Backpacking in Dubai: The Must Read Checklist

Few people would argue that Dubai has become one of the most luxurious holiday destinations in the world over the years, with the country undergoing extensive developments which has made it one of ‘the’ places to go. However, while Dubai unquestionably has plenty going for it, there are plenty of risks whilst traveling to the country. Over recent times, there have been some horror stories of individuals heading over there for long periods of time, only to find themselves falling foul of the local laws and even being imprisoned.

Taking the above into the account, this short guide hasn’t been put together to remind you to take your suntan lotion. Instead, here are the five points you must remember before either backpacking or visiting Dubai for a long holiday – or risk the whole trip being a potentially life-changing disaster.

#1 – Check the Visa laws

There is a high probability that this first tip will not apply to most readers. Just like most countries, Dubai has its own Visa laws and you will not be permitted access without one that is valid.

Fortunately, if you happen to be from certain eligible countries, you will be granted a 30-day Dubai Tourist Visa on arrival, free of charge. Furthermore, this Visa can be extended for an additional 30-days – which should mean that backpackers have an ample period to spend in the country. It’s worth mentioning that the US, Australia and the vast majority of Europe fall into this category – meaning that this is an obstacle that should affect very few people.

#2 – Looking for work? Get your documents in shape

If you do fall into the backpacker classification, you will need to get your papers into full working order if you are planning to work over there. This means that you will need UAE attestation to your relevant documents; whether this is your degree certificate, a letter from your employer or even your birth certificate. Some potential employers won’t require them, but in the interests of efficiency it is certainly worth carrying out the process if you want to make your visit as hassle-free as possible.

#3 – Taking medication? Read on

When we spoke about a trip to Dubai having the potential to become a “life-changing disaster”, this is the issue that we were mostly referring to. If you are currently taking any medication, make sure that it complies with the local laws and it’s legal to take into Dubai. For example, any medication containing codeine or diazepam is banned from the United Arab Emirates, unless it is accompanied with a valid doctor’s prescription. This again reverts back to attestation for the previous tip and you are advised to get your prescription legalised for the use in Dubai to avoid any nasty surprises when you arrive.

It should be noted that visitors have been imprisoned for bringing in banned medication in the past, even if their circumstances were completely innocent. At this point we should briefly note that the possession of narcotics is strictly governed, with this carrying a minimum sentence of four years.

#4 – Check all laws

Following on from the last scare in relation to laws, you really need to become accustomed to all other laws that govern Dubai. For example, hold hands or show any other displays of affection to the opposite sex and you could find yourself arrested. Other acts that could land you in prison include any homosexual behaviour, drinking alcohol in public, having a cheque bounce or wearing any provocative clothing. Therefore, it’s crucial you read up on such laws and act very carefully whilst in public.

#5 – Get insurance

A surprising number of people do not travel with insurance but in the case of backpacking or a long holiday, it really shouldn’t be ignored. Most Europeans are covered by their free European Health Insurance Card, yet suffice to say this doesn’t reach out as far as Dubai and the majority of visitors will have to shell out or place their belongings, or more importantly health, at severe risk.