Jurisdiction Guide

November to March offers pleasant temperatures (20-30°C) and is the peak season. Summer (June-September) is extremely hot (40-50°C) and humid, outdoor activities are difficult. Ramadan dates shift yearly, the country is quieter but some restaurants close during daylight hours. Dubai Shopping Festival runs January-February. Abu Dhabi Grand Prix is in November.

Friday-Saturday is the weekend, not Saturday-Sunday. Alcohol is available in licensed venues (hotels, restaurants) but public intoxication is illegal. Dress modestly in public spaces outside hotels and beaches, cover shoulders and knees in malls and souks. The Dubai and Abu Dhabi metros are modern and efficient. The RTA Nol card works on all public transport. Happy hours at hotel bars offer the best drink deals.

Respect Islamic customs, especially during Ramadan. Public displays of affection beyond hand-holding can lead to fines. Photography of people (especially women) without permission is illegal. Swearing and rude gestures can result in fines or arrest. Remove shoes when entering a mosque or someone's home. Accept coffee and dates when offered, it's a traditional welcome. Business cards are exchanged with the right hand.

The UAE is exceptionally safe, violent crime is almost nonexistent. However, laws are very different from Western countries. Drug laws are extremely strict, even trace amounts (including in the bloodstream) can lead to imprisonment. Social media posts criticizing the UAE can result in legal action. Bouncing a check is a criminal offense. Always carry ID.

Beyond the Burj Khalifa and Palm Jumeirah, explore Al Fahidi Historical District for old Dubai charm, Abu Dhabi's Louvre museum on Saadiyat Island, the Al Marmoom conservation reserve for desert wildlife, Alserkal Avenue for contemporary art, and Hatta for mountain pools and hiking. The Friday brunch is a UAE institution. The Empty Quarter (Rub al Khali) desert offers dramatic landscapes. Sir Bani Yas Island has a wildlife reserve.

Many nationalities get 30-90 day visa-free or visa-on-arrival entry. The UAE's freelance and remote work visas have made long-term stays accessible. Dubai's Virtual Working Program allows remote workers to live in Dubai for one year. Free zone company formation is popular for entrepreneurs. The Golden Visa offers 10-year residency for investors, skilled professionals, and exceptional students. The Green Visa offers 5-year residency without employer sponsorship.

Dubai Metro and Abu Dhabi buses cover main areas. The Nol card works across Dubai transport. Taxis are metered and affordable. Uber and Careem work well. Car rental is popular, driving is on the right. Petrol is very cheap. Cities are very spread out, distances between areas are large. Dubai International and Abu Dhabi International airports are major global hubs. Etihad Rail is being developed to connect all seven emirates.

The UAE's food scene is truly global, every cuisine is represented. Must-try: shawarma, Arabic mezze, Al Machboos (spiced rice with meat), camel burger at specialty spots, and kunafa (sweet cheese pastry). Friday brunch is the quintessential UAE dining experience. Street food in Deira and Karama is authentic and cheap. Non-alcoholic drinks (karak chai, fresh juices) are everywhere. Alcohol is available in licensed establishments.

The UAE can be as expensive or affordable as you make it. Budget: AED 300-500/day. Mid-range: AED 600-1,200/day. Hotels average AED 400-1,500/night. Shawarma costs AED 7-15. The major expenses are accommodation and alcohol. Groceries at hypermarkets are reasonable. Free beaches, free mosque visits, and free cultural sites keep activity costs down. No income tax is the biggest financial advantage.