United Arab Emirates Travel Guide

🇺🇸 US State Department Advisory

Updated to reflect the ordered departure of non-emergency U.S. government personnel and family members of government personnel on March 2. Advisory summary was updated . Reconsider travel to the United Arab Emirates due to   the threat of armed conflict and terrorism. Advisory Summary On March 2, 2026, the Department of State ordered non-emergency U.S. government employees and U.S. government family members to leave the United Arab Emirates due to the threat of armed conflict...

🇬🇧 UK Foreign Office (FCDO)

New information that as a precautionary measure the FCDO has decided to temporarily withdraw the dependants of British Embassy staff from the United Arab Emirates. Our embassies in Abu Dhabi and Dubai continue to operate as normal (‘Warnings and insurance’ page).

🚨 Emergency Numbers

ℹ️ Dubai Police also has a non-emergency line: 901. Tourist Police in Dubai: 800-4438. Most emergency operators speak English.

🏥 Healthcare Summary

Dubai and Abu Dhabi have excellent private hospitals. Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi offers international-standard care. Rashid Hospital is Dubai's main trauma center. English is widely spoken in medical settings.

Insurance: Travel insurance with comprehensive medical coverage is essential. UAE healthcare costs are among the highest in the region. Emergency air ambulance coverage is recommended.

💊 Medication Restrictions

The UAE has extremely strict drug laws — many common medications (codeine, tramadol, some sleeping pills, ADHD medications) are banned or require advance approval from the UAE Ministry of Health. Apply for approval at mohap.gov.ae before traveling if you take any controlled medication. Carry all medications in original packaging with a doctor's letter and original prescription. Even trace amounts of prohibited substances can result in imprisonment.

• Benzodiazepines (Xanax, Valium) — RESTRICTED: Prescription required. Must carry official medical certificate and original packaging. Prior approval from UAE Ministry of Health recommended.
• Adderall / amphetamines — BANNED: Strictly prohibited. Classified as a narcotic. No exemption for foreign prescriptions. Possession can result in imprisonment.
• Cannabis / CBD — BANNED: All cannabis and CBD products are illegal, including trace amounts. Zero tolerance policy. Severe penalties including imprisonment.
• Methylphenidate (Ritalin, Concerta) — RESTRICTED: Controlled substance. Requires prior approval from UAE Ministry of Health and attested prescription. Max 30-day supply.
• Codeine / opioids — RESTRICTED: Requires attested medical prescription and Ministry of Health approval. Carry original packaging with your name on it.

🙏 Cultural Tips

Tipping: Not obligatory but appreciated. Restaurants: 10-15% if not included in bill. Hotel porters: AED 5-10 per bag. Taxis: round up the fare. Spa/massage: 10-15%.

Cultural taboos to avoid:

• Public displays of affection (kissing in public can result in fines or arrest)
• Swearing or making offensive gestures in public
• Drinking alcohol outside licensed venues
• Disrespecting Islam or the ruling family
• Photographing government buildings, military sites, or people without consent

🎭 Tourist Scam Guides

Common scams to watch out for in United Arab Emirates: