United Arab Emirates - a guide for tourists

Planning a trip to the United Arab Emirates? The UAE is located at the southeastern edge of the Arabian Peninsula, bordering Saudi Arabia and Oman, with access to both the Persian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman. This UAE travel guide will help you organize an unforgettable holiday, showing you what is worth knowing before traveling to the UAE, how to explore Dubai and Abu Dhabi, and which practical travel tips for the UAE matter most. The United Arab Emirates consists of seven emirates: Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Ras Al Khaimah, Fujairah, Umm Al Quwain, and Ajman. The UAE is considered one of the safest countries in the world.

UAE travel guide – information for tourists

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is a country of contrasts — from ultra-modern skyscrapers to traditional souks and desert landscapes. Planning a trip to the UAE requires familiarity with basic travel information, such as culture and customs in the UAE, transport and communication, and tourist safety. Before departure, it is worth reading practical tips on currency exchange, payments, travel planning, and the rules that apply in the country.

The most important cities for tourists are Dubai and Abu Dhabi, offering both luxury attractions and traditional experiences. The official currency of the United Arab Emirates is the dirham (AED). The official language is Arabic, but English is widely used in everyday communication, especially in tourism and business. To make the most of your time, it is a good idea to prepare a sightseeing plan and book accommodation and hotels in the UAE in advance. While traveling in the UAE, it is worth installing taxi apps such as Careem or Uber, which make getting around the cities much easier.

The European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) is not valid in the UAE, so purchasing private travel insurance is strongly recommended.

How to explore the United Arab Emirates?

Tourism in the United Arab Emirates offers many possibilities: from visiting the tallest buildings in the world, such as Burj Khalifa in Dubai, to relaxing on beaches and going on desert safaris. Here are a few practical tips:

Travel documents: To visit the United Arab Emirates, you need a passport valid for at least 6 months from the date of entry.

Transport and communication in the UAE: In Dubai and Abu Dhabi, the metro, buses, and taxis work well, and renting a car offers the greatest flexibility. In the UAE, you can buy a local SIM card or eSIM to stay connected and use local online services — ideally right after arrival.

Culture and customs in the UAE: Remember to dress appropriately in public places and to respect local traditions.

Tourist safety in the UAE: The country is generally safe, but it is always worth observing standard precautions.

Proper preparation and knowledge of the rules help avoid unnecessary stress during your trip.

If you want to make use of ready-made attractions and tours, it is worth checking the attractions section.

What to see in the UAE – attractions and things to do in Dubai

Dubai’s attractions draw tourists from all over the world, offering unforgettable experiences and a wide variety of things to do.

A UAE holiday guide should include both classic attractions and hidden gems:

Dubai: Downtown Dubai is the central modern district filled with skyscrapers, including Burj Khalifa — the tallest building in the world, standing 828 meters high. It is also worth visiting Dubai Mall, one of the largest shopping centers in the world, offering over 1,200 shops and many attractions, as well as Dubai Fountain — the world’s largest choreographed fountain, located on Burj Khalifa Lake. Palm Jumeirah is an artificial palm-shaped island known for its luxury hotels and tourist attractions. Ski Dubai is an indoor ski resort in Mall of the Emirates. Dubai Marina is a modern district with towers, a marina, and many restaurants. Dubai is also famous for its beautiful beaches, which attract fans of relaxation and water sports.

Abu Dhabi: Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, Yas Island, Ferrari World.

Desert: Desert safari with jeeps and traditional camps.

Culture and art: Museums, galleries, souks, and local markets.

Ras Al Khaimah: This emirate stands out for its beautiful beaches, mountain and desert landscapes, and opportunities for active holidays, such as safari trips or climbing. It is an ideal place for peaceful relaxation and discovering the region’s unique character.

Hatta: A town known for its turquoise lakes and mountain scenery, perfect for excursions and active relaxation.

On our website, you will find ready-made, fully organized tours to Abu Dhabi that allow you to discover the most important places without the stress of planning everything yourself.

Attractions in Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi, the capital of the United Arab Emirates, is a place that impresses both lovers of modern architecture and admirers of tradition. One of the city’s symbols is the majestic Sheikh Zayed Mosque — a true architectural gem worth visiting not only because of its scale, but also for its unique atmosphere. In Abu Dhabi, you will also find the presidential palace Qasr Al Watan, which delights visitors with its rich details and evening light shows. Art lovers should visit Louvre Abu Dhabi, where works from around the world are displayed. Families and motorsport fans will certainly appreciate Ferrari World — an amusement park full of excitement. After intense sightseeing, it is worth relaxing on beautiful beaches such as Corniche Beach or going shopping in modern malls that offer a wide range of brands and entertainment. Abu Dhabi is a city that combines tradition with modernity and guarantees unforgettable experiences for every tourist.

Attractions in Dubai

Dubai is the true showcase of the United Arab Emirates, where luxury meets innovation. The city is famous for some of the most luxurious hotels in the world, and Burj Al Arab has become an icon of opulence and modern design. A visit to Burj Khalifa is a must — the tallest building in the world, with an observation deck offering a breathtaking panorama of the city. Dubai Mall is not only one of the largest shopping centers, but also a place full of attractions such as an aquarium and an ice rink. Dubai is also a paradise for active travelers — desert safaris, quad biking, and dune tours are unforgettable experiences that let you feel the magic of the desert. The city also offers numerous cultural events, restaurants serving cuisine from all over the world, and modern districts that impress with their architecture. Dubai is a place where everyone will find something for themselves — from relaxation in the most luxurious hotels to thrilling desert adventures.

Shopping in the United Arab Emirates

The United Arab Emirates is a true paradise for shopping lovers. In Abu Dhabi and Dubai, you will find modern shopping centers such as Dubai Mall and Abu Dhabi Mall, which offer not only a wide selection of global brands, but also numerous restaurants, entertainment options, and attractions for the whole family. Shopping in the UAE is also an opportunity to visit traditional souks, where you can find gold, jewelry, spices, and unique souvenirs. It is worth visiting Dubai Gold Souk to experience the atmosphere of an Arab marketplace and find exceptional keepsakes. Shopping centers in the UAE are not just places for shopping, but also spaces for socializing, events, and entertainment, making shopping an unforgettable experience.

Events and festivals in the United Arab Emirates

The UAE is a country where numerous events and festivals take place throughout the year, attracting tourists from around the world. One of the best known is the Dubai Shopping Festival — a celebration of shopping during which malls offer exceptional promotions and attractions. The Abu Dhabi Festival, on the other hand, is a real treat for lovers of art, music, and theater, showcasing the richness of the region’s culture. The UAE also hosts world-class sporting events, such as Formula 1 races and prestigious golf tournaments. Taking part in local festivals is a great opportunity to get to know the traditions, cuisine, and customs of the people of the emirates better, and to experience the unique atmosphere of the place.

Weather and climate in the United Arab Emirates

The climate of the UAE is typically desert — hot and dry for most of the year. Summer in the Arab emirates is a time of extreme heat, when temperatures often exceed 40°C and rainfall is very rare. The best time to visit the United Arab Emirates is from November to March, when temperatures are milder and better suited for active sightseeing. It is worth remembering that even in winter the sun can be intense, so hats, sunscreen, and light clothing made of natural fabrics are essential. Before departure, it is worth checking the weather forecast in order to plan sightseeing properly and fully enjoy the charm of this extraordinary country in the Middle East.

Accommodation and luxury hotels in the UAE

In the UAE, you will find hotels for every budget — from luxury five-star resorts to budget-friendly options. Dubai and Abu Dhabi are home to luxury hotels offering the highest standard of stay, especially in prestigious locations such as Palm Jumeirah or modern city districts.

Prices for accommodation and hotels in the UAE vary depending on location and season. In the summer season, you can often take advantage of lower prices for accommodation and attractions, which makes this period attractive for travelers looking for good deals. By booking early, you can benefit from promotions and avoid problems during peak season.

ATMs and exchange offices are widely available throughout the UAE, providing convenient access to cash and payment services on site.

Practical tips – information for travelers

When traveling around the UAE, it is worth knowing a few practical rules:

Documents: Passport valid for at least 6 months, tourist visa if required.

Currency: UAE dirham (AED). In smaller shops, bazaars, and local restaurants, cash is often preferred.

Dress code: In public and religious places, moderate and appropriate clothing is expected — shoulders and knees should be covered, and in mosques women should cover their hair.

Holiday planning: High summer temperatures suggest planning sightseeing for the morning or evening hours.

Online tickets: It is worth buying tickets online for popular attractions, such as water parks (e.g. Atlantis Aquaventure Waterpark), to avoid queues.

Medicines: Medicines must be in their original packaging, and the quantity must not exceed a three-month supply. Bringing psychotropic medicines, including some commonly used sedatives, requires the original medical prescription in English and often a special permit. Special care should be taken when transporting medicines.

Drugs: The UAE follows a zero-tolerance policy on drugs — even trace amounts can result in imprisonment.

Alcohol: Alcohol may only be consumed in licensed venues. Drinking alcohol in public places or driving under the influence may lead to heavy fines and even imprisonment.

Traffic offenses: Violations such as speeding, drunk driving, or improper parking are punished severely.

Behavior: Public displays of affection (e.g. kissing, hugging) are frowned upon. Offensive gestures and comments — including on social media — should be avoided, as they may lead to serious legal consequences.

Medical care: Medical costs are very high (a doctor’s visit may cost from 300 to 500 PLN), so insurance should include medical transport.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

1. What is worth knowing before traveling to the United Arab Emirates?

Follow local customs, plan your transport, book accommodation in advance, and prepare your travel documents.

2. How to explore Dubai and Abu Dhabi?

It is best to use the metro, taxis, or rent a car. Combine city sightseeing with desert excursions.

3. What are the best tourist attractions in the UAE?

Burj Khalifa, Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, Dubai Mall, Yas Island, desert safari, and local souks.

4. What documents are needed to travel to the UAE?

To cross the border into the UAE, you need a passport valid for at least 6 months from the date of entry. Polish citizens may travel to the UAE without a visa as long as the stay does not exceed 90 days. In the case of a longer stay, a visa is required — it is issued electronically either at the border or after submitting an online application in advance. It is also worth having your hotel booking confirmation with you.