Risk level

Safety and security

Terrorism

There’s a threat of terrorism. Terrorist groups have indicated their intention to target the UAE. Enhanced security measures are in place, and Emirati authorities may reinforce them on short notice.

Terrorist attacks could occur at any time. Targets could include:

• government buildings, military installations and schools
• places of worship
• airports and other transportation hubs and networks
• public areas such as tourist attractions, restaurants, bars, coffee shops, shopping centres, markets, hotels and other sites frequented by foreigners

Always be aware of your surroundings when in public places. Be particularly vigilant during sporting events, religious holidays and other public celebrations. Terrorists may use such occasions to mount attacks.

Regional tensions

Conflicts in the Middle East and the Gulf region can affect the UAE. Regional tensions can flare up at any time, resulting in an unpredictable and volatile security situation.

Armed groups in the region have publicly stated their intent to target neighbouring countries, including the UAE, with drones and missiles. In 2022, multiple drone attacks either reached or were intercepted over the country.

Missile strikes and drones

Urban areas, military, oil and public facilities, such as airports, may be targeted by missiles and drones.

Missile and drone interceptions may cause scattered debris or fragments.

During these events:

• seek shelter
• stay away from doors and windows
• follow the instructions of local authorities

If you encounter debris or fragments:

• don’t get close to or touch them
• move away from them immediately
• contact local authorities

There are territorial disputes between the UAE and Iran over the islands of Abu Musa, Greater Tunb and Lesser Tunb in the Persian Gulf. You should exercise a high degree of caution if you travel by sea in the Strait of Hormuz and the Persian Gulf.

Crime

Violent crime is rare. Petty crime, such as pickpocketing and purse snatching, occurs. Ensure that your personal belongings, including your passport and other travel documents, are secure at all times.

Theft from cars occurs. Don’t leave personal items and documents in plain sight in a vehicle. Ensure windows are closed, and doors are locked at all times.

Fraud

Credit card and ATM fraud

Credit card and ATM fraud occurs. Be cautious when using debit or credit cards:

• pay careful attention when your cards are being handled by others
• use ATMs located in well-lit public areas or inside a bank or business
• avoid using card readers with an irregular or unusual feature
• cover the keypad with one hand when entering your PIN
• check for any unauthorized transactions on your account statements

Cybercrime

Cybercrime, malware attacks and online extortion are common in the UAE. Perpetrators may compromise public Wi-Fi networks to steal credit card or personal information.

• Avoid using public Wi-Fi networks
• Avoid making purchases on unencrypted websites
• Be cautious when posting information on social media
• Be particularly vigilant when contacting or meeting individuals known over the internet

Telephone scams

Foreigners have received calls from scammers claiming to be local authorities or financial institutions. The caller may try to collect personal information or request a fund transfer to resolve administrative or customs issues.

Don’t send any money or personal information in this type of situation.

Romance scams

If you’re travelling to the UAE to meet someone you’ve otherwise only met online, you may be the victim of a scam. Be alert to attempts at fraud by persons who profess friendship or romantic interest over the internet.

Useful links

• More about overseas fraud
• Cyber security while travelling

Women’s safety

Although rare, women travelling alone may be subject to some forms of harassment, verbal abuse, or physical assaults.

If you use a taxi, avoid, when possible, sitting next to the driver. Pink taxis, reserved for and driven by women, are available in certain emirates.

Pink taxis - UAE Government

Extramarital sex is illegal in the UAE.

Local authorities may not respond adequately to reports of sexual violence and harassment. Emirati authorities have detained women reporting sexual assault. The victim must prove that the sex was not consensual to avoid being charged. The notion of sexual consent may differ substantially from the Canadian context. If you are the victim of a sexual assault, you should report it immediately to the nearest Government of Canada office.

• Avoid travelling alone, especially at night.
• Remain particularly vigilant in less populous areas.
• Be careful when dealing with strangers or recent acquaintances.

Safe-travel guide for women

Spiked food and drinks

Never leave food or drinks unattended or in the care of strangers. Be wary of accepting snacks, beverages, gum or cigarettes from new acquaintances. These items may contain drugs that could put you at risk of sexual assault and robbery.

Road safety

Road conditions are excellent throughout the emirates.

Accidents causing fatalities are common. Drivers often drive at excessive speeds, tailgate, and can be reckless.

Pedestrians should be particularly careful and should always use designated crossings, pedestrian bridges or underpasses.

Driving conditions may be hazardous during sand storms or episodes of fog as a result of limited visibility.

• Avoid off-road driving unless you’re in a convoy of four-wheel-drive vehicles
• Leave your travel itinerary with a third party
• Ensure that you’re well prepared with a cell phone and a sufficient supply of gasoline, water and food

Public transportation

The emirates of Abu Dhabi, Dubai and Sharjah, have reliable and modern public transportation systems. Public transportation options are more limited in the other emirates.

Taxis

Use only officially marked taxis with meters or a trusted ride-sharing app. Avoid shared taxis.

Air travel

We do not make assessments on the compliance of foreign domestic airlines with international safety standards.

General information about foreign domestic airlines

Swimming

Rip currents occur at beaches and can sweep swimmers out to sea. Only swim at designated beaches and always comply with warning signs and flags.

Adventure tourism

If you undertake desert expeditions or trekking, choose a well-established and reputable company that has insurance.

• Never do so alone
• Always hire an experienced guide from a reputable company
• Travel in a 4 x 4 vehicle
• Buy travel insurance that includes helicopter rescue and medical evacuation
• Ensure that your physical condition is good enough to meet the challenges of your activity
• Avoid venturing off marked trails
• Ensure that you’re properly equipped and carry sufficient water supply
• Know the symptoms of dehydration and heatstroke, both of which can be fatal
• Ensure that you’re well informed about weather and other conditions that may pose a hazard
• Inform a family member or friend of your itinerary, including when you expect to be back
• Obtain detailed information on each activity before setting out

Entry and exit requirements

Every country or territory decides who can enter or exit through its borders. The Government of Canada cannot intervene on your behalf if you do not meet your destination’s entry or exit requirements.

We have obtained the information on this page from the authorities of the United Arab Emirates. It can, however, change at any time.

Verify this information with the Foreign Representatives in Canada.

Passport

Entry requirements vary depending on the type of passport you use for travel.

Before you travel, check with your transportation company about passport requirements. Its rules on passport validity may be more stringent than the country’s entry rules.

Regular Canadian passport

Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your date of entry into the United Arab Emirates.

Passport for official travel

Different entry rules may apply.

Official travel

Passport with “X” gender identifier

While the Government of Canada issues passports with an “X” gender identifier, it cannot guarantee your entry or transit through other countries. You might face entry restrictions in countries that do not recognize the “X” gender identifier. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Other travel documents

Different entry rules may apply when travelling with a temporary passport or an emergency travel document. Before you leave, check with the closest foreign representative for your destination.

Useful links

• Foreign Representatives in Canada
• Canadian passports

Travel documents with an X in the "sex" field

Emirati authorities will deny you entry if your passport shows an X in the “sex” field or includes an observation to that effect. You may be subject to scrutiny, detained and sent back to your point of departure.

Visas

Tourist visa: Not required
Business visa: Required
Student visa: Required

If you’re entering the UAE as a tourist, you must obtain an entry stamp at the port of entry. This entry stamp is free and valid for 30 days. Ahead of the expiry of the initial 30-day period, you may request a validity extension for an additional 30 days.

Useful links

• Foreign Representatives in Canada
• Visa/Entry Permit Information - Government of the UAE
• Smart services - Federal authority for identity and citizenship of the UAE

Health entry requirements

Medical tests, including tests for human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and tuberculosis infections, are required to obtain or renew a work or residency permit. Emirati authorities don’t recognize foreign-issued HIV test results.

If you test positive for HIV or another communicable disease such as hepatitis or tuberculosis, you may be subject to detention, deportation, quarantine, or mandatory treatment.

It is also forbidden to enter the UAE with HIV/AIDS antiretroviral medication for personal use. If you do so, you may be subject to scrutiny, detention and deportation.

Medications

Certain prescription and over-the-counter medications that are legally available in Canada are controlled or banned in the UAE. Bringing them into the country is illegal and could lead to heavy fines and jail sentences.

See Laws and Culture for more details.

Exit procedures

You must exit the UAE with the passport you used for entry. If you obtained a new passport during your stay in the UAE, you should consult the immigration authorities before travelling to ensure your visa has been properly transferred to the new document.

Previous or expired visas must be formally cancelled by your work or residency sponsor. If your previous visa has not been cancelled, you may be prevented from leaving the UAE or face difficulties returning in the future.

Exit bans

UAE authorities may place an exit ban on certain individuals to prevent them from leaving the country. An exit ban can relate to investigations into an individual, their family or an employer, and criminal and civil matters, including business disputes. It can be requested by any of these disputants. Your passport may be seized, and you may be prevented from leaving the country until the case is fully investigated and settled.

You may not be aware that authorities have placed an exit ban on you until you try to leave the country. If you are sponsored, your sponsor may automatically be notified via SMS as you pass through airport exit controls.

If you’re unable to leave the country because of an exit ban, you should seek legal advice.

Yellow fever

Learn about potential entry requirements related to yellow fever (vaccines section).

Children and travel

Learn about travel with children.

Health

Routine Vaccines

Be sure that your routine vaccines, as per your province or territory, are up-to-date regardless of your travel destination.

Some of these vaccines include: measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus, pertussis, polio, varicella (chickenpox), influenza and others.

Pre-travel vaccines and medications

You may be at risk for preventable diseases while travelling in this destination. Talk to a travel health professional about which medications or vaccines are right for you.

Food and Water-borne Diseases

Travellers to any destination in the world can develop travellers' diarrhea from consuming contaminated water or food.

In some areas in Western Asia, food and water can also carry diseases like cholera, hepatitis A, schistosomiasis and typhoid. Practise safe food and water precautions while travelling in Western Asia. Remember: Boil it, cook it, peel it, or leave it!

Insects and Illness

In some areas in Western Asia, certain insects carry and spread diseases like chikungunya, Crimean-Congo hemorrhagic fever, dengue fever, leishmaniasis, malaria, Rift Valley fever, and West Nile virus.

Travellers are advised to take precautions against bites.

Animals and Illness

Travellers are cautioned to avoid contact with animals, including dogs, monkeys, snakes, rodents, birds, and bats. Certain infections found in some areas in Western Asia, like avian influenza and rabies, can be shared between humans and animals.

Person-to-Person Infections

Crowded conditions can increase your risk of certain illnesses. Remember to wash your hands often and practice proper cough and sneeze etiquette to avoid colds, the flu and other illnesses.

Sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and HIV are spread through blood and bodily fluids; practise safer sex.

Medical services and facilities

Health care is generally of a high standard, and service is available throughout the emirates. However, availability of services, quality of care, and healthcare professionals' qualifications can vary significantly from facility to facility, particularly outside of large cities. You should carefully research facilities in advance of travel or before seeking services.

Services provided by private facilities can be costly, and upfront payment may be required.

Medical evacuation can be very expensive. You may need it in case of severe illness or injury.

Make sure you get travel insurance that includes coverage for medical evacuation and hospital stays.

Travel health and safety

Keep in Mind...

The decision to travel is the sole responsibility of the traveller. The traveller is also responsible for his or her own personal safety.

Be prepared. Do not expect medical services to be the same as in Canada. Pack a travel health kit, especially if you will be travelling away from major city centres.

Laws and culture

You must abide by local laws.

Learn about what you should do and how we can help if you are arrested or detained abroad.

Legal systems

The UAE and Canadian criminal law systems are significantly different. Laws, penalties and legal procedures vary according to the emirate.

Detention during the investigative period is common and can be lengthy. You may be held without access to legal counsel or consular assistance.

If you are involved in legal proceedings, local authorities can prevent you from leaving the UAE by withholding your passport or enforcing an exit ban.

Convicted offenders can face corporal punishment and the death penalty for certain crimes. In most cases, after sentences have been served, offenders are deported from the UAE.

Familiarize yourself with the rules and laws of each emirate to which you intend to travel.

Overview of the criminal law system in the United Arab Emirates

Illegal drugs

The UAE has a zero-tolerance policy towards drugs, even for travellers in transit. Penalties for possession, use, or trafficking of any quantity of illegal drugs are severe. Cannabis-derived products, including those containing CBD, are illegal. Detection of illicit drugs (including cannabis) in blood or urine tests can also lead to a conviction.

Convicted offenders can expect heavy fines, jail sentences or the death penalty for severe offences, including trafficking.

• Alcohol, drugs and travel
• Cannabis and international travel

Prescription drugs

Certain prescription and over-the-counter medications legally available in Canada, such as codeine and mental health medications, are classified as controlled substances in the UAE. It’s illegal to bring them into the country, even in small quantities, without prior permission from the UAE Ministry of Health.

If you attempt to bring banned pharmaceuticals into the UAE without prior approval and required documentation, Emirati authorities may confiscate them. You may also be subject to heavy fines and jail sentences.

Medical tests are mandatory to obtain or renew your residency permit. You could be prosecuted if traces of prohibited substances are detected in your urine or blood sample, even if you haven’t imported the medication into the UAE.

Consult the Ministry of Health and Prevention’s list of controlled medicines to determine if you must obtain a permission to import any required medication. You may obtain a permission by creating a profile online and completing an electronic form.

Useful links

• List of controlled medicines - Government of the UAE
• Issuing permission to import medicines for personal use - Government of the UAE

Alcohol

Although non-Muslim tourists and residents can buy and drink alcohol in licensed venues, it is a punishable offence to drink or be under the influence of alcohol in public. Even passengers in transit through the UAE can be arrested if they are under the influence of alcohol.

Be aware and respect local restrictions and social behaviours regarding the consumption of alcohol.

Other illegal or restricted activities

Religious proselytism

It’s illegal to engage in religious proselytism, such as preaching, possessing, or distributing religious literature or material that contradicts or challenges Islamic teachings and values.

Lèse-majesté

It’s illegal to criticize or disrespect the UAE’s ruling families, political system or institutions, including through comments made on social media. Punishment can be severe, including lengthy jail terms.

Online behaviour

The UAE restricts the use of virtual private networks (VPNs).

There are strict laws regarding online behaviour, which also apply to the use of social media. Comments or behaviours considered defamatory, antisocial, culturally insensitive, or contrary to morality may be punishable by fines, imprisonment, and deportation.

If you come to the UAE to conduct business as a social media influencer and receive compensation for advertisements and product placement, you may require a UAE influencer licence. If you do not obtain a licence, you may be fined or detained. Contact the National Media Council for more information.

Social media influencers licensing- Government of the UAE

Economic Activities

Certain economic activities that are mostly civil in Canada, such as bouncing cheques and defaulting on debt, can have both civil and criminal consequences in the UAE.

Fundraising

Fundraising and charity activities are strictly regulated in the UAE. It’s illegal to raise funds or organize a crowdfunding campaign without proper authorization. Ensure that you donate funds only to government-approved charities.

Government-approved charities - UAE Government

Intimate relationships

Sexual relations outside of marriage are illegal and subject to severe punishment. You should carefully consider the risks of living with an intimate partner outside of marriage.

You should always avoid physical contact in public, especially overt displays of affection between adults.

Prostitution is illegal.

Photography

It’s illegal to photograph aircrafts, military installations and certain government buildings. Avoid photographing people without their permission.

Prohibited items

Possession of prohibited items may result in imprisonment or deportation.

Pornographic material is illegal in all emirates.

Importation or possession of weapons, ammunition, body protection gear, satellite phones, drones and other technical equipment may require a licence. It could result in an investigation and cause entry or exit delays.

Possession of pork is illegal in the emirate of Sharjah.

Useful links

• Prohibited items - UAE Government
• Customs clearance - UAE Government

LGBTQ2 travellers

UAE laws prohibit sexual acts between individuals of the same sex.

Transgender or non-binary individuals may be subject to scrutiny and accused of cross-dressing.

Those convicted can face heavy fines, jail sentences, corporal punishment, deportation or the death penalty.

LGBTQ2 travellers should carefully consider the risks of travelling to the UAE.

Travel and your sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression and sex characteristics

Driving

Visitors must carry an international driving permit to drive and rent a car in the UAE.

Penalties for drinking and driving are severe. The legal blood alcohol limit is zero. If the police suspect you of drinking and driving, they could oblige you to provide a blood or urine sample. If alcohol or drugs are detected, you may be prosecuted. If you’re convicted, you can expect heavy fines and a lengthy jail sentence.

You must report all accidents to the police. Required procedures following a car accident vary depending on the emirate in which the accident occurs. For example, you may be permitted to move your car to the side of the road after an accident, or you may be prohibited from moving it until the police arrive.

If you’re involved in an accident causing injuries, you may be detained until the injured individuals are released from the hospital. If you cause a fatal accident, you may be legally required to provide financial compensation to the deceased's family. Even minor accidents may lead to lengthy court proceedings.

Familiarize yourself with the rules of each of the emirate(s) in which you’ll be driving.

More about the International Driving Permit

Dress and behaviour

The country’s customs, laws and regulations adhere closely to traditional and Islamic practices and beliefs. The workweek runs from Sunday to Thursday.

To avoid offending local sensitivities:

• dress conservatively
• behave discreetly
• respect religious and social traditions

Exercise particular care in your behaviour towards others, particularly officials, to avoid offending local sensitivities. Verbal insults and obscene gestures may be considered criminal acts. Convicted offenders can expect heavy fines, prison sentences and deportation.

In the past, Emirati authorities have detained Canadians for showing disrespect towards others through verbal insults and obscene gestures. Exercise the same care when online in the UAE, particularly when interacting on social media.

Ramadan

In 2023, the lunar month of Ramadan is expected to begin on or around March 22.

In public, between sunrise and sunset, refrain from:

• drinking
• eating
• smoking

Dual citizenship

The United Arab Emirates don’t legally recognize dual citizenship.

If local authorities consider you a citizen of the UAE or another country, they may refuse to grant you access to Canadian consular services. This will prevent us from providing you with those services.

Regardless of parental marital status, children of fathers who hold Emirati citizenship acquire UAE citizenship at birth. They must enter and leave the country on a UAE passport.

Emirati authorities determine your citizenship based on the passport you use to enter the country. Ensure you use the same passport to enter and exit the country. Using different passports may lead to detention and delays.

General information for travellers with dual citizenship

Child custody

Child custody and guardianship decisions are based on Islamic law (Sharia).

Laws related to divorce and children are very different from those in Canada and parents should consult a local lawyer to be fully aware of custody, guardianship and visitations rights. Although the courts will review each case individually, custody of boys under the age of 11 and girls under 13 is normally awarded to the mother. Custody is normally transferred to the father once boys reach 11 and once girls reach the age of 13.

Regardless of which parent is awarded custody, fathers are normally given guardianship responsibilities for the children by the courts, giving them significant legal rights. Guardians have the right to hold the child’s passport and can legally prevent the child from exiting the UAE.

International Child Abduction

The Hague Convention on the Civil Aspects of International Child Abduction is an international treaty. It can help parents with the return of children who have been removed to or retained in certain countries in violation of custody rights. It does not apply between Canada and the United Arab Emirates.

If your child was wrongfully taken to, or is being held in the United Arab Emirates by an abducting parent:

• act as quickly as you can
• consult a lawyer in Canada and in the United Arab Emirates to explore all the legal options for the return of your child
• report the situation to the nearest Canadian government office abroad or to the Vulnerable Children’s Consular Unit at Global Affairs Canada by calling the Emergency Watch and Response Centre.

If your child was removed from a country other than Canada, consult a lawyer to determine if The Hague Convention applies.

Be aware that Canadian consular officials cannot interfere in private legal matters or in another country’s judicial affairs.

Useful links

• International Child Abduction: A Guidebook for Left-Behind Parents
• Travelling with children
• Canadian embassies and consulates by destination
• Emergency Watch and Response Centre

Fraud

Fraudulent practices, such as writing a cheque without sufficient funds and failing to pay a debt, are considered extremely serious offences. They may result in criminal prosecution, imprisonment and fines. Courts generally assess penalties according to Sharia law. Bail is often available only for UAE residents. Authorities may grant temporary release pending legal action in minor cases if both the accused and his/her guarantor surrender their passports to the authorities.

Employment

You must be sponsored by your employer to work in the UAE legally. Working in the UAE on a tourist visa is forbidden. Clearly establish the terms and conditions of employment in writing before your arrival.

Certain local sponsors may attempt to retain your passport, even if UAE law forbids this practice. You should never surrender your passport to your employer. If your passport is inaccessible or stolen because of such a situation, you may be subject to investigation by Passport Canada and may receive limited passport services.

The UAE Ministry of Labour has established a special department to review and arbitrate labour claims in dispute cases. A list of qualified local lawyers is available from the Embassy of Canada in Abu Dhabi or the Consulate General of Canada in Dubai.

Money

The currency of the United Arab Emirates is the dirham (AED).

When crossing one of the border control points of the UAE, you must make a declaration to customs upon entry or exit if you have more than AED 100 000 or the equivalent in other currencies. The sum can be in cash, cheques, money orders, traveller’s cheques, or other convertible assets.

Natural disasters and climate

Heat waves

Humidity and heat may be most severe during the hot season, from June to September.

Know the symptoms of dehydration and heatstroke, which can both be fatal.

Dust storms

Sand storms and dust storms may occur any time, particularly during the summer months.

Sand-laden winds can blow at high speeds for days, creating difficult driving conditions. Poor visibility can also affect flights. These storms can also cause respiratory problems, which can be fatal for some individuals.

During a storm:

• stay indoors
• keep windows closed
• follow the instructions of local emergency services personnel
• monitor local media for up-to-date information on the situation

Flooding

Heavy rain can result in flash floods in dry river beds and canyons (known as “wadis”), most frequently in winter.

Flash floods and landslides can hamper overland travel and reduce the provision of essential services. Roads may become impassable and bridges damaged.

• Monitor local news and weather reports
• Follow the instructions of local authorities, including evacuation orders

Fog

During winter, periods of severe fog can hinder transportation and visibility.

• Exercise caution, particularly while driving a motor vehicle
• Expect travel delays
• Monitor local news and weather reports
• Follow the advice of local authorities

Weather forecasts and warnings - National Center of Meteorology