in arrest, detention, and/or prosecution by local authorities. Travelers should be aware of signs which indicate where photography is prohibited. Note that it is illegal to take photographs of other people without their consent. In addition, engaging in mapping activities, especially mapping that includes the use of GPS equipment, without coordination with UAE authorities, may have the same consequences. (This does not apply to use of publicly available online maps.)

Drone Operation: The flying of drones is prohibited in certain areas and may result in arrest and imprisonment. Individuals should not operate drones without prior approval from local authorities.

Social Media:  The UAE has strict laws regarding use of the internet and social media. Individuals have been arrested and criminally convicted for posting information on social media sites (such as Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, etc.) that local authorities determined was disturbing to the order of the UAE. Users of social media should be cautious about online posting of information that might be deemed to insult or challenge the local or national government. Individuals should avoid posting insults or derogatory information about governments, institutions, or individuals.

Charity and fundraising activities are closely regulated by the UAE government, and it is against the law to conduct any private fundraising activity online (including those conducted on popular fundraising websites for personal causes).

The UAE National Media Council has rules for conducting business as a social media influencer in the UAE. Influencers must apply for trade and e-media licenses in order to promote brands on social media in the UAE. 

Terrorist Organizations List: On November 15, 2014, the UAE government announced a list of 85 groups it considers to be terrorist organizations. Individuals who are associated with groups on the UAE list could be detained at UAE borders, have their assets frozen, and/or be prosecuted for membership in a terrorist organization.

Religious Proselytizing: While individuals are free to worship as they choose, and facilities are available for that purpose, religious proselytizing is not permitted in the UAE. Persons violating this law, even unknowingly, may be imprisoned or deported.

Employment in the UAE: Although it is common for a local sponsor to hold an employee's passport, it is illegal to do so under UAE law. Many contractual or labor disputes can be avoided by clearly establishing all terms and conditions of employment or sponsorship in the labor contract at the beginning of any employment. Should a dispute arise, the UAE Ministry of Labor has established a special department to review and arbitrate labor claims. If an employee leaves his/her job without properly canceling the employment visa, the employer can file charges that can lead to imprisonment, fines, and/or deportation. The U.S. Embassy and Consulate General do not intercede in employment disputes.

U.S. citizens have become involved in commercial or financial disputes that have prompted local firms or courts to take possession of the U.S. citizen's passport, effectively preventing the individual from leaving the UAE. In addition, local firms have been known to file criminal complaints, which may lead not only to travel restrictions but possible criminal penalties, including jail time. A list of local attorneys is available from the U.S. Embassy in Abu Dhabi and the U.S. Consulate General in Dubai.

Document Authentications: U.S. citizens intending to reside and work in the UAE are generally required by the UAE government to present authenticated personal documents for themselves and accompanying family members such as marriage and birth certificates, adoption and custody decrees, certificates of good behavior from police, and educational documents to include diplomas and certificates. The authentication of U.S. documents is done completely in the United States. For information, contact the State Department’s Office of Authentications . Determining the exact requirements with one’s prospective employer is strongly recommended before arrival in the UAE.

LGBTQI+ Travelers: The UAE government does not accept passports with the “X” gender marker. This applies to travel to, in, or through the UAE. Although the U.S. Embassy and U.S. Consulate General are not aware of any recent arrests or prosecutions for consensual, same-sex relations and cross-dressing, they remain illegal in the UAE. See our LGBTQI+ Travel Information page and section six of our Human Rights report for further details.

Travelers with Disabilities: While in the UAE, individuals with disabilities may find accessibility and accommodations somewhat different from what they find in the United States. The law prohibits discrimination against persons with disabilities in employment, education, air travel and other transportation, access to health care, or the provision of other state services, and the law is enforced. The UAE government refers to persons with disabilities as “people of determination.” Social acceptance of persons with disabilities in public is as prevalent as in the United States. The most common types of accessibility may include accessible facilities, information, and communication/access to services/ease of movement or access.

The UAE has several modern cities with good services and accessibility of lodging, public transportation, sidewalks, and buildings. Outside of newly constructed areas, accessibility is not comparable to the United States and navigating with a visual impairment or using a wheelchair is difficult due to sidewalks in disrepair or without curb cuts, poor road crossings, and inaccessible buildings and public transport. Public transportation in Dubai is wheelchair accessible. However, the buses that connect Dubai with the other emirates in the UAE are not wheelchair accessible. See the UAE government information on accessible transport and parking facilities. See our  Traveling with Disabilities  page.

Women Travelers: See our travel tips for Women Travelers .

Students: See our Students Abroad page and FBI travel tips.

Adequate health facilities are available, but health care in rural areas may be below U.S. standards. While most common conditions can be appropriately treated in the UAE, complex medical conditions may be better treated in the United States. Providers may recommend a large number of procedures and tests, some of which may be unnecessary.

• Hospitals usually require advance payment or proof of adequate insurance before admitting a patient, except in emergencies.
• Travelers should make efforts to obtain complete information on billing, pricing, and proposed medical procedures before agreeing to any medical care.
• Patients bear all costs for transfer to or between hospitals.

For emergency services in the UAE, dial  999 .

Ambulance services are widely available.

We do not pay medical bills.  Be aware that U.S. Medicare does not apply overseas. Most hospitals and doctors overseas do not accept U.S. health insurance.

Medical Insurance:  Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage overseas. Most care providers overseas only accept cash payments. You may be denied care, even in an emergency, if you are unable to provide a cash deposit up-front. See  our webpage  for more information on insurance overseas. Visit the  U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention  for more information on type of insurance you should consider before you travel overseas.

We strongly recommend  supplemental insurance  to cover medical evacuation.

Medication:  Many prescription and over-the-counter medications are prohibited in the UAE, and possession of such substances without the appropriate approval is generally treated the same as possession of illegal narcotics. All tourists and residents of the UAE should seek prior approval, via an online form, before carrying certain types of medications, narcotics, or chemical substances to or through the UAE. The service can be accessed directly on the Ministry of Health and Prevention’s  website . Travelers can also find updated lists of prohibited medications requiring prior approval on the same website.

Travelers with prescription medication must have their prescriptions issued by licensed doctors and authenticated by the appropriate authorities. In order for a U.S. prescription to be fully authenticated, it must be authenticated by the Secretary of State of the U.S. state in which the prescribing doctor is licensed, then by the U.S. Department of State, and finally by the UAE Embassy in Washington, DC.  Additional information on authentication of documents  can be found on the State Department’s website and on the  Embassy and Consulate General website . Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription.

Further queries may be directed to the  UAE Ministry of Health’s Drug Control Department  in Abu Dhabi.

Vaccinations:  Be up-to-date on all  vaccinations  recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

For further health information, go to:

• World Health Organization
• U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention  (CDC)

Air Quality:  Visit  AirNow Department of State  for information on air quality at U.S. Embassies and Consulates.

• Air pollution is a significant problem in UAE. Consider the impact seasonal smog and heavy particulate pollution may have on you, and consult your doctor before traveling if necessary.
• People at the greatest risk from particle pollution exposure include:
• Infants, children, and teens
• People over 65 years of age
• People with lung disease such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), which includes chronic bronchitis and emphysema;
• People with heart disease or diabetes
• People who work or are active outdoors

The U.S. Embassy and Consulate General maintain a  list of doctors and hospitals . We do not endorse or recommend any specific medical provider or clinic.

Travel and Transportation

Road Conditions and Safety: Traffic accidents are a leading cause of death in the UAE. Drivers often drive at high speeds. Unsafe driving practices are common, especially on inter-city highways. On highways, unmarked speed bumps and drifting sand create additional hazards. Pedestrians should also use great care on the roads of the UAE – over 25 percent of road fatalities are pedestrians.

The police emergency number and ambulance number is 999 . Response time by emergency services is adequate; however, medical personnel emphasize transport of the injured to the hospital rather than treatment on site.

Traffic Laws: Country-wide traffic laws impose stringent penalties for certain violations, particularly driving under the influence of alcohol. In the UAE, there is zero tolerance for driving after consuming alcohol.

Persons involved in an accident in which another party is injured automatically go to jail until the injured person is released from the hospital. Should a person die in a traffic accident, the driver of the other vehicle is liable for payment of compensation for the death (known as "dhiyya"), usually the equivalent of 55,000 U.S. dollars. Even relatively minor accidents may result in lengthy proceedings, during which both drivers may be prohibited from leaving the country.

In order to drive, UAE residents must obtain a UAE driver's license. Foreign driver’s licenses are not recognized for residents of the UAE; however, U.S. citizen visitors who are not UAE residents can drive using a valid driver’s license issued by his or her state. An international driver’s license may be required in some emirates. The UAE recognizes driver's licenses issued by other Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) states only if the bearer is driving a vehicle registered to the same GCC state. Under no circumstances should anyone drive without a valid license.

If you are in an accident, UAE law mandates that you remain at the scene until authorities arrive. The use of front seat belts is mandatory in the UAE. Driving is on the right side of the road. Speed limits are posted. Making a right turn on a red light is not permitted unless there is a special lane to do so with a yield sign. Parking is not allowed where the curb is painted black and yellow. Digital cameras are used extensively on Emirati roads for registering traffic violations, including speeding. Fines can be substantial and must be paid prior to departure from the UAE. Individuals with outstanding traffic fines may be detained at airport immigration.

Please see our Road Safety page for more information .

Aviation Safety Oversight: The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has assessed the Government of the United Arab Emirates’ Civil Aviation Authority as being in compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards for oversight of the United Arab Emirates’ air carrier operations. Further information may be found on the FAA’s safety assessment page.

Maritime Travel: Mariners planning travel to the UAE should also check for U.S. maritime advisories and alerts . Information may also be posted to the U.S. Coast Guard Homeport and the NGA Broadcast Warnings website.

For additional travel information

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Call us in Washington, D.C. at 1-888-407-4747 (toll-free in the United States and Canada) or 1-202-501-4444 (from all other countries) from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
• See the  State Department’s travel website  for the  Worldwide Caution  and  Travel Advisories .
• Follow us on  Twitter  and  Facebook .
• See  traveling safely abroad  for useful travel tips.

United Arab Emirates was cited in the State Department’s 2023 Annual Report to Congress on International Child Abduction for demonstrating a pattern of non-compliance with respect to international parental child abduction. Review information about International Parental Child Abduction in  United Arab Emirates . For additional IPCA-related information, please see the  International Child Abduction Prevention and Return Act ( ICAPRA )  report.

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When is Eid al-Fitr 2024 and how is it celebrated?

The three-day festival celebrates the completion of the fasting month of Ramadan by Muslims across the world.

As a new moon was not sighted on Monday evening after Maghrib prayers, Muslims in Saudi Arabia and neighbouring countries will fast one more day, completing 30 days of Ramadan. The first day of Eid will then be celebrated on Wednesday, April 10.

The first day of Eid al-Fitr is determined by the sighting of the crescent moon marking the start of the month of Shawwal, the 10th month of the Islamic (Hijri) calendar.

Keep reading

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Lunar months last between 29 and 30 days so Muslims usually have to wait until the night before Eid to verify its date.

Other countries follow independent sightings.

When the sighting has been verified, Eid is declared on television, radio stations and at mosques.

How do Muslims celebrate Eid?

Traditionally, Eid is celebrated for three days as an official holiday in Muslim-majority countries. However, the number of holiday days varies by country.

Muslims begin Eid day celebrations by partaking in a prayer service that takes place shortly after dawn, followed by a short sermon.

On their way to the prayer, which is traditionally held in an open area, Muslims recite takbeerat, praising God by saying “Allahu Akbar”, meaning “God is great”.

It is customary to eat something sweet before the prayer, such as date -filled biscuits known as maamoul in the Middle East. This particular festival is known as the “sweet” Eid – and the distribution of sweets is common across the Muslim world.

Muslims usually spend the day visiting relatives and neighbours and accepting sweets as they move around from house to house.

Each country has traditional desserts and sweets that are prepared before Eid or on the morning of the first day.

Children, dressed in new clothes, are offered gifts and money to celebrate the joyous occasion.

Girls and women in many countries decorate their hands with henna. The celebration for Eid begins the night before as women gather in neighbourhoods and large family gatherings for the application of henna.

In some countries, families visit graveyards to offer their respects to departed family members right after the morning prayers.

It is common for Muslim-majority countries to decorate their cities with lights and hold festivities to commemorate the end of the fasting month.

Eid amid the onslaught in Gaza

For some 2.3 million Palestinians in Gaza this Eid, this will be the first Muslim religious holiday after more than 33,000 people have been killed in Israeli attacks. With little food aid, and very limited water, Gaza’s Eid al-Fitr will be mired in destruction amid the continuing attacks.

What are common Eid greetings?

The most popular greeting is “Eid Mubarak” (Blessed Eid) or “Eid sa’id” (Happy Eid). Eid greetings also vary depending on the country and language.

The video below shows how people say Eid Mubarak in different languages around the world.