To ensure that you have the best possible holiday experience, we ask you to read the following information carefully. If you have any questions, please discuss them with us before you depart.
Hand Luggage – pack essential items for a day or two in your hand luggage, in case your bags go astray and take a few days to catch up with you, especially if you have any tight connecting flights.
Documents – take a copy of your travel insurance policy with you, and leave a copy of your passport with a reliable contact at home, in case the originals are lost or stolen.
Electronic Devices – ensure these are all fully charge before travel, as you may be required to switch them on at airport security.
Mobile Phones – make sure they are set up for international calls and if you plan to use travel apps such as Google Translate or Google Maps, ensure you check your data package with your provider in advance. Alternatively turn off date roaming to avoid large phone bills. Be aware that some areas may not have mobile or WiFi coverage.
Clothing - Western clothing is acceptable, including shorts and strappy tops, but do not wear revealing clothing or show cleavage away from the beach or pool, as this will attract unwanted attention in this Muslim country. Light weight summer clothing is best, with a sweater or jacket in winter for the cooler evenings. Sanitising hand cleaner and eye drops can be handy, especially if you wear contact lenses.
Medicines - if you carry any form of medicine for personal use, you must complete an electronic form to obtain online approval, prior to entering the country. If you use prescription drugs, carry an adequate supply in their original bottles/packaging & keep them in your hand luggage, as if lost they may be difficult to replace.
Accessories – take a charger for your phone and a spare battery pack. Take spare memory cards and batteries for your camera.
Plug - Type G (same as UK) but a universal adapter is always handy.
Water - The water is desalinated and safe to drink, but most people prefer the taste of bottled water.
Safety - Abu Dhabi is a relatively safe place to visit, but take all sensible precautions. Leave valuable jewellery/watches at home, wear a money belt and be alert when outside your hotel. In particular avoid taking out large wads of cash in public view and keep your spare cash, passport and a spare credit card in your hotel safe.
Taxis - agree the fare before you set out, as they may inflate it for tourists.
Photography - Taking photos of people is a sensitive issue & photos of people in public places - especially women and families - may not be taken without their permission. Do not take photographs at the airport or near government buildings.
Displays of Affection - please be aware that same sex relationships are illegal and public displays of affection should be avoided at all times, including in your hotel. We advise all our clients, gay and heterosexual, to be sensitive to cultural differences.
During the month of Ramadan, Muslims fast from dawn to sunset. Throughout this month, eating, drinking or smoking in public spaces during daylight is considered a public offence and is punishable by law.
Tipping - this is not part of the local culture, but is widely practised by visitors. If you wish to tip because you have received good service, we suggest the following per adult:
- guides: Dr 30 per day.
- waiters: 10% (if not already added to your bill).
- porters: Dr 3 per bag.
It is not necessary to tip drivers doing short transfers (eg to the airport).
FCO Travel Advice - consult the UK Foreign Office website for the latest travel advice www.fco.gov.uk.