United Arab Emirates

United Arab Emirates

Use Normal Level of Caution

The United Arab Emirates is a country of six states that merged in 1971 - Abu Dhabi, Ajman, Sharjah, Fujairah, Dubai, and Ummal Qaiwain, and joined by Ras al Khaimah in 1972. The UAE is located in the Middle East with coastline on the Gulf of Oman and the Persian Gulf, and bordering the countries of Oman, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Iran and Pakistan. The population of about 5.6 million people is very diverse with about 80 percent of the population coming from countries other than the Emirates.

The government is a federation. The federal UAE government retains some powers, and the member emirates have a large degree of independence and retain other powers. A president is chief of state and a prime minister is head of government of the UAE. Each emirate has its own sheikh or king.

The UAE is a very modern country with a well-developed tourist infrastructure. The roads throughout the UAE are excellent. Dubai is building extensive public transportation systems, but there is little public transportation in the other emirates. Dubai International Airport has been listed as the busiest airport in the world. Travellers may be drawn to the modern city of Dubai, beaches, Hajar Mountains, Al Ain oases, and deserts.

Currency AED: Emirati dirham
Language Arabic
Capital Abu Dhabi
Recent Alerts 6
Latest Alert July 21, 2021 - COVID-19 Precautionary Measures in Dubai (21 July Update)

Diseases To Be Aware Of

The diseases listed below are those which occur most often in United Arab Emirates. Other, less frequently encountered diseases might be displayed within the Travel Alerts section if they have occurred recently.

Hepatitis A

There is a significant risk for hepatitis A virus exposure in United Arab Emirates through contaminated food or water. Infection can still occur at tourist destinations and resorts.

Hepatitis B

There is a significant risk for acquiring hepatitis B in United Arab Emirates.

Typhoid Fever

Unvaccinated people can become infected through contaminated food and water in United Arab Emirates, especially when visiting smaller cities, villages, or rural areas where food and water sources may be contaminated.

Rabies

Rabies occurs in United Arab Emirates, but information is limited.

Dengue Fever

Outbreaks of dengue fever may occur.

Vaccinations to Consider

The following is a list of recommended vaccinations for travelling to United Arab Emirates.

Hepatitis A Vaccine

There is a significant risk of exposure to hepatitis A for this country, therefore, the vaccination is recommended.

Hepatitis B Vaccine

There is a significant risk of infection with hepatitis B for this country, therefore, the vaccination is recommended.

Typhoid Fever Vaccine

There is a risk of exposure to typhoid fever in this country through consumption of unsafe food and water. Since exposure to unsafe sources is variable within this country, the vaccination against typhoid fever is generally recommended, especially when visiting smaller cities or rural areas, where food and water sources may be contaminated.

Rabies Vaccine

Vaccination against rabies is recommended for travellers involved in outdoor activities (e.g., campers, hikers, bikers, adventure travellers, and cavers) who may have direct contact with rabid dogs, bats, and other mammals. Those with occupational risks (such as veterinarians, wildlife professionals, researchers) and long-term travellers and expatriates are at higher risk and should be vaccinated.

Medications to Consider

The following is a list of recommended medications for travelling to United Arab Emirates.

None required.

Safety and Security in United Arab Emirates

Emergency Numbers

999

Personal Safety

The crime rate is low in this country, and most travellers have no trouble. However, petty crime, such as pickpocketing, bag snatching, or other theft can occur in any crowded area, tourist destination or developing country. Always be alert to your personal safety. Keep valuables secured and out of sight. Safeguard your important documents, such as your passport. Avoid walking alone at night. Do not accept drinks or food from strangers and never leave your drinks out of your sight.

Sexual assault is rare but does happen. There have been reports of female expatriates being harassed by taxi drivers. There have been reports of females being sexually assaulted in underground pedestrian walkways.

The UAE is an Islamic country. Be respectful of Islamic traditions and culture and aware of cultural differences. Dress conservatively and modestly. Friendliness may be misinterpreted and bring unwanted attention or harassment.

Public displays of affection are not acceptable. Travellers have been jailed for kissing in public.

Same sex relations and behaviour are criminalized and can bring severe penalties.

The UAE has a high rate of deaths by road accident. Drivers tend to speed and may not follow the rules of the road. It is illegal to drive with any alcohol intake whatsoever.

Areas To Avoid

Avoid travelling to areas bordering Qatar.

Political Unrest

Western nations warn citizens of the global threat of terrorist attack against westerners.

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