UAE Travel Advice & Safety

Updated:20 October 2025
Still Valid:Yes
Latest update:We continue to advise exercise a high degree of caution in the UAE. Tourist visas for the UAE are issued on arrival in Abu Dhabi and Dubai. For the latest information on travelling to, from or connecting through Abu Dhabi and Dubai international airports.
 

We advise: Exercise a high degree of caution in the UAE due to the threat of terrorism.

Advice Levels

Level 2
Exercise a high degree of caution in the United Arab Emirates due to the threat of terrorism.

Full Advice

  • The security situation in the Middle East is unpredictable. If the regional security situation deteriorates again this may result in airspace closures, flight cancellations and other travel disruptions at short notice.
  • Terrorism is a global threat, including in the UAE. Maintain a high level of security awareness. If there’s a security incident, follow the advice of local officials.
  • Personal crime is considered low. Pickpocketing and bag snatching are rare but do occur. Drink spiking sometimes happens. Physical and verbal harassment may occur.
  • Many areas of the Gulf are sensitive to security issues and territorial disputes. There’s also a risk of piracy. If you’re planning sea travel, refer to the International Maritime Bureau’s piracy reports.
  • Be prepared for extreme weather conditions. From June to September, temperatures can exceed 50°C, and sand and dust storms are common. During periods of extreme heat, it is important to stay out of the sun and drink plenty of water.
  • Intense storms can occur between December and May and may lead to flash flooding. Monitor local media and follow the advice of local authorities.
  • Cases of Middle East Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus (MERS-CoV) have been reported. To reduce your risk, avoid contact with camels and any products contaminated with camel secretions.
  • Waterborne, foodborne, parasitic and other infectious diseases sometimes occur. Get medical advice if you develop a fever or diarrhoea.
  • Red algae or ‘red tide’ may sometimes affect beaches. This can cause skin and eye irritations, as well as breathing problems. Don’t swim in affected water.
  • The standard of public medical facilities in major cities is adequate. However, services might not be available in remote areas. You may have to pay upfront before treatment.
  • It’s illegal to insult an ethnic or religious group, the UAE, the royal families/government officials or the UAE flag. Same-sex relationships are illegal and same-sex marriage is not recognised. Familiarise yourself with local rules before you go.
  • The UAE has conservative dress and behaviour codes. Dress modestly, especially in the Emirates of Sharjah and Ajman, where Islamic law is enforced.
  • There’s a zero tolerance for illegal drugs and drug-related offences. Penalties for drug offences include the death penalty or life imprisonment.
  • It’s illegal to be drunk in public, including at airports across the UAE. It’s illegal to consume alcohol in the Emirate of Sharjah (see ‘Alcohol’ section for more information).
  • Be careful when taking photos. It’s illegal to photograph airports and transport infrastructure, bridges, government buildings, embassies and palaces. It’s also illegal to photograph anyone or post photos of people or their personal belongings (including vehicles) on social media without their consent. This includes people in the background of photos.
  • If you have any unresolved criminal charges in the UAE, including unpaid debts, authorities may detain you on arrival, even if you’re in transit.
  • You’ll need a permit from the UAE before undertaking media activity or bringing media equipment into the UAE.
  • The UAE doesn’t recognise dual nationality.
  • You won’t be allowed to enter the UAE if you have ‘XX’ in your birthdate or gender in your passport. It must show a day, month and year. Your passport must also include both your first name and last name. If your passport shows only one name you won’t be permitted entry.
  • Visit the UAE Federal E-Governmental Portal for information regarding visas to the UAE.
  • If you’re travelling on a Diplomatic or official passport, you must obtain a visa before travelling.
  • See the latest information for travelling to, from or connecting through Dubai and Abu Dhabi.
  • Emergency passports are not accepted for entry to the UAE.
  • Entry and exit conditions can change at short notice. You should contact the nearest embassy or consulate of the UAE for the latest details. 

Depending on what you need, contact your:

  • family and friends
  • travel agent
  • insurance provider
  • employer
  • airline

Fire and rescue services

Call 999.

Medical emergencies

Call 999.

Police

Call 999.

Always get a police report when you report a crime.

Your insurer should have a 24-hour emergency number.