Entry Requirements for Dubai

Why Visit Dubai?

Dubai is one of the most dazzling and dynamic cities in the world. Here, ultramodern skyscrapers meet traditional souks, high-end shopping malls sit alongside golden sand dunes, and warm hospitality is woven into everyday life. The city is especially popular with independent travelers, families, and business visitors looking for a safe, well-organized, and culturally intriguing destination. Plus, Dubai serves as a major travel hub for connecting flights throughout the Gulf region and beyond to Asia.

Overview of Entry Requirements

While entering the UAE is relatively straightforward for many nationalities, good preparation is key. Travelers need a passport that’s valid for at least six months beyond their planned departure date, a visa (if required), proof of onward travel, accommodation details, and sufficient financial means. In recent years, the authorities have tightened several regulations—so even small errors in the application process can lead to visa denial. The UAE also enforces strict rules around security and conduct, and violations can result in hefty fines or even entry bans. In this article, we’ll cover everything you need to know to ensure a hassle-free trip to Dubai.

Visa Requirements for Dubai

Dubai’s visa policies vary depending on your nationality, the purpose of your visit, and how long you plan to stay. While many travelers can benefit from visa-free entry for short visits, there are numerous visa options available for longer stays or specific travel purposes. The key is to choose the right visa category and to check the current requirements well in advance—because even small mistakes in your application can result in a denial.

General Visa Regulations

Citizens of Germany, Austria, Switzerland, all EU countries, and the United States can enter the UAE without a visa for tourism or business purposes and stay up to 90 days within a 180-day period. Upon arrival, eligible travelers receive a Visa on Arrival, which may allow either single or multiple entries depending on your passport. The only requirement is that your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your date of entry.

Dubai also offers a wide range of visa options tailored to different travel needs. For short stopovers, transit visas are available for 48 or 96 hours. Tourist visas are valid for 30, 60, or 90 days and are often available as multiple-entry permits. A popular choice for frequent travelers is the 5-year tourist visa, which allows multiple entries with a maximum stay of 90 days per visit—but requires proof of sufficient financial resources.

Visa Regulations for Families and Children

Families traveling to Dubai should pay special attention when selecting the appropriate visa. Children are subject to the same entry requirements as adults, so it's important to ensure that all documents, including passports, are valid and complete. Minors often need written parental consent—especially if traveling with only one parent.

If a child is traveling with one parent or alone, it's strongly recommended to carry a notarized letter of consent from the non-traveling guardian, translated into English or Arabic. A copy of the child’s birth certificate and proof of parentage—especially when surnames differ—can also be helpful.

For family visits, the visit visa is a convenient option, offering stays of 30, 60, or 90 days with the possibility of extensions while in the UAE.

A word of caution: young women under the age of 25 traveling alone may face delays or visa denials if a clear family or business purpose for the trip can’t be demonstrated. In general, families should start the visa process early and double-check that all documents are accurate and complete to avoid delays at the border.

Customs and Import Regulations

Before traveling to Dubai, it’s important to get familiar with the country’s customs and import regulations. While most personal items and travel essentials can be brought in without issue, there are specific rules around value limits, quantity restrictions, and the import of medication. Even unintentional violations can lead to hefty fines or legal consequences—so taking time to prepare can save you from unpleasant surprises at the border.

Bringing Medication into the UAE

The United Arab Emirates has a strict drug policy. While over-the-counter medications like pain relievers or nasal sprays are generally permitted without prior approval, prescription drugs—and especially controlled substances—are subject to tight regulations. This includes medications containing ingredients like codeine, diazepam, or morphine, which are classified as controlled substances and require prior approval from the UAE Ministry of Health and Prevention (MOHAP).

Travelers carrying such medications may bring a maximum three-month supply, which must be in its original packaging and declared upon entry. You’ll also need to carry a recent medical certificate (in English or Arabic), the original prescription, a copy of your passport, and a printed copy of the MOHAP import permit. Medications that are outright banned in the UAE cannot be brought into the country under any circumstances—violations can lead to severe penalties. The bottom line: check the regulations in advance and apply for any necessary permits well before your trip.

Personal Items and Valuables

Travelers are generally allowed to bring a wide range of personal items into Dubai, as long as they’re clearly for private use and not for commercial purposes.

There are specific allowances for alcohol and tobacco: adults over 18 can import up to four liters of alcohol or two cases of beer (each containing 24 cans at 355 ml), as well as up to 400 cigarettes, 50 cigars, or 500 grams of tobacco, duty-free. Cash, checks, and precious metals may be brought in up to a value of AED 60,000 (around €14,500 or $16,300); anything over this amount must be declared.

The UAE has zero tolerance for the import of illegal drugs, weapons, counterfeit currency, and pornographic materials. To stay on the safe side, it's a good idea to check the latest regulations on the Dubai Customs website or with your airline before you travel.

Safety Rules and Cultural Etiquette in Dubai

Dubai warmly welcomes travelers from around the globe—but if you want to show genuine respect for the city and its people, it’s important to understand the local customs and legal expectations before you arrive. The United Arab Emirates is considered one of the safest countries in the world, but that sense of security is built on a strict legal framework. Those who follow the rules are rewarded with a smooth, safe, and welcoming travel experience.

General Guidelines for Behavior

Respectful public behavior is taken seriously in Dubai. When it comes to clothing, modesty is expected—both men and women should cover their shoulders and knees. Sleeveless tops, short skirts, and revealing outfits are generally frowned upon. Public displays of affection—like kissing, hugging, or even holding hands—can lead to issues, even for married couples.

Using offensive language, making rude gestures, or showing disrespect toward Islam are considered serious offenses and can lead to legal consequences.

Extra sensitivity is expected during the holy month of Ramadan. Eating, drinking, or smoking in public during daylight hours is prohibited by law, and tourists are legally required to show respect for religious customs.

One cultural nuance many travelers overlook: the left hand is considered unclean in Emirati culture and should not be used for eating or greeting others. Additionally, carrying certain medications—especially psychotropic drugs—requires official approval and proper medical documentation. Always check the rules in advance and travel with supporting paperwork if needed.

Security Measures at Entry Points

Security at Dubai’s airports is thorough and highly organized. Upon arrival, you’ll undergo biometric screening, including iris scans and fingerprinting. Keep your passport, visa, and boarding pass easily accessible, as you’ll go through multiple document checks.

Both carry-on and checked luggage are carefully scanned. Items such as liquids over 100 ml, sharp objects, unauthorized drones, and controlled substances are strictly prohibited. Religious or culturally sensitive materials, as well as prescription medications, may also raise red flags—so it’s wise to research in advance and carry any necessary approvals or medical certificates.

Photography in security zones or of airport personnel is strictly forbidden. In general, the best approach during entry is to be polite, patient, and cooperative. A respectful attitude goes a long way in ensuring a smooth and stress-free start to your time in Dubai.

Preparing for Your Trip to Dubai

A trip to Dubai doesn't start at the airport—it starts with smart planning. Taking care of the essentials ahead of time sets the foundation for a smooth and enjoyable stay in the United Arab Emirates. From recommended vaccinations to practical travel tips, this section covers what you should keep in mind before takeoff.

Health Requirements and Vaccinations

If you’re traveling directly from the US or Germany to the UAE, there are currently no mandatory vaccinations required. The only exception applies if you've recently been in a yellow fever area—in that case, proof of a valid yellow fever vaccination is required. Still, it's a good idea to check your vaccination status well in advance of your trip.

The CDC and other health organizations often recommend a Hepatitis A vaccine for travelers to Dubai, as the virus can be transmitted through contaminated food or water. For longer stays or close contact with local communities, additional vaccinations—such as Hepatitis B, typhoid, or rabies—may be advised. Routine immunizations like tetanus, diphtheria, measles, and polio should also be up to date, especially for children and older travelers. If you're over 60, consider getting a pneumococcal vaccine and, depending on the season, a flu shot.

Dubai offers a high standard of medical care, comparable to what you’d find in Europe or North America. Still, purchasing international travel health insurance that includes medical evacuation is strongly recommended. Ideally, schedule a personal travel health consultation four to eight weeks before your departure.

Stress-Free Travel Planning

If you want to start your vacation feeling relaxed, early planning is key. First, check your travel documents: your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your arrival date in the UAE. Keep your visa, booking confirmations, and vaccination records handy—both printed and saved digitally. For extra peace of mind, store copies of important documents in a secure cloud folder or in a separate piece of luggage.

Booking flights and accommodations in advance not only saves money but also gives you better options. Leave generous time buffers for getting to the airport and clearing security. You can streamline your travel experience even further with online check-in and pre-arranged airport transfers. For added comfort, wear breathable clothing and keep essentials like medication, snacks, and a refillable water bottle in your carry-on.

Information Sources and Emergency Contacts

Planning a trip doesn’t stop once your flight is booked—especially when traveling to the United Arab Emirates. It’s essential to stay informed about the latest entry regulations and know who to contact in case of an emergency. Rules can change at short notice, and having the right information at your fingertips can make all the difference. The official resources and contact points listed below will help ensure you travel confidently and stay safe.

Official Information Sources

When it comes to accurate and up-to-date entry information for Dubai and the UAE, always rely on official sources. The websites of the UAE embassies in Berlin and Bern provide detailed guidance for travelers from Germany, Austria, and Switzerland, including visa requirements and passport regulations.

The UAE’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MOFA) also offers comprehensive visa and entry guidelines for different nationalities, along with an online application portal. If you’re planning to bring medical products or prescription medications, be sure to consult the Ministry of Health and Prevention (MOHAP), which provides approval procedures and import regulations.

For travelers from Germany, the Federal Foreign Office regularly publishes travel advisories and updates on safety and entry requirements. If your trip involves a longer stay or specific circumstances, it’s a good idea to reach out directly to the relevant consulate or embassy.

Key Contacts in Case of Emergency

If you find yourself in an emergency while in Dubai, there are multiple local services available 24/7. The general emergency number 999 is valid across all Emirates and will connect you with the police, fire department, or medical emergency services depending on your situation. You can dial 998 for ambulance services, 997 for fire emergencies, and 996 to reach the coast guard.

Dubai also has a dedicated Tourist Police service trained to assist international visitors. They can be reached via 901, which also serves for general, non-emergency police matters. For travel-related questions or concerns, the Dubai Tourism Helpline is available at +971 4 609 6239.

German citizens can contact the German Consulate General in Dubai or the Embassy in Abu Dhabi for emergency assistance—both offer an after-hours service. Austrian and Swiss nationals will also find consular support available locally.

Pro Tip: Save the most important numbers to your phone and keep a printed copy with you so you can act quickly if needed.