In the last 20 years, Dubai has grown exponentially and has become one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world.
Dubai has a lot to offer, including the world's largest shopping mall, the Dubai Mall, the world's tallest building, the Burj Khalifa, and the world's most luxurious hotel, the Burj Al Arab. Dubai also has the world's largest human-made islands, which are shaped like palm trees and also look like a world map. Just outside the Burj Khalifa is the world's largest musical fountain, which is similar to the ones outside the Bellagio casino in Las Vegas, USA.
If a trip to Dubai is in your future, you’re sure to have a great time. To do so with additional peace of mind, be sure to purchase Dubai travel medical insurance or travel insurance before you go.
Travel Medical Insurance for Travelers in Dubai – FAQs
When traveling to Dubai, travel medical insurance offers essential protection. If you become sick or injured, you will need this coverage to receive necessary medical treatment and be protected from the high cost of Dubai medical treatment.
Do I need travel medical insurance for Dubai?
The United Arab Emirates ended its longstanding travel insurance requirement for visa-free travel in November 2022. Travel medical insurance is now optional for most visitors, but should be strongly considered by all.
Why buy travel medical insurance before traveling to Dubai?
Healthcare is not free in Dubai and medical expenses are high. Dubai travel medical insurance is mandatory for all visitors, including both those on a visa, and those who are able to travel to Dubai visa-free. Besides, it is possible that if you have unpaid medical bills, your passport could be seized and you won't be allowed to leave the country until they're handled.
Trip Cancellation Insurance for Travelers in Dubai – FAQs
Have you considered the implications of having to cancel your trip to Dubai? If you’re under the impression that you can simply get refunded for all of the money you’ve already spent on airfare and hotels, you could be mistaken. These prepaid expenses are usually nonrefundable, or charge large cancellation fees. The only way to protect your trip investment is by purchasing trip cancellation insurance.
Why should I get trip cancellation insurance for my Dubai travel?
If you have a sudden personal emergency, serious illness, or there is a natural disaster or travel lockdown, your trip to Dubai could become impossible. It could also be impossible for you to get your money back for the flight, hotel, or tour you’ve already booked.
That is, unless you have trip cancellation insurance. With trip cancellation insurance for Dubai, you can be reimbursed for your prepaid, nonrefundable travel expenses if you have no choice but to cancel your trip for a covered reason.
What can be covered by trip cancellation insurance for Dubai?
As the name implies, trip cancellation coverage is a major component of travel insurance. However, it can also provide coverage for things like emergency medical care, travel delays, trip interruption, lost baggage, and other ancillary benefits.
If you need more flexibility in cancelling your trip, be sure to look into cancel for any reason coverage.
Dubai’s Most Popular Places for Travel
Burj Khalifa
At 2,717 feet tall, Burj Khalifa is the tallest building in the world. Is it any wonder that it’s one of Dubai’s most famous tourist attractions? So long as you aren’t afraid of heights, a trip to the 124th floor observation deck is a must. Visit at nighttime to get incredible views of Dubai’s city lights. If you’d rather keep your feet planted firmly on the ground, you can explore the Burj Park surrounding the building. It is adorned with fascinating modern art pieces. Head over to Burj Lake and you can experience the tallest performing fountain in the world.
JBR Beach
Looking for some fun in the sun? Jumeirah Beach Residence (JBR) beach is home to some of Dubai’s poshest beach resorts, all with every facility you can imagine. Pamper yourself while enjoying the lounge chairs, world-class restaurants, and peaceful Gulf waters. If you crave a bit more adventure, you can enjoy kayaking, jet-skiing, parasailing, and other water activities here.
Desert Safaris
Want to blast through the dunes in a 4X4, ride a camel, or give sandboarding a try? The dunes of Maleha and the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve are conveniently close, and offer an array of guided tours. Activities vary depending upon the tour you choose, but can include wildlife viewing, displays of traditional Arabian falconry, and even a gourmet meal at sunset.
The Al Fahidi Quarter
Also known as Old Dubai, stepping into the Al Fahidi Quarter feels like stepping back in time. Suddenly, you’re a world away from the high-tech glitz of modern Dubai, and surrounded by traditional Arabian architecture. Inside the Quarter, you’ll find incredible examples of Arab ceramics in the Majlis Gallery, and you can enjoy the café and art exhibitions at the Al Serkal Cultural Foundation.
Mall of the Emirates
There’s a reason that Mall of the Emirates is one of the most famous shopping destinations in the world. After all, how many other malls have an indoor ski slope, let alone a climate-controlled penguin enclosure? If you’re looking to shop and dine, your options are practically endless. And if you’re bringing children along, you simply must stop at the entertainment complex, with its array of rides and attractions for kids and adults.
Key Guidelines for Travelers in Dubai
Though Dubai is considered quite safe for tourists, there are certain cultural and safety tips you should keep in mind while visiting:
Alcohol Laws
As a tourist, you are allowed to purchase alcohol in Dubai, but you must go through a specific process. You will need to obtain a temporary liquor license, which is valid for a month, and will allow you to buy alcohol from the two licensed distributors in Dubai. Keep in mind that this license is only valid in Dubai, and not in other emirates.
Dress Code
Tourists in Dubai are expected to dress modestly when in public, in accordance with local customs. Women should wear clothing that covers the tops of their arms and legs, and swimwear should never be worn outside of beaches and swimming areas.
Drug Laws
Dubai has extremely strict laws regarding the use or possession of drugs. Even a small quantity of illegal drugs can result in a minimum three-month prison sentence and a heavy fine. Also, substances that may be completely legal in your home country, such as CBD oil, are illegal in Dubai. Be sure to visit the UAE Ministry of Health website prior to attempting to bring any medication or other substance into the UAE, so you know for sure if it is legal or not.
Public Behavior
You are expected to act in a respectful manner at all times when in Dubai. Making rude gestures or swearing in public can result in jailtime or even deportation. You should also avoid public displays of affection, as these can also result in arrests.
Before You Travel to Dubai – Do This
- Pack light, loose-fitting clothing that conforms to Dubai cultural norms, and is comfortable in hot weather.
- Visit your healthcare provider and make sure you are up to date on all necessary vaccinations.
- Protect your health and finances against the unexpected by purchasing travel medical insurance or travel insurance.