1:39 am
+4h from you
Weather in United Arab Emirates
United Arab Emirates
23°
Clear sky
Sun
21
23
Mon
20
21
Tue
20
21
Wed
21
24
Thu
21
23
SPF level in United Arab Emirates
Recommended: SPF 50+
Spring
SPF 50
Summer
SPF 50+
Autumn
SPF 50
Winter
SPF 30
Suncream is often more expensive in tourist zones. Pack your preferred SPF from the UK, especially for beach holidays. Always carry travel-size (100ml max) for hand luggage.
Transportation in United Arab Emirates
Languages in United Arab Emirates
Tipping in United Arab Emirates
Tipping is not mandatory in the UAE, but it's a common practice to show appreciation for good service.
Restaurant
10-15% of the bill if service charge is not included. Check the bill first, as some establishments automatically add a service charge.
Bar/Café
10-15% is appreciated for good service.
Taxi
Rounding up the fare or tipping 10% is appreciated.
Hotel Porter
5-10 AED per bag.
Hotel Housekeeper
10-20 AED per day, left at the end of your stay.
Tour Guide
50-100 AED per person, depending on the length and quality of the tour.
Safety & security in United Arab Emirates
Tips for British travellers
United Arab Emirates is tourist-friendly but has some key cultural and legal rules:
Do not drink or be under the influence of alcohol in a public place anywhere in the UAE.
Dress modestly in public areas, covering shoulders and knees for women, and only wear swimming attire on beaches or at pools.
Do not swear, make rude gestures, or show affection like kissing in public, as these acts are illegal.
Only cross roads using designated pedestrian crossings, as crossing elsewhere is illegal and can result in a fine or imprisonment.
Do not accept drinks from strangers or leave your drink unattended, as drink spiking can lead to assault or robbery.
Bonus tips:
During Ramadan, do not eat, drink, smoke, or chew gum in public during the daytime to avoid causing offence.
Be aware that posting material online critical of the UAE government, companies, or individuals, or that is culturally insensitive, is illegal.
Driving in United Arab Emirates
Side of road
right
Motorway speed limit
120 km/h
Urban speed limit
60-80 km/h
Alcohol limit
0.0%
Remember: United Arab Emirates drives on the right. Take extra care at junctions if you normally drive on the left.
Emergency numbers
Universal emergency
999
Ambulance
998
Fire
997
Save 999 in your phone before travelling.
Electrical in United Arab Emirates
Voltage
230V / 50 Hz
Plug types
Type C, Type D, Type G
UK adapter needed?
No
Cards & payments
High, especially in urban areas and tourist locations. Smaller establishments may prefer cash.
Visa
High
Mastercard
High
American Express
Medium
Lost card? Call Visa: +1-303-967-1096
ATMs in United Arab Emirates
High
Local name
ATM
Chip & PIN required?
Yes
ATMs are widely available in cities and tourist areas. Most accept international cards. Ensure your card is chip and PIN enabled.
Mobile & roaming
Since Brexit, EU roaming agreements no longer apply to UK mobile customers. Check with your mobile provider for roaming charges in the UAE, as they can be high. Consider purchasing a local SIM card for more affordable data rates.
Local SIM data package
5 GB for 75 AED (~£16)
Network coverage
4G, 5G
Local carriers
Etisalat, du
WiFi & internet
Widely available in hotels, cafes, restaurants, and shopping malls.
Average speed
50 Mbps
Wi-Fi is readily accessible in the UAE, particularly in tourist areas. Many establishments offer free Wi-Fi to customers. Mobile data is also fast and reliable.
Health & vaccinations
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) does not have a reciprocal healthcare agreement with the UK, so make sure you have comprehensive travel insurance that covers medical expenses, including repatriation. Check the policy's exclusions, and ensure it covers all planned activities. You will be expected to pay for any medical treatment you receive. Ensure that your travel insurance either covers the costs of treatment or that you have access to sufficient funds to cover these.
Vaccinations required?
No
Recommended
Hepatitis A
It's recommended to check with your GP or a travel clinic for the most up-to-date health advice before travelling to the UAE. Ensure you are up to date on routine vaccinations. Drink only bottled water and be cautious about ice in drinks. Medical facilities are generally good in major cities.
Calling United Arab Emirates
Country code
+971
To call the UAE from the UK, dial 00 971 followed by the local number.
To call the British Embassy in Abu Dhabi, you would dial 00 971 2 610 1100.
The country code for the UAE is 971. When calling from outside the UAE, you need to dial your country's exit code, followed by 971, and then the local number.
UK Embassy in United Arab Emirates
British Embassy Abu Dhabi
British Embassy, Al Hisn Area, Abu Dhabi
Airports in United Arab Emirates
Frequently asked questions about United Arab Emirates
While we strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, AtoBeach cannot be held responsible for any inaccuracies. We recommend verifying details with official sources before travelling.