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United Arab Emirates

Standard Coverage

West Asia • ARE

Last updated: May 8, 2026

Travel Information
AI-Generated

The United Arab Emirates is a dazzling destination that seamlessly blends futuristic skylines with rich Arabian traditions. Visitors can enjoy world-class shopping, luxury beach resorts, and adventurous desert excursions across its seven emirates.

Visa Requirements

Visa-Free for Many Nationalities
Visa on Arrival

Citizens of many Western countries receive a 30 or 90-day visa-free entry or visa-on-arrival upon landing at UAE airports.

Typically Required Documents

  • Passport valid for at least six months
  • Return or onward flight ticket
  • Proof of accommodation
  • Travel insurance

Popular Attractions

1

Burj Khalifa: The world's tallest building offers breathtaking panoramic views of Dubai from its observation decks.

2

Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque: A stunning architectural masterpiece in Abu Dhabi featuring intricate marble work and massive chandeliers.

3

The Dubai Mall: One of the largest shopping centers globally, housing an impressive aquarium and an indoor theme park.

4

Louvre Abu Dhabi: An iconic art museum on Saadiyat Island showcasing global artifacts under a magnificent floating dome structure.

5

Desert Safari: Experience dune bashing, camel rides, and traditional dinner camps in the vast golden sands outside the major cities.

Local Customs & Etiquette

Dress modestly in public areas, covering shoulders and knees to show respect for local Islamic culture.

Always ask for permission before taking photographs of local people, especially women, or government buildings.

Public displays of affection are considered offensive and should be avoided in all public spaces.

During the holy month of Ramadan, avoid eating, drinking, or smoking in public during daylight hours.

Use your right hand for eating, shaking hands, or passing items, as the left hand is traditionally considered unclean.

Show respect during prayer times by avoiding loud music or disruptive behavior near mosques.

Safety Tips

The UAE is generally very safe, but remain aware of your surroundings in crowded tourist areas to prevent petty theft.

Stay hydrated and avoid strenuous outdoor activities during the peak afternoon heat, especially in summer months.

Only consume alcohol in licensed venues like hotels, bars, and restaurants, as public intoxication is strictly prohibited.

Strict laws apply to drug offenses, which carry severe penalties including long-term imprisonment.

Follow local traffic laws strictly, as cameras are widespread and fines for speeding or reckless driving are high.

Carry a digital or physical copy of your passport and visa at all times for identification purposes.

AI-generated content. Visa requirements vary by nationality — verify with the official embassy before travel.

Entry Requirements

COVID-19

Source: CDC

Required

All eligible travelers should be up to date with their COVID-19 vaccines.

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Hepatitis B

Source: CDC

Required

Recommended for unvaccinated travelers younger than 60 years old traveling to the United Arab Emirates. Unvaccinated travelers 60 years and older may get vaccinated before traveling to the United Arab Emirates.

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Hepatitis A

Source: CDC

Required

Recommended for unvaccinated travelers one year old or older going to the United Arab Emirates. Infants 6 to 11 months old should also be vaccinated against Hepatitis A. The dose does not count toward the routine 2-dose series.

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Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR)

Source: CDC

Required

All international travelers should be fully vaccinated against measles with the MMR vaccine, including an early dose for infants 6–11 months, according to CDC’s measles vaccination recommendations for international travel.

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Yellow fever

Source: Canada_Travel

Required

Some countries require proof of yellow fever vaccination for entry. Consult the embassy or consulate of your destination country in Canada for up-to-date information on its entry and exit requirements before you travel abroad. In Canada, you can only be vaccinated at designated yellow fever vaccination centres.

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None

Source: UK_FCDO

Required

Travelers should check the latest vaccine recommendations for the United Arab Emirates (UAE) at least 8 weeks before their trip. Information on where to get vaccines and potential costs can be found on the NHS travel vaccinations page.

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none

Source: ECDC

Not Required

No mandatory vaccinations are required for entry into the United Arab Emirates.

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Recommended Vaccines & Precautions

Core Vaccines

COVID-19

Source: CDC

All ages

Before travel

Ensure you are up to date with your COVID-19 vaccinations.

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Monkeypox

Source: CDC

All ages

Before travel

Consider vaccination if you anticipate activities with increased risk of exposure to monkeypox.

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Hepatitis B

Source: CDC

All ages

Before travel

Vaccination recommended for unvaccinated travelers younger than 60 years old.

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Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR)

Source: CDC

All ages

Before travel

Ensure full vaccination against measles with the MMR vaccine, including an early dose for infants 6–11 months.

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Hepatitis A

Source: CDC

All ages

Before travel

Vaccination recommended for unvaccinated travelers one year old or older.

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Measles vaccination

Source: Canada_Travel

All ages

Before travelling, ensure that you and your family are up to date on routine vaccinations, including for measles.

Measles cases are increasing worldwide. Ensure vaccinations are current and recognize symptoms.

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Medication Approval

Source: UK_FCDO

All ages

If you plan to bring prescribed or over-the-counter medicines to the UAE, you must obtain approval in advance from the UAE Ministry of Health. Applications are processed within 5 working days.

Some UK prescribed and over-the-counter medicines are considered controlled substances in the UAE. Apply online to bring medication to the UAE.

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Travel Insurance

Source: UK_FCDO

All ages

Before traveling to the UAE, ensure you have appropriate travel insurance for local treatment or unexpected medical evacuation. This is particularly important if you have a health condition or are pregnant.

Healthcare facilities in the UAE are similar to those in the UK, but you may be stopped from using them without travel insurance or without the means to pay medical fees. You may be prevented from leaving the UAE if you are unable to pay your medical bill.

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Legionnaires' disease awareness

Source: ECDC

All ages

Before and during travel to Dubai

Be aware of the increased risk of Legionnaires' disease associated with travel to Dubai since October 2016. Ensure accommodations have well-maintained water systems and seek medical attention if experiencing respiratory symptoms during or after travel.

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Itinerary-Specific

Food and water safety precautions

Source: CDC

All ages

Important to avoid illness during travel.

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Official Sources
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