United Arab Emirates Travel Guide
Top Places to Visit
- Dubai – Burj Khalifa, Dubai Mall, Palm Jumeirah, Dubai Marina
- Abu Dhabi – Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, Louvre, Corniche
- Sharjah – Art districts, museums, heritage walk
- Al Ain – Oasis, Jebel Hafeet, historical forts
- Fujairah & Ras Al Khaimah – Mountains, beaches, wadis
- Liwa Desert – Expansive dunes and cultural experience
Best Hotels to Stay
Language & Culture
Arabic is the official language, with English widely spoken. Emirati culture blends Bedouin heritage with modern cosmopolitanism. Expect warm hospitality, traditional dress, and respect for tribal customs.Transportation, Currency & Food
- Transportation: Metro & buses (Dubai/Abu Dhabi), taxis, ride‑hailing apps, car rental
- Currency: UAE Dirham (AED)
- Food: Shawarma, machboos, luqaimat, falafel, fresh seafood, Arabic coffee & mint tea
Best Season & Entry Points
| Season | Weather | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| November – March | Mild & pleasant | Perfect for outdoor and desert activities |
| April – October | Hot (up to 45°C) | Best to stay indoors or by the pool |
Entry via Dubai International (DXB), Abu Dhabi International (AUH), Sharjah (SHJ)
Estimated Budget (for Two Travelers)
| Category | Estimated Cost (USD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Flights | $700 – $1300 | Round trip from US/Europe |
| Accommodation | $800 – $2000 | 4–5 star hotels |
| Dining | $300 – $600 | Mix of street food and fine dining |
| Transport | $150 – $300 | Metro, taxi, car rental |
| Activities | $300 – $800 | Desert safari, attractions, tours |
Packing List Suggestions
- Passport and UAE visa (onsite or e‑Visa for most)
- Light, modest clothing; swimwear for beaches and pools
- Sunscreen, sunglasses, hat
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Travel adapter (Type G)
20 Basic Arabic Phrases
| Arabic | English |
|---|---|
| Marhaba | Hello |
| Shukran | Thank you |
| Min fadlak / Min fadlik | Please (m/f) |
| Naam / La | Yes / No |
| Kam ath-thaman? | How much is it? |
| Ayna al-hammam? | Where is the bathroom? |
| La afham | I don’t understand |
| Hal tatakallam inglizi? | Do you speak English? |
| Ma’a as-salama | Goodbye |
| Sabaah al-khayr | Good morning |
| Masa’ al-khayr | Good evening |
| Ismi… | My name is… |
| Ana najib… | I am a tourist… |
| Mumkin sora? | Can I take a photo? |
| Afwan | Excuse me / You’re welcome |
| La mushkila | No problem |
| Ayna al-funduq? | Where is the hotel? |
| Hayaa? | Cafe? |
| Hal hunaq belt?’, | Is there a metro here? |
| Souq | Market |
Health & Safety
- UAE is extremely safe; low crime rate
- Tap water is safe; bottled widely available
- Emergency: 999 (police), 998 (ambulance)
- Respect local norms; public behaviour guidelines apply
- Travel insurance recommended
Festivals & Holidays
- UAE National Day – December 2–3
- Eid al-Fitr & Eid al-Adha
- Dubai Shopping Festival – January–February
- Dubai Food Festival – March–April
- Abu Dhabi Grand Prix – November
