Middle East and North Africa

Terrorism

There is a high threat from terrorism.  We believe terrorists may be planning to carry out attacks in the UAE.  Attacks could be indiscriminate and could happen at any time, including in places frequented by expatriates and foreign travellers.  You should maintain a high level of security awareness, particularly in public places.  For more general information see Terrorism Abroad.

Crime

Over a million British visitors travelled to the UAE in 2007 and more than 100,000 British nationals are resident there.  The vast majority of visits are trouble-free.  Incidents of street crime are rare.  Female visitors should take care when walking or travelling alone  and are advised to use a reputable taxi company, particularly at night.

In 2007 our Consular staff  helped a number of British nationals who were the victim of a serious sexual offence in the UAE.For more general information see Victims of Crime Abroad.

Political Situation

United Arab Emirates Country Profile

Developments in Iraq and on the Middle East Peace Process continue to have an impact on local public opinion in the region.  You should be aware of local sensitivities on these issues.  You should follow news reports and be alert to local and regional developments, which might trigger public disturbances.  You should take sensible precautions for your personal safety and avoid public gatherings and demonstrations.

Road Travel

Recent changes to the law now allow British nationals who are in the UAE on a visit visa to drive a car using their British driving licence.. A British national living in the UAE with a residence permit must obtain a UAE driving licence. UAE licences can be obtained from the traffic department by expatriates with valid residency visas.

Excursions to the desert can be dangerous unless undertaken in adequately equipped 4 x 4 vehicles.  You should always travel in convoy with other cars, take a supply of water and a mobile telephone  and leave travel plans with friends or relatives.

Driving standards are not always as disciplined as in the UK and the rate of traffic accidents is significantly higher.  A report released by the World Health Organisation has reported that UAE road users are almost seven times more likely to be killed than their counterparts in the UK. The report shows that the UAE has one of the highest rates of road deaths. The authorities are increasing their efforts to address this and have launched the "Safety Awareness.  For the Emirates Campaign". More details can be found at: www.gulftraffic.com/safety.html.

If you have a motor accident, you should ensure you follow the rules of the Emirate you are in.  In Abu Dhabi, if no one has been hurt and vehicle damage is minor, drivers should move their vehicles to the side of the road to avoid blocking traffic; otherwise, the vehicles should not be moved.  In Dubai, you should only move your vehicle if it is causing an obstruction to other motorists.  In the other Emirates, you may only move your car if it is a minor accident and both parties agree on the responsibility for the accident.  In all cases, the police must be called, and it is an offence to leave the scene of the accident before the police have arrived.  Even minor expressions of 'road rage', such as rude gestures, can attract significant penalties.  It is in your own interests to display calm at all times.

Statistics recently released by the UAE Ministry of Interior reported  that 2,022 pedestrians were hit by vehicles when crossing the road in 2008.  Pedestrians should exercise caution and ensure that they cross roads using only designated pedestrian crossings.  While there are zebra crossings similar to UK marked on the roads, vehicles often do not stop for pedestrians waiting at these types of crossings.

Because it is a criminal offence in the UAE to drink and drive, no matter how small the amount, your insurance is likely to be invalidated, leaving you to pay the claims of other parties involved.  You also risk imprisonment.  If you are in the slightest doubt, take a taxi.

For more general information see Driving Abroad.

Sea Travel

Many areas of the Gulf are highly sensitive, including near maritime boundaries and the islands of Abu Musa and the Tunbs in the southern Gulf.  Vessels entering these areas have been detained and inspected; and there have been occasional arrests.  Mariners should make careful enquiries before entering these waters or considering visiting ports.

On 30 March 2006, a Dhow capsized in Bahrain.  There were 58 fatalities, including 12 British nationals.  You should exercise care when travelling by Dhow, as the safety of these vessels may not be up to UK standards.  You should also ensure that life jackets are available.

 

For more general information see River and Sea Safety.