Discovering the United Arab Emirates: Travel Tips and Essential Insurance Advice
28/06/2024
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is a fascinating destination known for its blend of traditional culture and cutting-edge modernity. From the towering skyscrapers of Dubai to the cultural richness of Abu Dhabi, the UAE offers a wealth of experiences for UK travellers. To make the most of your trip, it's important to be well-prepared and ensure you have the right travel insurance.
Why Visit the UAE?
1. Iconic Landmarks:
- Burj Khalifa: The world's tallest building, offering stunning views of Dubai from its observation decks.
- Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque: A breathtakingly beautiful mosque in Abu Dhabi, known for its stunning architecture and intricate design.
- The Palm Jumeirah: An artificial archipelago in Dubai, home to luxurious hotels, resorts, and entertainment options.
2. Cultural Experiences:
- Explore traditional souks, museums, and heritage villages to get a glimpse of the UAE’s rich cultural heritage.
- Enjoy a desert safari, complete with dune bashing, camel rides, and traditional Bedouin entertainment.
3. Luxury Shopping and Dining:
- The UAE is a paradise for shoppers, offering everything from high-end malls to traditional markets.
- Dine at world-class restaurants featuring cuisines from around the globe, or try local Emirati dishes for a unique culinary experience.
4. Adventure Activities:
- Engage in thrilling activities such as skydiving, jet skiing, and sandboarding.
- Visit theme parks like Ferrari World and Warner Bros. World for family-friendly fun.
Essential Travel Tips
1. Best Time to Visit:
- The best time to visit the UAE is during the cooler months, from November to April, when the weather is pleasant and outdoor activities are more enjoyable.
2. Dress Code:
- Respect the local dress code by dressing modestly, especially in public places. Women should cover their shoulders and knees, and men should avoid wearing shorts in conservative areas.
3. Health and Safety:
- The UAE is generally safe for tourists, but it’s important to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, as healthcare can be expensive.
4. Local Customs:
- Be mindful of local customs and laws, such as restrictions on alcohol consumption, public displays of affection, and photography in certain areas.
5. Currency and Payments:
- The local currency is the UAE Dirham (AED). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, but it’s advisable to carry some cash for smaller purchases and in case of emergencies.
Why Travel Insurance is Essential
1. Medical Coverage:
- Ensure you have travel insurance that covers medical expenses, including emergency treatment, hospitalisation, and medical evacuation.
2. Trip Cancellation and Interruption:
- Travel insurance can reimburse you for non-refundable expenses if you need to cancel or cut short your trip due to unforeseen circumstances such as illness or family emergencies.
3. Lost or Delayed Baggage:
- Coverage for lost or delayed baggage ensures you are compensated for essential items you may need to purchase if your luggage is delayed or lost.
4. Personal Liability:
- Travel insurance can cover legal expenses and claims if you accidentally cause injury to someone or damage their property.
5. 24/7 Assistance:
- Many travel insurance policies offer 24/7 assistance services, providing support in emergencies such as lost passports, medical issues, or legal matters.
Choosing the Right Travel Insurance
When selecting travel insurance for your trip to the UAE, consider the following:
- Comprehensive Coverage: Look for a policy that covers medical expenses, trip cancellation, baggage loss, and personal liability.
- Policy Limits: Ensure the coverage limits are adequate for your needs.
- Exclusions: Read the policy exclusions carefully to understand what is not covered.
- Reputation of the Insurer: Choose a reputable insurance provider with good customer reviews and reliable support services.
The United Arab Emirates is a destination that offers a unique blend of modern luxury and rich cultural experiences. To enjoy your trip without worrying about unexpected expenses or disruptions, make sure you have comprehensive travel insurance. This will not only provide peace of mind but also ensure you are prepared for any eventuality during your travels. Safe and happy travels!
This article is designed to offer general advice and may not apply to every insurance, broker, insurer, cover or policy. You would need to check the individual policy benefits of each cover with your insurer or broker.
