Welcome to United Arab Emirates (UAE) 😊

Quick Facts About United Arab Emirates (UAE)

Money and Finances

The currency used in the UAE is the United Arab Emirates Dirham (AED). Coins are available in denominations of 25 and 50 fils, and notes come in 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200, 500, and 1000 AED.

ATM Network

ATMs are widely available in the UAE, especially in cities and tourist areas. Most ATMs accept international cards, but it's always best to check with your bank or card provider before traveling to ensure compatibility.

Credit Cards

Credit cards are widely accepted in the UAE, especially in hotels, restaurants, and shops. Visa and Mastercard are the most widely accepted, but AMEX may not be accepted everywhere. It's always best to carry cash as well, as some smaller businesses may not accept cards.

Internet and Phones

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has a very high average internet speed, with an average download speed of 121 Mbps and an average upload speed of 78 Mbps. However, there is government interference in internet use with certain websites and services being blocked.

Phone Plans and SIM Cards

The telco companies in the UAE are Etisalat and du, with both offering a range of mobile phone plans. The average cost of a mobile phone plan is around AED 200 per month. SIM compatibility can be an issue for travelers with some operators not recognizing foreign SIMs.

Dialling to United Arab Emirates (UAE)

To call the UAE from another country, dial +971 followed by the area code and phone number. The area codes used for dialling within the country are 2 for Abu Dhabi, 4 for Dubai, and so on.

Transport Around United Arab Emirates (UAE)

Air Travel

The UAE has several major airports, including Dubai International Airport, Abu Dhabi International Airport, and Sharjah International Airport. These airports serve as major hubs for both domestic and international flights.

Train Travel

The UAE currently does not have an inter-city train network, but plans are in place to build a high-speed railway between Dubai and Abu Dhabi.

Metro / Local Trains

The UAE has a metro system in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, with plans to expand to other cities in the future. The Dubai Metro consists of two lines with 49 stations, while the Abu Dhabi Metro is currently under construction.

Buses

There are several bus networks in the UAE, including Dubai's RTA buses and Abu Dhabi's DARB buses. Bus tickets are relatively cheap, with prices ranging from 2-10 AED depending on the distance traveled. Journey times can vary depending on traffic.

Rideshare

Uber and Careem are two popular rideshare companies in the UAE. Average travel prices depend on the time of day and distance traveled, but are generally competitive with taxi prices.

Driving by Car

Driving in the UAE is relatively easy, with well-maintained roads and clear signage. The speed limit on highways is typically 120 km/h, while city roads are usually limited to 60-80 km/h. The UAE uses right-hand drive.

Local Customs

In the United Arab Emirates, tipping is generally expected in service industries like restaurants, often around 10-15% of the total bill. Locals typically greet each other with a handshake, and it is common to address someone using their title (such as Sheikh or Doctor) followed by their first name. When speaking with strangers, it is important to be respectful and avoid any topics that may be considered taboo. Men and women typically address each other using formal titles or with first names followed by the honorific 'Mr.' or 'Ms.'

Health and Diseases

Medical System

The healthcare system in the UAE is considered to be of high quality, with both public and private facilities available. However, hospitals and clinics in the UAE can be expensive. The cost of a basic visit to a doctor can range from $50 to $120.

COVID Situation

The UAE took decisive and proactive measures to combat the COVID-19 pandemic, including strict lockdowns, mass testing, and contact tracing. As of October 2021, the daily new cases of COVID-19 in the UAE have been decreasing and the vaccination rate is high.

Common Health Risks

Some common health risks in the UAE include heat exhaustion and dehydration due to the hot climate, as well as food and water-borne diseases such as hepatitis A and typhoid. Additionally, dengue fever and malaria are present in some areas during certain times of the year, so travelers should take necessary precautions.

Laws and Regulations

Alcohol Consumption

The consumption of alcohol is legal in licensed venues such as hotels and restaurants in United Arab Emirates (UAE), but public intoxication is considered a crime. Non-Muslim residents can obtain a license to purchase alcohol for personal consumption at home, while Muslims are strictly prohibited from consuming alcohol.

Recreational Drugs

The use, possession, and trafficking of any illegal drugs are strictly prohibited in United Arab Emirates (UAE), and offenders can face severe punishment, including lengthy prison sentences and even the death penalty in certain cases.

Pre-Marital Relationships

Engaging in pre-marital relationships is illegal in United Arab Emirates (UAE), and offenders can face severe punishment, including imprisonment and deportation for non-citizens. It is also illegal to live together as an unmarried couple in the UAE.

LGBTQ and Same-Sex

Homosexuality and same-sex relationships are illegal in United Arab Emirates (UAE), and offenders can face imprisonment, fines, and even the death penalty in certain cases. LGBTQ individuals are advised to exercise caution and avoid public displays of affection or any behavior that may be interpreted as homosexual.

Firearms / Guns

The use and possession of firearms is heavily regulated in United Arab Emirates (UAE), and a special license is required to purchase or possess a gun. Strict penalties are enforced for the illegal use or possession of firearms, and offenders can face imprisonment and fines.