Middle East · Destination guide
United Arab Emirates
Capital: Abu Dhabi (Dubai is the largest city)
🛂Visa requirements
💳Money & payments
Cards: Cards accepted everywhere in Dubai and Abu Dhabi. Some traditional souks and street food vendors prefer cash.
ATMs: Emirates NBD, ADCB, and FAB ATMs are reliable and widely available.
Tipping
10–15% in restaurants is appreciated (service charge rarely included). Taxi drivers: round up. Hotel staff: AED 5–20 for services.
💬Language
Arabic
English is the working language of Dubai and Abu Dhabi. All signage, menus, and most business is conducted in English. No language barrier in practice.
Useful phrases
- ·Shukran — Thank you
- ·As-salamu alaykum — Peace be upon you (respectful greeting)
- ·Marhaba — Hello (informal)
🔌Electricity & plugs
UK plugs work directly without an adapter.
🤝Local customs & etiquette
- 1.Dress conservatively in public — covering shoulders and knees outside of beach/resort areas. Inside malls and beaches, Western dress is fine.
- 2.Public displays of affection are illegal and can result in arrest — no kissing or embracing in public.
- 3.Ramadan: eating, drinking, and smoking in public during daylight hours is prohibited for all (not just Muslims). Hotels and malls have designated areas.
- 4.Alcohol is available in licensed venues (hotels, restaurants, clubs) but not in supermarkets. Public intoxication is illegal.
- 5.Photography: avoid photographing government buildings, military installations, and individuals without permission.
📶SIM cards & connectivity
Local SIM: du and Etisalat (e&) are the two operators. VoIP services (WhatsApp calls, FaceTime) are restricted — use du or Etisalat SIM for calls. SIMs at airport.
WiFi: Excellent in malls, hotels, and public spaces. Dubai has city-wide public WiFi in many areas.
🛡️Safety
Very safe. UAE has extremely low crime rates. Strict laws are consistently enforced — respect local rules and you will have no issues.
💉Health
No vaccinations required for most visitors. Tap water is technically safe but most residents drink bottled water. Excellent medical facilities.
🚨Emergency numbers
police
999
ambulance
998
fire
997
🚗Driving
🚆 Getting to the circuit in United Arab Emirates
Train, shuttle, and race day transport guide
Explore United Arab Emirates