UAE travel checklist (2026)

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What to sort before you fly to United Arab Emirates

Documents

Passport valid - at least 6 months from your date of arrival Essential Check the expiry date now, not the week you fly. Australian passport renewals take about 6 weeks.
Confirm you're still visa-free for United Arab Emirates Currently free visa on arrival for up to 30 days, extendable once for 30 days. Compare options →
Book proof of onward travel Checked by airlines at Australian check-in, not just on arrival.
Save digital copies of your passport and tickets Email them to yourself and save them offline in case your phone is lost.

Money

Sort a travel money card for AED Universal. Contactless everywhere including the Dubai Metro. Avoid the 3% fee most Australian banks charge. Compare options →
Plan your AED cash Very little - mostly for souks and taxis in older areas.
Check your bank app for a travel flag Reduces the chance of a fraud block on your first overseas purchase.
Remember: always pay in the local currency Declining dynamic currency conversion saves 3-7% on every card transaction.

Connectivity

Buy an eSIM for United Arab Emirates Important detail: WhatsApp and FaceTime voice and video calls are blocked on UAE networks regardless of which local eSIM you buy. An international roaming eSIM that routes through a foreign gateway may keep them working - check with the provider. Compare options →
Check what your Australian plan charges to roam Under about four days, a roaming day pass often beats an eSIM.
Download offline maps and a translation pack Useful anywhere the signal drops.

Health & cover

Take out travel insurance Essential No reciprocal health care agreement - Medicare covers nothing here. Compare options →
Check vaccinations with your GP No vaccinations required.
Check your medications are legal This is the critical item for the UAE. Codeine, tramadol, some sleeping tablets, ADHD medications and anything containing CBD are controlled. Carry a doctor's letter and original packaging, and check the Ministry of Health list before you fly.
Subscribe to Smartraveller for this destination Current advice: Exercise a high degree of caution. Official site →

Getting around

Plan your arrival transfer From Dubai International Airport, about 5 km from the centre. Compare options →
Get an International Driving Permit Essential Only issued in Australia by state motoring clubs, about $49. You cannot get one once you have left. Compare options →

Before you go

Pack a Type G power adapter The UAE uses the British Type G plug. You need an adapter; voltage matches Australia.
Pack a refillable water bottle Tap water is desalinated and safe, though most residents drink bottled or filtered water because of building storage tanks.
Save the local emergency number and the Australian consulate 999 police / 998 ambulance - Australian Consulate-General Dubai - +971 4 508 7100
Book anything that sells out Timed-entry attractions and popular tours often need booking weeks ahead. Compare options →

All set - you're ready to fly.

Have a great trip to United Arab Emirates.

Your United Arab Emirates trip checklist

What to sort before you fly to United Arab Emirates

Documents

Money

Connectivity

Health & cover

Getting around

Before you go

More United Arab Emirates essentials

Save your trip

What to sort before you fly to United Arab Emirates

Documents

Money

Connectivity

Health & cover

Getting around

Before you go

More United Arab Emirates essentials

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