Photo: Burj Khalifa · Nealt · CC BY-SA 3.0
First-Timer Guide 🇦🇪United Arab Emirates: What to Know Before You Go
Destination Intel / United Arab Emirates
A typical first trip here runs about $1,325 to $1,775 per person for 7 days at a mid-range style, before flights. This is an estimate from PINYA hand-reviewed prices, not a live price. Prices last reviewed July 2026. Real cost moves with your dates and exchange rates. Get a tailored number in the Budget Calculator, or have The Crown price your exact trip.
Culture, Food and Etiquette
- Machboos, spiced rice with lamb or chicken; the Emirati national dish
- Dates and Arabic coffee (qahwa), offered as a symbol of hospitality
- Al Harees, slow-cooked wheat and meat porridge for special occasions
- Dubai's food scene is extraordinarily diverse, every world cuisine available
- Luqaimat, fried dough balls drizzled with date syrup; popular street dessert
- UAE National Day (December 2), spectacular celebrations with fireworks
- Ramadan, businesses adjust hours; Iftar tent dinners are magical experiences
- Dubai Shopping Festival (January–February), massive sales and entertainment
- Camel racing at Al Marmoom Camelodrome, traditional Emirati sport
- Art Dubai and Abu Dhabi Art Fair, world-class art events
Arabic is official but English is the de facto working language. Nearly all signage is in both Arabic and English.
The UAE is home to over 200 nationalities, it is one of the world's most multicultural societies.
- Dress modestly outside hotels and beaches (cover shoulders and knees in malls)
- No public displays of affection, fines can apply
- Alcohol is only permitted in licensed venues (hotels, bars)
- Respect Islamic customs especially during Ramadan, no eating/drinking in public
Best Time to Visit
The UAE has a hot desert climate; winter is mild and the popular time to visit, while summer is very hot and humid on the coast.
- Peak: November to March
- Shoulder: April, October
- Off season: May to September
Source: ncm.ae
Getting Around
- Dubai and Abu Dhabi have modern metro and tram lines, plus plentiful taxis.
- Ride-hailing apps are widely used.
- Distances between the emirates are short by car or intercity bus.
Source: travel.state.gov
What moves the cost: The winter high season and major events push hotel prices up, while the hot summer is cheaper.
Common Questions
Do US citizens need a visa to visit the United Arab Emirates?+
Source: travel.state.gov
Is the United Arab Emirates safe for first-time travelers?+
Source: travel.state.gov
Latest for United Arab Emirates
Updates for United Arab Emirates will appear here as they are published. Every update cites official sources, so you can plan on it.