Travelling to the UAE and Dubai in particular is a relatively easy process for most people. However, please check the information below before booking your flight and short stay rental in Dubai.
Visas
To travel to Dubai, you don't need a visa from the list of countries below. If travelling from a country not on this list, you will have to attain a visa from the UAE consulate in your country or alternatively, a tourist visa may be arranged by your travel agency or typically Emirates airlines if flying by Emirates to Dubai.
GCC Nationals: Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar and Saudi Arabia. United Kingdom, USA and Canada, Australia and New Zealand France, Italy, Germany, Holland, Belgium, Luxemburg, Switzerland, Austria, Sweden, Norway, Denmark, Portugal, Ireland, Greece, Finland, Spain, Monaco, Vatican City, Iceland, Andorra, San Mario and Liechtenstein. Japan, Brunei, Singapore, Malaysia and Hong Kong
Dubai government often updates the above list. It is better to contact the UAE embassy in your country or visit the Dubai government website (http://www.dnrd.gov.ae) for the latest list of countries.
Driving License
For short trips an international driving license is required in addition to your normal driving license to be able to drive in the UAE. An international license is normally easily obtained from your country of residence.
Although not the official rule, a UK, US or a major European country license is generally accepted but we do not advocate driving without having an international license as well.
Banned Medicine/Drugs
It is very important to note that the UAE has very strict and different interpretations on drugs. Medical drugs which are available over the counter or through prescriptions in some countries can be illegal in Dubai. Possessions of these drugs can lead to fines or imprisonment.
Common things:
Please note that:
- several cough medicines are banned due to their ingredients. It is safer to purchase cough medicines from pharmacies here on arrival. - Some type of pain killers are banned. - Some sedatives are banned. - Poppy seeds and some nuts are banned ... As is anything containing this such as a cake.
If you intend to carry medicines, please see the full list at the ministry of health website at www.moh.gov.ae
Please carry prescriptions for your drugs where appropriate.
Please refer to the following site of what is not allowed. Â Other Banned Substances
Other banned items include drugs, pornographic material, non Islamic religious pamphlets for missionary activities, fireworks, ivory, weapons & ammunition, chemical and organic fertilizers, laser pens, radar jammers/other unauthorized communication devices, endangered animal species, and any objects, sculptures, paintings, books or magazines which do not adhere to the religious and moral values of the UAE.
Alcohol Purchase at Duty Free on Arrival
Tourists are permitted to purchase up to 4 litres of alcohol per adult at the duty free shops at the Airport.
