Visa Regulations

Citizens of Western Europe and Pacific Rim
Citizens of UK (with the right of abode in the United Kingdom), France, Italy, Germany, Holland, Belgium, Luxembourg, Switzerland, Austria, Sweden, Norway, Denmark, Portugal, Ireland, Greece, Finland, Spain, Monaco, Vatican City, Iceland, Andorra, San Marino, Liechtenstein, USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, Brunei, Singapore, Malaysia, South Korea and holders of Hong Kong SAR passports will be granted a free of charge visit visa on arrival in the UAE. Currently, it has been decided to postpone the implementation of the new regulation as far as Malta and Cyprus are concerned. The visa enables them to stay for 60 days. The visa is renewable for a total stay of 90 days for a fee of Dhs 500.

AGCC Citizens
Citizens of the Arab Gulf Co-operation Council member states (Bahrain, Kuwait, Qatar, Oman, Saudi Arabia) do not need a visa.

AGCC Residents
AGCC expatriate residents who meet certain conditions may obtain a non-renewable 30-day visa upon arrival at the approved ports of entry.

General Information on Dubai

Geographical Location - Dubai is the second largest of the seven emirates that constitute the United Arab Emirates. Situated in the middle of the country, Dubai is flanked by Abu Dhabi to the South and Sharjah to the North. Dubai city is further divided by the Dubai Creek which is a well known landmark. The creek divides Dubai into Bur Dubai and Deira – Dubai’s business district

Currency - The currency of the UAE is Dirham. One US Dollar is equivalent to 3.65 Dirhams. All international currencies as well as Gulf currencies are widely accepted in UAE. Dubai does not impose restrictions on the import and export of any currency.

Banks - A majority of the International banks have their branches here in Dubai.

Credit Cards – Most shops, restaurants, hotels and entertainment outlets accept major credit cards such as VISA, American Express, Diners and Master cards.

Customs Regulations – Visitors are allowed duty free allowances of 2000 cigarettes, 400 cigars, and a reasonable amount of perfume. Duty free sales outlets are situated in the arrivals and departure halls at the airport.

Dress Code – Cottons are the best in summer and light jackets in winter. As UAE is a Muslim country, it is best to avoid revealing and provocative clothes to respect local values and culture.

Cuisine and Alcohol – Restaurants do not serve alcohol, but hotels serve alcohol in their clubs, bars and restaurants. A non-resident Muslim, holding a permanent visa can obtain liquor supplies only if holding a liquor license in possession. Dubai offers all its visitors and residents a world of cuisines. Here one finds eating places from budget eating stalls to gastronomical experiences.

Local Time – Dubai is 4 hours ahead of GMT.

Climate – Dubai enjoys mixed climatic conditions from extremely hot during peak summers – 48 degrees to a comfortable 20 degrees during winter. Summer months are generally between May and October and winter months from December to March.

Tipping – The practice is similar to most parts of the world. Some restaurants include a service charge otherwise a 10 percent is adequate.

Language – The official language is Arabic. English is widely spoken language too.

Religion – Islam is the official religion of the UAE. Rules have measured a mosque every half - kilometer. However Dubai, also has Churches, Temples, and Gurdwaras so that the population can practice their religion. Ramadan the holy month of Muslims, is a month of fasting and abstinence for Muslims from eating, drinking, smoking from dawn to dusk. Visitors are also requested to refrain as a sign of respect.

Telephones – Telecommunications are excellent both within UAE and with the rest of the world. Telephone calls within Dubai is free.

Medicals – Dubai has well equipped hospitals. The Dubai hospital has specialized clinics while the Al Wasl hospital specializes in gynecology and maternity. In addition there are a number of well equipped hospitals with in and out facilities.

Electricity – The supply in Dubai is 220/240 volts at 50 cycles. US made appliances may need a transformer

Taxis – The most common way to get around. Metered cabs are available and driven by efficient and well-driven drivers. The fares for non-metered taxis must be negotiated between driver and passenger before the start of the trip.

Car Hire – Those interested in self – drive can rent out cars from the many rental companies available in Dubai. A must, is the International Driving License. Renters must produce their passport at the time of rental. Driving in the UAE is on right hand side.

Some helpful hints –
Never sit in a manner whereby the soles of your feet are pointing to someone else.
In Ramadan, never eat, drink or smoke in public during daylight hours.
Do not take photographs of national women or military installations.
Never drink alcohol in public