7 Things to Know Before Visiting the UAE

Last Updated on February 2, 2024

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is a popular tourist destination–and when many people think about traveling to the UAE, they’re really planning a trip to Dubai. One of the seven UAE states, Dubai has Western-style values and openness to tourists and expats, making it an ideal location for visitors. That said, if you’re going to visit the UAE, you’ll want to be prepared for the culture and recreation opportunities.

When you’re traveling in the UAE, there are a few important things you’ll want to know before your visit. Here are a few of our best tips to make your trip to the United Arab Emirates a great experience.

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Things to Know Before Visiting the UAE

1. Theme Parks Galore

Dubai wants to be a destination for theme park visitors. The city has several major theme parks and will soon have the largest water park on Earth.

2. Yes, You Can Drink

Alcohol isn’t banned in the UAE. If you like to drink, that’s probably one of the best things to know before you visit the UAE: Dubai is well-known for a vibrant bar and nightclub scene. You can obtain a liquor license to buy alcohol if you need to, although many visitors focus on trying the happy hour specials at the local drinking establishments.

3. UAE Can Be Expensive

Although it’s definitely possible to budget as you travel through the UAE, you should keep in mind that the UAE is also very expensive and has a high standard of living in many places. Dubai, for instance, is popular with expats and is a major center of industry and global commerce. So traveling there is worth budgeting for.

4. It’s Not All Oil

If you’re expecting the UAE’s economy and culture to be 100 percent driven by the oil drilling industry, you’d be wrong. The UAE now has a fairly diverse economy and a vibrant culture. There are so many things to see and do when you visit the United Arab Emirates!

5. The UAE Has Diverse Values And Culture

Historically, there are many different cultural influences in the UAE. You can see the best of Emirati culture on your trip to the UAE by taking in the museums, visiting mosques, and taking in the art scene.

Think you’re visiting a conservative Muslim country? Think again. Although many areas of the UAE follow traditional Muslim values and the nation largely thinks of itself as conservative Muslim, you’ll find a more liberal culture in Dubai and a somewhat more liberal culture in Abu Dhabi. Each of the seven ’emirates,’ or states, have autonomy over their own affairs. So don’t be surprised if the culture around you is completely different as you travel through more than one emirate.

6. The Internet Is Censored

Like many countries around the world, the UAE censors internet use within the nation. Many websites aren’t available within the UAE and you’ll need a good VPN to access the internet content you want.

7. It’s Worth Slowing Down And Taking It In

With so much to see, the UAE is worth taking your time. You could easily spend several days in Dubai alone. Budget carefully, take in the culture and be open to learning. You’ll see how much the UAE offers for visitors and you’ll wish you could stay longer or visit again.