Travelling To The UAE? Here Are The Things You Should Keep In Mind

The United Arab Emirates is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world, especially for the city of Dubai. However, the UAE is predominantly Islamic, but it is quite different from its neighbors. Still, there are a few things tourists should keep in mind before travelling to the place. Here are some tips:

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1. Travel Insurance is mandatory

Even though having travel insurance was not mandatory before COVID-19, things have changed post-pandemic. Even though it is not specified by any online government source which travellers may be mandated to show proof of travel insurance, it is recommended to have travel insurance for the entire trip. As of February 2022, travellers are to show at least one of the following: a card confirming full vaccination status, a negative PCR test, and a medical certificate with a QR code declaring recovery from COVID-19 within a month before arrival.

2. Avoid Public Displays Of Affection

Although holding hands may still be okay, getting cosy and kissing in public, even with your partner, is frowned upon. If the public displays of affection get to the point that they make people uncomfortable, you may get a warning from the cops. Though the country is much more lenient than other Islamic places, one must keep in mind the culture of the place.

3. Alcohol May Not Be Available Everywhere

Alcohol is not easily available in all parts of the UAE. For example, in emirates such as Sharjah, you won¡¯t find any alcohol at all. However, you may find alcohol in some hotels. You can also find a few stores that have licences to sell alcohol in Dubai and Abu Dhabi. However, there might be places where you would need a licence to get alcohol in the UAE. So, naturally, the alcohol is expensive there too. It is advisable to buy cheap and duty-free alcohol at the airport.

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4. Beware of the things you carry to UAE

According to the customs of the UAE, there are some things you must not carry along. Any sort of recreational drug, such as marijuana, is not allowed. Even if you carry medicines, you must carry a doctor's prescription because some drugs may not be allowed in the UAE and can lead you to prison. Other than that, any artwork (whether physical or electronic) that contradicts Islamic values is banned. Pornographic items, including sex toys, are also not allowed.

5. Try To Travel During Summer Season

Due to the extremely hot weather, it is much cheaper to travel to the UAE. The temperature goes up to 45 degrees Celsius till September, so if you are okay with that, you can grab some great deals on hotels as opposed to the in-season time from October to March.

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Enjoy your trip.

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