Travel Insurance for Dubai
Dubai is the biggest city in United Arab Emirates (UAE) and is popular among travellers because of its nightlife and sandy beaches. To ensure you have the best holiday in Dubai, purchase your travel insurance when you book your trip so you’ll be covered for cancelled flights and unused excursions.
Emergency Contact Information
In case of an emergency, it’s important to know Dubai’s emergency contact numbers. Call 999 to be put in touch with the Dubai Police Force, or if you want to make an anonymous report, call 800-4888. You can also call 800-4438 to get in touch the Dubai Tourism Security. Call 998 if you need an ambulance, 997 to reach the fire department, and call 996 if you need the coastguard. Do some research and make a note of the nearest hospital and police station to your hotel.
You’re the victim of a crime or need an emergency travel document because your passport is lost or stolen, the British Embassy in Dubai can help you. If you need to make a claim, you can find the appropriate contact information on our claims information page.
Travel Safety Tips
Dubai is a generally safe place to travel to, but as you would in any country, keep an eye out for pickpockets and don’t leave any drinks unattended. To ensure you travel safely around Dubai, only use licensed taxis.
Dubai is sunny all year round. The temperature in Dubai can reach over 40°C in the summer, so most tourists prefer to go during the winter when it’s not as hot. You should regularly apply sunscreen and drink plenty of water while you’re there to ensure you don’t get dehydrated.
It’s important to familiarise yourself with local laws before you travel to Dubai. There are laws against public affection and alcohol consumption in public, and restrictions on photography.
If you have a pre-existing medical condition, you should purchase travel insurance with medical conditions cover. Some medicines are prohibited or restricted in the UAE, so check that you can bring your prescription medications with you prior to travelling. Before you bring any medicines to Dubai, you’ll need to get a permit.
For additional information, see the FCDO travel advice for the United Arab Emirates.
Things to See and Do in Dubai
Dubai is a lavish city with plenty of entertainment, shopping centres, and unique experiences. To help you plan your trip, here are some things to see and do in Dubai that will make your trip unforgettable.
Experience the Views from the Burj Khalifa
This skyscraper is the world’s tallest building. You can get tickets to go on the observation decks 24th, 125th, and 148th floors for the best views of Dubai. You can sit and sip drinks at The Lounge; have dinner at At.mosphere, the highest restaurant in the world; or have brunch and swim in the rooftop pool at The Burj Club. Just outside you’ll find Burj Park and the Dubai Fountain on Burj Lake.
Go Shopping at Dubai Mall
Next to the Burj Khalifa is Dubai Mall, one of the biggest shopping malls in the world, with an abundance of shopping outlets and dining establishments. There is a cinema and visitors can enjoy an afternoon at the Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo. You can also go ice skating and go karting.
Visit the Museum of the Future
The exterior of this uniquely-shaped building is so striking, you can’t miss it. This museum focuses on how advancements in science and technology can improve our future. There are different exhibits and immersive experiences on each floor, where people can learn about subjects such as climate change and space travel. There is a Future Heroes exhibition with activities for children and a viewing deck.
Haggle at the Dubai Spice Souk
You’ll know you’ve arrived at the Dubai Spice Souk when the aroma of fragrant spices hits your nose. The shops in this market also sell souvenirs, incense, perfumes, accessories, and clothing. This place will allow you to put your haggling skills to good use, just don’t forget to bring your dirham (the currency used in the UAE).
Stop by the Global Village
The Global Village is a fascinating place where you can learn all about different cultures. It has shops, shows, concerts, a carnival, and dining establishments featuring authentic world cuisine.
Go on a Safari at the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve
At the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve, you can marvel at the beauty of the desert flora and fauna, including sand foxes, caracals, and Arabian oryxes, on a desert safari. They offer activities such as falconry, camel treks, and sand boarding. Make sure your activities are covered by your travel insurance policy before taking part.
Hang Out at Jumeirah Beach Park
Jumeirah Beach Park is one of the most popular public beaches in Dubai. This white sandy beach is the perfect location for sunbathing and swimming, as well as participating in water sports and volleyball.
Have Dinner at the Burj Al Arab
The Burj Al Arab is a lavish hotel near Jumeirah Beach Park. Shaped like a sail, it is one of the most recognisable landmarks in Dubai. The Burj Al Arab has two restaurants. The Al Muntaha offers stunning views of the Arabian Gulf and diners at the Al Mahara can sit next to the seawater aquarium.
