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Before you travelÌý

No travel can be guaranteed safe. Read all the advice in this guide. You may also find it helpful to:Ìý

• ²õ±ð±ðÌýgeneral advice for women travellers
• read our guide on disability and travel abroad
• ²õ±ð±ðÌýgeneral advice for LGBT+ travellers
• read aboutÌýsafety for solo and independent travel
• see advice on volunteering and adventure travel abroad

Travel insuranceÌý

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.

About FCDO travel advice

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

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This information is for people travelling on a full ‘British citizen� passport from the UK. It is based on the UK government’s understanding of the United Arab Emirates� (UAE) rules for the most common types of travel.

The authorities in the UAE set and enforce entry rules. If you’re not sure how these requirements apply to you contact the .Ìý

Passport validity requirements

To enter the UAE, your passport must have an ‘expiry date� at least 6 months after the date you arrive.

If you have a residence permit, your passport’s expiry date must be at least 3 months after the date you arrive in the UAE.

If you’re travelling through the UAE and not passing through immigration, your passport must have an expiry date at least 3 months after the date you will transit.

Check with your travel provider that your passport and other travel documents meet requirements. Renew your passport if you need to.ÌýÌý

You will be denied entry if you do not have a valid travel document or try to use a passport that has been reported lost or stolen.

Visa requirements

You can get a visitor or tourist visa issued free of charge when you arrive in the UAE. You do not need to apply in advance of travel. Your passport will be stamped with the visa as you go through immigration. It will usually be valid for up to 40 days.

You could get a fine for overstaying your visa. If you want to extend your stay, contact:

• for Dubai:
• for the rest of the UAE:

Living and working in the UAEÌý

If you entered Dubai on a visit visa and want to work, you must get a probationary work permit valid for up to 3 months from the Ministry of Labour. If you are caught working on a visit visa, you could get a fine or a prison sentence, and you risk deportation.Ìý

You risk arrest if you have lived or worked in the UAE and return when:

• your previous visa is not in order - for example if you did not cancel your work visa
• you have outstanding debts
• you have an unresolved legal issue

If you have any doubt about your status, get advice before returning from a .Ìý

If you have questions about your visa’s validity or expiration date, or about how to work or stay in the UAE, contact UAE Immigration directly:Ìý

• for Dubai: Ìý
• for the rest of the UAE:
• from the UK: Ìý

Residence visas

If you apply for a residence visa, you will have to take a blood test. If you test positive for any communicable diseases like HIV, hepatitis or tuberculosis, you may be detained and then deported, without appeal. Check the health and fitness requirements on theÌý.

When applying for a UAE residence visa, it is common practice for your sponsor’s representative to give their details as the contact information on your application. When your residence visa is issued, update these details usingÌý. The UAE authorities use these details when they contact you.

Previous travel to IsraelÌý

If you have a valid or expired Israeli visa or stamp in your passport, you should not face difficulties entering the UAE as long as you do not plan to work. If you plan to work, further checks may be needed and there is a risk you may be refused entry.

If you are a British-Israeli dual national and have any concerns about entering the UAE, contact the .

Leaving the UAEÌý

If you are subject to a travel ban, involved in legal proceedings, have unpaid debt or are a child subject to a custody dispute, you may be prevented from leaving the UAE.

Vaccine requirementsÌýÌý

To enter the UAE, you must have a certificate to prove you’ve had a yellow fever vaccination if you’re coming from a .

For full details about medical entry requirements and recommended vaccinations, see .

Customs rulesÌý

There are strict rules about . You must declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty.Ìý

It is illegal to bring pork products or pornography into the UAE. Videos, books, and magazines may be subject to scrutiny and may be censored.

Weapons and related equipment

You must have permission from UAE customs and the UAE Ministry of Defence to bring weapons and related equipment into the UAE, or to travel through the UAE with them, no matter how small the quantity or the purpose. This includes items such as ammunition, body protection items, cleaning kits and gun belts. If you intend to bring restricted items to the UAE, read the .

MedicationÌý

There are strict rules about what medications you can bring into the UAE. You will need approval from the UAE authorities to bring in medication that the UAE classes as narcotic, psychotropic, controlled or semi-controlled.ÌýÌý

You must get approval in advance from the UAE Ministry of Health to bring medication. . The UAE authorities advise that applications are normally processed within 5 working days.ÌýÌý

If you arrive in the UAE without evidence of prior approval, the medication will not be allowed into the UAE, and you may be prosecuted. For information on controlled medicines or the process for obtaining permission, contact the UAE Ministry of Health. EmailÌý[email protected]Ìýor telephone +971 800 11111.ÌýÌý

In all cases, there are limits on the amount of medication you can bring into the UAE legally. You can bring up to 3 monthsâ€� supply of medication as a visitor, reduced to one month’s supply if the medication is included in the list requiring approval.ÌýÌý

You do not need to complete this approval process if you are only changing planes in a UAE airport and not passing through UAE immigration.

TerrorismÌýÌý

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. Stay aware of your surroundings at all times.

UK Counter Terrorism Policing has information and advice on and what to do in the event of a terrorist attack. Find out how to reduce your risk from terrorism while abroad.Ìý

Terrorism in the UAEÌý

Attacks could be indiscriminate, including in places visited by foreign nationals.Ìý

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. Targets may include:ÌýÌý

• residential compoundsÌý
• military sitesÌý
• oilÌý
• transportÌý
• aviation interestsÌýÌý
• crowded placesÌý
• restaurantsÌýÌý
• hotelsÌý
• beachesÌý
• shopping centresÌý
• places of worship

Maintain a high level of security awareness, particularly in public places and at public events.

Regional escalation

Ongoing hostilities in the region and between Israel and Lebanon could escalate quickly and pose risks for the wider region.

On 1 October, Iran launched around 200 ballistic missiles at Israel. On 26 October Israel carried out military action against Iran.

Monitor this travel advice and other media as the situation is changing fast. Follow and contact FCDO travel on , and . You can also get email notifications when this travel advice is updated.

Read FCDO advice if you’re affected by a crisis abroad.

CrimeÌý

Protecting your belongingsÌý

Take sensible precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.

Sexual assaultÌý

Take care when walking or travelling alone or at night, particularly if you are a woman.ÌýUse a reputable taxi company and do not accept lifts from strangers.ÌýÌý

There are special taxis for women and children, which can be hailed from the roadside or can be booked in advance.

Sexual assault and rape are relatively rare but do happen. A man who is convicted of raping a woman will be given life imprisonment, and in some cases prosecutors may request the death penalty. However, UAE law places a high burden of proof on the victim to demonstrate that the sexual relations were not consensual, especially when the victim had consumed alcohol or where the alleged attacker was known to the victim. If the sexual relations are determined to have been consensual, either party may still face prosecution for the offence of sex outside marriage.

Drink and food spikingÌý

Do not accept drinks from strangers or leave your drink unattended in bars and clubs.ÌýCriminals can spike drinks and assault or rob you.

Property scamsÌý

If you want to buy property in the UAE, get appropriate professional advice as you would in the UK. FCDO has aÌý.

Laws and cultural differencesÌý

The UAE is a Muslim country. Respect local traditions, customs, laws and religions. Make sure your actions do not cause offence, especially during the holy month of Ramadan or if you visit religious areas. There may be serious penalties for doing something that might not be illegal in the UK but is in the UAE.ÌýÌý

Your passport

UAE employers may ask foreign employees to deposit their passports with the company as part of their terms and conditions of employment. This is illegal under UAE labour law.Ìý

It is normal practice for hotels to take a photocopy of your passport or Emirates ID.

Hotel regulations

You cannot stay in a hotel if you’re under 18 years old and not accompanied by an adult.ÌýÌýÌý

Pedestrian crossingsÌý

Only cross roads using designated pedestrian crossings. It is illegal to cross in other places. Take care when crossing, as vehicles often do not stop at zebra crossings marked on the roads.

RamadanÌýÌý

Ramadan is a holy month for Muslims. The dates vary by year and country. During this time, it may cause offence if you:Ìý

• eat, drink, smoke or chew gum in public in the daytime, including in your carÌý
• play loud music or danceÌý
• swear in publicÌý

Find out or get more advice when you arrive from your tour guide, hotel or business contacts.Ìý

You should also:Ìý

• check opening hours of shops and restaurantsÌý
• be aware that if hotels and restaurants are providing food or drink in fasting hours, they may separate you from Islamic guests, for example with screensÌý
• follow local dress codes â€� clothing that does not meet local dress codes may cause more offence at this timeÌý
• be aware that driving may be erratic, particularly when people are trying to get home at duskÌý
• be patient and show tolerance - fasting can cause tiredness, particularly during the late afternoon and early eveningÌý

Dress codeÌý

Dress modestly in public areas like shopping malls:Ìý

• women should cover shoulders and knees, and underwear should not be visible
• swimming attire should only be worn on beaches or at swimming pools
• cross-dressing is illegalÌý

Swearing and rude gesturesÌý

It is illegal to swear and make rude gestures, including online, as they are considered obscene acts. You could be jailed or deported. Take particular care when dealing with the police and other officials.

Posting online

It is illegal to post material, including videos and photographs, online that is critical of the UAE government, companies or individuals, or which relates to incidents in the UAE. This includes material which appears to abuse, ridicule or criticise the country or its authorities. Material that is culturally insensitive may also be considered illegal.Ìý

Showing affection in public

Showing affection in public is frowned upon. You can be arrested for kissing in public.

Sexual relationships outside marriageÌý

Consensual sexual relationships between a man and woman outside marriage are generally legal if both are aged 18 or over. This includes extra-marital sexual relationships. However, if either person’s spouse or parent/guardian files a criminal complaint, both parties of an extra-marital consensual relationship can get a prison sentence of 6 months or longer.ÌýÌý

If a person aged 18 or over has a sexual relationship with a person aged 17 or under, they will be prosecuted for having a sexual relationship with a minor. If both people are aged 17 or under, they will both be prosecuted but punishment is likely to be limited to a caution, parental supervision, judicial supervision, professional training or psychiatric treatment.ÌýÌý

If you are unmarried and give birth to a child in the UAE, you will only be able to get a UAE birth certificate if:ÌýÌýÌý

• both you and your partner get married
• you and your partner provide a joint declaration, certified by a notary public, to acknowledge the child - further information is available from

If you become pregnant outside of marriage, your medical insurance may not cover you. Consult your medical insurance provider before getting pregnant, or giving birth in the UAE.

Financial crimeÌý

Financial crimes, including fraud and the non-payment of bills (including hotel bills) can often result in a prison sentence, a fine, or both. You could also have your bank accounts and other assets frozen.ÌýÌý

If you are arrested for a financial crime and are not resident in the UAE, it is likely you will not be allowed bail. If you are convicted, you may have to stay in prison until the debt is paid or waived, and you’ve served your full sentence.

Alcohol laws and bansÌý

Drinking or possessing alcohol is illegal in the city of Sharjah, 30km north of Dubai.

It is illegal to drink or be under the influence of alcohol in a public place anywhere in the UAE. British nationals have been arrested and charged under this law, often in cases where they have come to the attention of the police for a related offence, such as disorderly or offensive behaviour.Ìý

The legal age for purchasing and drinking alcohol is 21 in Abu Dhabi, Dubai and the Northern Emirates except Sharjah, where drinking and having alcohol in your possession is illegal.ÌýÌý

If you are resident in Dubai and want to buy alcohol to drink at home, you must get a liquor licence. Liquor licences are no longer required for residents in the other Emirates.ÌýÌý

Liquor licences are not required in Dubai to purchase and consume alcohol in licenced venues like hotel bars, restaurants, and pubs. However, a liquor licence is required for consuming alcohol in private places like homes or private parties. While this requirement might not be strictly enforced in private settings, it remains a legal requirement.ÌýÌýÌý

Outside licensed venues, you can only buy alcohol with a liquor licence from the 2 official liquor distributors in Dubai,ÌýÌýandÌý. Tourists can get a temporary liquor licence which is valid for one month, from either supplier. This licence is only for use in Dubai.Ìý ÌýÌý

Liquor licences are not required for non-residents in the other Emirates. You can buy and drink alcohol in licensed venues, such as hotels, restaurants and clubs.

Illegal drugs penaltiesÌýÌý

There is zero tolerance for drugs-related offences.ÌýÌýÌý

The penalties for trafficking, smuggling, using and possessing illegal drugs (including residual amounts) are severe. Sentences for drug trafficking can include the death penalty. Possession of even the smallest amount of illegal drugs can lead to a minimum 3-month prison term or a fine of between 20,000 UAE dirham and 100,000 UAE dirham. The Emirati authorities count the presence of drugs in the blood stream as possession.ÌýÌýÌý

Some ‘herbal highsâ€� and products containing cannabidiolÌý (CBD) are illegal in the UAE.ÌýÌýÌý

Possessing, concealing or making transactions with money from drugs-related offences is illegal. You could get a prison sentence and a fine.ÌýÌý

UAE airports have excellent technology and security for detecting illegal items. This is also used to scan the baggage of transiting passengers. You can be arrested for carrying drugs, even residual amounts.

Some skincare products and e-cigarette refills may contain ingredients that are illegal in the UAE such as CBD oil. If you are found in possession of such products, they will be confiscated and you could face criminal charges. A list of narcotic, psychotropic and controlled drugs where this rule applies, allowed quantities and documents to be presented can be found on theÌý.

Fundraising and charitable actsÌý

Fundraising and acts of charity are heavily regulated in the UAE. This includes online and social media activity. Check whether any of the activities you are planning to do in the UAE, or while travelling through the UAE, is illegal. Get legal advice if necessary.

Using cameras and binoculars in secure areasÌý

It is illegal to take photos of some government buildings and military installations. Hobbies like bird watching and plane spotting may be misunderstood, particularly near military sites, government buildings and airports.ÌýÌý

Do not photograph people without their permission. Men have been arrested for photographing women on beaches.Ìý

Technical equipmentÌý

You may need a licence to use equipment like satellite phones, listening or recording devices, radio transmitters, powerful cameras or binoculars. Get advice from theÌý.

Media activityÌý

You must apply for the appropriate permissions to carry out media activity, including the production, transmission or distribution of printed, digital, audio, video or visual information. Failure to do so could result in imprisonment and a substantial fine.ÌýÌý

Information about media activity and how to obtain the necessary permits can be accessed by registering on the .

LGBT+ travellersÌý

Same-sex sexual activity is illegal in the UAE, and same-sex marriages are not recognised.ÌýÌý

The UAE is in many respects a tolerant society and private life is respected. However, there have been reports of individuals being punished for same-sex sexual activity, particularly where there is any public element, or where the behaviour has Ìýcaused offence. This applies both to foreign national residents and tourists.

Read more advice for LGBT+ travellers.

Outdoor activities and adventure tourismÌýÌý

Swimming safetyÌý

Rip currents can occur at any beach and can sweep even the strongest swimmer out to sea. Check for warning signs, especially red flags which mean that swimming is dangerous. Only swim from approved beaches where there are lifeguards and flags indicating it is safe to swim .ÌýÌý

See from the Royal Life Saving Society.

Transport risksÌýÌý

TaxisÌý

Use only licensed taxis or other recognised forms of public transport, which includes apps like ‘Careem�, ‘Uber� and Abu Dhabi Taxi. In Dubai authorised taxis are painted cream with different coloured roofs � taxis with pink roofs have female drivers. In Abu Dhabi taxis are painted silver/grey.

Road travelÌýÌý

If you are planning to drive in the UAE, see information on driving abroadÌýand check theÌý.ÌýÌýÌý

You can use a UK photocard driving licence to drive in the UAE. If you still have a paper driving licence, you may need to update it to a photocard licence or get the correct version of the international driving permit (IDP) as well.Ìý

If you’re applying for residence in the UAE, you can use your UK licence until your residence permit is issued, after which you’ll need to get a UAE driving licence from the traffic department.

Driving standards

Driving standards are not always as disciplined as in the UK and there is a high rate of traffic accidents. Speeding is common, despite clearly signposted legal limits and widespread use of speed cameras.

Rules of the road

It is illegal to drink and drive, no matter how small the amount, and your insurance is likely to be invalidated in the event of an accident.

Police in the UAE have the power to impound your car for traffic violations that may be considered minor in the UK. They will charge a fee of 50,000 UAE dirham plus a traffic violation fine to release your car.Ìý ÌýÌý

Offensive gestures and bad language directed at other drivers can lead to fines, a jail sentence, and possibly deportation.ÌýÌýÌý

Flashing headlights can mean a driver is coming through, rather than giving way to you.ÌýÌý

If you have an accident, follow the rules of the emirate in which you are travelling:ÌýÌý

• in Abu Dhabi, if no one has been hurt and vehicle damage is minor, move your vehicle to the side of the road to avoid blocking traffic, otherwise do not move your vehicle
• in Dubai, only move your vehicle if it is causing an obstruction to other motorists
• in the other emirates, only move your car if the accident is minor and both parties agree who is responsible
• in all cases, call the police â€� it is illegal to leave the scene of an accident before the police have arrived

Driving in the desertÌý

Excursions to the desert can be dangerous unless you’re in a properly equipped 4-wheel-drive vehicle. Always travel with other cars, take a supply of water and a mobile telephone. Leave a copy of your travel plans with relatives, friends or where you are staying.ÌýÌýÌý

If you join a tour for driving in the desert or quad-biking, make sure you go with a reputable company with adequate health and safety procedures.ÌýÌýÌý

Always check that such activities are covered by your insurance.

Sea travelÌý

Be careful when travelling by tourist boat. The safety of these vessels may not be up to UK standards. Make sure life jackets are available for all passengers.ÌýÌý

Many areas of the Gulf are highly sensitive, including near maritime boundaries and the islands of Abu Musa and the Tunbs in the southern Gulf. The authorities have detained and inspected vessels entering these areas. Mariners should make careful enquiries with relevant local authorities before entering these waters.ÌýÌý

You should consider how regional tensions may affect your route. Vessels operating in the Gulf of Oman, Northern Arabian Sea, Gulf of Aden and Bab El Mandeb regions may be at increased risk of maritime attack.

Extreme weather and natural disasters

Find out what you can do to prepare for and respond to extreme weather and natural hazards.

Flooding

Heavy rain in the UAE can cause flooding. Check weather forecasts from , and follow advice from the local authorities. Sources for up-to-date information include local radio and online media outlets and .

Before you travel check that:Ìý

• your destination can provide the healthcare you may needÌý
• you have appropriate travel insurance for local treatment or unexpected medical evacuationÌý

This is particularly important if you have a health condition or are pregnant.Ìý

Emergency medical numberÌý

Dial 998 and ask for an ambulance.Ìý

Contact your insurance or medical assistance company quickly if you’re referred to a medical facility for treatment.Ìý

Vaccine recommendations and health risksÌý

At least 8 weeks before your trip:Ìý

• check the latest
• see where to get vaccines and whether you have to pay on the Ìý

See .

MedicationÌý

The legal status and regulation of some medicines prescribed or purchased in the UK can be different in other countries.

ReadÌý.

In the UAE, some UK prescribed and over-the-counter medicines are considered controlled substances. You must get approval in advance from the UAE Ministry of Health to bring medication. . The UAE authorities advise that applications are processed within 5 working days.

Healthcare in the UAEÌý

FCDO has a list of medical providers in the UAE where some staff will speak English.Ìý

Healthcare facilities in the UAE are similar to those in the UK, but you may be stopped from using them without travel insurance or without the means to pay medical fees. You may be prevented from leaving the UAE if you are unable to pay your medical bill. Make sure you have adequate travel health insurance and accessible funds to cover the cost of any medical treatment abroad and repatriation.ÌýÌý

There is guidance on healthcare if you’re living in the UAE.

Travel and mental healthÌý

Read FCDO guidance on travel and mental health. There is also .

The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office (FCDO) cannot provide tailored advice for individual trips. Read this travel advice and carry out your own research before deciding whether to travel.Ìý

Emergency services in the United Arab Emirates (UAE)ÌýÌý

Ambulance: 998Ìý

Fire: 997Ìý

Police: 999Ìý

Contact your travel provider and insurerÌý

Contact your travel provider and your insurer if you are involved in a serious incident or emergency abroad. They will tell you if they can help and what you need to do.Ìý

Refunds and changes to travelÌý

For refunds or changes to travel, contact your travel provider. You may also be able to make a claim through insurance. However, insurers usually require you to talk to your travel provider first.Ìý

Find out more about changing or cancelling travel plans, including:Ìý

• where to get advice if you are in a dispute with a providerÌý
• how to access previous versions of travel advice to support a claimÌý

Support from FCDOÌý

FCDO has guidance on staying safe and what to do if you need help or support abroad, including:Ìý

• finding English-speaking , and in the UAEÌý
• dealing with a death in the UAEÌý
• being arrested in the UAEÌýÌý
• getting help if you’re a victim of crimeÌý
• what to do if you’re in hospitalÌý
• if you are affected by a crisis, such as a terrorist attackÌý

ContactingÌýFCDOÌý

Help abroad �

SeeÌýÌýincluding in an emergency.Ìý

Help in the UKÌýÌý

You can call�FCDO in London if you need urgent help because something has happened to a friend or relative abroad. �

Telephone: 020 7008 5000 (24 hours) �

Find out about call charges

Get travel advice updates �

Sign up to�get email notifications when this travel advice is updated. �

Follow FCDO:Ìý

Risk information for British companiesÌýÌý

TheÌýOverseas Business Risk serviceÌýoffers information and advice for British companies operating in the UAE on how to manage political, economic, and business security-related risks.