02 travel to dubai

O2 roaming explained for international & EU countries

You can roam and use O2 within most countries around the world.

You can use your regular allowance for free within 48 European countries, with a data fair usage policy of 25GB per month.

With selected O2 Refresh, O2 SIM only plans and Volt plans, you also get the O2 Travel Inclusive Zone Bolt On for free, which allows you to use unlimited data, unlimited minutes and unlimited texts in 27 international destinations outside the EU.

Alternatively, all O2 mobile customers can get the O2 Travel Bolt On for £6 per day, which gives you unlimited data, unlimited minutes and unlimited texts in 63 international destinations outside the EU.

What's the best O2 SIM for roaming?

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You can use your allowance for free within the EU with all O2 SIMs .

You can find the cheapest O2 SIM Only deals by using our comparison tools. O2 SIMs will work with all phones, including the latest Samsung Galaxy S24 and Apple iPhone 15 .

With O2 Europe Zone, you can continue to roam for free and use your allowance within the EU.

O2 Europe Zone is included with all plans at no additional cost.

O2 are one of the few networks which will not introduce charges for roaming within the EU after Brexit .

In accordance with the fair usage policy, if your regular allowance is greater than 25GB, you cannot exceed 25GB per month when roaming in the EU.

If you go over your regular allowance, or you exceed the fair usage policy of 25GB per month, you will be charged £3.50 for each additional GB you use when roaming in the EU.

You must also be considered a permanent UK resident. You cannot roam within qualifying European countries for excessive or consecutive periods at a time.

You can use your allowance for free within 48 European destinations:

• Canary Islands
• Czech Republic
• French Guiana
• Isle of Man
• Liechtenstein
• Netherlands
• Saint Barthelemy
• Saint Martin
• Switzerland
• Vatican City

With the O2 Travel Inclusive Zone Bolt On, you will get unlimited data, unlimited minutes and unlimited texts within 27 international countries.

The O2 Travel Inclusive Zone Bolt On is included at no additional cost with selected O2 Refresh, O2 SIM only plans and Volt plans. It is not included with any 30 day SIM only plans or pay as you go plans.

If your plan doesn't include the O2 Travel Inclusive Zone Bolt On for free, you can choose it as your O2 Extra with the following plans:

There is no fair usage policy on the amount of data you can use - you get unlimited data. However, excessive usage may see your data speeds temporarily restricted.

The following 27 international countries are covered by the O2 Travel Inclusive Zone Bolt On:

• El Salvador
• New Zealand
• United States

If you’re not eligible for the free O2 Travel Inclusive Zone Bolt On, you cannot pay for it. However, you can purchase the similar O2 Travel Bolt On, which covers 63 international destinations for £6 per day. See below for more information.

The O2 Travel Bolt On is available for £6 per day, and covers 63 international destinations.

Similar to the O2 Travel Inclusive Zone Bolt On, you get unlimited data, unlimited minutes and unlimited texts. However, there is a 2Mbps speed limit in place.

You can get the O2 Travel Bolt On by texting TRAVEL to 23336 or by enabling it via your O2 account.

The £6 daily fee will automatically be charged when you use mobile data, make a call or send a text message. Using Wi-Fi or receiving calls and texts will not trigger the charge.

The moment the charge is triggered, you'll have access for 24 hours, until the trigger resets. There are no limits on the amount of consecutive days you can trigger the Bolt On.

It is important to note you must enable the O2 Travel Bolt On before you use data, make a call or send a text. If you don't enable the Bolt On, you won't be charged the £6 daily fee - instead, you will be charged at a standard roaming rate, which can be expensive.

There is no fair usage policy on the amount of data you can use - you get unlimited data. However, there is a 2Mbps speed limit in place.

The O2 Travel Bolt On works in the following 63 destinations:

• British Virgin Islands
• Cayman Islands
• Dominican Republic
• Netherlands Antilles
• Saint Kitts and Nevis
• Saint Lucia
• Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
• South Africa
• Trinidad and Tobago
• Turks & Caicos
• United Arab Emirates

The O2 Travel Inclusive Zone Bolt On is free with selected O2 Refresh, O2 SIM only plans and Volt plans. It works in 27 international countries. You cannot buy the O2 Travel Inclusive Zone Bolt On if you are not eligible for free, however you can choose it as an O2 Extra with select tariffs.

On the other hand, the O2 Travel Bolt On is available to all pay monthly customers for £6 per day and works in 63 international destinations.

Both Bolt Ons give you unlimited data, unlimited minutes and unlimited texts. However, the O2 Travel Bolt On comes with a 2Mbps speed limit.

If you’re using your allowance for free within O2’s Europe Zone, you cannot exceed 25GB data per month if your regular allowance is greater than this amount. If you go over this limit, you will be charged £3.50 per GB until your allowance resets during the next month.

In addition, you cannot roam within the O2 Europe Zone for more than 63 days within a 4 month period - the offer is not intended for extended holidays. If O2 thinks you are abusing the free EU roaming policy, you will be given a 2 week notice, before a surcharge is applied:

The surcharge will be dropped when you return and stay in the UK for a reasonable time.

For the O2 Travel Inclusive Zone Bolt On, there is no fair usage policy on the amount of data you can use, however O2 states they may implement a temporary speed limit if your usage is deemed excessive. The O2 Travel Bolt On does not have a fair usage policy, however there is a permanent 2Mbps speed limit in place at all times.

If you exceed your data allowance or go over the 25GB limit when roaming for free in the Europe Zone, you will be charged £3.50 per GB, until your plan resets during the next month.

If you don't have an roaming Bolt On when travelling outside of Europe, or you're not in an eligible country, you will charged at a standard out of plan rate.

The out of plan rate is typically expensive, and varies between countries. For full charges, see O2 roaming rates

The following shows the O2 out of plan rates within a few international destinations.

No, 5G is only available within the UK with O2 . The maximum signal you can get when roaming with O2 is 4G.

Yes, all O2 customers can use their regular allowance for free with O2 Europe Zone, covering 48 European destinations.

Before roaming with O2 , you must enable roaming in your phone’s settings.

For Android users:

• Go to Settings
• Go to Connections -> Mobile networks -> Roaming
• Enable Data roaming

For iPhone users:

• Go to Mobile data -> Mobile Data Options
• Enable Data Roaming

If you're roaming in the EU and go over your data allowance or the 25GB limit, you will be charged £3.50 per GB until your plan resets at the next month.

Yes, you can tether to as many devices as you like when roaming with O2 . Any regular data limitations that apply when roaming will also apply when tethering while roaming.

The O2 Travel Bolt On is available with all pay monthly plans for £6 per day. You can get the O2 Travel Bolt On by texting TRAVEL to 23336 . Alternatively, you can purchase the Bolt On through your O2 account.

The O2 Travel Inclusive Zone Bolt On is available for free on selected O2 Refresh, O2 SIM only contracts and Volt plans. You may also choose it for free as an O2 Extra, with eligible plans.

Both Bolt Ons come with unlimited data, unlimited minutes and unlimited texts. However, they each cover different destinations.

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Traveling to Dubai for the First Time (2024): 19 Tips & Tricks

By Author Jurga

Posted on Last updated: March 26, 2024

Traveling to Dubai (United Arab Emirates) for the first time  and not sure where to start? Indeed, planning a trip to Dubai might be overwhelming, even more so if this is your first time in this rapidly growing and continuously changing city!

When is the best time to visit? How much time do you need in Dubai? What are the best areas to stay in and how to travel around? Do you need to pre-book tickets or can you just go with the flow? How to save time and money and still see the best that Dubai has to offer?

Dubai is a city of contrasts, a place where modern extravagance and traditional values go hand in hand. From its towering skyscrapers to its pristine beaches and bustling souks, visiting Dubai is like stepping into a different world…

To help you plan your first trip to this dynamic and unique city, in this guide we share some of our top travel tips for visiting Dubai .

We have visited Dubai several times and all the information and tips in this article are based on our personal experience. Some of these tricks we only learned after several trips…

This practical guide includes all the info I wish we had known before planning a trip to Dubai. These tips will not only help you plan your trip, but will also show you how to make the best of your visit, time, and budget. Find out!

Top 5 Experiences in Dubai:

• Burj Khalifa (book in advance + opt for the level 148 ticket for priority access).
• Desert Safari.
• Museum of the Future (book well in advance!).
• Luxury Yacht Tour .
• Abu Dhabi Day Trip .

Here are our top travel tips for visiting Dubai:

1. Avoid Traveling in Summer

Dubai is known for its scorching temperatures, especially during the summer months. To give you an idea, average daytime temperatures during June, July, and August are well over 40°C (104°F). Even in April or November, Dubai temperatures usually still exceed 30°C (86°F).

The best time to visit Dubai is during the winter months – between December and February. The daytime temperatures at this time of the year are usually around 25°C (77°F). So it’s still warm enough to enjoy beaches, pools, and waterparks, but the temperatures are also pleasant for sightseeing and outdoor activities.

Good to know: Winter is also the peak tourist season in Dubai. So expect accommodation prices to be higher and more crowds at the main attractions. However, with some advance planning and preparation, you can still have a very enjoyable visit, more than in the summer.

The shoulder season – the months of March-April or October-November – can be a good time to visit Dubai as well. If you don’t mind temperatures of around 30-35°C (86-95°F), you can take advantage of somewhat lower prices and fewer crowds than in the winter.

In addition, you may want to check when Ramadan is. During this month, most Muslims do not eat from sunrise to sunset, so many restaurants will be closed during the day. This may might impact your experience, depending on the places you visit.

TIP: No matter when you visit Dubai, be prepared for the heat by wearing lightweight, breathable clothing, using sun protection, and staying hydrated. Plan outdoor activities for the early morning or late afternoon to avoid the peak heat.

READ ALSO: What It’s Like to Visit Dubai in February

2. Book Attraction Tickets in Advance

One of the biggest mistakes you can make when planning a trip to Dubai is not to plan/book attraction tickets in advance.

Booking in advance means more time slots to choose from, better prices, and less time wasted queuing.  After all, you want to make the most of your trip to Dubai and not spend all your precious time standing in lines.

Good to know: Tickets to many popular attractions in Dubai are often sold out at least a few days in advance. Furthermore, many tickets are cheaper if booked online. In addition, some attraction tickets, e.g. Atlantis Aquaventure , cost less if you book at least a week before your visit.

For some places, not reserving in advance means that you won’t be able to visit at all.  For example, the Museum of the Future is so popular that all tickets are usually sold out at least 2-3 weeks upfront. If you want to be able to choose the time slot that fits you best, you need to book at least a month in advance.

If you want to visit observation decks at Burj Khalifa or Dubai Frame , you also need to book ahead. In most cases, a few days in advance is sufficient, but it really depends on the period when you travel and how flexible you are. Also, consider visiting these attractions early in the morning or late in the evening for smaller crowds and better photo opportunities.

PRO TIP: For Burj Khalifa, we recommend getting a ticket that includes Level 148 . Not only you get to visit another level which is not included with standard tickets, but you also get skip-the-line access through the security check and at the elevators, and it includes some snacks and drinks. It’s well worth it.

Overall, we always recommend booking tickets and tours at least a month before your trip. But keep in mind that for many popular destinations worldwide booking a month or even two upfront is not sufficient anymore.

Tickets don’t get cheaper and there’s less availability the longer you wait. Plus, if you use GetYourG u ide for all attraction tickets and tours like we do, you can take advantage of their very flexible cancelation policy.

Good to know: Booking tickets/tours via websites like GetYourGuide , Viator , or Tiqets also saves you money on exchange rates. The exchange rate they use is the official rate and transactions are in your currency. Whereas if you pay on the spot, it will usually cost you quite a lot more (not only because many tickets are more expensive at the counter, but also because of credit card fees, exchange rate deviations, etc.).

Plus, booking and paying ahead makes it easier to budget for your vacation and keep your credit card’s spending limit available for other expenses during your trip.

READ ALSO: Top Places to See & Things to Do in Dubai

3. Foresee Enough Time & Plan Wisely

There is one thing that you may not realize as a first-time visitor to Dubai and that’s how huge the city is. It’s not a place that you can compare to cities like Rome or London , or even New York City where you can still walk between many attractions and see a lot in a short time…

Dubai is totally different! It’s big, not really walkable (except in some areas), and the attractions are spread out all over the enormous and ever-growing city.

Plus, road works and traffic jams turn every ride into an expedition. The same trip that takes 20 minutes at night or early in the morning can take you an hour or even longer during the day. And yes, public transport can be a good option, but it also has its limitations – more about it further below.

Good to know: When planning your sightseeing itinerary, you will see that most Dubai attractions work with timed entry slots. Be sure to foresee plenty of extra time everywhere though! Even with timed entry tickets, you will often be standing in line for an hour or even longer, not to mention the time that it takes to actually visit the place or get from one attraction to the other.

TIP: So while planning what to see and do, foresee enough extra time between the sights and don’t try to do too much in a single day. Also, group the attractions based on their location, and go for a mix of top attractions with some lesser-known ones. That way, you don’t have to rush from one queue to another and your trip will be much more relaxed.

This brings us to the next tip – see below.

4. Don’t Try to See Everything

There is so much to see and do in Dubai that you could easily stay here for a few months and still not experience everything the area has to offer. So resist FOMO and the urge of having to see ‘everything’. It’s simply impossible, especially if you are only traveling to Dubai for just a few days or a week.

TIP: Choose a few places, attractions, and experiences that interest you the most and focus on those rather than ticking off boxes just because some guidebook told you that one or the other place is ‘a must’.

If you absolutely want to go to the top of Burj Khalifa, well – just do it and tick it off your bucket list. After all, how often will you get a chance to visit the world’s tallest building… In that case, book tickets in advance and be prepared to queue, or save time and avoid the crowds with priority access .

On the other hand, maybe you are perfectly content just seeing the building from the outside and rather spend your time visiting other viewing platforms like Sky Views , the View at The Palm , or Dubai Frame …

Or maybe you don’t care about any of these at all and much rather spend a day at a water park , exploring the old town souks (markets), or enjoying the views from a luxury yacht …

Dubai has so much to offer to all types of travelers. So personalize your itinerary based on what you really want to do, taking into account the time that you have, your interests, and your budget. If you are visiting Dubai with the family, try to incorporate some fun activities for the kids in your itinerary as well, even if it means that you’ll have less time for sightseeing.

READ ALSO: Dubai Itinerary (detailed guide for a week in Dubai)

5. Consider Tours & Private Drivers

If you want to see a lot of Dubai in a short time or you don’t know where to even start deciding where to go, consider booking tours or private guides/drivers .

Sometimes, a private driver can also be cheaper than taking a taxi between all those places, and often, you can also find cars that can take up to 6 passengers (vs 4 in most taxis).

Just to be clear, I am talking about quickly seeing multiple places all over the city in a single day. If you want to spend more time exploring the sites, you better go on your own.

There are tons of different ‘city highlights’ tours that bring you to many of the main landmarks of Dubai in (half) a day. Keep in mind that in most cases, your ‘visit’ will be just a quick photo stop, so it’s not comparable to actually visiting the sights. But it’s a good way to get an introduction to Dubai and catch a glimpse of the top spots.

PRO TIP: If you do a city highlights tour, do it at the beginning of your trip! That way, you can later come back to some of the places that you like the most. An ideal way to explore Dubai is to take an introductory city tour first as you arrive and then thoroughly visiting some of the main landmarks and attractions on your own later.

Abu Dhabi day trip tip: One of the best guided tours we recently did in Dubai was this highly-rated tour. If you want to see the top sights of Abu Dhabi in a day, this tour has by far the best itinerary (I compared many tours before we chose this one and it didn’t disappoint).

READ ALSO: Best Abu Dhabi Tours from Dubai (+Review of the Tour We Chose)

6. Save Time & Money with Combination Tickets

Dubai is expensive, there is no arguing about it. But with some smart planning, you can save some money on some of the main attractions.

One of the best ways to do this is by opting for combination tickets and/or city cards that include several popular places.

Here are some of the most popular deals:

• Burj Khalifa + Dubai Aquarium (+-$20 savings per person).
• Atlantis Aquaventure + Lost Chambers Aquarium (+-$25-30 savings per person).
• GoCity Explorer Pass (up to 50% savings, depending on the attractions you visit).

Good to know: Some tickets cost more during the most popular times. For example, Burj Khalifa around sunset. So if you want to save money, be sure to check prices for different time slots/days when making reservations.

7. Stay Longer

You might be wondering how much time you need to see the best of Dubai. Well, there is really no straightforward answer to this and so much depends on your interests.

That being said, I recommend planning at least a week for a first visit to Dubai. But if you have time and your budget allows it, stay longer. You won’t get bored!

With a week in Dubai, you will be able to visit most of the top landmarks, explore several different parts of the city, and also find some time to relax and unwind. If you want to spend more time at the beach or by the pool, visit a water park or a theme park with your kids, or make a day trip to Abu Dhabi, ideally, you plan at least 10-12 days for Dubai.

But don’t worry if your trip is shorter and you can’t extend it. You can have a perfectly enjoyable visit and see a lot even if you only have a day or two in Dubai. Via the link below, you can find plenty of ideas for planning a shorter visit.

LEARN MORE: Dubai Stopover: How to See The Best of Dubai in 1-2 Days

8. Choose the Location of Your Hotel Wisely

Deciding where to stay in Dubai might not be as straightforward as you may think, especially if the main purpose of your visit is to explore the city.

There is not one perfect place to stay in Dubai – it’s simply much too big and too spread out for that.

However, some areas are better than others and some are really a disaster for commute. If you pick the wrong location, you might be stuck in traffic for hours every time you want to go anywhere and do some sightseeing. On the other hand, that same spot might be perfect for those who are mainly interested in swimming and dining, and are just looking for a relaxing vacation with maybe one or two excursions that include a pick-up and drop-off at the hotel…

TIP: I strongly recommend that you look at the map and the location of the places that you want to visit before deciding where to stay in Dubai. Also, consider how you will travel around.

For example, staying within walking distance of a metro station might save you a lot of time and money on commuting if you plan to do lots of sightseeing. Whereas staying in a nice walkable area with lots of shops and restaurants will be ideal if you like to go out at night.

Here are two of the very best areas to stay in Dubai:

• Dubai Downtown (the area around Dubai Mall – Burj Khalifa) is very central and is perfect for those who want to do a lot of sightseeing, but also for shopping and dining. Sofitel Dubai Downtown is a great choice in this area, close to Dubai Mall and just near a metro station. Remember, however, that this is the heart of the city, so very busy and far from the sea.
• Dubai Marina in the south of the city is another popular area to stay in Dubai. It’s a great choice for those who are looking for a more relaxing vacation, boat trips, water parks, dining, shopping, etc. The beach is not too far from here, however, it will take at least 45-60 minutes to reach the city center. Millennium Place is a very popular hotel not too far from the main Marina area and close to the metro. On a somewhat higher budget, JW Marriott Hotel Marina is a wonderful choice if you want to be in the heart of the Marina.

TIP: On our most recent visit to Dubai, we stayed at Rove La Mer Beach Hotel . It’s close to the downtown area, so quite convenient for sightseeing, but also with direct access to a private beach – the best of both worlds. We loved this hip modern hotel, also because it’s much smaller and more intimate – a kind of place where you don’t have to worry about losing your kids at breakfast. It also offers great price/quality for Dubai. The only downside is that the area around the hotel is still developing with lots of construction going on, but it will only get more attractive in the future.

9. Beware of Tourism Taxes

Hotel stays (including hotel apartments, guesthouses, holiday homes, etc.) in the United Arab Emirates are taxed with various fees, surcharges, and taxes. These amounts might vary depending on the hotel, but it’s not abnormal that these taxes add over 20-25% to your room rate.

For example, our recent hotel invoice in Dubai showed a 10% service charge, 7% municipality fees, 5 % VAT, and an additional 10 AED (+-$3) Tourism Dirham Fee per night.

Altogether, we paid about 24,4% on top of the official room rate. The good thing is that we knew in advance how much we had to pay. Otherwise, this could be a very unpleasant surprise…

So when looking for accommodation in Dubai and comparing prices, make sure that you are actually comparing the same thing!

Many hotel websites show prices without (some/any) taxes, so you may think that booking directly with them is cheaper. Often, it’s not the case at all!

TIP: We always use Booking.com for our accommodation bookings, also in Dubai. With them, you see the total price, including all fees and taxes, so you know exactly how much you will spend. (Depending on booking conditions, you may have to prepay for the stay in advance whereas the taxes are charged separately when you arrive at the hotel, but the total amount you see when making a reservation is correct).

10. Use Public Transport & Local Taxis

Dubai’s public transport system is efficient and inexpensive. Depending on where you are staying and traveling to, it might be very convenient to use the Dubai Metro, Tram, Monorail, or even local buses.

However, this depends on the exact trip you are planning to make and also on the size of your group. Sometimes, public transport is the best way to get around the city quickly and affordably. But there are also many situations when it’s a real hassle and doesn’t make your trip faster or much cheaper.

In those cases, you will be glad to know that taxis are rather affordable in Dubai . The most expensive taxi ride we recently took in Dubai was 25 kilometers, it took over 50 minutes, and it cost us 76 AED (+-$21).

However, be careful that you only use official taxis! Because e.g. Uber is often quite a lot more expensive. Not even to mention that they sometimes charge twice the price during peak times of increased demand. We learned this the hard way, after taking a few overpriced Uber rides…

Also, unlike in many other countries where we use Uber all the time, in Dubai, you never really know how much you will pay until the end of the ride. The price you see in the beginning is usually just an approximate indication.

TIP: Install Careem app on your smartphone and use it to request ‘Hala Taxi’. That’s the best way to get an official taxi in Dubai. If you request ‘Rides’, it works similar as Uber and is more expensive. We learned this from a local taxi driver after a few very unpleasant experiences with Uber and private drivers randomly offering their services at the main tourist spots, and it saved us a fortune.

To give you an idea, we were quoted 120 AED ($33) by Uber and 150 AED ($40) by random ‘kind strangers’ for a ride that in the end cost us 22 AED ($6) by official taxi. When it comes to busy times and popular tourist hotspots, getting a taxi ride in Dubai can feel like navigating the Wild West…

LEARN MORE: Tourist Guide to Dubai Public Transport

11. Start Your Days Early

One of the best ways to make the most out of your trip to Dubai is to start your days early.

There’s much less traffic in the morning, so you can get everywhere much quicker. But the main advantage is that there are hardly any other people, even at the most popular attractions. In addition – if you are visiting Dubai in the warmest months – getting up early is the best way to avoid the biggest heat.

Good to know: Be sure to check opening times of the places you want to visit. While some attractions don’t open until noon, many others are open from 9-10 AM. There are also places – like e.g. Burj Khalifa – that you can visit at 7 AM, and on some days even earlier if you like…

For example, we recently went to the Aquaventure Water Park at Atlantis around opening time. There were no lines at the entrance and we could also do many popular slides without any wait. A few hours later, people were queuing for 45-60 minutes at the same rides…

In addition, the taxi ride to get there in the morning took us just 22 minutes. That same ride to get back to our hotel in the evening was over 50 minutes, not counting more than 10 minutes for a taxi to arrive… So yes, it really pays to explore Dubai in the morning!

READ ALSO: Tips & Tricks for Visiting Atlantis Aquaventure

12. Stay Connected

While pretty much all public places and tourist attractions in Dubai offer free Wi-Fi, we highly recommend getting a local SIM card for your visit to UAE. There are so many situations when it’s just much easier to stay connected. For example, if you need to book a taxi ride, or book some tickets on the go, etc.

Depending on your data plan, roaming can cost a fortune in Dubai. My provider sent me an sms saying that using data in UAE will cost me 15 euros per megabyte (ouch! and no, thank you!). So the first thing I did after landing in Dubai was disconnect roaming.

There are several ways to approach this:

• Pocket Wi-Fi. One of the easiest ways to stay connected on the go is by renting a pocket WiFi at Dubai airport . This is a very convenient option if you don’t want to change anything on your phone. It’s also convenient if you are traveling with a family/friends since you can connect up to 10 devices to it.
• Local SIM card. Alternatively, you can opt opt for a physical SIM card, which is also available at the airport . With this option, you will need to place this card into your phone. If you want to keep your ‘own’ phone number working as well, see if your phone has a dual SIM option – then you can use both. Otherwise, you may want to bring an old phone to use with this local card.
• eSIM. There are many providers available (just search online), but what’s included and the prices vary a lot. Depending on which one you choose and also on your device, this can be a very easy and simple process, but it’s also not very straightforward if you have never done it before. Also, not all phones allow eSIM – so be sure to double-check if your smartphone has this capability.

13. Respect Local Culture

While Dubai is a very cosmopolitan city, it’s also a place with different cultural norms and traditions. Overall, UAE is very ‘Western’ and Dubai in particular is very laid back and relaxed. With over 200 nationalities living in Dubai, it’s a true melting pot of different cultures. Still, remember that you are a visitor here, and be respectful.

Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites or public places. Also, avoid public displays of affection, as these can be considered disrespectful.

If you’re visiting during Ramadan, be mindful of local customs and traditions. Keep in mind that many traditional restaurants and cafes will be closed during the day but will come to life after sunset. If you are visiting during Ramadan and are planning sightseeing during the day or a day trip to e.g. Abu Dhabi, it’s advisable to pack your own lunch.

One of the most common questions we get is what to wear when traveling to Dubai. Well, you will see people wearing all kinds of clothing – from burkas that cover the entire body to revealing summer clothes that hardly cover much at all. However, while a lot is tolerated, it’s not always appreciated.

So when in doubt, remember that it’s always safer to cover your knees and shoulders. See-through clothing is also not the best idea, unless on a beach.

TIP: Wear loose light clothes – not as much for religious or cultural reasons, but also because of the heat. Long skirts/dresses or wide summer pants will be much more comfortable than tight clothes.

LEARN MORE: What to Wear in Dubai

14. Use Credit Cards

The official currency in Dubai is the United Arab Emirates Dirham (AED) and all the prices are displayed in this currency. All regular businesses accept cash and electronic means of payment, such as credit cards or smartphone payments.

We haven’t encountered a single place in Dubai that wouldn’t accept a credit card. So if you want to make it easy and simple for yourself, you don’t even need to exchange money and can simply use cards everywhere.

Important! Inform your bank about your visit so that they don’t block your cards for ‘suspicious activity’. And even then… Despite precautions, one of my cards got blocked by a credit card company after a random payment at a restaurant in one of the main malls in Dubai. We had to call the bank to get them to unblock it again and they say that this happens when ‘the systems’ suspect anything suspicious, despite us having notified our bank in advance…

If you want to leave a tip to someone or purchase something small, you may want to have some local currency at hand. In that case, you can get some cash from local ATMs which you will find in malls all over the city. I strongly encourage you to only use ATMs attached to local bank offices as some others might charge additional fees and/or give the worst exchange rates.

PRO TIP: When using ATMs to withdraw money or paying by card, you always get an option between local currency (AED) and your own currency. Always choose local currency (AED) – that way, your bank will do the exchange and you will always get a better rate than the one offered by ATMs or pay terminals.

Good to know: We heard it on quite a few occasions that money is king in Dubai and it doesn’t matter in which currency you want to pay – they will accept it. Indeed, this is the case at the markets (souks) and some smaller private businesses. On a recent trip to Dubai, I could use Euros at the souk. The sellers also told us that they accept credit cards (just make sure to haggle – see below).

15. Shop Smart

Dubai is a shopper’s paradise, but prices can vary a lot depending on where you shop. The prestigious locations like the Dubai Mall are home to some of the most expensive brands in the world and the prices here are usually very high. You will be able to find much better deals at the Dubai Outlet Mall, for example.

Also, if you go to various local markets (souks), be sure to shop around for better deals. Also, don’t forget to haggle – and not a little! Many sellers take advantage of tourists asking ridiculously high prices. Often, 3-4 times higher than what you should pay, and likely even more… Don’t be shy, offer the price that seems correct to you, and be prepared to walk away.

On a recent trip, I got intrigued by a perfume someone put on me while walking through the Dubai Spice Souk (this is common practice – people will (try to) put all kinds of stuff on you – from scarfs to perfumes etc.). So I asked how much it was. The prices depend on the size and the design of the bottle, they said, and so we settled on a medium-sized simple bottle and they told me it was 280 AED (+- 70 euros).

No way I would pay 70 euros for a tiny bottle of perfume at a market! And so we started the negotiations. In the end, I paid 20 euros in cash which – to me – felt like a correct price. The seller was telling me that this was way too low and he was only willing to do it because it was our last day in Dubai and my kids were cute… 😉

After that, I saw similar perfumes at Dubai Airport souvenir store and indeed, most of them were about 20-25 euros for about the same size I got. So don’t be afraid to negotiate and if you don’t feel comfortable with the price or the quality, simply walk away.

16. Explore Beyond the Glitz

While Dubai is best known for its skyscrapers and extravagant landmarks, don’t miss out on its cultural gems as well.

One of the best places to catch a glimpse of authentic culture is Old Dubai. Visit the historic Al Fahidi neighborhood, explore the spice and gold souks, and take a traditional abra ride along Dubai Creek. These experiences are also quite touristy, but they are also totally different from the main attractions in Dubai.

TIP: There are many excellent guided tours that visit Old Dubai . They all take you to the same area, do the traditional boat ride on Dubai Creek, and visit the same local markets. Most tours also include local coffee and dades, and some also food tasting. While you can just visit the area on your own, these tours are really affordable and give you a somewhat deeper insight and insider tips.

On our recent visit, we chose this walking/food tour . It started with some traditional food tasting at a local restaurant, followed by a visit to the old town, a boat ride, and ended at the gold and spice souks. A nice way to spend a few hours and get to know a different side of the city.

READ ALSO: Best Tours in Dubai

17. Avoid Weekends

If you think Dubai is busy on a weekday, try to imagine it on a weekend or on public holidays.

So if you can adjust your plans, avoid visiting the most popular attractions on weekends (Friday afternoon, Saturday, and Sunday).

If you are in Dubai for more than a few days, this is really not difficult to do. Visit the most popular places such as Burj Khalifa, Dubai Mall, Global Village , Miracle Garden , or theme parks and water parks on weekdays.

On weekends, you can do more relaxing activities such as a sightseeing a yacht trip , a speedboat tour , spend time at the beach or by the pool, go parasailing or jetskiing , or take a desert tour – see below.

18. Experience the Desert

No trip to Dubai would be complete without experiencing its desert. Book a desert safari tour for an adrenaline-pumping ride over the dunes, followed by a traditional Bedouin-style dinner under the stars. It’s an unforgettable experience!

There are many desert tour options , but when you look closely, they are very similar in what they offer. Depending on the option you book, you have one main activity – usually, dune bashing in a jeep, quad, or camel ride. Afterward, you spend time in a desert camp where you can partake in all kinds of different experiences.

Some of these experiences include taking pictures with falcons and camels, sandboarding, various shows (traditional dance, belly dance, fire show), henna tattoos, etc. There is always lots of local food and it’s surprisingly good.

Our experience: We have done two desert tours in Dubai (on different trips) and they were both very similar and both excellent. The first time we went on this dune safari tour and on a recent trip, we opted for this highly-rated tour that includes a longer camel ride . In both cases, the second part of the tour was quite similar, the main difference was that the first tour included an exhilarating jeep ride through the dunes, and the second one – a 45-minute camel ride.

The whole family really enjoyed these tours and I couldn’t say which one is better. All I can tell you is that it’s a nice experience that will make your trip to Dubai even more memorable.

19. Don’t Forget Little Important Details

Here are some additional travel tips for Dubai:

• Bring a reusable water bottle. Dubai is so warm and dry that you will want to carry a bottle of water on you at all times. If you want to minimize plastic waste, you may want to bring your own reusable water bottle. Tap water is, in general, safe to drink. In addition, you will also see free water taps at some public areas, where you can refill your bottles.
• Pack a travel adapter. UAE uses  Type G  plugs, same as in the UK. However, we noticed that in most hotels you can also simply use European plugs and sometimes a simple USB cable. Still, we always pack a Type G adapter just to be safe.
• Bring a power bank to charge your phone on the go. Also, carry extra batteries for your camera.
• Know that you are not obliged to tip, but it’s also appreciated. Many people tip 10-15% at the restaurants or give a small tip to tour guides. If you like to tip, make sure you have some small bills of local currency.
• Bring a small crossbody bag for sightseeing. At some landmarks, you will be asked to leave bigger bags/backpacks in a locker. I like Hedgren crossbody bags for travel – they are light, sturdy, and very durable. The one I have is big enough to hold my camera, a power bank, documents, and even two water bottles, and I was never asked to use a locker. But pack the smallest backpack and you’ll often have to leave it behind…
• Don’t forget sun protection. A sun hat, sunscreen lotion, and sunglasses are a must when visiting Dubai!

So, these are some of the most useful travel tips for Dubai that you may want to know when traveling to this fascinating city for the first time. I hope that this helps you make the most of your visit.

Have a great trip!

Before you go, you may want to learn a bit more about Dubai with some surprising and interesting facts that will leave you fascinated and eager to explore more. Check it out: Fun & Interesting Facts About Dubai .

More tips for visiting Dubai:

• Budget:  How Expensive is Dubai
• Getting around:  Public Transport in Dubai
• With kids:  Best Things to Do in Dubai with Kids
• Fun to do:  Best Free & Cheap Things to Do in Dubai

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Friday 23rd of February 2024

Thanks for the article. It is very informative.

Glad to help. Have a great time in Dubai!

Weather & Climate

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Currency in Dubai

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48-Hour Itinerary

Day Trips From Dubai

Top Things to See & Do

Free Things to Do in Dubai

Things to Do at Palm Jumeirah

Best Museums

Best Beaches in Dubai

Dubai's Coolest Architecture

Adventure Activities

Dubai Marina

Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque

Jumeirah Mosque

Must-Try Food

Best Restaurants

Nightlife in Dubai

Best Time to Visit

The Best Time to Visit Dubai

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The best time to visit Dubai is from October through April, due to the cooler temperatures compared to during the summer months. You’ll find plenty of festivals to attend, beautiful beaches to escape to at that time of year, and hotel deals during this peak travel time.

No matter when you decide to go, use this guide to help plan your trip to Dubai to experience the commanding skyscrapers, superlative shopping malls , and unique cultural experiences.

Weather in Dubai

While many people have the time to travel during the summer months, Dubai can be a challenge for those who aren’t used to extreme temperatures. In the summer months from the last week of April to early October, the weather can be unbearably hot. Temperatures can range on average from 100 degrees F to 106 degrees F during this time.

Fall is a prime time to visit Dubai between September through November, as temperatures become more bearable with highs in the low 80s to high 90s.

Popular Events and Festivals

Dubai is home to many festivals and events throughout the year. Emirati culture is firm on bringing people together, especially families, during religious holidays such as Ramadan and EID. There are also plenty of festivals for tourists to enjoy throughout the year.

During the winter, there are a great deal of festivals and events such as Dubai’s National Day and other holidays to enjoy. It’s prime travel time to Dubai from locals in other GCC regions and from further abroad. Therefore, it’s best to get a head start on booking accommodations early. There are hundreds of hotel options in Dubai, but it’s best to book months in advance to get the best deals. See a detailed list of events from month to month below.

Tourist Attractions in Dubai

Most popular tourist attractions are available year-round in Dubai such as the souks (outdoor shopping markets), the Burj Khalifa, and the Dubai Mall. Depending on the time of year, certain attractions aren’t ideal, such as a desert safari, where you go dune bashing, or even Dinner in the Sky . The extreme summer temps from June through August make it impossible to enjoy certain outdoor activities. Dinner in the Sky, for example, is not available during the summer months because no one wants to sit close to the sun when it’s 100 degrees F outside.

Also, take into consideration holy months and holidays such as Ramadan. Many things that you would be able to do throughout the year will not be available during the day, such as eating in public at most restaurants since locals fast during the day. Certain upscale places will make an exception for tourists, such as Gordon Ramsay’s Bread Street Kitchen, located in Atlantis the Palm , which opts to have black-out curtains so outsiders can’t see guests eating during the day for Ramadan.

January is the tail-end of peak season to travel in Dubai due to the mild temperatures, and it is also the cheapest time to visit Dubai. Tourists can enjoy sunny days and bright blue skies during high season.

Events to check out:

• January is ideal for shoppers, as the Dubai Shopping Festival involves most shops and malls in the city.
• The charitable event, Dubai Marathon, also runs in January, where participants pay a small fee to partake.

Still high season in Dubai, February brings with it fairly cooler evenings and a bit of rain. It’s an ideal time to enjoy outdoor activities such as desert safaris and relaxing by the beach.

• The Dubai International Jazz Festival is an annual event that is held at Dubai Media City. It has featured jazz and pop icons such as Mariah Carey, John Legend, and Toto.

In March, temperatures begin to climb higher, but it is still reasonable enough to enjoy the many activities and events that Dubai offers. The average temperature in March is around 83 degrees F with moderate amounts of rain and wind.

• One of the most prominent art shows is hosted in March, the annual Art Dubai festival. Art lovers from near and far flock to the city to enjoy innovative artwork from local talents, as well as displays at contemporary art galleries around the city.
• Tourists can enjoy a bit of the luxurious life at the Dubai World Cup . It is held at the Nad Al Sheba Racecourse and features the world's best horses, trainers, and jockeys.
• The Dubai Food Festival starts this month and extends into April, as it hosts a massive celebration of gastronomic delights from around the world. With offers like dining deals during Dubai restaurant week, masterclasses, and the culinary event Hidden Gems throughout the city, foodies will be in their element.

On the other end of peak season in Dubai is in April, when crowds start to lessen out but hotel prices are still relatively high. The days start to get longer with average sunlight of 10 hours and temperatures in the low 90s.

• Held at the Dubai World Trade Center, The Middle East Film and Comic Con (MEFCC) plays host to one of the biggest pop culture festivals in the world. It features music, celebrities, and art exhibitions from all over the globe to celebrate film and gaming entertainment.
• In late April is the Children’s International Film Festival , which promotes young people in the filmmaking industry. Award-winning filmmakers have screened their films at the event.

May is the start of shoulder-season, just before the extreme summer heat rolls in but still a pretty warm time to visit Dubai. It is possible to find more hotel bargains during this time. It’s a great time to enjoy the beaches, which are less crowded than during high-season.

Event to check out: The annual Al Gaffal Dhow Race occurs in early May. The race involves nearly 100 traditional wooden boats and draws nearly 3,000 participants who sail the glistening waters of the Arabian Gulf.

June is typically marked by Ramadan and warm summer temps in Dubai. Tourists will be immersed in Muslim culture during Ramadan when locals fast during the day and break fast at sunset. Be prepared for afternoon closures at shops and not being able to eat or drink in public, unless a restaurant has blocked off views to the public.

Event to check out: When Ramadan falls in June, the Ramadan Night Market takes place in this month for 10 days. It features a range of brands in some 300 outlets with deals and sales galore. Dates vary by year so check the calendar before booking your trip.

The month of July brings about more hot temperatures and steamy, sunny days. The average temperature in July is around 105 degrees F with about 11 hours of daylight.

Event to check out: Dubai Summer Surprises is a month-long celebration where the city offers reduced hotel rates, discounts on shopping, and fun family-friendly activities for locals and tourists alike to enjoy during the hot summer months.

Extreme heat persists and the humidity calls for hot, sticky experiences outside. August is the hottest month of the year, bringing about temps well into the 110 to 115 degree F range on average.

Event to check out: An indoor movie event is a welcomed reprieve to the hot temps in Dubai in August. Check out the South Indian International Movie Awards , which features the biggest names in South Indian entertainment.

September is the start of the fall season when temperatures in Dubai begin their descent to pleasant levels for doing outdoor activities. Fall brings about less humidity, but still long sunny days.

As one of the more pleasant times to enjoy outdoor activities in Dubai, October has temperatures averaging in the mid-90s during the day and lows in the 70s in the evenings.

Event to check out:

October is the start of the camel racing season in Dubai. It draws crowds of Emiratis and tourists alike, usually being held on Friday and Saturday mornings at Al Marmoom Camel Race Track.

GITEX Week is a technology event featuring ground-breaking events displaying the latest in tech by startups and pioneering companies.

Cooler temperatures in the 80s and minimal to no rainfall awaits visitors to Dubai in the month of November.

Event to check out: Located in the Dubai Design District (D3), is the annual Dubai Design Week . It hosts local creatives to showcase designer exhibitions and installations.

December is one of the most popular months to visit Dubai with stunning winter temperatures in the 70s. It’s the holiday season for locals and visitors from around the globe.

• UAE's National Day is celebrated in December. Enjoy an array of activities to mark Dubai’s independence like fireworks displays, concerts, and gatherings throughout the city.
• Sponsored by Emirates Airlines, the annual Dubai Rugby Sevens tournament brings crowds from around the globe to root for their favorite rugby teams. 

October to April are the best months to visit Dubai, when the weather is warm but not unbearably hot. December is one of the best months to visit Dubai, but it's also crowded.

Summer is long and sweltering in Dubai, with frequent triple-digit temperatures from May to September. The days are so hot that it's hard to do much of anything.

Dubai is very dry year-round and rarely sees rains. The little rainfall that does occur happens almost exclusively in the milder winter months.

Weather Spark. "Average Weather in Dubai, United Arab Emirates Year Round." Retrieved March 22, 2021

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Central Dubai is 11 km away from Dubai.

What is the name of Dubai’s airport?

There is only 1 airport in Dubai, called Dubai (DXB). It can also be referred to as Dubai Intl.

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United Arab Emirates to Dubai Intl

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Dubai Intl to United Arab Emirates

Top airline flying to dubai.

Food could have been better Entertainment was absent even in Business Class

I like it very much. Gulf Air is always the topper rank of the world. I love it very much.

The drinks should come before food. Unable to have any fluid unless after food. Thanks

Gulfair were on top form and everything went as planned

The entertainment on board was really poor. The map doesn’t give enough information and the movies have arabic subtitles, you can’t choose. The stuff wasn’t very friendly and the breakfast really poor. The food must not be spicy! They didn’t have enough drinks.

Aereo nuovissimo e con tanti servizi malgrado la durata del volo Spazio per le gambe ridottk

It was a great experience, can’t wait to do it again soon!!

Aircraft was new and comfertable .on time. Cabin crews, which I got english language pronounce was very difficult to understand .ovee all ok flight

The boarding at Heathrow is chaotic. That's partly due to the lack of space and seating at gate 8, and a Qatar flight from gate 9 at the same time. That's down to Heathrow rather than Gulf Air. I've had a similar experience here before. Another problem which isn't specific to Gulf Air or Heathrow is announcements, and those for boarding in particular. They are difficult to hear with all the other noise and for me with hearing problems it's even worse. A simple tv screen would help, so long as it's updated of course.

This itineray had to be cancelled as the connection time in Paris was only 55 min which is below the 90 min required by Paris airport. Nether Chat deal/Kayak, nor Gulf air nor American Air picked on that. I called American Air for unrelated question was then told that boarding would be denied due to the short connection time. This should have been an automatic notification from Chat deal/ Kayak or Gulf air and itinery cancelled. What is the point of inconveniencing the passenger?? The return has still not be refunded. Shame on Gulf Air, very poor customer service for an airline that has so good flight crew!

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• Passports, travel and living abroad
• Travel abroad
• Foreign travel advice

United Arab Emirates

Warnings and insurance.

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) provides advice about risks of travel to help British nationals make informed decisions. Find out more about FCDO travel advice . 

Before you travel 

No travel can be guaranteed safe. Read all the advice in this guide as well as support for British nationals abroad which includes: 

• advice on preparing for travel abroad and reducing risks 
• information for women, LGBT+ and disabled travellers

Follow and contact FCDO travel on Twitter , Facebook and Instagram . You can also sign up to get email notifications when this advice is updated. 

Travel insurance 

If you choose to travel, research your destinations and get appropriate travel insurance . Insurance should cover your itinerary, planned activities and expenses in an emergency.

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UAE travel advice: is it safe to travel to Dubai right now?

Everything you need to know about travel to the country following iran’s military action against israel, including foreign office advice and any warnings.

T ensions are ratcheting up in the Middle East. On April 19, Israel reportedly launched a retaliatory attack on Iran , in response to missile and drone attacks on Israel on April 13. The UK Foreign Office has not changed its advice on travelling to the UAE as a result but it has stated that it’s more important than ever to get travel insurance and check that it provides sufficient cover. Previously, on March 25, the Foreign Office updated its travel advice for the UAE to reflect a change in the terror threat level in the Middle Eastern country. While it’s still considered safe to travel to, the terror threat level is now considered high, with travellers warned to “remain vigilant at all times”.

Unprecedented flooding is also causing disruption in the emirate, as 18 months’ worth of rain fell in just a day, disrupting operations at Dubai airport and stranding thousands.

The UAE is home to the two most popular Middle Eastern tourist destinations, Dubai and Abu Dhabi, which have dazzling cities, vast deserts and gorgeous beaches. In Dubai, you can see the world’s tallest skyscraper, resort hotels that compete in extravagance and dinky wooden boats that still ply the creek. Abu Dhabi, while smaller and less glitzy, has thrilling theme parks and stunning architecture. Just inland lies the desert from which all of this sprang — providing visitors with a sense of life in the tented camps of pre-oil days. Here’s what you need to know about whether it is safe to travel to the UAE right now.

What’s the latest advice about travelling to the UAE?

The Foreign Office does not advise against travelling to the UAE. However, on March 25, its travel advice for the Middle Eastern country was updated to reflect a change in the terror threat levels in the country.

It said: “There is a high threat of terrorist attack globally affecting UK interests and British nationals, including from groups and individuals who view the UK and British nationals as targets. You should remain vigilant at all times.”

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Regarding the UAE in particular, the Foreign Office said: “Terrorists continue to issue statements threatening to carry out attacks in the Gulf region. These include references to attacks on Western interests, including against UK citizens.”

It said that possible targets may include hotels, beaches, restaurants and shopping centres.

In addition, the Foreign Office has warned that the situation in the UAE could change at short notice following the joint strikes by US and UK forces on Houthi bases in Yemen since January 2024. It said: “Military activity is currently underway in response to attempts by Houthi militants to prevent movement of international shipping in the Red Sea. While the area of activity is limited to the Red Sea and Yemen, there is a possibility that travel advice for nearby countries could change at short notice. You should continue to monitor travel advice and follow any relevant instructions from local authorities.”

Has Dubai been affected by the Israel-Hamas conflict?

Dubai , Abu Dhabi and the rest of the United Arab Emirates are not affected by the conflict between Israel and Hamas.

Here’s what you need to know about the travel advice for neighbouring countries

• Is it safe to travel to Israel right now? • Is it safe to travel to Turkey right now? • Is it safe to travel to Egypt right now? • Is it safe to travel to Cyprus right now? • Is it safe to travel to Jordan right now?

How bad are the floods in Dubai and should I avoid travelling?

Life in the emirate was disrupted after 18 months’ worth of rain fell in a single day, causing flights to be diverted and cars to be submerged.

At least 23 flights had been due to leave British airports for Dubai on Wednesday, April 17, but they were among 300 cancelled — representing more than 10,000 seats, according to Cirium, the aviation analysts.

Dubai rarely sees this sort of inclement weather, and it can make the roads very slippery — but there’s no reason, beyond a delayed or cancelled flight, to avoid travelling because of it. That said, in a city where the beach and the pool are big draws, you may have to rethink your holiday activities if the weather doesn’t clear up.

Are flights still going to Dubai?

Check-in has reopened for Emirates and Fly Dubai flights operating from Dubai international airport’s terminal 3, the airport authority said, but cautioned that services continued to be disrupted and delayed. Terminal 1 has been opened for arriving flights.

Passengers should only travel to the airport when they have a confirmed booking from their airline, and should monitor the situation closely.

Dubai is the world’s busiest airport, and acts as a major hub for services from around the world. It’s likely the disruption will continue for another few days. Dubai airport authority says it is working as quickly as possible to get passengers where they need to be.

Can I travel to Dubai without a visa?

Tourist visas are issued to British passport holders on arrival in Dubai so there’s no need to apply in advance. This will be a stamp applied by immigration officials in your passport. The tourist visa is free and lasts for 30 days.

If you’ve been to Israel in the past and there’s evidence of this in your passport, you can enter the UAE as normal, as long as you don’t intend to do any work. However, if you are planning to work, you may be subject to further checks and entry may be denied.

Can you drink in Dubai?

Visitors and residents can drink at home and in licensed venues such as hotels, restaurants and clubs. Visitors will need a liquor licence to buy alcohol from the two shops that sell alcohol in Dubai, which they can obtain with their passport and entry stamp.

Is Dubai safe for LGBT travellers?

Same-sex activities are illegal in the UAE and same-sex marriages are not recognised in the country. There have been reports of punishment for same-sex activities, particularly where they have caused offence or there’s a public element. The Foreign Office says that the “UAE is in many respects a tolerant society and private life is respected”.

What should I wear in Dubai?

Women should dress modestly when in public, in areas such as shopping malls and parks. This means that clothes should cover the top of the arms and legs, and no underwear or swimwear should be on show. It helps to take a scarf or shawl to cover your shoulders when you need to, for example at religious sites. Swimwear is acceptable if you’re at the beach or a swimming pool.

Get inspired

• Best time to visit Dubai • Best hotels in Dubai • Best family hotels in Dubai • Best villas in Dubai • Best hotels in Abu Dhabi

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$339 Find cheap flights to Dubai

This is the cheapest one-way flight price found by a kayak user in the last 72 hours by searching for a flight to dubai departing on 7/30. fares are subject to change and may not be available on all flights or dates of travel. click the price to replicate the search for this deal., search hundreds of travel sites at once for deals on flights to dubai.

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Cheap flight deals to Dubai

Flights to dubai - travel insights & trends, get data-powered insights and trends for flights to dubai to help you find the cheapest flights, the best time to fly and much more., what is the cheapest flight to dubai.

If traveling to Dubai, the cheapest city to fly from in the last 3 days was Washington, D.C. , with flights as low as $339 one-way and $580 round-trip. Flights from New York are the most searched and start at $580 for a return trip.

How much is a flight to Dubai?

On average, a flight to dubai costs $1,095. the cheapest price found on kayak in the last 2 weeks cost $537 and departed from miami. the most popular routes on kayak are chicago to dubai which costs $1,325 on average, and new york to dubai, which costs $1,344 on average., see prices from:, what is the cheapest day to fly to dubai, based on kayak data, the cheapest day to fly to dubai is tuesday where tickets can be as cheap as $1,044. on the other hand, the most expensive day to fly is saturday, where prices are $1,169 on average., what is the cheapest month to fly to dubai, the cheapest month for flights to dubai is january, where tickets cost $916 on average for one-way flights. on the other hand, the most expensive months are december and june, where the average cost of tickets from the united states is $1,524 and $1,271 respectively. for return trips, the best month to travel is october with an average price of $886., what is the cheapest time of day to fly to dubai, the cheapest time of day to fly to dubai is generally in the evening, when flights cost $737 on average. the most expensive time of day to fly to dubai is generally in the morning, which is peak travel time and where the average cost of a ticket is $1,027., what is a good deal for flights to dubai, if you’re looking for cheap airfare to dubai, 25% of our users found tickets to dubai for the following prices or less: from chicago o'hare intl airport $579 one-way - $1,101 round-trip, from san francisco $608 one-way - $1,161 round-trip, from miami $621 one-way - $986 round-trip., how far in advance should i book a flight to dubai, to get a below average price, you should book around 1 week before departure. for the absolute cheapest price, our data suggests you should book 72 days before departure., how long is the flight to dubai, the duration of your flight to dubai depends on your departure and arrival airports. obviously any flights that include a layover will also be longer. the most popular routes to dubai on kayak are from new york , which takes 12h 30m, newark , which takes 13h 20m, miami , which takes 14h 15m, and san francisco , which takes 15h 35m., how many direct flights to dubai are there each day, there are around 13 direct flights from within united states to dubai every day. most flights depart in the evening, with 5:00 pm the most common departure time and 38% of flights departing in the evening., how many direct flights to dubai are there each week, each week there are around 88 direct flights from within united states to dubai. the most common day for departures is friday, with 15% of flights taking off on this day., how many long-haul flights are there to dubai each week, there are not any medium-haul (3-6 hour flight duration) or short-haul (up to 3 hour flight duration) flights to dubai. instead, there are 88 long-haul flights (6-12 hour flight duration), with the most arriving from new york., how many cities have direct flights to dubai, from the united states, there are direct flights to dubai from 11 cities. the city with the most direct flights is new york, with 21 direct flights each week., good to know, when to book flights to dubai, faqs - booking dubai flights, are there car rentals near dubai international airport (dxb).

Hertz car rental is located at arrivals Terminal 1 and Terminal 3, giving travelers arriving at Dubai International Airport (DXB) enhanced convenience in renting their preferred Hertz car model. Apart from Hertz, you can rent a car from Sixt Rent a Car at Terminal 3 and Europcar at Terminal 1.

What amenities can I enjoy at Dubai International Airport (DXB)?

Located at Terminal 1 on the arrival level and Terminal 3 on the hotel level, the DXB’s business center offers enhanced convenience to business travelers arriving at the airport with some work to do. Mothers traveling with their kids will also enjoy dedicated nursing rooms in the Family Lounge at Terminal 3, where they can change their babies and breastfeed them with guaranteed privacy.

Where can you stay in Dubai to have convenient access to Dubai International Airport (DXB)?

There are several hotels near Dubai International Airport (DXB) where you can book a room for your stay in Dubai. For instance, you can stay at Holiday Inn Express Dubai Airport, an IHG Hotel, which is about 1.7 miles from the airport. If you are traveling with your kids, Premier Inn Dubai International Airport Hotel will be a good place for you to stay once you land in Dubai.

Is there parking at Dubai International Airport (DXB)?

Yes, there are affordable and convenient parking facilities for everyone at Dubai International Airport (DXB). You will be able to get a choice of premium and economy parking at Terminals 2 and Terminal 1.

How can I get from Dubai International Airport (DXB) to Atlantis Aquaventure Waterpark?

To get from Dubai International Airport (DXB) to Atlantis Aquaventure Waterpark, you will need to either take the metro (red line) or take a private taxi or car. The trip via metro will take about one hour and 48 minutes. Or, you can get there in less than 30 minutes via taxi or car.

What kind of services do the Dubai airports offer?

Dubai International Airport (DXB) offers a variety of services including showers, Muslim prayer rooms, free high speed WiFi and a variety of business centers. Al Maktoum International Airport offers meet and greet services to expedite your passage through the airport as well as Airshell rentals to protect your valuables while you’re there.

Which Dubai airport offers good options for shopping?

Dubai International Airport (DXB) offers the best shopping choices. You will have your choice of stores for clothing and accessories, food, electronics, souvenirs, and fragrances. At Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC) you can find duty free options as well as jewelry, fashion, and skin care products.

Which Dubai airports have play areas for children?

Dubai International Airport (DXB) offers a play area for children. The interactive Kids’ Zone includes a choice of interactive games and a climbing area to help the kids burn off extra energy. The Kids’ Zone play area is located between Gates B7 and B8.

What can I see near Dubai International Airport (DXB) while waiting for a connecting flight?

There are a number of different sites you can visit that are located near Dubai International Airport (DXB). The Burj Khalifa is the tallest building in the world and it is located 8 miles from the airport. Or, take time to visit the Grand Mosque which is located 7 miles from the airport. Non-Muslims are not allowed inside the Mosque but can explore the outer section and grounds.

How far is Dubai from central Dubai?

Central Dubai is 7 miles away from Dubai.

What is the name of Dubai’s airport?

Dubai is served by Dubai, also commonly referred to as Dubai Intl. The airport code is DXB.

On average, a flight to Dubai costs $1,095. The cheapest price found on KAYAK in the last 2 weeks cost $537 and departed from Miami Airport.

How does KAYAK find such low prices on flights to Dubai?

KAYAK is a travel search engine. That means we look across the web to find the best prices we can find for our users. With over 2 billion flight queries processed yearly, we are able to display a variety of prices and options on flights to Dubai.

How does KAYAK's flight Price Forecast tool help me choose the right time to buy my flight ticket to Dubai?

KAYAK’s flight Price Forecast tool uses historical data to determine whether the price for a flight to Dubai is likely to change within 7 days, so travelers know whether to wait or book now.

What is the Hacker Fare option on flights to Dubai?

Hacker Fares allow you to combine one-way tickets in order to save you money over a traditional round-trip ticket. You could then fly to Dubai with an airline and back with another airline.

What is KAYAK's "flexible dates" feature and why should I care when looking for a flight to Dubai?

Sometimes travel dates aren't set in stone. If your preferred travel dates have some wiggle room, flexible dates will show you all the options when flying to Dubai up to 3 days before/after your preferred dates. You can then pick the flights that suit you best.

Top tips for finding cheap flights to Dubai

• Enter your preferred departure airport and travel dates into the search form above to unlock the latest Dubai flight deals.
• Those booking flights to Dubai should be aware of customs during Ramadan . The exact date changes each year but will be during May or June. During this time, those flying into Dubai should show respect by not eating, drinking or smoking in public between sunrise and sunset.
• If you are booking flights to Dubai , you will be flying into either Dubai International Airport (DXB) or Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC). Dubai International Airport is the main airport serving Dubai and is the world’s busiest airport based on passenger travel. This airport is located 2.5 miles southeast of Dubai. Al Maktoum International Airport is located 23 miles southwest of Dubai.
• Dubai International Airport (DXB) is the hub for the Fly Emirates, which is popular among travelers for its amenities and customer service. Fly Emirates flights arrive at Gates A, B, and C of Emirates Terminal 3. The lounges offer a personal haven to travelers who want to relax away from the crowds or catch up on work.
• Once you land at Dubai International Airport (DXB), you will be able to connect to various destinations in the city by getting transport services from the various shuttle operators. Many of these have their desks at Terminals 1 and 3. You can also enjoy using courtesy shuttles offered by various hotels near the airport to connect to and from the airport. These hotel shuttles stop at Terminal 3 of the DXB.
• Dubai International Airport (DXB) has three different passenger terminals . There is a shuttle service that connects each passenger terminal and travelers should allow at least 20 minutes transit time from one area to the other. Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC) currently has one terminal. Dubai International Airport is approximately 23 miles away from Al Maktoum International Airport. The drive will take you about 45 minutes depending on traffic.
• Dubai International Airport (DXB) is known for its amenities . If you have time to spend there, be sure that you visit their Zen Garden for a relaxing stroll. Or, rent out a Snooze Cube for a short nap between flights. Or, if you have energy to spare, visit their fitness room for a good workout and follow it up with a stop at the sauna.
• The exceptional services offered to the travelers arriving in Dubai, especially those with disabilities, is what makes Dubai International Airport one of the best in the region. The airport has essential aids at all critical points, such as the baggage claim areas and the gates. By making early arrangements with your airline or airport management, you will be able to take advantage of these services.
• The five-star Dubai International Hotel, located between Terminal 1 and 3 of the airport will offer you a perfect short rest in between international flights through Dubai International Airport (DXB). Spend a relaxing night at the hotel if you want to depart with an early flight from the DXB. Staying closer to the hotel helps you get there on time for your early departure.
• Sharjah is one of the nearby cities that you can travel to conveniently after landing at Dubai International Airport (DXB) in Dubai. You will take 40min to travel by bus from Sharjah to DXB. Additionally, you can connect from the airport to Sharjah using a car rental from Hertz or Europcar.
• If you are traveling into Dubai, be sure that you purchase your alcohol in the duty free shops at the airport. The duty free allowance will let you purchase 4 liters of alcohol. Tourists are not allowed to purchase alcohol in the emirate itself.

Prefer to fly non-stop to Dubai Intl?

Find which airlines fly direct to Dubai Intl, which days they fly and book direct flights.

Nonstop departures

United States to Dubai Intl

ANA, ASKY, Aegean Airlines, +89 more

ANA, ASKY, +90 more

ANA, ASKY, Aegean Airlines, +87 more

ANA, ASKY, +88 more

ANA, ASKY, Aegean Airlines, +92 more

ANA, ASKY, +93 more

ANA, ASKY, Aegean Airlines, +86 more

ANA, ASKY, +87 more

ANA, ASKY, Aegean Airlines, +85 more

ANA, ASKY, +86 more

ANA, ASKY, Aegean Airlines, +90 more

ANA, ASKY, +91 more

Nonstop returns

Dubai Intl to United States

Top 5 airlines flying to dubai.

Flights were both delayed. No luggage on arrival for the whole plane and no contact since submitting a PIR.

Flight got canceled without any prior information and it caused lot of trouble

Nice selection of movies and TV shows. Plane was generally nice, not the newest but nice nonetheless. However, Emirates should have cancelled the flight, as hardly any flights flew out of Dubai at the time. Flight delays and cancellation was poorly communicated and passengers were left guessing and to their own devices on what to do. Connection desks were staffed too thinly, there was one desk with more than a hundred clients and just one poor lady. When I had my flights rebooked, I was told meal vouchers can be scanned using my boarding pass, nope. Was told to comeback for my hotel voucher, none. Had to book my hotel voucher the usual way through Dubai Connect despite having been told twice to comeback to the counters twice.

On the Dubai-Gatwick flight the only meal options were Beef or Chicken. No vegetarian option. This was a surprise. I would usually order in advance but did not this time. Would have been good to know that a vegetarian meal is not available as a standard meal. Thankfully it was just me travelling, but if I’d had my kids with me that would have been a big problem for us.

Staff were friendly, and provided great service. The food was plentiful and delicious. Food could have been hotter.

More leg room and comfortable seats at least for long flights

The entertainment selections are amazing. But the live TV is sometimes spotty. If you’re going to have it, then have it. If you can’t make it consistent, then, perhaps it’s better not to have it. The crew are always cordial when approached, but they seem to do the minimum and sit around, talking to each other in the back of the plane during the flight. I realize that delays are not always predictable, but I missed my flight in Dubai because we left 90 minutes late from Washington. I will say that Emirates took very good care of me in Dubai. But I would rather not be delayed.

Probably the best flight I’ve ever been on. Emirates first class is leagues beyond British airways and Lufthansa’s.

Great flight. Comfortable seats, courteous service, and excellent selection for entertainment.

Serving food took so long . Almost time close to lend. Plus during landing air pressure in cabin cuss ear blocked took long time to unblock.

Delta is one of the best airlines I have flown

Made the Atlanta to Pittsburgh trip many times, with Delta no issues

I always fly with Delta. My friends tell me their horror stories of flying with other airlines. I just smile and say, “You should fly Delta”

I'm a larger, athletic guy (6'2", 260lbs powerlifter) and I found the seats incredibly uncomfortable with minimal leg room, especially in a window seat. Now, I full understand that being smaller may change my view but even if I was 80lbs less, my legs would be the same size and I was sandwiched between my seat and the seat in front of me.

Horrible. This was not first class. This was a connecting flight whi h was late. My original flight never came. I hated the fact that delta gave me a connecting flight from New York to Orlando Florida. No meals and the television screens were not working. There wasn't even any power to charge your phones. This is NOT FIRST CLASS DELTA!!! Do better next time!

This flight was ridiculous. I had to have a connecting flight from New York to orlando Florida??? The flight left late and because it was a short flight there was no first class amenities. I had one alcohol drink. The flight crew was fine, but it sure did not feel like first class. Delta to me dropped the ball by giving me a connecting flight. By the time we got to Raleigh we would have missed the next flight. Lucky for me the flight never came so now I was stuck waiting for a later flight that came in late also.

Our flight was delayed in Atlanta. The staff could have gave us an explanation for the delay and how long it would be.

I liked the ease of checking in, luggage check in, wheel chair assistance, boarding and flight.

On my way home I had a layover. The flight from ATL to CLT was amended 5x while I was waiting. I could have driven home sooner. Overall from Dallas, Tx to Charlotte, NC I started my trip at 4:30pm, I didn’t get home until past midnight. I know things happen, but 5x to make me run back and forth in an airport from different terminals is excessive. I also upgraded to comfort + , I didn’t feel it was worth it. There was no benefit

On my way home I had a layover. The flight from ATL to CLT was amended 5x while I was waiting. I could have driven home sooner. Overall from Dallas, Tx to Charlotte, NC I started my trip at 4:30pm, I didn’t get home until past midnight. I know things happen, but 5x to make me run back and forth in an airport from different terminals is excessive.

Operated by American Airlines. Very chaotic and the crew was bit rough responding any enquiries. Restricted leg space.. Qatar would have been better

Qatar airways from Doha to guangzhau was excellent big bird Boeing 777 more room and smoothly flight, I Love it

It was good no problems made it on time for the next flight overseas!

The made us waiting and held our passports and boarding pass making us miss our flights

Not impressed. Only allowed one carry on on such a long flight.

The flight was good but my neighbor had the vent open full power for the whole flight and because the air was blowing from the side instead of from the top and I got very cold and ended up with a sore throat.

Bad experience with the delay n long wait time for connecting flight after missing the connection flight from Doha.

Wore experience due to delay and took me 3 days to reach my destination.

All over with Qatar airlines my experience was really bad due to delays and then putting me on different airlines and after 8 hours of wait I had to listen to their is no plane to fly for another 24 hours. Wore experience ever.

Excellent will be flying again in May with Qatar. to Botswana.

Nothing really was great as such. Seen other no name airlines perform better.

Quality of service on board was very inconsistent. FA service primarily seemed robotic and they barely engaged with passengers

I’m unclear why I had to pay extra for assigned seats as Turkish airlines did not honor the seating. We were placed across the aisle from each other on TK 34, and were seated behind one another on TK 694. Because my name was misspelled on e-ticket (Klawiter, instead of Klawitter) I could not log onto website to get the connection gate number in Istanbul. The monitors in the airport were a jumbled mess 1/2 Arabic and 1/2 English.

On line check in needs a lot of improvement. I tried and gave up.

Food not good, flight attendants not the best, not accommodating very ruff

the female flight attendant was racist towards me. I could tell she treated the two other passengers next to me with more softness.

Oh my god! For an13 hour flight they serve you food just one time. Also don’t be thirsty they give you a little small cup of soda to drink. They seem like their goal is to feed you one so they don’t have to be bothered with you. It quite surprise for such a long flight there are several times to eat at least three and the food was well lackluster. The food and lack of offering drinks which were always hot no ice provided.

We were traveling first class. Checkin counter lady and her manager, both were in bad mood and did not treat us well about checking in the handbag. The gate agent took care of it right away. I travel Turkish twice a year in first class. No one has ever refused to check in the hand bag. Not sure, why this agent and her manager refused. Everything else was excellent.

The 787 economy was a disaster for long haul. The space was too little compared to 777 or 747. Also the extremely low tray table behind the seat made any dining effort a nightmare. However, the movies were up to date, and the food taste was good, despite of terrible serving process caused by small space.

A little bit more comfort. It’s tight space around the seats. But all else is great and a smooth flight!

Nothing beats ANA customer service on my opinion. Maybe because of their Japanese culture (and food). Arigatō

So so. Terrible aircraft choice for that leg of the flight.

Due to one crew member not showing up to work, our flight was significantly delayed causing us to miss our connecting flight in Houston to Mississippi causing us to be delayed by more than 6 hours and missing our event all together. Very disappointing. All because ONE crew member called in sick. United did grant us a $15 meal voucher, which was a small but appreciated concession that I wasn’t able to use because I ordered my lunch and paid for it before applying the concession, and the staff said it was too late to use it. Ugh! We also had a TWO delay coming back from Mississippi, but that was on American Airlines and it was due to weather, so not their fault. Anyway, not at all impressed with United’s handling of our flight and the HUGE disappointment of missing our important family event for our 90 year old mother. All that money and all that stress and emotions for nothing. Having to wait the hour to bring an employee from LAX seemed like something that should not have happened. Why don’t you have a local back-up? Santa Ana is not a little airport in a rural area.

Flight delayed from Cape Town to Washington then got diverted to miami and in miami we had to fend for ourselves , im still trying to get to Shreveport now

delay several times and wait extra long to board. no entertainment service because there are problem for some rows. always encounter some delays for the last flight of the day.

I just wrote a text which was supposed to be for the flight from Denver to spokane not Frankfurt to Denver.

On time every leg of the journey and exceptional staff at counter, gate, and on board. I haven’t travelled in US for a long time and was genuinely surprised how pleasant this was.

Hated every minute of it. This flight should have only taken 1.5hrs but was delayed over 10hours. Now I am being told I cannot be compensated or refunded my ticket price or extra leg room, which I purchased but did not receive, because the airline is throwing the blame on the 3rd party I purchased tickets through and 3rd party putting the blame on airline. No one wants to help. They received their money and that's all they care about. Im going on 3 days of still trying to get to my final destination, had to cancel car rental, car insurance and hotel. Currently staying in airport until hotels open up. Thank you Lufthansa, Kayak, Underpricer and United for making this trip the worst ever.

The delays (5 hrs) were a comedy of errors, and the multiple safety issues encountered were very concerning.

flight delays, staff only communicating when pushed, food service lasting a grand total of 7 minutes, stuck in seat from 45mins into flight until landing

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United Arab Emirates

Travel Advisory July 13, 2023

United arab emirates - level 2: exercise increased caution.

Reissued with obsolete COVID-19 page links removed.

Exercise increased caution in the United Arab Emirates due to   the threat of missile or drone attacks and terrorism.

Country Summary:  The possibility of attacks affecting U.S. citizens and interests in the Gulf and Arabian Peninsula remains an ongoing, serious concern.  Militant groups operating in Yemen have stated an intent to attack neighboring countries, including the UAE, using missiles and drones.  Missile and drone attacks in early 2022 targeted populated areas and civilian infrastructure.

Due to risks to civil aviation operating within the Persian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman region, including the United Arab Emirates, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has issued an advisory Notice to Air Missions (NOTAM). For more information U.S. citizens should consult the  Federal Aviation Administration’s Prohibitions, Restrictions and Notices .

While residents and visitors generally find a safe and secure environment in the UAE, the country continues to face the threat of terrorism.  Terrorists may attack with little or no warning, targeting tourist locations, transportation hubs, markets, shopping malls, and local government facilities.

Read the  country information page  for additional information on travel to the United Arab Emirates.

If you decide to travel to the United Arab Emirates:

• Monitor local media for breaking events and be prepared to adjust your plans.
• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Follow the Department of State on  Facebook   and  Twitter .
• Review the  Country Security Report  for the United Arab Emirates.
• Visit the CDC page for the latest  Travel Health Information  related to your travel.
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the  Traveler’s Checklist .

Embassy Messages

View Alerts and Messages Archive

Quick Facts

6 months validity after date of arrival. 12-page U.S. emergency passports are not accepted. Passports with the “X” gender marker are not accepted.

One page required for entry stamp

Not required for tourist stays under 30 days

Embassies and Consulates

U.s. embassy abu dhabi.

Embassies District, Plot 38, Sector W59-02, Street No. 4. Abu Dhabi, U.A.E. Telephone: +(971) (2) 414-2200 Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(971) (0) 2-414-2200 Fax: +(971) (2) 414-2241 Email:   [email protected]

U.S. Consulate General Dubai Corner of Al Seef Rd. and Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Rd Dubai, U.A.E. Telephone: +(971) (4) 309-4000 Emergency Telephone: +(971) (4) 309-4000 Fax: +(971) (4) 311-6213 Email:   [email protected]

Note: The normal work week in the UAE is Monday through Friday.

Destination Description

Learn about the U.S. relationship to countries around the world.

Entry, Exit and Visa Requirements

COVID-19 Requirements: There are no COVID-related entry requirements for U.S. citizens.

U.S. citizens are subject to all UAE immigration laws.

• Passport Validity:  A passport valid for at least six months beyond the date of entry is required to enter the UAE. The UAE government does not accept 12-page emergency passports for entry to the UAE. The UAE government also does not accept passports with the “X” gender marker for travel to, in, or through the UAE. Travelers with these passports will be denied boarding or entry.
• Personal travel of 30 days or less:  A U.S. citizen with a regular (non-emergency) passport with an M or F gender marker may obtain a no fee visitor visa upon arrival. The UAE government does not accept passports with the “X” gender marker for travel to, in, or through the UAE. Travelers with these passports will be denied boarding or entry.
• Stays longer than 30 days:  Visitors on a 30-day visa may request a visa extension, which is at the discretion of immigration officials. Anyone planning to work or study in the UAE must obtain the appropriate visa.
• Medical Exam:  A full medical exam is required for work or residence permits. The exam and tests for HIV/AIDS, viral hepatitis B, tuberculosis, leprosy, and pregnancy must be performed after arrival. U.S. citizens have been detained and deported for testing positive for HIV, active tuberculosis, or hepatitis. Medical exams performed outside of the UAE will not be accepted.
• Travel on Diplomatic or Official Passports:  U.S. citizens traveling to or through the UAE on diplomatic or official passports are required to obtain a visa before travel (transit passengers only require a visa if exiting the airport). This requirement is strictly enforced by UAE officials and those not meeting the requirement will be denied entry. U.S. military travelers should not assume military ID cards will be accepted, but should consult the Foreign Clearance Guide.

Land Exit Departure Fee:  All travelers who depart the UAE by land and who are not citizens of a Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) country must pay a departure fee. The fee is 35 UAE dirhams and is payable only in the local currency.

Please verify this information with the  Embassy of the United Arab Emirates  before you travel.

Exit Controls:  The UAE maintains tight exit controls. All travelers must exit the country with the passport on which they entered. Travelers should visit a UAE immigration office prior to departure to obtain an exit pass if they plan to leave the UAE without the passport on which they entered.

Travelers both departing the UAE and transiting will be barred from exiting the UAE if there are any criminal or civil legal cases against them. Travelers have been arrested at the airport and have had their passports seized due to outstanding financial cases, unsettled legal disputes, and late credit card payments, including for cases that were previously unknown to the traveler. In such cases, some individuals have been arrested and detained for long periods of time. Individuals will be barred from leaving the UAE until legal cases are settled in full. This affects all persons whether they are in the UAE as residents, tourists, or transit passengers with no intention of exiting the airport. UAE residents can verify with UAE authorities whether they have an exit ban due to outstanding cases in Dubai or Abu Dhabi. More information on this process can be found on the  UAE Government Portal .

The Government of the UAE requires that all persons residing in the country have a national identification card. U.S. citizens who are working or living in the UAE should visit the  Emirates Identity Authority website  for more information on card registration procedures and requirements.

Cancellation of Visas:  All UAE visas must be formally cancelled through the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) before a new visa can be issued. This includes visas that have already expired or have never been used. Travelers may be denied entry to, or not permitted to depart, the UAE if previous visas have not been properly cancelled. More information on the process is available on the  UAE Government portal .

Dual Nationality:  The UAE does not recognize dual nationality. The UAE recognizes only the citizenship of the passport on which a person enters the UAE. The embassy may be prohibited from providing certain consular services to those who did not enter the UAE on a U.S. passport.

The UAE has imposed HIV/AIDS travel restrictions on all foreigners seeking residency. Travelers for tourism are not tested or requested to provide information about HIV/AIDS status. Please verify this information with the  Embassy of the UAE  before you travel. Information about  dual nationality  and the  prevention of international child abduction  can be found on our website. For further information about customs regulations, please read the embassy’s  Customs Information page .

Current restrictions:

Weapons and Law Enforcement Equipment:  The transportation of arms or items that may be considered law enforcement or military equipment is strictly prohibited without written approval from the UAE government. Do not transport any arms or items that may be considered law enforcement or military equipment. Such items include, but are not limited to:

• Weapon parts and tools
• Functional, inert, or decorative ammunition, even one bullet
• Empty or spent shell casings
• Any other military or police equipment

U.S. citizens, military personnel, and U.S. government/military contractors found to be carrying such items, even in the smallest quantities, will be arrested and face strict criminal penalties, including imprisonment, large monetary fines, forfeiture of the items, and deportation , even though airlines and U.S. authorities allowed shipment on a U.S.-originating flight.

Other prohibited items:  Importation of the following items is also prohibited under UAE law: pornographic material, non-Islamic religious pamphlets for missionary activities, e-cigarettes, fireworks, ivory, chemical and organic fertilizers, laser pointers, radar jammers/other unauthorized communication devices, products and medications containing cannabidiol (CBD), endangered animal species, and any objects, sculptures, paintings, books or magazines which do not adhere to the religious and moral values of the UAE. Possession of any of these items can lead to detention and lengthy jail sentences.

Safety and Security

Terrorism: Terrorist groups and those inspired by such organizations are intent on attacking U.S. citizens abroad. Terrorists are increasingly using less sophisticated methods of attack – including knives, firearms, and vehicles – to more effectively target crowds. Frequently, their aim is unprotected or vulnerable targets, such as:

• High-profile public events (sporting contests, political rallies, demonstrations, holiday events, celebratory gatherings, etc.)
• Hotels, clubs, and restaurants frequented by tourists
• Places of worship
• Shopping malls and markets
• Public transportation systems (including subways, buses, trains, and scheduled commercial flights)

U.S. citizens in the United Arab Emirates should exercise a high level of security awareness. The possibility of terrorist attacks against U.S. citizens and interests in the Gulf and Arabian Peninsula remains a serious concern. The UAE’s normalization of relations with Israel in September 2020 increased the potential for attacks in the UAE, including by Iran-backed entities. Separately, rebel groups operating in Yemen have stated an intent to attack neighboring countries, including the UAE, using missiles and unmanned aerial systems (drones). Yemen-based Houthi rebels claimed responsibility for missile and drone attacks against the UAE on January 17 and 24, 2022, targeting populated areas and civilian infrastructure.  The January 17 attack resulted in multiple impact sites in Abu Dhabi and three fatalities. The Houthi rebels have publicly stated their intent to continue such attacks. In the event of a missile and/or drone strike, follow the guidance found here .

Both historical and current information suggest that the Islamic State of Iraq and Syria (ISIS), al-Qaida, and affiliated organizations continue to plan attacks against Western targets; these attacks may employ a wide variety of tactics, including suicide operations, assassination, kidnapping, hijacking, and bombing.

For more information, see our Terrorism page.

Boating: The UAE and Iran have had a long-standing dispute concerning jurisdiction of Abu Musa, approximately 20 miles from Dubai. Fishing or sailing in these waters may result in seizure of vessels and detention of passengers and crew in Iran. Obtaining consular assistance in Iran for U.S. citizens is difficult and can only be done through the Swiss Embassy in Tehran , which acts as a Protecting Power, providing limited U.S. consular services.

Crime: Violent crimes and crimes against property are rare. U.S. citizens should take the same security precautions in the UAE that one would practice in the United States or any large city abroad.

Harassment and Assault: U.S. citizens, especially women, should take precautions against the possibility of verbal and physical harassment or sexual assault when walking alone, consuming alcohol, or riding in a taxi cab. Taxi passengers should avoid sitting in the front seat of a taxicab and should be sensitive that "small talk" can be misinterpreted as over-friendliness or even a form of propositioning by some taxi drivers. Taxis driven by women for the exclusive use of female passengers are available in some airports and by dispatch. Female travelers can identify these dedicated vehicles by their pink roofs.

Some victims of sexual assault have been prosecuted for violating laws against sexual relations outside of marriage. The law puts a high burden of proof on the victim to demonstrate that sex was not consensual. In cases where the victim has failed to demonstrate so, both parties have been prosecuted, and sometimes sentenced to jail time, followed by deportation.

International Financial Scams:  See the  Department of State  and the  FBI  pages for information.

Internet romance and financial scams are prevalent in the UAE. Scams are often initiated through Internet postings/profiles or by unsolicited emails and letters. Scammers almost always pose as U.S. citizens who have no one else to turn to for help. Common scams include:

• Romance/Online dating
• Money transfers
• Lucrative sales
• Gold purchase
• Inheritance notices
• Work permits/job offers
• Bank overpayments

Victims of Crime: U.S. citizen victims of sexual assault are encouraged to contact the U.S. Embassy for assistance. Report crimes to the local police at 999 and contact the U.S. Embassy at +971 2 414 2200. Remember that local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting crime.

See our webpage on help for U.S. victims of crime overseas .

• Help you find appropriate medical care
• Assist you in reporting a crime to the police
• Contact relatives or friends with your written consent
• Provide general information regarding the victim’s role during the local investigation and following its conclusion
• Provide a list of local attorneys
• Provide our information on victim’s compensation programs in the U.S.
• Provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States and/or limited medical support in cases of destitution
• Help you find accommodation and arrange flights home
• Replace a stolen or lost passport

Domestic Violence:  U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence may contact the Embassy or Consulate General for assistance.

Tourism:  The tourism industry is generally regulated and rules with regard to best practices and safety inspections are regularly enforced. Hazardous areas/activities are identified with appropriate signage and professional staff is typically on hand in support of organized activities. In the event of an injury, appropriate medical treatment is widely available throughout the country. Outside of a major metropolitan center, it may take more time for first responders and medical professionals to stabilize a patient and provide life-saving assistance. U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance . 

Local Laws & Special Circumstances

Criminal Penalties: You are subject to local laws. If you violate local laws, even unknowingly, you may be expelled, arrested, or imprisoned. Individuals establishing a business or practicing a profession that requires additional permits or licensing should seek information from the competent local authorities, prior to practicing or operating a business.

As each emirate has its own independent judicial system, legal procedures and penalties vary throughout the country.

Furthermore, some laws are also prosecutable in the United States, regardless of local law. For examples, see our website on crimes against minors abroad and the Department of Justice website.

Arrest Notification:  UAE authorities do not routinely notify the U.S. Embassy or consulate of a U.S. citizen’s arrest.  If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to notify the U.S. Embassy or consulate immediately.  If you are not allowed to do so, ask a friend or family member to contact the U.S. Embassy or consulate. See our webpage for further information.

Alcohol:  Alcohol is sold only in very limited areas including certain restaurants and hotels. Public drunkenness and driving under the influence, regardless of one’s blood alcohol content level, are considered very serious offenses. Persons arrested on alcohol-related offenses are regularly detained for many days as they await a court hearing. Penalties may include hefty jail sentences, substantial fines and, for Muslims (even those holding U.S. citizenship), lashings. Note: The possession and consumption of alcohol is prohibited in the emirate of Sharjah.

Drugs: UAE law imposes the death sentence for convicted drug traffickers. Possession of even trace amounts of illegal drugs (including in the bloodstream) can result in lengthy prison sentences of up to 15 years. Bail generally is not granted to those accused of drug crimes.

Possession or consumption of marijuana in any form, including detections of trace amounts in the bloodstream, is illegal in the UAE, even if a doctor’s medical card is presented. Products containing cannabidiol (CBD) are illegal in the UAE. Possession or importation of CBD products, including those found in prescription and over the counter medications in the United States and other countries, are prosecuted in the same manner as marijuana possession. The UAE's anti-narcotics program also includes poppy seeds on its list of controlled substances. The importation and possession of poppy seeds in any and all forms, including as dried decorative plants, are strictly prohibited.

Persons may be charged and convicted even if the controlled substances were ingested outside of the UAE as long as traces are still present in the bloodstream upon arrival in the UAE. If suspected of being under the influence of drugs or alcohol, individuals may be required to submit to blood and/or urine tests and may be subject to prosecution.

Travelers with questions regarding the items on the list of controlled substances should contact the U.S. Embassy in Abu Dhabi or the U.S. Consulate General in Dubai .

Codes of Behavior and Dress: Public decency and morality laws throughout the UAE are much stricter than in the United States. Penalties for public displays of affection or immodesty may be imposed. Sexual relations outside marriage are illegal in the UAE and convicted individuals have been punished by lengthy jail sentences. Pregnancy outside of marriage can result in arrest and detention. Doctors may ask for proof of marriage during pre-natal visits, and those giving birth in the UAE must present a marriage certificate to receive medical care and register the child’s birth. Failure to do so has resulted in the arrests of both unmarried mothers and fathers, as well as deportation.

Individuals may be arrested, fined, and/or deported for committing any of the following acts: making rude gestures, swearing, touching another person without his/her permission, and making derogatory statements about the UAE, the royal families, the local governments or other people. Travelers should keep in mind the cultural differences among the many people who coexist in the UAE and should be cognizant that unwitting actions, including clothing choices, may invite unwanted attention.

Debt and Financial Crime:  Crimes of financial fraud, including passing bad checks and non-payment or late payment of bills (including hotel bills, hospital bills, traffic or parking fines, and late payment of credit cards, utility bills, etc.), are regarded seriously in the UAE and often result in imprisonment and/or fines. A personal check written as a guarantee for the payment of a personal or business debt may be submitted to a local bank for collection at any time for the full amount of the check. If the account holder does not have sufficient funds, he/she may be charged with passing a bad check. Bail generally is not available to non-residents of the UAE who are arrested for crimes involving fraud. Debtors can be held in prison until their debts are paid or until an agreement is reached between the parties. Passports may be seized by the UAE government to guarantee that debtors settle their cases. Financial cases may be further complicated by debtors being unable to work in the UAE without passports while still being held responsible for their debts.

Photography:  Taking photographs of UAE military facilities, sensitive civilian sites, airports, some beaches, or foreign diplomatic missions – including the U.S. Embassy or Consulate General – may result in arrest, detention, and/or prosecution by local authorities. Travelers should be aware of signs which indicate where photography is prohibited. Note that it is illegal to take photographs of other people without their consent. In addition, engaging in mapping activities, especially mapping that includes the use of GPS equipment, without coordination with UAE authorities, may have the same consequences. (This does not apply to use of publicly available online maps.)

Drone Operation: The flying of drones is prohibited in certain areas and may result in arrest and imprisonment. Individuals should not operate drones without prior approval from local authorities.

Social Media:  The UAE has strict laws regarding use of the internet and social media. Individuals have been arrested and criminally convicted for posting information on social media sites (such as Facebook, Twitter, YouTube, etc.) that local authorities determined was disturbing to the order of the UAE. Users of social media should be cautious about online posting of information that might be deemed to insult or challenge the local or national government. Individuals should avoid posting insults or derogatory information about governments, institutions, or individuals.

Charity and fundraising activities are closely regulated by the UAE government, and it is against the law to conduct any private fundraising activity online (including those conducted on popular fundraising websites for personal causes).

The UAE National Media Council has rules for conducting business as a social media influencer in the UAE. Influencers must apply for trade and e-media licenses in order to promote brands on social media in the UAE. 

Terrorist Organizations List: On November 15, 2014, the UAE government announced a list of 85 groups it considers to be terrorist organizations. Individuals who are associated with groups on the UAE list could be detained at UAE borders, have their assets frozen, and/or be prosecuted for membership in a terrorist organization.

Religious Proselytizing: While individuals are free to worship as they choose, and facilities are available for that purpose, religious proselytizing is not permitted in the UAE. Persons violating this law, even unknowingly, may be imprisoned or deported.

Employment in the UAE: Although it is common for a local sponsor to hold an employee's passport, it is illegal to do so under UAE law. Many contractual or labor disputes can be avoided by clearly establishing all terms and conditions of employment or sponsorship in the labor contract at the beginning of any employment. Should a dispute arise, the UAE Ministry of Labor has established a special department to review and arbitrate labor claims. If an employee leaves his/her job without properly canceling the employment visa, the employer can file charges that can lead to imprisonment, fines, and/or deportation. The U.S. Embassy and Consulate General do not intercede in employment disputes.

U.S. citizens have become involved in commercial or financial disputes that have prompted local firms or courts to take possession of the U.S. citizen's passport, effectively preventing the individual from leaving the UAE. In addition, local firms have been known to file criminal complaints, which may lead not only to travel restrictions but possible criminal penalties, including jail time. A list of local attorneys is available from the U.S. Embassy in Abu Dhabi and the U.S. Consulate General in Dubai.

Document Authentications: U.S. citizens intending to reside and work in the UAE are generally required by the UAE government to present authenticated personal documents for themselves and accompanying family members such as marriage and birth certificates, adoption and custody decrees, certificates of good behavior from police, and educational documents to include diplomas and certificates. The authentication of U.S. documents is done completely in the United States. For information, contact the State Department’s Office of Authentications . Determining the exact requirements with one’s prospective employer is strongly recommended before arrival in the UAE.

LGBTQI+ Travelers: The UAE government does not accept passports with the “X” gender marker. This applies to travel to, in, or through the UAE. Although the U.S. Embassy and U.S. Consulate General are not aware of any recent arrests or prosecutions for consensual, same-sex relations and cross-dressing, they remain illegal in the UAE. See our LGBTQI+ Travel Information page and section six of our Human Rights report for further details.

Travelers with Disabilities: While in the UAE, individuals with disabilities may find accessibility and accommodations somewhat different from what they find in the United States. The law prohibits discrimination against persons with disabilities in employment, education, air travel and other transportation, access to health care, or the provision of other state services, and the law is enforced. The UAE government refers to persons with disabilities as “people of determination.” Social acceptance of persons with disabilities in public is as prevalent as in the United States. The most common types of accessibility may include accessible facilities, information, and communication/access to services/ease of movement or access.

The UAE has several modern cities with good services and accessibility of lodging, public transportation, sidewalks, and buildings. Outside of newly constructed areas, accessibility is not comparable to the United States and navigating with a visual impairment or using a wheelchair is difficult due to sidewalks in disrepair or without curb cuts, poor road crossings, and inaccessible buildings and public transport. Public transportation in Dubai is wheelchair accessible. However, the buses that connect Dubai with the other emirates in the UAE are not wheelchair accessible. See the UAE government information on accessible transport and parking facilities. See our  Traveling with Disabilities  page.

Women Travelers: See our travel tips for Women Travelers .

Students: See our Students Abroad page and FBI travel tips.

Adequate health facilities are available, but health care in rural areas may be below U.S. standards. While most common conditions can be appropriately treated in the UAE, complex medical conditions may be better treated in the United States. Providers may recommend a large number of procedures and tests, some of which may be unnecessary.

• Hospitals usually require advance payment or proof of adequate insurance before admitting a patient, except in emergencies.
• Travelers should make efforts to obtain complete information on billing, pricing, and proposed medical procedures before agreeing to any medical care.
• Patients bear all costs for transfer to or between hospitals.

For emergency services in the UAE, dial  999 .

Ambulance services are widely available.

We do not pay medical bills.  Be aware that U.S. Medicare does not apply overseas. Most hospitals and doctors overseas do not accept U.S. health insurance.

Medical Insurance:  Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage overseas. Most care providers overseas only accept cash payments. You may be denied care, even in an emergency, if you are unable to provide a cash deposit up-front. See  our webpage  for more information on insurance overseas. Visit the  U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention  for more information on type of insurance you should consider before you travel overseas.

We strongly recommend  supplemental insurance  to cover medical evacuation.

Medication:  Many prescription and over-the-counter medications are prohibited in the UAE, and possession of such substances without the appropriate approval is generally treated the same as possession of illegal narcotics. All tourists and residents of the UAE should seek prior approval, via an online form, before carrying certain types of medications, narcotics, or chemical substances to or through the UAE. The service can be accessed directly on the Ministry of Health and Prevention’s  website . Travelers can also find updated lists of prohibited medications requiring prior approval on the same website.

Travelers with prescription medication must have their prescriptions issued by licensed doctors and authenticated by the appropriate authorities. In order for a U.S. prescription to be fully authenticated, it must be authenticated by the Secretary of State of the U.S. state in which the prescribing doctor is licensed, then by the U.S. Department of State, and finally by the UAE Embassy in Washington, DC.  Additional information on authentication of documents  can be found on the State Department’s website and on the  Embassy and Consulate General website . Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging, along with your doctor’s prescription.

Further queries may be directed to the  UAE Ministry of Health’s Drug Control Department  in Abu Dhabi.

Vaccinations:  Be up-to-date on all  vaccinations  recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

For further health information, go to:

• World Health Organization
• U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention  (CDC)

Air Quality:  Visit  AirNow Department of State  for information on air quality at U.S. Embassies and Consulates.

• Air pollution is a significant problem in UAE. Consider the impact seasonal smog and heavy particulate pollution may have on you, and consult your doctor before traveling if necessary.
• People at the greatest risk from particle pollution exposure include:
• Infants, children, and teens
• People over 65 years of age
• People with lung disease such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), which includes chronic bronchitis and emphysema;
• People with heart disease or diabetes
• People who work or are active outdoors

The U.S. Embassy and Consulate General maintain a  list of doctors and hospitals . We do not endorse or recommend any specific medical provider or clinic.

Travel and Transportation

Road Conditions and Safety: Traffic accidents are a leading cause of death in the UAE. Drivers often drive at high speeds. Unsafe driving practices are common, especially on inter-city highways. On highways, unmarked speed bumps and drifting sand create additional hazards. Pedestrians should also use great care on the roads of the UAE – over 25 percent of road fatalities are pedestrians.

The police emergency number and ambulance number is 999 . Response time by emergency services is adequate; however, medical personnel emphasize transport of the injured to the hospital rather than treatment on site.

Traffic Laws: Country-wide traffic laws impose stringent penalties for certain violations, particularly driving under the influence of alcohol. In the UAE, there is zero tolerance for driving after consuming alcohol.

Persons involved in an accident in which another party is injured automatically go to jail until the injured person is released from the hospital. Should a person die in a traffic accident, the driver of the other vehicle is liable for payment of compensation for the death (known as "dhiyya"), usually the equivalent of 55,000 U.S. dollars. Even relatively minor accidents may result in lengthy proceedings, during which both drivers may be prohibited from leaving the country.

In order to drive, UAE residents must obtain a UAE driver's license. Foreign driver’s licenses are not recognized for residents of the UAE; however, U.S. citizen visitors who are not UAE residents can drive using a valid driver’s license issued by his or her state. An international driver’s license may be required in some emirates. The UAE recognizes driver's licenses issued by other Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) states only if the bearer is driving a vehicle registered to the same GCC state. Under no circumstances should anyone drive without a valid license.

If you are in an accident, UAE law mandates that you remain at the scene until authorities arrive. The use of front seat belts is mandatory in the UAE. Driving is on the right side of the road. Speed limits are posted. Making a right turn on a red light is not permitted unless there is a special lane to do so with a yield sign. Parking is not allowed where the curb is painted black and yellow. Digital cameras are used extensively on Emirati roads for registering traffic violations, including speeding. Fines can be substantial and must be paid prior to departure from the UAE. Individuals with outstanding traffic fines may be detained at airport immigration.

Please see our Road Safety page for more information .

Aviation Safety Oversight: The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has assessed the Government of the United Arab Emirates’ Civil Aviation Authority as being in compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards for oversight of the United Arab Emirates’ air carrier operations. Further information may be found on the FAA’s safety assessment page.

Maritime Travel: Mariners planning travel to the UAE should also check for U.S. maritime advisories and alerts . Information may also be posted to the U.S. Coast Guard Homeport and the NGA Broadcast Warnings website.

For additional travel information

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Call us in Washington, D.C. at 1-888-407-4747 (toll-free in the United States and Canada) or 1-202-501-4444 (from all other countries) from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
• See the  State Department’s travel website  for the  Worldwide Caution  and  Travel Advisories .
• Follow us on  Twitter  and  Facebook .
• See  traveling safely abroad  for useful travel tips.

United Arab Emirates was cited in the State Department’s 2023 Annual Report to Congress on International Child Abduction for demonstrating a pattern of non-compliance with respect to international parental child abduction. Review information about International Parental Child Abduction in  United Arab Emirates . For additional IPCA-related information, please see the  International Child Abduction Prevention and Return Act ( ICAPRA )  report.

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United Arab Emirates struggles to recover after heaviest recorded rainfall ever hits desert nation

The United Arab Emirates is struggled to recover from the heaviest recorded rainfall ever to hit the desert nation, as its main airport worked to restore normal operations even as floodwater still covered portions of major highways and roads. (AP video/Malak Harb)

A man walks along a road barrier among floodwater caused by heavy rain on Sheikh Zayed Road highway in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, Thursday, April 18, 2024. The United Arab Emirates attempted to dry out Thursday from the heaviest rain the desert nation has ever recorded, a deluge that flooded out Dubai International Airport and disrupted flights through the world’s busiest airfield for international travel. (AP Photo/Christopher Pike)

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A man carries luggage through floodwater caused by heavy rain while waiting for transportation on Sheikh Zayed Road highway in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, Thursday, April 18, 2024. The United Arab Emirates attempted to dry out Thursday from the heaviest rain the desert nation has ever recorded, a deluge that flooded out Dubai International Airport and disrupted flights through the world’s busiest airfield for international travel. (AP Photo/Christopher Pike)

An abandoned vehicle stands in floodwater caused by heavy rain with the Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building, seen on the background, in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, Thursday, April 18, 2024. The United Arab Emirates attempted to dry out Thursday from the heaviest rain the desert nation has ever recorded, a deluge that flooded out Dubai International Airport and disrupted flights through the world’s busiest airfield for international travel. (AP Photo/Christopher Pike)

People wait for transportation amidst floodwater caused by heavy rain on Sheikh Zayed Road highway in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, Thursday, April 18, 2024. The United Arab Emirates attempted to dry out Thursday from the heaviest rain the desert nation has ever recorded, a deluge that flooded out Dubai International Airport and disrupted flights through the world’s busiest airfield for international travel. (AP Photo/Christopher Pike)

A man carries a child through floodwater caused by heavy rain while waiting for transportation on Sheikh Zayed Road highway in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, Thursday, April 18, 2024. The United Arab Emirates attempted to dry out Thursday from the heaviest rain the desert nation has ever recorded, a deluge that flooded out Dubai International Airport and disrupted flights through the world’s busiest airfield for international travel. (AP Photo/Christopher Pike)

Vehicles drive through standing floodwater caused by heavy rain on an onramp to Sheikh Zayed Road highway in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, Thursday, April 18, 2024. The United Arab Emirates attempted to dry out Thursday from the heaviest rain the desert nation has ever recorded, a deluge that flooded out Dubai International Airport and disrupted flights through the world’s busiest airfield for international travel. (AP Photo/Christopher Pike)

Vehicles drive through standing floodwater caused by heavy rain on Sheikh Zayed Road highway in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, Thursday, April 18, 2024. The United Arab Emirates attempted to dry out Thursday from the heaviest rain the desert nation has ever recorded, a deluge that flooded out Dubai International Airport and disrupted flights through the world’s busiest airfield for international travel. (AP Photo/Christopher Pike)

People wait for transportation on Sheikh Zayed Road highway in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, Thursday, April 18, 2024. The United Arab Emirates attempted to dry out Thursday from the heaviest rain the desert nation has ever recorded, a deluge that flooded out Dubai International Airport and disrupted flights through the world’s busiest airfield for international travel. (AP Photo/Christopher Pike)

People walk through floodwater caused by heavy rain while waiting for transportation on Sheikh Zayed Road highway in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, Thursday, April 18, 2024. The United Arab Emirates attempted to dry out Thursday from the heaviest rain the desert nation has ever recorded, a deluge that flooded out Dubai International Airport and disrupted flights through the world’s busiest airfield for international travel. (AP Photo/Christopher Pike)

Abandoned vehicles stand in floodwater caused by heavy rain along Sheikh Zayed Road highway in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, Thursday, April 18, 2024. The United Arab Emirates attempted to dry out Thursday from the heaviest rain the desert nation has ever recorded, a deluge that flooded out Dubai International Airport and disrupted flights through the world’s busiest airfield for international travel. (AP Photo/Christopher Pike)

An abandoned vehicle stands in floodwater caused by heavy rain in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, Thursday, April 18, 2024. The United Arab Emirates attempted to dry out Thursday from the heaviest rain the desert nation has ever recorded, a deluge that flooded out Dubai International Airport and disrupted flights through the world’s busiest airfield for international travel. (AP Photo/Christopher Pike)

A flooded street by heavy rain is seen, with the Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building, on the background, in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, Thursday, April 18, 2024. The United Arab Emirates attempted to dry out Thursday from the heaviest rain the desert nation has ever recorded, a deluge that flooded out Dubai International Airport and disrupted flights through the world’s busiest airfield for international travel. (AP Photo/Christopher Pike)

A man walks through standing floodwater caused by heavy rain with the Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building, seen in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, Thursday, April 18, 2024. The United Arab Emirates attempted to dry out Thursday from the heaviest rain the desert nation has ever recorded, a deluge that flooded out Dubai International Airport and disrupted flights through the world’s busiest airfield for international travel. (AP Photo/Christopher Pike)

A man walks through standing floodwater caused by heavy rain in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, Thursday, April 18, 2024. The United Arab Emirates attempted to dry out Thursday from the heaviest rain the desert nation has ever recorded, a deluge that flooded out Dubai International Airport and disrupted flights through the world’s busiest airfield for international travel. (AP Photo/Christopher Pike)

A group of people work to recover an abandoned vehicle taken by floodwater caused by heavy rain in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, Thursday, April 18, 2024. The United Arab Emirates attempted to dry out Thursday from the heaviest rain the desert nation has ever recorded, a deluge that flooded out Dubai International Airport and disrupted flights through the world’s busiest airfield for international travel. (AP Photo/Christopher Pike)

Vehicles drive through standing floodwater caused by heavy rain in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, Thursday, April 18, 2024. The United Arab Emirates attempted to dry out Thursday from the heaviest rain the desert nation has ever recorded, a deluge that flooded out Dubai International Airport and disrupted flights through the world’s busiest airfield for international travel. (AP Photo/Christopher Pike)

A man walks through floodwater in the Mudon neighborhood in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, Thursday, April 18, 2024. The United Arab Emirates attempted to dry out Thursday from the heaviest rain the desert nation has ever recorded — a deluge that flooded out Dubai International Airport and disrupted flights through the world’s busiest airfield for international travel. (AP Photo/Jon Gambrell)

Civil defense officials bring water on a raft to a family in the Mudon neighborhood in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, Thursday, April 18, 2024. The United Arab Emirates attempted to dry out Thursday from the heaviest rain the desert nation has ever recorded — a deluge that flooded out Dubai International Airport and disrupted flights through the world’s busiest airfield for international travel. (AP Photo/Jon Gambrell)

Dubai civil defense officials drive through floodwater in the Mudon neighborhood in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, Thursday, April 18, 2024. The United Arab Emirates attempted to dry out Thursday from the heaviest rain the desert nation has ever recorded — a deluge that flooded out Dubai International Airport and disrupted flights through the world’s busiest airfield for international travel. (AP Photo/Jon Gambrell)

DUBAI, United Arab Emirates (AP) — The United Arab Emirates tried to wring itself out Thursday after the heaviest recorded rainfall ever to hit the desert nation , with its main airport allowing more flights even as floodwater still covered portions of major highways and communities.

Dubai International Airport, the world’s busiest for international travel , allowed global carriers on Thursday morning to again fly into Terminal 1 at the airfield. And long-haul carrier Emirates, crucial to East-West travel, began allowing local passengers to arrive at Terminal 3, their base of operations.

However, Dubai Airports CEO Paul Griffiths said in an interview with The Associated Press that the airfield needed at least another 24 hours to resume operations close to its usual schedule. Meanwhile, one desert community in Dubai saw floodwaters continue to rise Thursday to as much as 1 meter (3 feet) as civil defense officials struggled to pump out the water.

“We were looking at the radar thinking, ‘Goodness, if this hits, then it’s going to be cataclysmic,’” Griffiths said of the storm. “And indeed it was.”

The airport ended up needing 22 tankers with vacuum pumps to get water off its grounds. Griffiths acknowledged that taxiways flooded during the rains, though the airport’s runways remained free of water to safely operate. Online videos of a FlyDubai flight landing with its reverse thrust spraying out water caught the world’s attention.

“It looks dramatic, but it actually isn’t that dramatic,” Griffiths said.

Emirates, whose operations had been struggling since the storm Tuesday, had stopped travelers flying out of the UAE from checking into their flights as they tried to move out connecting passengers. Pilots and flight crews also had a hard time reaching the airport given the water on roadways.

But on Thursday, Emirates lifted that order to allow customers into the airport. That saw some 2,000 people come into Terminal 3, again sparking long lines, Griffiths said.

Others who arrived at the airport described hourslong waits to get their baggage, with some just giving up to head home or to whatever hotel would have them.

Two men walk through floodwater in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, Wednesday, April 17, 2024. (AP Photo/Jon Gambrell)

The UAE, a hereditarily ruled, autocratic nation on the Arabian Peninsula, typically sees little rainfall in its arid desert climate. However, a massive storm forecasters had been warning about for days blew through the country’s seven sheikhdoms.

By the end of Tuesday, more than 142 millimeters (5.59 inches) of rainfall had soaked Dubai over 24 hours. An average year sees 94.7 millimeters (3.73 inches) of rain at Dubai International Airport. Other areas of the country saw even more precipitation.

Meanwhile, intense floods also have struck neighboring Oman in recent days. Authorities on Thursday raised the death toll from those storms to at least 21 killed.

The UAE’s drainage systems quickly became overwhelmed Tuesday, flooding out neighborhoods, business districts and even portions of the 12-lane Sheikh Zayed Road highway running through Dubai.

The state-run WAM news agency called the rain “a historic weather event” that surpassed “anything documented since the start of data collection in 1949.”

In a message to the nation late Wednesday, Emirati leader Sheikh Mohammed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the ruler of Abu Dhabi, said authorities would “quickly work on studying the condition of infrastructure throughout the UAE and to limit the damage caused.”

On Thursday, people waded through oil-slicked floodwater to reach cars earlier abandoned, checking to see if their engines still ran. Tanker trucks with vacuums began reaching some areas outside of Dubai’s downtown core for the first time as well. Schools remain closed until next week.

Vehicles sit abandoned in floodwater covering a major road in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, April 17, 2024. (AP Photo/Jon Gambrell)

Authorities have offered no overall damage or injury information from the floods, which killed at least one person.

However, at least one community saw the effects of the rainfall only get worse Thursday. Mudon, a development by the state-owned Dubai Properties, saw flooding in one neighborhood reach as much as 1 meter. Civil defense workers tried to pump the water out, but it was a struggle as people waded through the floodwater.

Residents of Mudon, who spoke to the AP on condition of anonymity given the UAE’s strict laws governing speech, described putting together the equivalent of nearly $2,000 to get a tanker to the community Wednesday. They alleged the developers did nothing to help prior to that, even as they called and emailed. They also said a nearby sewage processing facility failed, bringing more water into their homes.

“A lot of people were in denial of how bad it was,” one homeowner said as civil defense officials waded through the water, bringing bottled water on a raft.

Dubai Holding, a state-owned company that has Dubai Properties as an arm, did not respond to questions. It’s part of a wider nexus that U.S. diplomats have called “Dubai Inc.” — all properties overseen by the city-state’s ruling family.

The flooding sparked speculation that the UAE’s aggressive campaign of cloud seeding — flying small planes through clouds dispersing chemicals aimed at getting rain to fall — may have contributed to the deluge. But experts said the storm systems that produced the rain were forecast well in advance and that cloud seeding alone would not have caused such flooding.

Scientists also say climate change is responsible for more intense and more frequent extreme storms, droughts, floods and wildfires around the world. Dubai hosted the United Nations’ COP28 climate talks just last year.

Abu Dhabi’s state-linked newspaper The National in an editorial Thursday described the heavy rains as a warning to countries in the wider Persian Gulf region to “climate-proof their futures.”

“The scale of this task is more daunting than it appears even at first glance, because such changes involve changing the urban environment of a region that for as long as it has been inhabited, has experienced little but heat and sand,” the newspaper said.

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Emirates is dealing with a 30,000 bag backlog as it grovels to customers about its handling of Dubai floods

• Severe flooding caused by the heaviest rain in 75 years brought travel chaos to Dubai Airport last week.
• The ongoing fallout has prompted Emirates boss Tim Clark to issue an apology to customers. 
• 30,000 bags still need to be returned to customers, he said.

Emirates, the Middle East's largest airline, is still trying to return 30,000 leftover bags to customers affected by the torrential rains and flooding that brought Dubai Airport to a standstill last week.

Over the weekend, the airline's president, Tim Clark, acknowledged that Emirates' response to the disruption had been "far from perfect" and apologized to customers.

"I would like to offer our most sincere apologies to every customer who has had their travel plans disrupted during this time," Clark wrote in an open letter posted online on Saturday.

Calling the previous week "one of the toughest for Emirates operationally," he said that the airline had been forced to cancel nearly 400 flights and delay many more after storms brought the region's highest rainfall in 75 years.

"Flooded roads impeded the ability of our customers, pilots, cabin crew, and airport employees to reach the airport, and also the movement of essential supplies like meals and other flight amenities," Clark wrote.

In total, 1,478 flights had been canceled at the world's second busiest airport by Friday morning, according to Reuters.

While planes remained stuck on flooded taxiways, submerged roads surrounding the airport left some passengers stranded in the airport.

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To accommodate disrupted passengers, Emirates said it had secured 12,000 hotel rooms and issued 250,000 meal vouchers.

Despite the chaos and a government warning telling people to stay at home, Emirates flight attendants in Dubai were also told to report for duty.

However, Clark acknowledged that many passengers had been frustrated by the congestion, lack of information, and confusion at terminals.

In an effort to handle the ongoing fallout, he said that a task force had been created to sort and return 30,000 pieces of left-over luggage to its owners.

The airline officially resumed regular flight operations at Dubai Airport on Saturday, but warned it would still take several days to clear the backlog.

Non-UAE-based carriers were still facing restrictions over the weekend. Foreign airlines with more than two flights in 24 hours were issued with a Notice to Air Missions (NOTAM) instructing them to reduce operations by 50%, Indian news agency PTI reported.

According to FlightRadar 24's data , all arrivals and departures were largely running to schedule again on Monday morning.

The oil-rich United Arab Emirates has become one of the most attractive economic hubs in the Gulf region.

Its efforts to diversify its economy away from oil, centered on Dubai as a tourism hot spot, have helped the country position itself as a major player on the world stage. In a sign of its growing popularity, the number of passengers traveling to Dubai Airport increased by 31.7% in the last year.

Watch: Thousands of bags pile up at US airports after flight cancellations

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Dubai plans to move its busy international airport to a $35 billion new facility within 10 years

Dubai International Airport, the world’s busiest for international travel, will move its operations to the city-state’s second, sprawling airfield in its southern desert reaches “within the next 10 years” in a project worth nearly $35 billion, its ruler said Sunday.

Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum’s announcement marks the latest chapter in the rebound of its long-haul carrier Emirates after the coronavirus pandemic grounded international travel. Plans have been on the books for years to move the operations of the airport known as DXB to Al Maktoum International Airport at Dubai World Central which had also been delayed by the repercussions of the sheikhdom’s 2009 economic crisis.

“We are building a new project for future generations, ensuring continuous and stable development for our children and their children in turn,” Sheikh Mohammed said in an online statement. “Dubai will be the world’s airport, its port, its urban hub and its new global center.”

The announcement included computer-rendered images of curving, white terminal reminiscent of the traditional Bedouin tents of the Arabian Peninsula. The airport will include five parallel runways and 400 aircraft gates, the announcement said. The airport now has just two runways, like Dubai International Airport.

The financial health of the carrier Emirates has served as a barometer for the aviation industry worldwide and the wider economic health of this city-state. Dubai and the airline rebounded quickly from the pandemic by pushing forward with tourism even as some countries more slowly came out of their pandemic crouch.

The number of passengers flying through DXB surged last year beyond its total for 2019 with 86.9 million passengers. Its 2019 annual traffic was 86.3 million passengers. The airport had 89.1 million passengers in 2018 — its busiest-ever year before the pandemic, while 66 million passengers passed through in 2022.

Earlier in February, Dubai announced its best-ever tourism numbers, saying it hosted 17.15 million international overnight visitors in 2023. Average hotel occupancy stood at around 77%. Its boom-and-bust real estate market remains on a hot streak , nearing all-time high valuations.

But as those passenger numbers skyrocketed, it again put new pressure on the capacity of DXB, which remains constrained on all sides by residential neighborhoods and two major highways.

Al Maktoum International Airport, some 45 kilometers (28 miles) away from DXB, opened in 2010 with one terminal. It served as a parking lot for Emirates’ double-decker Airbus A380s and other aircraft during the pandemic and slowly has come back to life with cargo and private flights in the time since. It also hosts the biennial Dubai Air Show and has a vast, empty desert in which to expand.

The announcement by Sheikh Mohammed noted Dubai’s plans to expand further south. Already, its nearby Expo 2020 site has been offering homes for buyers.

“As we build an entire city around the airport in Dubai South, demand for housing for a million people will follow,” Dubai’s ruler said. “It will host the world’s leading companies in the logistics and air transport sectors.”

However, financial pressures have halted the move in the past. Dubai’s 2009 financial crisis, brought on by the Great Recession, forced Abu Dhabi to provide the city-state with a $20 billion bailout.

Meanwhile, the city-state is still trying to recover after the heaviest rainfall ever recorded in the UAE , which disrupted flights and commerce for days.

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Uae residents, tourists stranded as flights cancelled; some travel 18 hours to reach dubai, as heavy rains hit the country on tuesday, multiple flights were cancelled and airport operations came to a halt.

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For Dubai resident Sophie Davis, a trip to the South Korean city of Seoul has been a dream ever since she began enjoying Korean dramas and music. During the Eid Al Fitr holidays, her much-awaited dream came true when she jetted off to Seoul from Dubai for an 8-day holiday along with 24 of her friends and family members.

However, her dream trip quickly spiralled into a nightmare when her return flight to Dubai on Friday afternoon (April 19) was cancelled. “My husband is a doctor, and he already had a full calendar of appointments after the long Eid break,” she said, speaking to Khaleej Times. “We wanted to get back to Dubai as soon as possible.”

The rebooking process was extremely complicated as she was part of a big group. “Our agency was trying to rebook everyone in the same flight, and it was logistical chaos,” she said. “We spent hours at the airline counter, but it soon became clear that it would be at least four days before we could get a flight back home.”

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As an impact of the flight cancellations, tickets from Seoul to Dubai on other airlines more than doubled. “On Friday, there were tickets available for roughly Dh2,500 on other airlines,” she said. “But we were hopeful that the airline might be able to rebook us the next day. However, the next day the same tickets were going for Dh5,500.”

That’s when the couple made the decision to fly into Dubai with a stopover. “We booked a flight that transited at Thailand for seven hours,” she said. “It took us almost eighteen hours to reach Dubai as opposed to the ten hours it would have taken from Seoul, but we are back in the country in time for my husband to see his patients on Monday. That is all that mattered.”

Bridal makeup over video call

For Indian makeup artist Fidha Jafer, a trip to Dubai for a client’s wedding was supposed to be a fun time for her. She arrived on April 12 with her assistant.

After two days of work and exploring the city, she was ready to go back home for her remaining appointments when rain played spoilsport. “I was supposed to fly back at 1.30am on April 17,” she said. “I reported to the airport more than five hours before my flight, but it was cancelled.”

She spent the rest of the evening trying to find a hotel room to stay in for the night. “All the hotels had increased the prices astronomically and it took us several hours to find one hotel that had a free room,” she said.

However, her true misery was just about to begin. “When my travel agent called to say that there were no flights for at least a few days, I began to hyperventilate,” she recalled. “I had a bridal appointment on that day in India who had specifically booked me. Imagine calling a bride on the day of her wedding and saying that her makeup artist won't come.”

Although she gave the bride the option to hire another person for makeup, the bride decided to stick to Fidha’s team. “A senior member of my team did the bride’s makeup while I joined on video call and supervised it,” she said. “That bride was the most understanding when I informed her, and I will be forever thankful for the trust she had in my team.”

On April 18, she drove to Abu Dhabi — a trip that took her three hours — and took a flight at 11pm to Kochi with a layover in Colombo. Once there, she embarked on an almost six-hour drive to make it in the nick of time for another bridal appointment. “It was my first international trip for work, and it turned out to be an unforgettable one,” she said.

An extended vacation

For British visitors Caroline and Derek Harvarde who came to Dubai to visit their daughter Kelly, it has turned into an extended vacation. “They were supposed to leave on Wednesday,” said Kelly. “They checked in online and waited at the airport for over 10 hours before being told the flight was cancelled.”

Kelly’s nanny Grace, who was visiting family in Philippines has also been unable to return. However, Kelly said she was not complaining. “We are all safe,” she said. “My parents were able to come back to our house and Grace is safe with her family.”

She said she is thankful despite challenges. “Our house leaked and was a mess during the rain,” she said. “But as I ran the washing machine for the sixth time the day after the showers, I thought that we have a lot of be grateful for. Imagine trying to survive in a refugee camp in Gaza in this weather.”

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Dubai Airport will return to full operational capacity within 24 hours, COO says

Operations may hit 60-70% operation capacity by Thursday-end: COO

Dubai: Dubai International Airport will return to its full operational capacity within 24 hours, Dubai Airports Chief Operating Officer Majed Al Joker told state news agency WAM on Thursday.

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The hub has struggled to clear a backlog of flights in the aftermath of heavy rain that swamped the UAE on Tuesday.

“Once operations are back to normal, we will assess the damages and would be able to give figure for the size of losses,” Al Joker told Al Arabiya TV in a televised interview.

Dubai Airports CEO Paul Griffith also told Al Arabiya that operations are still volatile after an unprecedented 36 hours of rainfall battered the UAE. In an interview with Al Arabiya, Griffith said he hoped operations would return to normal soon.

He said that the airport administration faced a very challenging situation where they had to manage the arrival of work crews and flight arrival schedules which had to be updated every minute.

In a separate interview with Al Arabiya, Chief Operating Officer of Dubai Airports Majed Al-Joker said Dubai Airports will reach 60-70 percent operational capacity by the end of the day on Thursday. Al-Joker said that the record rainfall and the closure of the roads as a result “without any doubt greatly affected the traffic of arriving and departing passengers.”

Al-Joker also confirmed that the storm did not affect Dubai Airports’ buildings and systems. He added that the main runway of DXB was not affected by the rains either.

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