Travel and Visa Requirements for Emirati

• A valid international travel passport
• A completed visa application form
• The applicable visa fee
• Evidence of permission to enter the destination country
• A photocopy of your passport data page
• Financial proof — an original bank statement
• A letter of invitation, where one is required

Exact requirements vary by destination and visa type — always confirm what your destination needs before you apply.

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is situated on the Arabian Peninsula, along the Persian Gulf in Western Asia. It is a federation of seven emirates which are Abu Dhabi, Ajman, Dubai, Fujairah, Ras Al-Khaimah, Sharjah and Umm Al Quwain. Its capital, Abu Dhabi is an island. Its largest city is Dubai.

The climate in the UAE is generally hot and sunny all year round with the hottest months being July and August. The winter months when it is slightly cooler are from November to April. Dubai usually is bursting with visitors and activities from January to March owing to it shopping festival. That might be a good time for you to consider visiting the country.

The UAE is home to over 200 different nationalities and interestingly enough, Emiratis only constitute about 20% of the entire population of UAE. The rest of the population constitutes Indians, Europeans, Pakistanis, Bangladeshis, Chinese, Persians, etc. The official language in the UAE is Arabic, but English is the most widely spoken language. The Emirati culture is primarily based on the Arabic culture, but there are Persian, Indian, and East African cultural influences as well. Traditionally, Emirati men wear kundura, a white, ankle-length tunic made from either cotton or wool, whilst the women wear abayas.

The traditional food in the UAE is rice, meat, and fish. Emirati cuisine is very much influenced by Iran, Saudi Arabia, Pakistan, India, and Oman. Seafood is the mainstay in Emirati cuisine and lamb and mutton are generally favoured over beef and goat meat. Pork is haram and is sold in separate sections at all major markets in the UAE. The Emirati drink coffee and tea and alcohol is only sold in hotels, bars, and nightclubs. In the UAE, it is illegal to be drunk in public and to drive with alcohol in your system.

The UAE is internationally acclaimed for its stunning sites, infrastructure, and architecture. Some of such sites are:

• Burj Khalifa: This is the sky-high landmark of Dubai. The architectural wonder is the tallest building in the world, offers the highest observation deck in the world, and is the tallest free standing structure in the world. This building spotlights the most breathtaking views of Dubai.
• Sheikh Tayed Mosque, Abu Dhabi: This incredibly beautiful mosque combines both modern and ancient Arabic craftsmanship to create a masterpiece. The grand mosque features gold, marble, and impeccable glass work.
• Sharjah Museum: This is the most important art museum in the UAE presently. It boasts a diverse collection of pieces from both Arabic and European artistes. It features excellent art exhibitions as well.
• Bastakia Quarter of Dubai: This is probably the only place is Dubai that preserves and presents the typical Arabic style of life and craftsmanship. Bastakia has been kept separate from the big city lights and skyscrapers that dot the Dubai skyline, but is beautiful nonetheless. It is perfect for experiencing the more simple and traditional way of life of the Emirati.

The UAE has hundreds more wonderful sights up its sleeves to be experienced. It is basically the commercial hub of the world.

Accommodation in the UAE is world class and meets every kind of budget too.