Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Planning Your Travel: The Fundamentals
- Arrival: Dubai Airport and Immigration Procedures
- Health, Vaccination, and Medication Rules
- Customs, Prohibited Items and Legal Risks
- Money and Payments
- Getting Around: Transport Options and Driving
- Accommodation: Reservations, Hotel Policies, and What to Expect
- Etiquette, Safety and Local Laws
- Communication: SIM Cards, eSIMs and Useful Apps
- Step-By-Step Preparation: From Booking to Boarding
- Essential Documents and Items to Pack
- Practical Scenarios and How To Handle Them
- Traveling From Saudi Arabia: Practical Notes
- Money-Saving and Time-Saving Trade-Offs
- Cultural Tips to Make the Most of Your Stay
- Final Preparations: Last 48 Hours Before Departure
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Conclusion
Introduction
Dubai is one of the world’s busiest travel hubs and a magnet for visitors across the Gulf, Asia, Europe and beyond. Whether you’re flying in for business, a short stopover between continents or a sun-soaked holiday, arriving prepared makes the experience smooth and stress-free.
Short answer: You need a passport valid for at least six months, the correct visa or entry permit for your nationality (many travelers receive a visa on arrival but some must pre-arrange one), a confirmed onward or return ticket, proof of accommodation when required, adequate funds, and compliance with UAE customs and medication rules. Also double-check airline, health and transit requirements before departure.
This article explains everything you should arrange before leaving home, what to carry in your wallet and luggage, how to handle immigration on arrival and departure, and which local laws and etiquette matter most once you’re on the ground. I bring the KSA Travel Insider perspective—practical, local-tested advice that helps travelers from the Kingdom and the wider Gulf move from curiosity to a confident, well-planned visit. Throughout the post you’ll find clear, actionable steps, realistic trade-offs and links to regional resources that make planning easier.
My main message: plan the essentials well in advance—documents, visas, medication permissions and confirmed bookings—and you’ll unlock a relaxed, enjoyable Dubai stay where logistics don’t steal the spotlight from what the city has to offer.
Planning Your Travel: The Fundamentals
Passport Requirements
Your passport is the single most important travel document. Immigration officials in the UAE consistently require that passports have at least six months’ validity from the date of arrival. Machine-readable passports are standard; handwritten or severely damaged passports may be refused at boarding or at immigration.
If you hold more than one passport, enter and exit the UAE on the same one. Leaving on a different passport than the one you used to enter can create serious problems with exit controls. If there’s any doubt about validity or visa history, resolve it with your issuing authority before traveling.
Visa Types and How to Get Them
Visa requirements depend on nationality, the purpose of travel and sometimes the carrier you use. Broadly speaking, visitor access falls into these categories: visas on arrival, prearranged visit visas, transit visas and sponsored visas (by employers, family or hotels). For many nationalities, the UAE issues a 30- or 90-day visa on arrival; other nationalities must obtain an entry permit in advance.
Airlines often offer an online visa service when you book; Emirates and some other carriers can process a visitor permit on your behalf. For travelers who require prearranged permission, applications are typically handled by visa processing centers or through the carrier’s “manage booking” portal. If a sponsor (employer, family member or hotel) is arranging a visa, ask them to send the electronic entry permit and a copy of the visa approval before you depart.
New rules and pilot programs occasionally appear (for example, specific entry concessions for certain passport holders accompanied by valid residence documents), so check your eligibility via the airline or the official government channels before booking.
Transit Visas and Short Stopovers
Dubai is a major transit hub. If you are changing planes without passing through immigration, you generally need only a passport valid for the duration of your transit. If you plan to leave the airport during a long layover, check whether you qualify for a transit visa (48-hour or 96-hour options exist, subject to nationality and ticketing conditions). Airlines often sell or facilitate these short-stay permits, but apply well ahead because processing times vary.
Common Visa Mistakes to Avoid
- Assuming you can always get a visa on arrival—some nationalities must prearrange one.
- Traveling with fewer than six months’ passport validity.
- Not printing or saving a copy of preapproved electronic visas and arrival permits. Immigration officers may ask for a printed confirmation.
- Forgetting to cancel previous UAE visas or work permits before a new trip; unresolved visa status can trigger entry or exit issues.
Arrival: Dubai Airport and Immigration Procedures
What to Expect at Immigration
Dubai International (DXB) and Al Maktoum International (DWC) prioritize rapid processing but maintain strict document checks. Have the following ready when you approach the counters: passport, printed or digital visa/entry confirmation (if prearranged), return or onward ticket, and proof of accommodation if requested. Expect random visual screening or additional document verification; travelers occasionally are asked to present a printed visa confirmation or hotel reservation.
If your passport qualifies for a visa on arrival, the immigration officer will stamp the entry and provide the permitted length of stay. Keep that stamp and the page number accessible—the exit gate will verify the same passport.
Exit Controls and Travel Bans
The UAE enforces strict exit controls. You must depart on the same passport you entered with. Travelers with outstanding legal cases, unpaid debts, or unresolved financial disputes can be prevented from leaving the country; these blocks have affected visitors who were unaware of debts or legal claims. If you have concerns about past UAE travel or residency, resolve them through the appropriate immigration office before arrival.
Baggage & Customs Checks
Declare restricted goods and follow duty-free allowances. Customs will enforce strict rules for items considered morally or religiously sensitive, including pornographic material, certain publications and items that contravene local public decency standards. Controlled medicines require documentation; more on that below.
Health, Vaccination, and Medication Rules
COVID-19 and Ongoing Health Requirements
As of the latest practice, there are no universal COVID-19 entry restrictions for tourists in the UAE, but airline policies and testing requirements can change depending on your origin or the route. Check with your airline and official UAE portals immediately before travel.
Yellow Fever and Other Vaccinations
A yellow fever vaccination certificate is required if you are arriving from an area with risk of yellow fever transmission. For other vaccinations, follow standard travel health advice for the region—seasonal influenza, routine immunizations and any country-specific recommendations.
Bringing Prescription Medicine
The UAE has strict rules around medication. Some common medicines available over the counter elsewhere are controlled in the UAE. If you travel with prescription medication, carry:
- A copy of the prescription with the prescribing doctor’s contact details.
- Medication in its original packaging with your name on the label.
- A letter from your physician describing the condition and necessity of the medication for controlled substances.
For certain controlled drugs (narcotics, psychotropic substances), you must obtain prior approval from the UAE Ministry of Health. Visitors are usually allowed to bring up to three months’ supply of prescribed medication; rules differ for some substances and shorter limits may apply for specific medicines. If you’re unsure, apply for permission before departure. Failing to secure approval can lead to confiscation or severe penalties.
Customs, Prohibited Items and Legal Risks
What You Cannot Bring
The UAE prohibits or severely restricts items including but not limited to: narcotics and some prescription medicines without approval, pornographic material, certain religious materials intended for proselytizing, e-cigarettes and some vaping products in restricted quantities, poppy seeds in large amounts, and products containing CBD or cannabis derivatives. Weapons, even decorative or small components, are not allowed without permissions. Carrying or attempting to import these items can lead to arrest and lengthy detention.
Digital Content and Devices
Be careful with digital content—material that is legal in your home country may be illegal in the UAE if it is sexually explicit or breaches cultural norms. Avoid carrying printed or digital content that could be interpreted as offensive. Also use discretion when sharing images or videos of people in public, particularly of women or families, without explicit consent.
Photography and Filming
Photography laws are strict in some contexts: military sites, airports, some government buildings and local people (especially Emirati women) should not be photographed without permission. When in doubt, ask. Professional filming usually requires permits.
Money and Payments
Currency and Payment Methods
The UAE dirham (AED) is the local currency. Credit and debit cards are widely accepted across Dubai; contactless payments and mobile wallets are increasingly common. You’ll still want some cash for smaller vendors, tipping or local markets.
ATMs are plentiful at the airport and throughout the city. Inform your bank of travel plans to avoid fraud blocks, and check foreign transaction fees. Currency exchange counters operate 24/7 at major airports.
Fees and Tourist Charges
Some hotels and accommodation types charge a small per-night tourism fee (Tourism Dirham) collected upon checkout; expect it to be billed separately to your room. Also, short-term stays booked via airlines or hotels for visa purposes may be scrutinized—ensure reservations are legitimate and match travel dates.
Tipping
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory. While many restaurants add a service charge, small tips for porters, drivers and attentive service staff are common.
Getting Around: Transport Options and Driving
From the Airport
Dubai’s transport options from the airport include official taxis (metered), ride-hailing services, metro (from Terminals 1 and 3 at DXB), and private transfers. The Dubai Metro is a cost-effective and fast option into central areas during operating hours. Taxis at the airport are regulated and safe; expect a small starting fare plus distance charges.
For travelers coming by sea or land from neighboring emirates or Saudi Arabia, pre-check exit/entry rules and any land-crossing fees.
Car Rental and Driving in Dubai
Renting a car gives flexibility but requires understanding local rules. International driving permits are recommended in addition to your home license—check with rental agencies for exact requirements. Road rules are strictly enforced with fines for speeding, illegal parking and phone use while driving; camera and radar enforcement is widespread.
Insurance is mandatory; confirm collision damage waiver options and fuel policies. Driving in Dubai can be fast and competitive; if you prefer a low-stress stay, rely on taxis and public transport.
Public Transport and Apps
A Nol card (rechargeable) is used for metro, buses and some trams. Ride-hailing apps are widely used. Download local transport apps for route planning and fare calculation.
Accommodation: Reservations, Hotel Policies, and What to Expect
Booking and Visa Requirements
Some visa types and carrier visa services require a confirmed hotel reservation for the duration of your stay. When applying for a visa through an airline or through a sponsor, present a clear booking matching your flight dates. If you plan to stay with family or friends, documented proof of the host and their residence may be required for certain visa categories.
Types of Stays and Neighborhoods
From luxury resorts on Palm Jumeirah and Marina towers to budget hotels and short-stay apartments, Dubai offers accommodations for all budgets. Choose a neighborhood based on your itinerary: Downtown Dubai is central for attractions; Dubai Marina and JBR are seaside and lively; Deira and Bur Dubai offer more affordable, culturally rich options. For those traveling from Saudi Arabia, flight schedules and transit hubs from cities like Riyadh and Jeddah often influence accommodation choices.
Hotel Regulations
Hotels in the UAE follow local alcohol licensing and behavior rules; consuming alcohol in unlicensed properties or public spaces is illegal. Some hotels may require a security deposit at check-in and adhere to strict identification checks.
Etiquette, Safety and Local Laws
Respectful Behavior and Dress
Dress modestly in public places—cover shoulders and knees in malls, mosques and government buildings. In beach or pool settings, swimwear is appropriate on the beach and poolside but not in public parks or streets.
Public displays of affection are discouraged and, in extreme cases, can lead to legal issues. Familiarize yourself with local practices, particularly during the holy month of Ramadan when public consumption of food, drink and smoking during daylight hours should be avoided.
Alcohol, Nightlife and Laws
Alcohol is available in licensed hotels, restaurants and clubs. Public intoxication, drunk driving and drinking in unlicensed venues are illegal and strictly enforced. If you plan to drink, do so responsibly and only in licensed locations.
Safety and Emergency Services
Dubai is generally safe for tourists; petty crimes are uncommon compared with many capital cities. For any legal or emergency issues, contact your country’s embassy or consulate for consular assistance, and use local emergency numbers for police, ambulance and civil defense.
Communication: SIM Cards, eSIMs and Useful Apps
Getting Connected
Local SIM cards are easy to buy at the airport or city kiosks; you’ll need your passport for registration. eSIMs are available for some providers and are convenient for short stays. Check roaming packages with your operator if you prefer to keep your home number active.
Must-Have Apps
Download public service and transport apps for convenience—book taxis, check metro times and access municipal services. Translation apps are helpful when interacting with multilingual vendors and staff.
Step-By-Step Preparation: From Booking to Boarding
Plan your trip with a structured sequence that reduces last-minute issues. Below is a concise preparatory checklist to follow in the weeks and days before departure.
- Book flights and confirm visa eligibility with your carrier or the UAE immigration portal.
- Secure accommodation and save booking confirmations.
- Check passport validity and renew if needed.
- Apply for any necessary medication approvals or health documents.
- Notify your bank and set up travel-friendly payment options.
- Download local apps and buy a SIM or eSIM if desired.
(See the separate detailed checklist below for documents and essential items to bring.)
Essential Documents and Items to Pack
- Passport with minimum six months’ validity and at least two blank pages.
- Printed and digital copies of preapproved visa/entry permits and accommodation bookings.
- Confirmed return or onward airline ticket.
- Travel insurance details with medical and evacuation coverage.
- Prescriptions and doctor’s letters for controlled medicines (original packaging).
- A small amount of AED cash, at least one credit/debit card, and the contact numbers for your bank.
- Mobile phone with roaming plan or local eSIM, plus universal adapter and power bank.
- Appropriate clothing for the season and modest attire for visiting public or religious sites.
- Emergency contact numbers and your embassy or consulate details.
(That single list above is your main packing checklist—keep it accessible in both printed and digital forms.)
Practical Scenarios and How To Handle Them
Lost Passport or Stolen Documents
Report the theft to the police immediately and obtain a police report. Contact your embassy or consulate to arrange emergency travel documents. Many embassies maintain 24-hour emergency lines to assist nationals in urgent situations.
Overstays, Unpaid Fines or Travel Bans
If you encounter exit controls due to overstays or unresolved fines, seek legal counsel and contact your embassy for guidance. In many cases, settling outstanding fines or administrative penalties will clear the exit hold, but the process can take time.
Medical Emergencies
Dubai has high-standard medical facilities. Use your travel insurance provider’s emergency number to arrange care and reimbursement. For life-threatening situations, call local emergency services immediately.
Traveling From Saudi Arabia: Practical Notes
If you’re departing from Riyadh, Jeddah or Dammam, flights to Dubai are frequent and competitively priced. When leaving Saudi Arabia, confirm any exit formalities for your residency or government ID, and check whether you need a re-entry permit. If you’re traveling as part of a family trip from the Kingdom, ensure children’s documents and parental consent forms (if applicable) are in order.
For travelers based in the Kingdom who want Saudi-focused tips before a Gulf trip, our resources at the Saudi travel guidance hub provide planning frameworks and logistics tailored for departures from local cities. For flight options and city-specific advice, consult our pages that cover departure hubs and regional transport options, like flights from Riyadh to Dubai.
If you’re combining a Dubai trip with travel elsewhere in the region, our Gulf overview offers context on cross-emirate travel and regional regulations: explore practical articles on travel in the Gulf region.
For day trips or visits that include Abu Dhabi while you’re in the UAE, check planning tips and entry considerations at our neighboring Abu Dhabi resources. And when you want focused insights about Dubai itself, our curated materials on Dubai travel resources summarize top practical advice and itineraries.
Money-Saving and Time-Saving Trade-Offs
Decisions about where to stay, how to move around and which tickets to buy can change your budget and experience. Choose an upstream trade-off: stay slightly outside the most touristy districts for better rates and quieter streets, and use the Metro for daily commuting. If convenience matters more, book a hotel near the attractions you’ll visit most and budget for taxis. For visa costs, prearranged multi-entry tourist visas cost more but give flexibility for regional hops; weigh whether you plan to use that freedom.
If you travel frequently from Saudi Arabia, use loyalty programs and flight-out timings to capture lower fares and direct connections—our Saudi travel hub offers resources to compare routes and book efficiently.
Cultural Tips to Make the Most of Your Stay
Respect for local customs amplifies travel pleasure. Simple practices—learning a few Arabic greetings, covering shoulders in public, asking permission before photographing people—open doors to warmer interactions. During Ramadan, participate respectfully: avoid eating or drinking in public during daylight hours and accept that some venues operate reduced hours. Many Emiratis and long-term residents welcome visitors who show curiosity and cultural awareness.
Final Preparations: Last 48 Hours Before Departure
Use a concise pre-departure checklist to eliminate friction:
- Reconfirm flight times and check-in online where possible.
- Print or screenshot all travel documents: passports, visas, tickets, insurance, hotel bookings.
- Pack medications and prescriptions in carry-on luggage.
- Charge electronics and pack adapters; download important apps and offline maps.
- Notify your bank of travel dates and set travel alerts.
- Re-check airline baggage allowances and prohibited item lists.
This small amount of preparation typically prevents the most common travel disruptions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I always need a visa before I travel to Dubai?
Visa rules depend on your nationality. Many countries are eligible for visas on arrival (30 or 90 days), but some travelers must obtain an entry permit before departure. Check with your airline or official UAE immigration channels if your nationality requires prearranged permission.
How long must my passport be valid to enter the UAE?
Your passport should be valid for at least six months from the arrival date in the UAE. Machine-readable passports are standard; damaged or handwritten passports may be refused.
Can I bring prescription medicines into Dubai?
Yes, but certain medications are controlled and require prior approval from UAE health authorities. Bring medications in original packaging with your prescription and a physician’s letter, and, for controlled substances, secure formal approval before travel.
What should I do if I get into legal trouble or lose my passport in Dubai?
Report lost documents to the police and obtain a report. Contact your embassy or consulate immediately for emergency travel documents and consular assistance. If the issue involves fines or legal cases, seek local legal counsel and coordinate with your diplomatic mission.
Conclusion
A smooth Dubai trip is built on three pillars: correct documents (valid passport and the right visa), medical and medication compliance, and sensible planning for transport and accommodation. Invest time before you leave to verify visa rules for your nationality, secure any necessary medical permits, and confirm bookings. That preparation keeps arrival and departure fast, reduces exposure to fines or legal complications, and lets you enjoy the city.
Start planning your trip and access tailored travel resources now at the Saudi Travel & Leisure portal: Plan your Saudi and Gulf travel.
