Ultimate UAE Travel Checklist
Essential Travel Documents
- Passport (valid for at least 6 months)
- Visa (Determine if required; some nationalities qualify for visa-free entry or a visa on arrival)
- Flight Tickets (Round trip is recommended)
- Travel Insurance (Includes coverage for medical expenses, theft, and cancellations)
- Hotel Reservations (You may need to provide proof of accommodation)
- Copies of Important Documents (Including passport, visa, insurance, and emergency contacts)
Money and Payments
- UAE Dirhams (AED) (Exchange some cash ahead of time)
- International Debit/Credit Card (Inform your bank before traveling)
- E-wallet apps (Apple Pay, Samsung Pay, UAE’s Payit, etc.)
Packing List
- Light & Modest Clothing (Respect local customs, particularly in public places)
- Comfortable Shoes (For exploring cities and desert trips)
- Sunglasses & Hat (To shield against the intense sun)
- Sunscreen & Lip Balm (The UAE can be very hot and dry)
- Power Adapter (The UAE uses a Type G plug – the same as the UK)
- Travel Pillow & Eye Mask (Helpful for long flights)
- Medications & First-Aid Kit (If necessary)
Tech and Gadgets
- Smartphone and charger
- Power bank (for long travel days)
- Camera (or make sure your phone has enough storage)
- Portable Wi-Fi or local SIM card (for internet access; Etisalat and Du are top providers)
- E-tickets and digital copies (flights, hotel, and activity bookings)
Transportation
- RTA Nol Card (For metro, bus, and water taxis in Dubai)
- Uber/Careem App (For convenient ride-hailing)
- Car Rental Booking (If you plan to drive, you may need an International Driving Permit)
Must-Visit Places
- ��️ Dubai: Burj Khalifa, Dubai Mall, Desert Safari, Palm Jumeirah, Dubai Marina
- ��️ Abu Dhabi: Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, Louvre Abu Dhabi, Ferrari World
- �� Sharjah: Cultural and historical museums, Al Noor Island
- ��️ Ras Al Khaimah: Jebel Jais (the UAE’s highest mountain), zip-lining, beach resorts
- ��️ Fujairah: Beaches, snorkeling, and diving
Local Customs and Travel Tips
- Respect the Dress Code (No revealing clothing in public, but swimsuits are acceptable at beaches and pools).
- No PDA (Public Displays of Affection) (Avoid excessive hugging or kissing in public).
- Alcohol Restrictions (Permitted in licensed hotels, bars, and restaurants).
- No Drugs! (The UAE enforces strict drug laws, even for small quantities).
- Ramadan Awareness (Eating in public during fasting hours is prohibited).
- Tipping Culture (Not mandatory, but a 10-15% tip is appreciated in restaurants).
Emergency Contacts
- Police: 999
- Ambulance: 998
- Fire Department: 997
- Hospital: Check the nearest location to your hotel
