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United States Travel Restrictions

Traveller's COVID-19 vaccination status

Travelling from the United Arab Emirates to the United States

Open for vaccinated visitors

COVID-19 testing

Not required

Not required for vaccinated visitors

Restaurants

Not required on public transportation.

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Can I travel to the United States from the United Arab Emirates?

Most visitors from the United Arab Emirates, regardless of vaccination status, can enter the United States.

Can I travel to the United States if I am vaccinated?

Fully vaccinated visitors from the United Arab Emirates can enter the United States without restrictions.

Can I travel to the United States without being vaccinated?

Unvaccinated visitors from the United Arab Emirates can enter the United States without restrictions.

Do I need a COVID test to enter the United States?

Visitors from the United Arab Emirates are not required to present a negative COVID-19 PCR test or antigen result upon entering the United States.

Can I travel to the United States without quarantine?

Travellers from the United Arab Emirates are not required to quarantine.

Do I need to wear a mask in the United States?

Mask usage in the United States is not required on public transportation.

Are the restaurants and bars open in the United States?

Restaurants in the United States are open. Bars in the United States are .

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United Arab Emirates Traveler View

Travel health notices, vaccines and medicines, non-vaccine-preventable diseases, stay healthy and safe.

• Packing List

After Your Trip

Be aware of current health issues in the United Arab Emirates. Learn how to protect yourself.

Level 1 Practice Usual Precautions

• Updated   Global Measles March 22, 2024 Many international destinations are reporting increased numbers of cases of measles. Destination List: Afghanistan, Angola, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Benin, Burkina Faso, Burundi, Cameroon, Central African Republic, Chad, Côte d'Ivoire (Ivory Coast), Democratic Republic of the Congo, Djibouti, Equatorial Guinea, Ethiopia, Gabon, Ghana, India, Indonesia, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Lebanon, Liberia, Libya, Malaysia, Mauritania, Nepal, Niger, Nigeria, Pakistan, Qatar, Republic of South Sudan, Republic of the Congo, Romania, Russia, Senegal, Somalia, Sri Lanka, Sudan, Syria, Tajikistan, Togo, Turkey, United Arab Emirates, Uzbekistan, Yemen, Zambia

⇧ Top

Check the vaccines and medicines list and visit your doctor at least a month before your trip to get vaccines or medicines you may need. If you or your doctor need help finding a location that provides certain vaccines or medicines, visit the Find a Clinic page.

Routine vaccines

Recommendations.

Make sure you are up-to-date on all routine vaccines before every trip. Some of these vaccines include

• Chickenpox (Varicella)
• Diphtheria-Tetanus-Pertussis
• Flu (influenza)
• Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR)

Immunization schedules

All eligible travelers should be up to date with their COVID-19 vaccines. Please see  Your COVID-19 Vaccination  for more information. 

COVID-19 vaccine

Hepatitis A

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.

Travelers allergic to a vaccine component or who are younger than 6 months should receive a single dose of immune globulin, which provides effective protection for up to 2 months depending on dosage given.

Unvaccinated travelers who are over 40 years old, immunocompromised, or have chronic medical conditions planning to depart to a risk area in less than 2 weeks should get the initial dose of vaccine and at the same appointment receive immune globulin.

Hepatitis A - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Hep A

Hepatitis B

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.

Hepatitis B - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Hep B

Cases of measles are on the rise worldwide. Travelers are at risk of measles if they have not been fully vaccinated at least two weeks prior to departure, or have not had measles in the past, and travel internationally to areas where measles is spreading.

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

Measles (Rubeola) - CDC Yellow Book

Rabid dogs are commonly found in the United Arab Emirates. However, if you are bitten or scratched by a dog or other mammal while in the United Arab Emirates, rabies treatment is often available. 

Consider rabies vaccination before your trip if your activities mean you will be around dogs or wildlife.

Travelers more likely to encounter rabid animals include

• Campers, adventure travelers, or cave explorers (spelunkers)
• Veterinarians, animal handlers, field biologists, or laboratory workers handling animal specimens
• Visitors to rural areas

Since children are more likely to be bitten or scratched by a dog or other animals, consider rabies vaccination for children traveling to the United Arab Emirates. 

Rabies - CDC Yellow Book

Recommended for most travelers, especially those staying with friends or relatives or visiting smaller cities or rural areas.

Typhoid - CDC Yellow Book

Dosing info - Typhoid

Yellow Fever

Required for travelers ≥9 months old arriving from countries with risk for YF virus transmission; this includes >12-hour airport transits or layovers in countries with risk for YF virus transmission. 1

Yellow Fever - CDC Yellow Book

Avoid contaminated water

Leptospirosis

How most people get sick (most common modes of transmission)

• Touching urine or other body fluids from an animal infected with leptospirosis
• Swimming or wading in urine-contaminated fresh water, or contact with urine-contaminated mud
• Drinking water or eating food contaminated with animal urine
• Avoid contaminated water and soil

Clinical Guidance

Avoid bug bites.

Crimean-Congo Hemorrhagic fever

• Tick bite 
• Touching the body fluids of a person or animal infected with CCHF
• Avoid Bug Bites

Airborne & droplet

• Breathing in air or accidentally eating food contaminated with the urine, droppings, or saliva of infected rodents
• Bite from an infected rodent
• Less commonly, being around someone sick with hantavirus (only occurs with Andes virus)
• Avoid rodents and areas where they live
• Avoid sick people

Middle East Respiratory Syndrome (MERS)

• Scientists do not fully understand how the MERS virus spreads
• May spread from to others when an infected person coughs or sneezes
• May spread to people from camels.

Middle East Respiratory virus syndrome (MERS)

Tuberculosis (TB)

• Breathe in TB bacteria that is in the air from an infected and contagious person coughing, speaking, or singing.

Learn actions you can take to stay healthy and safe on your trip. Vaccines cannot protect you from many diseases in the United Arab Emirates, so your behaviors are important.

Eat and drink safely

Food and water standards around the world vary based on the destination. Standards may also differ within a country and risk may change depending on activity type (e.g., hiking versus business trip). You can learn more about safe food and drink choices when traveling by accessing the resources below.

• Choose Safe Food and Drinks When Traveling
• Water Treatment Options When Hiking, Camping or Traveling
• Global Water, Sanitation and Hygiene | Healthy Water
• Avoid Contaminated Water During Travel

You can also visit the  Department of State Country Information Pages  for additional information about food and water safety.

Prevent bug bites

Bugs (like mosquitoes, ticks, and fleas) can spread a number of diseases in the United Arab Emirates. Many of these diseases cannot be prevented with a vaccine or medicine. You can reduce your risk by taking steps to prevent bug bites.

What can I do to prevent bug bites?

• Cover exposed skin by wearing long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and hats.
• Use an appropriate insect repellent (see below).
• Use permethrin-treated clothing and gear (such as boots, pants, socks, and tents). Do not use permethrin directly on skin.
• Stay and sleep in air-conditioned or screened rooms.
• Use a bed net if the area where you are sleeping is exposed to the outdoors.

What type of insect repellent should I use?

• FOR PROTECTION AGAINST TICKS AND MOSQUITOES: Use a repellent that contains 20% or more DEET for protection that lasts up to several hours.
• Picaridin (also known as KBR 3023, Bayrepel, and icaridin)
• Oil of lemon eucalyptus (OLE) or para-menthane-diol (PMD)
• 2-undecanone
• Always use insect repellent as directed.

What should I do if I am bitten by bugs?

• Avoid scratching bug bites, and apply hydrocortisone cream or calamine lotion to reduce the itching.
• Check your entire body for ticks after outdoor activity. Be sure to remove ticks properly.

What can I do to avoid bed bugs?

Although bed bugs do not carry disease, they are an annoyance. See our information page about avoiding bug bites for some easy tips to avoid them. For more information on bed bugs, see Bed Bugs .

For more detailed information on avoiding bug bites, see Avoid Bug Bites .

Stay safe outdoors

If your travel plans in the United Arab Emirates include outdoor activities, take these steps to stay safe and healthy during your trip.

• Stay alert to changing weather conditions and adjust your plans if conditions become unsafe.
• Prepare for activities by wearing the right clothes and packing protective items, such as bug spray, sunscreen, and a basic first aid kit.
• Consider learning basic first aid and CPR before travel. Bring a travel health kit with items appropriate for your activities.
• If you are outside for many hours in heat, eat salty snacks and drink water to stay hydrated and replace salt lost through sweating.
• Protect yourself from UV radiation : use sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15, wear protective clothing, and seek shade during the hottest time of day (10 a.m.–4 p.m.).
• Be especially careful during summer months and at high elevation. Because sunlight reflects off snow, sand, and water, sun exposure may be increased during activities like skiing, swimming, and sailing.
• Very cold temperatures can be dangerous. Dress in layers and cover heads, hands, and feet properly if you are visiting a cold location.

Stay safe around water

• Swim only in designated swimming areas. Obey lifeguards and warning flags on beaches.
• Practice safe boating—follow all boating safety laws, do not drink alcohol if driving a boat, and always wear a life jacket.
• Do not dive into shallow water.
• Do not swim in freshwater in developing areas or where sanitation is poor.
• Avoid swallowing water when swimming. Untreated water can carry germs that make you sick.
• To prevent infections, wear shoes on beaches where there may be animal waste.

Keep away from animals

Most animals avoid people, but they may attack if they feel threatened, are protecting their young or territory, or if they are injured or ill. Animal bites and scratches can lead to serious diseases such as rabies.

Follow these tips to protect yourself:

• Do not touch or feed any animals you do not know.
• Do not allow animals to lick open wounds, and do not get animal saliva in your eyes or mouth.
• Avoid rodents and their urine and feces.
• Traveling pets should be supervised closely and not allowed to come in contact with local animals.
• If you wake in a room with a bat, seek medical care immediately. Bat bites may be hard to see.

All animals can pose a threat, but be extra careful around dogs, bats, monkeys, sea animals such as jellyfish, and snakes. If you are bitten or scratched by an animal, immediately:

• Wash the wound with soap and clean water.
• Go to a doctor right away.
• Tell your doctor about your injury when you get back to the United States.

Consider buying medical evacuation insurance. Rabies is a deadly disease that must be treated quickly, and treatment may not be available in some countries.

Reduce your exposure to germs

Follow these tips to avoid getting sick or spreading illness to others while traveling:

• Wash your hands often, especially before eating.
• If soap and water aren’t available, clean hands with hand sanitizer (containing at least 60% alcohol).
• Don’t touch your eyes, nose, or mouth. If you need to touch your face, make sure your hands are clean.
• Cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your sleeve (not your hands) when coughing or sneezing.
• Try to avoid contact with people who are sick.
• If you are sick, stay home or in your hotel room, unless you need medical care.

Avoid sharing body fluids

Diseases can be spread through body fluids, such as saliva, blood, vomit, and semen.

Protect yourself:

• Use latex condoms correctly.
• Do not inject drugs.
• Limit alcohol consumption. People take more risks when intoxicated.
• Do not share needles or any devices that can break the skin. That includes needles for tattoos, piercings, and acupuncture.
• If you receive medical or dental care, make sure the equipment is disinfected or sanitized.

Know how to get medical care while traveling

Plan for how you will get health care during your trip, should the need arise:

• Carry a list of local doctors and hospitals at your destination.
• Review your health insurance plan to determine what medical services it would cover during your trip. Consider purchasing travel health and medical evacuation insurance.
• Carry a card that identifies, in the local language, your blood type, chronic conditions or serious allergies, and the generic names of any medications you take.
• Some prescription drugs may be illegal in other countries. Call the United Arab Emirates’s embassy to verify that all of your prescription(s) are legal to bring with you.
• Bring all the medicines (including over-the-counter medicines) you think you might need during your trip, including extra in case of travel delays. Ask your doctor to help you get prescriptions filled early if you need to.

Many foreign hospitals and clinics are accredited by the Joint Commission International. A list of accredited facilities is available at their website ( www.jointcommissioninternational.org ).

In some countries, medicine (prescription and over-the-counter) may be substandard or counterfeit. Bring the medicines you will need from the United States to avoid having to buy them at your destination.

Select safe transportation

Motor vehicle crashes are the #1 killer of healthy US citizens in foreign countries.

In many places cars, buses, large trucks, rickshaws, bikes, people on foot, and even animals share the same lanes of traffic, increasing the risk for crashes.

Be smart when you are traveling on foot.

• Use sidewalks and marked crosswalks.
• Pay attention to the traffic around you, especially in crowded areas.
• Remember, people on foot do not always have the right of way in other countries.

Riding/Driving

Choose a safe vehicle.

• Choose official taxis or public transportation, such as trains and buses.
• Ride only in cars that have seatbelts.
• Avoid overcrowded, overloaded, top-heavy buses and minivans.
• Avoid riding on motorcycles or motorbikes, especially motorbike taxis. (Many crashes are caused by inexperienced motorbike drivers.)
• Choose newer vehicles—they may have more safety features, such as airbags, and be more reliable.
• Choose larger vehicles, which may provide more protection in crashes.

Think about the driver.

• Do not drive after drinking alcohol or ride with someone who has been drinking.
• Consider hiring a licensed, trained driver familiar with the area.
• Arrange payment before departing.

Follow basic safety tips.

• Wear a seatbelt at all times.
• Sit in the back seat of cars and taxis.
• When on motorbikes or bicycles, always wear a helmet. (Bring a helmet from home, if needed.)
• Avoid driving at night; street lighting in certain parts of the United Arab Emirates may be poor.
• Do not use a cell phone or text while driving (illegal in many countries).
• Travel during daylight hours only, especially in rural areas.
• If you choose to drive a vehicle in the United Arab Emirates, learn the local traffic laws and have the proper paperwork.
• Get any driving permits and insurance you may need. Get an International Driving Permit (IDP). Carry the IDP and a US-issued driver's license at all times.
• Check with your auto insurance policy's international coverage, and get more coverage if needed. Make sure you have liability insurance.
• Avoid using local, unscheduled aircraft.
• If possible, fly on larger planes (more than 30 seats); larger airplanes are more likely to have regular safety inspections.
• Try to schedule flights during daylight hours and in good weather.

Medical Evacuation Insurance

If you are seriously injured, emergency care may not be available or may not meet US standards. Trauma care centers are uncommon outside urban areas. Having medical evacuation insurance can be helpful for these reasons.

Helpful Resources

Road Safety Overseas (Information from the US Department of State): Includes tips on driving in other countries, International Driving Permits, auto insurance, and other resources.

The Association for International Road Travel has country-specific Road Travel Reports available for most countries for a minimal fee.

Maintain personal security

Use the same common sense traveling overseas that you would at home, and always stay alert and aware of your surroundings.

Before you leave

• Research your destination(s), including local laws, customs, and culture.
• Monitor travel advisories and alerts and read travel tips from the US Department of State.
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) .
• Leave a copy of your itinerary, contact information, credit cards, and passport with someone at home.
• Pack as light as possible, and leave at home any item you could not replace.

While at your destination(s)

• Carry contact information for the nearest US embassy or consulate .
• Carry a photocopy of your passport and entry stamp; leave the actual passport securely in your hotel.
• Follow all local laws and social customs.
• Do not wear expensive clothing or jewelry.
• Always keep hotel doors locked, and store valuables in secure areas.
• If possible, choose hotel rooms between the 2nd and 6th floors.

Healthy Travel Packing List

Use the Healthy Travel Packing List for United Arab Emirates for a list of health-related items to consider packing for your trip. Talk to your doctor about which items are most important for you.

Why does CDC recommend packing these health-related items?

It’s best to be prepared to prevent and treat common illnesses and injuries. Some supplies and medicines may be difficult to find at your destination, may have different names, or may have different ingredients than what you normally use.

If you are not feeling well after your trip, you may need to see a doctor. If you need help finding a travel medicine specialist, see Find a Clinic . Be sure to tell your doctor about your travel, including where you went and what you did on your trip. Also tell your doctor if you were bitten or scratched by an animal while traveling.

For more information on what to do if you are sick after your trip, see Getting Sick after Travel .

Map Disclaimer - The boundaries and names shown and the designations used on maps do not imply the expression of any opinion whatsoever on the part of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention concerning the legal status of any country, territory, city or area or of its authorities, or concerning the delimitation of its frontiers or boundaries. Approximate border lines for which there may not yet be full agreement are generally marked.

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• Do you need an entry permit/visa to enter the UAE?

Visa on arrival

30-day visa on arrival

Citizens of these countries do not require advance visa arrangements to enter the UAE and can obtain a visa upon arrival for 30 days with a 10-day grace period for extension.

90-day visa on arrival

Citizens of these countries do not require advance visa arrangements to enter the UAE and can obtain a visa upon arrival for 90 days:

Indian citizens

Indian citizens holding a normal passport and either

• a visit visa issued by the USA or
• a green card issued by the USA or
• a residence visa issued by the UK or
• a residence visa issued by the EU

can obtain a visa on arrival for a maximum stay of 14 days provided that the visas or the green card is valid for at least six months from the date of arrival into the UAE.

Read about the UAE visa requirements for non-US citizens .

Note: Passports must be valid for at least 6 months from the date of entry into the UAE. Lists of countries eligible for visa on arrival may vary from time to time; therefore, please check with the  UAE embassy  in your country before travelling to the UAE.

Related links

Visa on arrival  - General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs Dubai 

For more information, please contact:

• The UAE Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship, Customs and Port Security
• General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs – Dubai

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Uae travel: no us visa appointments available until october 2024; here’s why, waiting periods could even be longer in the coming days, according to industry experts.

SM Ayaz Zakir

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Residents who are planning to travel to the United States from the UAE will face significant challenges as the wait times for visa appointments continue to stretch. The next available appointments are available in October next year, travel industry experts have said to Khaleej Times.

“The demand for applications for US visas among UAE residents has reached unprecedented levels, with the earliest available slots for appointments can be scheduled for October 2024,” said Subair Thekepurathvalappil, senior manager for inbound and outbound operations at Regal Tours Worldwide, adding that they receive over 20 calls daily inquiring about the visit visas to US.

Visa experts in the UAE believe that the wait time may increase in the coming days. “Currently, the wait time for B1 and B2 US visit visas is after September 2024. However, it may increase in the coming days,” said Dhas Anthony, general manager at Rejoice Travel and Tourism, who is specialised in visas worldwide.

High demand for travel post-Covid

Industry experts have said that there are many contributing factors for this unprecedented wait time including, “a very high number of visa applications post-Covid and a very high travel demand post-Covid which has led to increasing in appointment slot time,” said Subair.

“People want to travel now. Post-Covid, travel demand has increased massively prompting residents to visit different countries and experience different cultures and traditions,” said Anthony.

Experts also mentioned it's not just UAE that is facing extended wait time for appointments, but its worldwide.

More applications post-Covid

Experts noted that there is a very high demand to travel to the US and the number of applications has increased in comparison to pre-Covid days.

“People are ready to pay double to get appointments early, it is not in our hands at all. We can apply for the visas, help and guide our clients,” said Subair.

Applying for US visa

There are two types of US visit visas:

“One should apply for US Business visa if travelling for business purposes. This visa is also known as the B1 Visa. And a tourist visa for tourism and also known as the B2 Visa,” said Anthony.

The visit visa enables one to enter the US and remain there for up to six months and can be obtained by completing the DS-160 online form.

Anthony points out the procedure to apply for the visit visa:

• Check what type of visa you need
• Find out where you should submit your application in the UAE
• Complete the application form online
• Pay the visa fee
• Obtain appointment for a US visa interview
• Gather the documents required for the visa
• Attend the visa interview
• Saudi Arabia announces new e-visa entry permit for UK, US, and Schengen visa holders
• Eid Al Adha holidays in UAE: Schengen visa delays prompt residents to pick staycations over European travel
• [email protected]

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Dubai   Travel Guide

Courtesy of Basith Rahman Rahman | EyeEm

Why Go To Dubai

Dubai and  Las Vegas  have a lot in common. Both cities share a love for the fantastical, with skylines that shine like beacons against barren desert backdrops. People from all over the world flock to these shimmering oases with the same goal: to play hard. But as a vacation spot, Dubai easily trumps ol' Sin City thanks to its gorgeous cream-colored Persian Gulf shoreline, international culinary scene and larger-than-life attractions . And the city's still growing; plans are underway for something bigger and better. At one point, it was estimated that a quarter of the world's construction cranes could be found here. If that's any sign, even the sky may not be able to limit Dubai's growth. 

Dubai is a city of superlatives, home to the world's tallest tower, one of the world's largest shopping malls , and one of the world's largest man-made marinas… but on a smaller scale, this emirate is still tied to its days as a modest port town. Traditional wooden  abras  (boats) float past motorboats on Dubai Creek, the natural sands of  Jumeirah Public Beach  fringe the carefully sculpted Palm Islands, and the bustling  Gold and Spice Souks  (marketplaces) thrive amid the larger-than-life Dubai Mall. Despite constantly looking to the future, this city isn't quick to let go of its past. It's this dynamic that not only put Dubai on the tourist map but will also keep it there.

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Dubai Travel Tips

Best months to visit.

The best time to visit Dubai is from November to March. Weather-wise, Dubai really only experiences two seasons: hot and hotter. During the winter months, the city sees blue skies and primo beach weather. However, this is also peak tourist season, so expect plenty of company on  Jumeirah Beach . You can escape the crowds if you visit during the summer months, but be prepared for triple-digit temps and high humidity levels

Weather in Dubai

Data sourced from the National Climatic Data Center

What You Need to Know

You'll feel safe here  Dubai is unaffected by the turmoil taking place in other parts of the Middle East. The city's population stems from countries across the globe, and everyone coexists peacefully.

What not to wear  Nearly 60 percent of Dubai's residents are practicing Muslims, which means that you'll find conservative attire to be the norm. Avoid wearing anything too revealing.

Too much sun can be a bad thing  Dubai's visitors often fall in love with the city's warm, sunny climate. However, it can get really hot, and there aren't a lot of shady places in the middle of the desert. Lather on sunscreen, drink plenty of water and wear a hat.

How to Save Money in Dubai

Plan in advance  A trip to Dubai will be expensive. But you'll have a better chance at snagging a lower room rate if you make your hotel reservations two to three months in advance.

Visit in the summer  Most travelers can't take the heat during this season, leaving little competition for desirable room rates.

Stay sober  Alcohol is rarely served outside of restaurants and bars, where prices are about as high as the  Burj Khalifa . You'll save big bucks if you skip the drinks.

Culture & Customs

Dubai stands as one of seven states (or "Emirates") that make up the United Arab Emirates; the other six are Abu Dhabi, Ajman, Fujairah, Ras al-Khaimah, Sharjah and Umm al Quwain. Each emirate is governed by a sheikh, or Arabic ruler. The sheikh of Abu Dhabi acts as president of the Federal Supreme Council (both the UAE's legislative and executive body), while the sheikh of Dubai fills the role of vice president. Although Abu Dhabi serves as the official capital of the UAE, Dubai has long been the emirates' commercial and financial hub.

But Dubai wasn't always the economic powerhouse it is today. Before oil was discovered in the mid-1960s, Dubai's economy relied solely on fishing and a moderately successful pearl industry. But once oil became a point of trade about 10 years after its discovery, the economy soared, and continues to do so. The current UAE vice president of and prime minister and Dubai Sheikh, Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, is strongly invested in the city's growth and status as a tourist hot spot.

The emirate's role as a commercial heavyweight attracts expats from around world. Dubai's population features citizens of 200 different nationalities, and each has left its own imprint on daily life. However, the dominant religion here is Islam, and Muslim culture greatly impacts Dubai's society. As a result, visitors are encouraged to dress modestly here – that means no exposed chests, thighs or midriffs – and alcohol is not commonly found outside of international hotels and restaurants. Those who visit during Ramadan (the Islamic month of fasting) are encouraged to refrain from eating or drinking in public places.

Despite its size, Dubai has earned a reputation as being one of the safest places in the Middle East. The UAE remains removed from the political and religious conflicts taking place in other parts of the Middle East. Women visiting Dubai should also feel safe to move about freely. However, women are often taken aback by Emiratis' tendency to stare; note that these gazes are most likely out of curiosity, not rudeness. 

Although the official language is Arabic, Dubai's trade history and booming tourism market means that almost everyone speaks English. American travelers can also rejoice in the fact that most major credit cards are accepted at stores, hotels and restaurants. For those paying in cash, the official currency here is the Emirati dirham (AED), which is equal to roughly $0.27. Check what the current exchange rate is before you arrive and have cash on hand when visiting Dubai's traditional  souks   (markets).

What to Eat

Emirati food, the principal cuisine in Dubai, is all about one thing: spice. Put down the salt and pepper; in Dubai, all the flavor you'll ever need is already sprinkled into the dish from a wider variety of seasonings, few of which you may not be familiar (Is za'atar in your spice cabinet? What about cardamom?). There are so many interesting and exotic dishes to sample in Dubai, the best way to navigate its rich culinary landscape is by starting with the basics.  

Al machboos is the Emirati's staple dish – think what red beans and rice are to New Orleans – and something you can't skip on your tasting tour of the Emirates. A favorite in the home and at restaurants, al machboos appears to be a simple dish – your choice of meat topped with rice – but packs a big punch flavor-wise, because it's seasoned with cardamom, cloves, cinnamon, dried lemon and yellow raisins. Thanks to Dubai's location along the coast, fish is plentiful and widely used as the choice of meat in hardy dishes. M'hammar will satisfy any seafood lover's craving for the taste of the Arabian Peninsula, prepared with locally caught fish and served with sweet yellow rice, caramelized onions and of course, a host of spices. Believe it or not, camel is widely available throughout Dubai, but is typically served on special occasions and often considered a food eaten among VIPs. 

Other traditional fare to look out for are chebab, Emirati pancakes infused with saffron and cardamom and topped with yogurt and date syrup; khameer bread, which is stuffed with sweet or savory fillings, and kunafa, the Middle Eastern take on a cheese Danish. Arabic coffee is an experience in itself, especially for those who often take theirs with only cream and sugar. This coffee features regional lightly roasted beans mixed with saffron and cardamom. The ingredients are ground, boiled then strained and served in small cups. Don't forget to satisfy your sweet tooth here either. Emiratis love their desserts. The most traditional is luqaimat, which is batter deep fried in ghee and served with local date syrup (think doughnut holes with a Middle Eastern twist). Another classic dish is balaleet, which features sweet vermicelli noodles with raisins, saffron, cardamom and other spices. And if you're visiting during Ramadan, try Assidat al-Boubar, a pumpkin pudding made with rosewater that's widely served after the fast is broken. 

A huge part of what has shaped Dubai's food landscape is the melting pot of cultures (more than 200 nationalities) that share the city. Aside from Emirati establishments, you'll find restaurants serving everything from classic French fare to dim sum. If you want flash, definitely go to one of the Burj Al Arab 's restaurants. There's also  La Petite Maison , a Michelin star-rated French import that sits near the Four Seasons. For beloved (and cheaper) casual eateries, head over to Al Samadi Sweets for Lebanese and Arabic dessert, or kick back and relax at  Seven Sands, the oceanfront restaurant at Jumeirah Beach Residence. For more information about where to eat, check out the Dubai tourism board's  website.

Getting Around Dubai

The best way to get around Dubai is by taxi or by metro. Although prices are high across the board in Dubai, a taxi here or there won't break the bank. Plus, they provide the freedom to move at your own pace without the hassle of navigating traffic. Dubai's metro system transports passengers to major areas of interest, including  Burj Khalifa  and the Dubai International Airport (DXB). The airport is about 10 miles from downtown Dubai. You can also rent a car at the airport, but be forewarned: driving here is not for the faint-hearted.

Entry & Exit Requirements

Americans visiting the United Arab Emirates must have an official U.S. passport that is valid for at least six months following your arrival date. Travelers must also possess a return ticket or other proof that they will be leaving the UAE within that 30-day timeframe. For visits exceeding 30 days, travelers must obtain a tourist visa prior to departure. Americans exiting the UAE by land transportation will be subject to departure fee of 35 dirhams (about $9.60), payable only in local currency. For more information, visit the U.S. State Department website .

Once a small fishing town, Dubai has developed significantly since it struck gold in the oil business. Today, the city is dotted with impressive skyscrapers but still features old towns throughout. 

Explore More of Dubai

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UAE to announce fuel prices for April 2024: Will petrol, diesel rates increase?

The UAE announces the price of petrol and diesel, to be sold at retail outlets, at the end of each month

The UAE fuel price committee is set to announce petrol and diesel prices for the month of April on Sunday, March 31.

The UAE announces the price of fuel – petrol and diesel, to be sold at retail outlets, at the end of each month for the following one.

Setting the fuel price

The UAE government deregulated fuel prices in 2015 to allow them to be on par with the global market however, it was again frozen in 2020 during the Covid-19 pandemic.

The price controls were then lifted in March 2021 to align the fuel rates with global market once again.

Domestic fuel costs are governed by a combination of factors such as the Dirham/Dollar exchange rate combined with international oil prices. The prices announced each month also reflect factors such as state levy adjustments or retail margin changes. The committee determines these adjustments, considering various factors, at the end of the month.

Fuel prices in 2024

The UAE fuel price committee has raised prices in February and March this year to align with the global price range.

Global tensions impact oil supply

Oil prices settled higher on Monday, as orders from the Russian government to curb oil output, offset the United Nation’s demand for a ceasefire in  Gaza .

Brent crude futures settled $1.32 higher or 1.55 per cent, at $86.75 a barrel. US crude futures settled $1.32 higher, or 1.64 per cent, at $81.95.

Both benchmarks have risen steadily this year, with Brent up nearly 11 per cent and WTI up about 12.5 per cent by Friday’s close, on expectations that interest rates in major economies will come down by the summer, and geopolitical tensions in eastern Europe and the Middle East.

Moscow, meanwhile, has ordered companies to reduce oil output in the second quarter to meet a production target of 9 million barrels per day (bpd) by the end of June, in line with its pledges to the producer group OPEC+, three industry sources said on Monday.

“Russia is committed to the OPEC+ cuts. They are looking beyond the current supply and demand fundamentals and looking at unity with OPEC+ , as well as the risk of a bigger price shock further down the road,” said Phil Flynn, analyst at Price Futures Group.

Russia’s crude oil supply is down 7 per cent of total refining capacity, Reuters calculations show, on top of unrelated maintenance.

UN vote on Gaza ceasefire

Elsewhere, the United Nations Security Council adopted a resolution on Monday demanding an immediate ceasefire between Israel and Palestinian group Hamas and the release of all hostages after the US abstained from the vote.

“We will have to see how the UN resolution on a ceasefire actually plays out on the ground in  Gaza , and whether that would ultimately result in the Houthis stopping their attacks on tanker traffic in the Red Sea , ” Andrew Lipow, president of Lipow Oil Associates said.

Yemen-based Houthis have been ramping up attacks on ships traversing the Red Sea in support of Palestinians in  Gaza .

A ceasefire could help relieve supply bottlenecks if the Houthis wind down their attacks by allowing vessels to use the Suez Canal rather than taking longer, more costly diversions around the horn of Africa.

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Dubai Visitors Will Get Special Passport Stamp This Ramadan!

A s the Holy Month of Ramadan continues, visitors arriving in Dubai via airports will receive a special passport stamp, announced by the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA).

Read More: Dubai’s New Passport Control Allows Kids Stamp Their Own Passports

Collaborative Initiative

The GDRFA, in collaboration with Brand Dubai, revealed the initiative through an official announcement on social media. The stamp, featuring the #RamadanInDubai logo, aims to extend a warm welcome to visitors during Ramadan 2024.

QR Code for Event Calendar

Accompanying the stamp is a QR code directing passport holders to a calendar of events for Ramadan. The calendar outlines various attractions and activities across Dubai, including traditional Ramadan customs, festivities, and family-friendly events.

Symbolic Design

The stamp showcases the phrase 'Ramadan in Dubai' in both Arabic and English, accompanied by the Dubai International Airport insignia. Surrounding the text are symbolic elements of Ramadan, such as stars and moons.

Creating Memorable Experiences

Lieutenant General Mohammed Al Marri, Director-General of GDRFA Dubai, emphasized that the initiative aims to provide memorable experiences for visitors during their time in the city.

Previous Special Stamps

This initiative isn't the first of its kind in Dubai. In November 2023, visitors received a unique passport stamp commemorating the Dubai Airshow, featuring relevant dates and aerospace imagery. Additionally, in February 2021, travellers entering the UAE received Martian ink stamps to celebrate the historic arrival of the Hope probe to Mars orbit, adding an extraordinary touch to their passport memories.

This article was posted on UAEMoments

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9 best tech gifts for Eid in UAE, for 2024

Best buys electronics.

From smart home gadgets to travel essentials, here are fab tech presents for Eid Al Fitr

Tired of walking in with the same box of chocolates, this Eid? Whether you're visiting parents, relatives or friends, the struggle to find a great gift is real. Consider a trendy gadget to wow them, instead. The latest technological devices will have top-of-the-range features, to make life undeniably more organised and tasks more efficient.

Think of an Echo Show on the kitchen countertop that conveniently obeys voice commands and plays video recipes. A brand new tablet would benefit any family travelling with children this holiday season. We also find a robot vacuum incredibly helpful with post-gathering cleanups. 

Find these and more in our handpicked list of gadgets to wrap up for Eid, from wearable tech to smart helpers. Do check out our budget-friendly ideas , specially curated for the upcoming occasion.

Remember you can find discounted items across a range of categories on Amazon, so shop while the sales are still on. Make sure to order through Prime to enjoy free same- or next-day delivery for your new gadget.

1. Best Android Smartphone: Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra, 512GB, Phantom Black

• Snappy performance
• Runs on Snapdragon 8 Gen 2
• 200MP wide-angle camera
• Dust- and water-resistant S Pen
• Samsung's most eco-friendly phone yet
• Comes with charging cable but without power adapter

With nearly Dh1,550 docked off the original price, the Samsung Galaxy S23 Ultra is now within reach for an Android superfan. Fixed with the fastest processor and the most advanced camera system on a Galaxy yet, this smartphone is a welcome upgrade for anyone looking to replace an outdated one. Despite not much of a design overhaul when compared to its predecessor, the phone remains sleek and elegant, packed with excellent features, like the 200MP wide-angle camera, long battery life and a richer colour display. Expect better low-light nightography and more control over photo and video edits using the included S Pen. Reviewers note how quickly the phone boots up and gives them all-day battery, regardless of camera use. Mobile gamers are completely satisfied with the amount of heat it can take, without the body growing hot. For other Android options, view them here .

Bonus: Buy with zero per cent instalments and pay Dh324.58 for 12 months with select banks.

Warranty: Amazon offers 1-year extended warranty for Dh227, 1-year accidental damage protection for Dh380, and 2-year damage protection with 1-year extended warranty for Dh484.

2. Best Smart Display: Echo Show 8 (2nd Gen)

• Eight-inch HD display
• 13MP built-in camera
• Sets alarms, reminders, answers questions, streams videos and more
• Understands both English and Arabic
• Can be used as an intercom
• Can be slow

Give the gift of organisation – the Echo Show 8 is a smart speaker, display and assistant all in one. Surprise your mum or partner with this intuitive helper to see them through tasks when their hands are full. It sets alarms and timers, streams recipes, reads out the news, answers questions, plays music, controls compatible smart home devices, and lots more. But, the best part is its 13MP camera that doubles as a nanny cam for minding traffic areas when the guardian is away on a grocery trip. The recipient even gets to keep the household connected through its intercom facility. Plus, Alexa understands both English and Arabic. Mums and dads in the reviews use the Echo Show 8 to hold video calls with their little ones at home. Parents love that Alexa has the ability to tell children bedtime stories, too, among other thoughtful features. See other smart speakers  and Alexa devices .

Warranty: The manufacturer offers a one-year limited warranty.

3. Best Value Smartwatch: Apple Watch SE (2nd Generation) (GPS+Cellular, 44mm)

• Bright retina display
• Cellular connectivity
• Swimproof - survives in 50 metres of depth
• Health insights, from heartbeat to sleep monitoring
• Car crash and fall detection, along with temperature tracking
• Doesn't include the real-time electrocardiogram (ECG) from the Series 8
• Needs an Apple ID

Sure, there's the all-new Apple Watch Series 9, but what if we told you the SE 2nd Generation offers more bang for your buck? It's as stylish as its expensive counterpart, featuring the same rounded corners and sharp display. Both are water-resistant in a depth of 50 metres, notify you of any irregular heartbeat readings, have an 18-hour battery life and come with emergency safety systems in place. With dual connectivity options of cellular and Bluetooth, the wearer isn't missing out on much. The watch is going to be your loved one's best workout buddy, encouraging them to complete their activity rings. They don't have to worry about missing calls and important work emails, either, with this mini handset on their wrist. See more smartwatches and fitness trackers .

Bonus: Buy with zero per cent instalments and pay Dh109.92 for 12 months with select banks.

Warranty: Amazon offers 1-year extended warranty for Dh80, and 2-year extended warranty for Dh132.

4. Best Robot Vacuum: Roborock S7 Pro Ultra Robot Vacuum Cleaner

• Suction power of 5,100 Pa
• Vacuums and mops
• Comes with its own automatic cleaning station that lasts up to seven weeks
• Set customised routines for the pet feeding area, around the dining table after dinner and more
• Google Assistant and Alexa compatible
• Doesn't work with 5GHz frequency band

Give your loved one the gift of a clean home without them having to lift a finger. TheRoborock S7 Pro Ultra is the complete set with its own cleaning station - other robot vacuums require manual refilling and emptying of the tanks. It has an excellent suction power of 5,100 Pa, a slim design, and goes about cleaning the house with minimal noise. It even syncs to Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant so it can be powered with just a voice command. With a 2.5-litre dustbin and a three-litre water reservoir, it gets the vacuuming and mopping done for you in a jiffy by returning to the dock as many times as it needs refilling. The hoover's mopping capabilities are not to be taken lightly - it scrubs the floor up to 3,000 times per minute at a pressure of 600g. It’s a great gift for families with kids, and pets, or the busy bee worker who never has enough time to clean. Reviewers attest to the fact that the vacuum needs little to no intervention during scheduled cleanings. The robot always follows floor maps and no-go zones to a tee, they add. See other robot vacuum options .

Bonus: Save an extra Dh250 by applying a coupon.

5. Best Handheld Gaming Console: Valve Steam Deck Handheld Gaming Console

• Portable gaming PC
• 256 storage with 16GB RAM
• Up to eight hours of play time
• Powered by AMD APU chip
• Seven-inch touchscreen
• Select PC games are not compatible with the SteamOS

Nintendo Switch, PlayStation Vita and other handheld consoles are excellent options for gaming on the go. But, gift a gamer something they'll never expect. Valve's Steam Deck is such a present, and perhaps, even better for a player who wishes they could bring their library of PC games wherever they go. The Steam Deck plays most of your PC titles, as long as they're accepted on Linux's SteamOS. Simply log in to your Steam account and access your library on the handheld device. What powers the portable PC is AMD's APU (accelerated processing unit), which houses both the central and graphics processing units onto a single chip. Play on a seven-inch touchscreen with a solid-state drive memory of 256GB and 16GB RAM. The device features two thumbsticks, touch trackpads, controls, triggers and everything else that's found on a classic console. Users should expect the battery to last less than seven hours with heavy use. Some Deck-verified PC games are Street Fighter, Cyberpunk, Elden Ring and Stardew Valley. Gamers in the reviews say they no longer power on their full-sized consoles , impressed that it runs high-budget games easily. Check out other handheld video game consoles .

Bonus: Buy with zero per cent instalments and pay Dh161.25 for 12 months with select banks.

6. Best Value Tablet: Samsung Galaxy Tab A8

• Value for money
• 32GB space, accepts up to 1TB microSD card
• Samsung Kids offers safe content for children
• Puts up well against rough use
• Not built for heavy gaming

A budget-friendly Android tablet, this Samsung Galaxy Tab A8 offers powerful performance and plenty of storage. Light and portable, it doesn’t skimp on screen size. The 10.5-inch display is big enough to comfortably enjoy TV shows and films, video chat with friends and family, and take care of remote work. With the Samsung Kids interface, children will be able to safely browse age-appropriate games, books and videos. The Tab A8 is one of the best child-friendly options in the market, too, designed to be shared by the whole family, together with parental controls. Get up to 1TB of expandable storage and long battery life, which allows plenty of power to keep up with content on travels. Some mums and dads reserve the tablet for the kids' school work, while others primarily use it for light office work and media consumption. The Dolby Atmos-powered speakers are amazing, they say, but do add that the 3GB RAM is insufficient for heavy gaming. Browse more tablets for travelling  and everyday use . If they love to read, a more fitting present would be an e-reader .

Bonus: Buy with zero per cent instalments and pay Dh49.83 for 12 months with select banks.

7. Best Travel Tech: Apple AirTag

• Replaceable battery of one year
• Trigger audio from app to locate items
• See the distance and the direction to the AirTag
• Only weighs 11 grams each
• Works with iPhone 6S or later models, and iPad 5th generation or later models
• Precision Finding feature works with iPhone 11 or later models

Probably the best travel tech gift you can give them is a way to track their luggage this summer. Bluetooth trackers, such as the Apple AirTag, rely on a network of users to locate your items, no matter where they are in the world. In the Find My app on any Apple device, you can track the AirTag on a map. If it's nearby, Precision Finding sorts it out for you immediately, thanks to the Ultra Wideband technology. Simply slip it into your bags and wallet, or attach it to your keys. The AirTag tracks anything. It's also water-resistant, weighs 11 grams and has a battery life of more than a year. Reviewers purchase the tracker to keep an eye on their checked-in bags at the airport, and call it an essential tool for travelling. You'll find four trackers in this pack, so there's enough to go around. Check out other non-iOS trackers  and more travel tech necessities . 

8. Best Open-Ear Headphones: Shokz OpenRun Wireless

• Dual mics for calls
• Eight-hour battery life
• Quick charge for 1.5-hour use in 10 minutes
• Comfortable and lightweight at 26 grams
• Vibrates noticeably when the volume is increased

They love their tunes, podcasts and audiobooks, but can't seem to enjoy any because of ill-fitting earbuds? Bone conduction headphones might just be the solution for them. Offer your loved ones the chance to listen comfortably via bone vibrations. This OpenRun model by Shokz is our best bone conduction pair of 2023 , per expert opinion. It wraps around the head and sits below the temples to deliver eight hours of battery life. It's been approved by cyclists, runners and casual listeners in the reviews. Unlike in-ear form factors, these headphones allow you to keep an ear out for traffic and tune into the outside world, without risking your safety. It takes calls just as easily as other pairs, too.

Warranty: Amazon offers 1-year extended warranty for Dh29, and 2-year extended warranty for Dh47.

9. Best Compact Speaker: JBL Go 3 Portable Waterproof Speaker

• Vibrant colour options inspired by street fashion trends
• IP67 - waterproof in up to one metre of water for 30 minutes, and dustproof
• Five hours of play time
• Pocket-sized, weighs only 209 grams
• Battery life may be less than stated

It's a party in a box! Give the gift of deep, punchy sound wherever your loved one goes, with this fun-sized JBL Go 3 speaker that’s dustproof and waterproof. The speaker can work for up to five hours without a charge, and streams wirelessly via Bluetooth from your phone or tablet. Our favourite part about this speaker is the variety of colours it comes in, to suit the player. It's the perfect present for someone who likes picnicking in the outdoors and hanging out by the beach. See other bluetooth speakers .

Warranty: Amazon offers 1-year extended warranty for Dh12, and 2-year extended warranty for Dh17.

Our recommendations are independently chosen by Gulf News editors. If you decide to shop through links on our website, we may earn an affiliate commission, as we are part of Amazon Services LLC Associates Program.

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Visa and passport

There may still be COVID-19 travel restrictions in some countries. Check our COVID-19 hub before you travel.

Check your visa and passport requirements

Uae visa requirements, united arab emirates consulates, dubai stopover, traveling to and from the united states, dubai connect, dubai international.

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