+ 2 hours during Swiss summer time
+ 3 hours during Swiss winter time

Abu Dhabi

Official language

Arabic

Language capabilities

English

• 220 volts
• A travel plug adapter for type C, D and G sockets is required.

Banche

8.00–13.00 e, in alcuni casi, 16.30–18.30 (sab–mer)
8.00–12.00 (gio)

Durante il Ramadan possono essere applicati orari di apertura diversi.

Negozi

9.30–13.00 e 16.30–20.00/21.00 (sab–gio)
10.00–23.00/24.00 (grandi centri commerciali)

Alcuni negozi più piccoli sono aperti 24 ore su 24, ma il venerdì chiudono tra le 12.30 e le 14.30 per la preghiera del venerdì.

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) observes a combination of national and Islamic holidays. The exact dates of Islamic holidays may vary each year because they follow the Islamic lunar calendar.

• 1 January: New Year’s Day (Ras as-Sanah al-Miladiyah)
• Eid al-Fitr: date varies; marks the end of Ramadan.
• Arafat Day (Yawm Arafah): date varies; observed on the day before Eid al-Adha.
• Eid al-Adha: date varies; an Islamic festival celebrated worldwide.
• Islamic New Year (Ras as-Sanah al-Hijriyah): date varies.
• Birthday of the Prophet Muhammad (Mawlid an-Nabi): date varies.
• 1 December: Commemoration Day (Yawm ash-Shuhada’) – honouring Emiratis who sacrificed their lives for the UAE.
• 2 December: Union Day (Yawm al-Etihad) – the national holiday commemorating the foundation of the United Arab Emirates in 1971.

The following documents are required to enter the United Arab Emirates:

• A valid Swiss passport that remains valid for at least six months beyond the planned date of departure.
• A visa is not required. An entry stamp is issued on arrival at airports and ports in the United Arab Emirates, allowing a stay of up to 90 days.
• Minors: minors travelling alone, with only one parent or without their parents are advised to carry a travel consent form. Further information: travel consent forms for travelling with children.

Last updated: April 2024

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has a desert climate, with regional differences in temperature and humidity:

• Coastal regions: temperatures are more moderate than inland, but humidity is higher. In summer, temperatures can range from 32°C to 42°C, while humidity often rises above 90%. In winter, temperatures are generally between 18°C and 25°C.
• Inland and desert regions: away from the cooling influence of the sea, summer temperatures often reach 45°C and may even exceed 50°C. Winters are pleasant, with average daytime temperatures of around 20°C to 25°C. During winter nights, temperatures can fall significantly, sometimes dropping below 10°C.
• Mountain regions: temperatures are generally lower in the mountainous areas in the east of the UAE. Average summer temperatures range from approximately 25°C to 35°C. During the winter months, temperatures can fall to between 5°C and 15°C, and frost may occasionally occur at the highest elevations.

The ideal time to visit the United Arab Emirates

• Beach holidays: the best time to visit the UAE’s coastal regions is from October to April. Temperatures are pleasantly warm and ideal for spending time at the beach.
• City breaks: the optimum period is from November to March, when temperatures are milder and the pleasant weather makes exploring the cities more enjoyable. Summer can be too hot for extended sightseeing.
• Desert adventures and outdoor activities: October to April offers pleasantly warm days and cool nights. These months are ideal for desert safaris, mountain hiking and other outdoor activities.

Outside these periods, the extreme heat, particularly from May to September, can make some activities uncomfortable.

• Mobile phone use may incur charges. Before travelling, it is advisable to check roaming rates and, where necessary, purchase a special roaming package to reduce costs.
• Local prepaid SIM cards in Dubai and the United Arab Emirates are a cost-effective option for calls and internet access. Tourists can easily purchase a SIM card from the providers “du” and “Etisalat” by presenting their passport. SIM cards are available at airports and shopping centres.
• Free Wi-Fi is available in cafés, hotels and public places.
• In the UAE, many popular messaging apps cannot be used for calls and are limited to sending text and voice messages.

• Burj Khalifa in Dubai: the world’s tallest building offers breathtaking views of the city.
• Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi: one of the world’s largest mosques, renowned for its magnificent architecture and the world’s largest hand-knotted carpet.
• Dubai Mall: one of the largest shopping centres in the world, with more than 1,200 shops and attractions such as the enormous aquarium and ice rink.
• Palm Jumeirah in Dubai: a man-made island shaped like a palm tree, home to luxury hotels and beaches.
• Desert safari: a journey through the sand dunes of the Arabian Desert, often combined with camel riding and a traditional Arabian dinner under the stars.
• Louvre Abu Dhabi: an art and civilisation museum on Saadiyat Island, displaying works from different cultures and historical periods.
• Al Fahidi Fort and Dubai Museum: Dubai’s oldest surviving building, presenting the history and traditions of the Emirates.
• Hajar Mountains: offering spectacular natural scenery and ideal conditions for hiking and adventure tours.
• Aquaventure Waterpark: a spectacular water park on Palm Jumeirah, known for its thrilling water slides and Shark Lagoon.
• Dubai Creek: the historic heart of Dubai, featuring traditional dhows and the old trading districts of Deira and Bur Dubai.
• Jebel Jais in Ras Al Khaimah: the highest mountain in the UAE, known for its breathtaking views and the world’s longest zip line.
• Sharjah Arts Museum: home to an extensive collection of Arab art and regular international exhibitions.

The United Arab Emirates is a melting pot of cultures, with a culinary landscape shaped by a fascinating blend of local and international influences. This diversity reflects the country’s cosmopolitan character and offers a broad range of flavours, from traditional Emirati dishes to high-end international cuisine.

• Traditional Emirati cuisine: the local cuisine of the UAE is known for its rich flavours and ingredients such as dates, fish and rice. Popular dishes including Al Harees and Al Machboos celebrate the culinary heritage of the Emirates.
• International influences: thanks to the country’s multicultural population, residents and visitors can enjoy an impressive selection of international food, ranging from Indian and Persian cuisine to European and Asian specialities.
• Street food and fine dining: from lively souks serving authentic street food to luxury restaurants in Dubai and Abu Dhabi run by world-renowned chefs, there is something to suit every taste and budget.
• Dates and coffee: dates are a central part of Emirati hospitality and are often served with aromatic Arabic coffee. This tradition symbolises the country’s cultural heritage and the importance of social gatherings.
• Seafood: the UAE’s location on the Persian Gulf provides access to a rich variety of fresh seafood, enjoyed in both traditional and modern preparations.
• Local specialities to try
• Al Harees: a hearty dish made from wheat, meat and a pinch of salt, slowly cooked until it reaches a smooth consistency.
• Al Machboos: an aromatic rice dish prepared with meat or fish, spices and dried limes, capturing the authentic flavours of the Emirates.
• Shawarma: although widely available, the local version of this rolled meat speciality has its own distinctive flavour.
• Luqaimat: small, sweet dough balls covered in date syrup, a popular dessert in the Emirates.
• Ghuzi: an elaborate dish consisting of a whole lamb served on a generous bed of rice with nuts and raisins, reflecting the hospitality and generosity of Emirati cuisine.

• Greetings: traditional greetings are important. A simple “As-salamu alaykum” (“Peace be upon you”) is appreciated. Physical contact when greeting someone should be avoided unless the other person initiates it.
• Saying please and thank you: politeness is highly valued. Use “Min fadlak” for “please” and “Shukran” for “thank you”.
• Clothing: wear appropriate clothing. Shoulders and knees should be covered, particularly in public places and at religious sites.
• Dining etiquette: it is customary to eat with the right hand. Respect local customs and wait until you are offered a place at the table.
• Smoking: smoking is prohibited in many public places. Pay attention to designated smoking areas and no-smoking signs.
• Tipping: in restaurants, it is customary to leave a tip of 10–15% if a service charge is not already included in the bill. For other services, such as taxi journeys, rounding up the fare may be considered a tip.
• Alcohol consumption: alcohol may only be consumed in licensed establishments. Drinking alcohol in public in the UAE may result in legal consequences.
• Public displays of affection: hugging and kissing in public are considered inappropriate in the UAE and may have legal consequences.
• Photography: ask for permission before photographing local people, particularly women.

• Tap water in the UAE is considered safe to drink. However, because of its taste and chlorination, many people, including local residents, prefer to buy bottled water.
• No compulsory vaccinations are required for entry unless the traveller is arriving from a yellow fever risk area. In this case, proof of yellow fever vaccination is required.
• However, adults and children are advised to ensure that their routine vaccinations are up to date in accordance with the national vaccination schedule.
• Vaccination against hepatitis A is recommended for all travellers. Vaccinations against hepatitis B are recommended for long stays or specific exposure, as are vaccinations against rabies and meningococcal disease ACWY.

• The United Arab Emirates has an advanced and modern healthcare system that provides high-quality services in both the public and private sectors. Doctors and nursing staff, many of whom come from other countries, are highly qualified and generally speak very good English.
• Pharmacies are readily accessible in the UAE’s urban centres and offer a wide range of medicines, including many that are available in Europe. Numerous pharmacies are also open around the clock.
• The UAE has strict drug laws, which means that certain active ingredients permitted in medicines in Europe may be prohibited. Medicines containing narcotic or psychotropic substances, or which are otherwise subject to UAE control regulations, require an import permit from the Ministry of Health.

• Due to the military escalation in the region, the Federal Department of Foreign Affairs (FDFA) advises against tourist and non-essential travel to the United Arab Emirates.
• Since 28 February 2026, Israel and the United States have been carrying out air strikes against targets in Iran. In response, Iran has launched air attacks against targets in the region. Several airspaces have been closed, and numerous airlines have suspended or reduced services to the region. The UAE’s major international aviation hubs are also affected.
• The UAE is generally considered a safe travel destination with a low crime rate. Nevertheless, travellers are advised to consult the latest travel and security information before visiting, as geopolitical developments in the region may affect the security situation.
• There is an increased risk of terrorist attacks, and particular caution is therefore required.
• There is a risk of pickpocketing in large shopping centres and at major events.
• Isolated assaults on women and teenage girls travelling alone cannot be ruled out.
• Further information on the current security situation is available on the website of the Federal Department of Foreign Affairs (FDFA).

Last updated: 3 March 2026

• An international driving permit is required and is valid only when presented together with the Swiss national driving licence.
• The minimum age for hiring a vehicle ranges from 21 to 25, depending on the car hire company and the vehicle model. Copies of the passport, residence visa, and national and international driving licences must also be provided.
• Blood alcohol limit: 0.0‰

• Long-distance trains: the UAE currently has no extensive long-distance rail network. However, plans for a more comprehensive network are under development.
• Regional trains: the network is being developed with the aim of connecting the UAE’s main cities efficiently.
• Buses: an extensive and cost-effective bus network connects almost all areas of the UAE, with particularly good coverage in major cities such as Dubai and Abu Dhabi.
• Metro: Dubai has a modern metro system that is considered one of the most advanced in the world. Abu Dhabi is also working on developing its own metro network.
• Tickets: public transport tickets can be purchased from ticket machines, customer service centres or dedicated apps. In Dubai, for example, the Nol card can be used across several modes of transport.

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has a dense and efficient network of airports, providing extensive domestic and international connections. Below is a selection of UAE airports with direct flights from Switzerland:

• Dubai International Airport (DXB): direct flights from Zurich, Basel and Geneva.
• Abu Dhabi International Airport (AUH): direct connections from Zurich and Geneva.

Airlines such as Swiss International Air Lines, Etihad Airways and Emirates offer convenient direct services, making business and leisure travel between Switzerland and the UAE easier.

00 41 (omit the zero from the Swiss area code)

• Police: 999
• Ambulance: 998
• Fire brigade: 997

Al Khaleej Al Arabi Street
Centro Capital Center Building, 17th floor
Office building adjacent to the Rotana Centro Hotel, ADNEC / Exhibition Centre area
Abu Dhabi
Tel. +971 2 627 46 36
Email: abudhabi@eda.admin.ch

• During the fasting month of Ramadan, travellers should show particular respect for local culture and traditions. Daily life may be subject to certain restrictions, and greater sensitivity regarding religious matters is expected. Women are advised to wear modest, long-sleeved clothing, while men should avoid shorts and very casual clothing in order to show respect for Islamic traditions.
• Transgender people should be aware that wearing clothing associated with the opposite sex, or cross-dressing, is prohibited in the UAE.
• Photography and filming are strictly prohibited at certain sites. These include military installations, ports, airports, palaces belonging to ruling families, public buildings, embassies, industrial facilities, oil and natural gas installations, and bridges.
• The UAE imposes severe penalties for the possession or use of drugs, even in very small quantities, as well as for the misuse of medicines. Products such as CBD oil and hemp-flavoured food are also treated as drugs. Drug trafficking may even be punishable by death.
• Before climbing a mountain in the Emirate of Fujairah, visitors must register, for example by scanning a code at the beginning of the trail. Failure to register or comply with other mountaineering rules may result in a fine.