As one of the most popular travel destinations in the world, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) offers a diverse range of experiences for travellers. Whether you’re exploring the bustling city of Dubai, the pearly white beaches in Abu Dhabi, or the natural beauty of Ras Al Khaimah, planning your trip well in advance is crucial for a fulfilling vacation.
Before you rush and pack your bags, research your destination and prepare some things to make your trip an unforgettable experience. This article explores five tips that will help you get started right:
1. Get your travel documents ready
Before you plan on travelling to the UAE, make sure you have your passport, visa, and other travel requirements.
Most visas for the UAE are valid for 60 days from the date they are issued. The only exceptions are the 96-hour and 48-hour visas, which are good for 30 days only.
Depending on your nationality, you may also need to get pre-arranged visas which allow entry for a specified duration. Remember to check the specific requirements based on your nationality and the purpose of your visit to the UAE.
For a smooth experience, submit your travel application at least two months in advance. With this done and out of the way, you have more time to focus on making other arrangements for your trip.
2. Set a budget
Dubai is a wealthy city, so a long stay there can be a bit pricey. Set a budget for your travels to determine how much you’re willing to spend on activities, food, transportation and accommodation. You can also research Dubai prices online to get a better sense of how much money you need.
Of course, you can always go to less expensive places in the UAE, like Sharjah. Known for its rich cultural heritage, the emirate is an excellent choice for travellers seeking a more affordable experience. Some of the places you can explore here include:
- The Sharjah Art Museum
- Buhaira Corniche
- Central Market (Blue Souk)
Exchange some of your cash for dirhams.
Since the UAE’s currency is the dirham, ensure you have enough of it in your wallet throughout your stay. Paying in cash is still the primary method of doing business here, so having a substantial amount of cash set aside is not a bad idea when planning a trip to this country.
If you need more cash, malls in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and other places have numerous exchange counters that offer better rates than airports.
3. Book in advance
Book your flights and accommodations in advance to save money. Use an online hotel booking service for more convenience. This can make your trip much more enjoyable since you don’t have to worry about finding lodging upon arrival.
If you already have a destination and activity in mind, research the best prices and amenities in the area ahead of your trip. For example, if you’re headed to Abu Dhabi to visit the beach, you can grab some deals for the best hotels to stay at Saadiyat Island for your trip online.
Travel arrangements for the UAE are actually cheaper during the hotter months of May until September. If you decide to schedule your trip during these months, consider creating an itinerary that includes air-conditioned indoor destinations like Warner Bros. World on Yas Island, Abu Dhabi.
If you can’t stand the heat, it’s best to avoid going to the country in these summer months altogether. Although many places are air-conditioned, it can be overwhelming for a traveller who is not used to the temperature. Instead, look for deals between November and March for a more comfortable visit.
4. Reserve a private tour
Consider booking a tour with a travel agent to make your trip easy. If you’d rather explore the UAE on your own, there are travel packages that offer more free time.
But if you’re confident you won’t get lost, a guide may no longer be necessary. After all, getting around is pretty straightforward since there is adequate transportation. And since most people in the UAE speak English, you can always ask for directions when necessary.
Most private tours only include an itinerary inside specific cities. So, if you plan to reserve a tour, review the details of your tour package before paying for it.
5. Learn the best ways to respect Dubai’s culture
When visiting a foreign country for the first time, you should always make a point to understand the local customs and traditions well. The same goes for the UAE. Here are some of the things you need to remember when planning a trip to this Middle Eastern nation:
Mind the way you dress.
Dress modestly when you are out in public in the UAE. Shorts, sundresses and a T-shirt are standard and acceptable outfits for travellers. Keep the following in mind:
- Keep your chest, stomach and shoulders covered in public.
- While you can wear a bikini on private beaches and pools, it’s still best to have a beach dress cover-up handy for walking around the resort.
- Cover up your knees when visiting formal establishments.
- Wear long pants, dresses and closed-toed shoes when going out to eat.
- Pack longer clothing when going to an indoor location with full-blast air-conditioning.
- If you plan to visit a mosque, cover up by wearing loose, long-sleeved clothing and a headscarf for women.
Avoid public displays of affection (PDA).
PDAs are normally frowned upon in the UAE and may cause legal trouble. While light contact (such as holding hands) can be overlooked, you should still play it safe and wait until you and your partner are in private spaces. Avoid kissing in public places such as hotels, beaches, nightclubs and cabs.
Stay indoors if you want alcohol.
Alcoholic drinks are only sold by establishments such as bars, hotels, and restaurants with a proper licence in some areas. Avoid public drinking and displays of drunkenness. The limit on alcohol makes it expensive, so if you must drink, make sure to include it in your budget.
The Takeaway
The secret to a fulfilling trip to the UAE lies in meticulous planning, including securing travel documents, budgeting, booking in advance, considering tours, and respecting local customs. Embrace the diverse landscapes and cultures of the Emirates for an unforgettable experience.