United Arab Emirates
Dubai
Essential facts
Currency
UAE Dirham (AED)
Language
Arabic (English widely spoken)
Time zone
Gulf Standard Time · UTC +4
Typical weather
Hot desert climate. Summers (June–September) regularly exceed 40°C. The most comfortable months are November to March, at roughly 20–28°C.
Plug type
Type G (UK plug compatible) · 220V
Getting around
The Dubai Metro runs along two lines and is clean, cheap and air-conditioned. Buy a Nol card for metro, tram and bus travel. Taxis and ride-hailing apps are plentiful and metered.
Local customs
Dress modestly in public areas, shopping centres and religious sites — shoulders and knees covered. Public displays of affection are discouraged. Alcohol is served in licensed hotels and venues. During Ramadan, avoid eating or drinking in public during daylight hours.
Travel tips
Carry a refillable water bottle and plan outdoor activity for early morning or evening in summer. Most venues are heavily air-conditioned, so a light layer is useful indoors. Friday and Saturday are the weekend.
Entry requirements for British citizens
- Visa
- British citizens are normally granted a visit visa on arrival, valid for up to 90 days within a 180-day period.
- Passport
- Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months from the date you enter.
- Return ticket
- You may be asked to show proof of onward or return travel.
- Accommodation
- Have your hotel booking details available.
- Health
- No specific vaccination requirements for entry at this time. Check the latest guidance.
- Customs
- Strict rules apply to medicines, e-cigarettes and other controlled items. Some prescription medicines require prior approval.
Always check before you travel