The best way to think of the United Arab Emirates (or UAE) is that it’s Las Vegas on steroids. The tallest buildings, the swankiest hotels, the glitziest malls, the largest man-made islands, and more superlatives than any other place on Earth can be seen here.
From desert safaris to duty-free shopping, the UAE offers you everything in a neat package. If you’re preparing for a trip to the UAE, don’t forget to buy travel medical insurance to protect yourself against the unexpected.
United Arab Emirates Travel Medical Insurance for International Travelers – FAQs
UAE is a beautiful place to visit. However, that does not mean you can't fall ill. With so many activities, it is possible to get exhausted in the searing heat. A desert safari may cause sunstroke and dizziness. Hospitals in Dubai are world-class, and public and private medical care are both expensive.
Do I need travel medical insurance for the United Arab Emirates?
UAE ended their mandatory travel medical insurance requirement in 2022, but it is still strongly recommended for all visitors to the country.
Why buy travel medical insurance for the United Arab Emirates?
A vacation filled with endless fun can turn to tragedy quickly. You could get a sudden rise of blood pressure while skydiving or fall from a camel and hurt your back. This requires immediate hospitalization, and that is expensive in the UAE. The locals receive free medical care, but not tourists. Before you arrive at Abu Dhabi, Dubai or Sharjah, always buy travel medical insurance to reduce your expenses in an emergency.
Things to Do for Travelers in the United Arab Emirates
If you like big, blockbuster holidays that can provide you with splendid social media pictures, the UAE is the perfect destination for you. There is so much to do and see here that it would take you half a dozen vacations to experience it all. To make it less cumbersome, we have curated a short list of the best experiences to pack in during your time there.
Remember, travel to UAE is by no means restricted to only Dubai, though the emirate is undoubtedly the country’s top attraction. Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, and Ajman are equally fascinating.
- Visit the top of the world: In other words, take an escalator to the roof of Burj Khalifa—the tallest manmade structure in the world. Standing 828 meters (more than 2,700 feet) tall, the skyscraper looks futuristic and straight out of a science fiction movie. You can't travel all the way to the top, but you can easily get a ticket to the observation deck on the 148th floor. Expect a long queue, and when you get to the top, you can see at least 30 km (about 18 miles) out into the shimmering Persian Gulf on a clear day.
- Go skydiving: This has become quite popular and far better than boring bungee jumping elsewhere. Free-falling over the blue coastline with the huge emerald-like Palm Jumeirah under you is an exquisite experience. Of course, you do not need to have prior experience, but it helps. At almost $600, it is expensive but well worth it. You are in free fall for 60 seconds and reach 120 miles an hour (more than 190 kilometers per hour) before your instructor opens the chute.
- Head out to Abu Dhabi: Abu Dhabi is equally impressive. Head to Qasr Al Watan, the ruler's new palace, which demonstrates magnificent Islamic architecture and impeccably manicured gardens. After visiting the palace, head over to Yas Marina racing circuit and speed to 150 miles an hour (240 kilometers per hour) in a Formula 3000 racing car. If you are laid back, watch the hundreds of supercars from Bugatti Veyron and Ferrari Portofino to Aston Martin Vantage that the locals bring in to speed around the track over the weekend.
- Relax at Fujairah: Fujairah is near Oman and not as hectic as the big cities. If you want to give the adrenaline a bit of rest, take a trip here to relax, and eat succulent kebabs, and go fishing. Located where the sea meets the mountain, it is quite different from the rest of the UAE. Take time off and stroll through Fujairah Fort. Built in the 16th century, it looks straight out of an Indiana Jones movie set.
- Desert safari: There are numerous desert safaris organized by tour operators. From camel riding to quad bike racing, you can have your fill of adventure. The best ones last a full day and include the Liwa Oasis. Most of the travel is on expensive 4X4 vehicles specially outfitted for the desert. The food is sumptuous, with Middle Eastern barbecues being the hot favorite.
Travel Risks for International Travelers in the United Arab Emirates
UAE is a safe place to visit. But that should never make you complacent. When on a trip to the desert, you have to be careful about your activities in many ways. Travel to the UAE has a few risks that you must always be wary of.
- Dehydration is a problem. You won't even notice it since the desert is dry, and you would not recognize the sweat evaporating. But you are losing liters of water every hour, and you have to replenish it with water and oral rehydration salts (ORS) solution. Otherwise, you may fall severely ill and have to be admitted to a hospital.
- Sky diving and riding camels are fun, but they may cause bruises and broken bones. Ensure that you meet a minimum level of fitness before participating. If you are overweight or have high blood pressure and other similar ailments, it is best to watch from the sidelines.
- Be careful of crowds, and do not wander into congested local bazaars. Jumeirah Beach has a particular reputation as the site of petty theft.
- Be wary of local laws. UAE is a conservative Islamic nation with Sharia law. There is an extensive list of banned items, including anything made in Israel. A rude gesture with your finger will earn you a month in jail and whipping. Electronic cigarettes are prohibited, and appearing drunk in public would get you jailed or deported. Read a full list of what not to do in UAE before traveling and wear modest clothes that cover your body.
Before You Travel to the United Arab Emirates - Do This
When you travel to the UAE, keep the following points in mind to remain safe.
Be informed about local culture and customs. Be respectful and friendly.
Always place your travel documents in a separate folder and keep it either with you or in a safe place.