United Arab Emirates

Travel tips for United Arab Emirates: safety advisories, currency and cash vs. card, tap water, plugs, local phrases, food, and advice from travelers.

Cash and cards

Cards work almost everywhere. Recent Reddit reports confirm the UAE is virtually cashless, with Apple Pay and cards accepted everywhere from taxis to small vendors, though keeping a few dirhams on hand for direct tips or rare cash-only spots is appreciated.

Try the food

  • Machboos (مجبوس): A fragrant, spiced rice dish cooked with tender meat or seafood and dried lemon.
  • Luqaimat (لقيمات): Crispy, deep-fried dough balls drizzled with sticky date syrup and sprinkled with sesame seeds.
  • Harees (هريس): A savory, porridge-like dish made from slow-cooked wheat and meat, blended until smooth.

Say it in Arabic

  • Hello: مرحبا (Marhaba)
  • Thank you: شكرا (Shukran)
  • Please: من فضلك (Min fadlak)
  • Excuse me: عفوا (Afwan)
  • How much is this?: بكم هذا؟ (Bikam hadha?)
  • The bill please: الحساب من فضلك (Al hisab min fadlak)
  • Yes / No: نعم / لا (Na'am / La)
  • Goodbye: مع السلامة (Ma'a salama)

Essentials

Voltage
230V, 50Hz
Driving
Right side
SIM tip
Tourists can easily pick up a free visitor SIM at immigration in Dubai or buy an eSIM online via providers like Airalo before arrival.

Etiquette

Dress modestly in public areas by covering shoulders and knees, and avoid public displays of affection.

Airports in United Arab Emirates