VISA

All visitors except AGCC nationals (Bahrain, Kuwait, Qatar, Oman and Saudi Arabia) require a visa sponsored by a local entity such as a hotel or tour company. Whne travelling, please submit a copy of your passport to the local Hotel or Travel Agent, who will apply for a visa on your behalf.

You must have a copy of your visa in your possetion before boarding the aircraft to visit Dubai. The Hotel or Agent should fax you a copy of you Visa. If you do not have the original, the Actual Copy will await you at the Visa Counter at the Dubai Airport. Show your passport, and you will be given a copy of the Visa, whereupon you may pass through Passport Control.

There are two types: transit visas for 14 days and visit visas for 30 days (renewable). Airlines may require confirmation that the sponsor is holding a valid visa for incoming visitors.

British citizens with the right of abode in the UK and expatriate residents of the AGCC of certain nationalities and professions may qualify for automatic 30 day visit visas on arrival, but current regulations should be checked before travelling.

German and US citizens may obtain visas from the UAE Embassies in their respective countries.

Visas are easily obtainable for other visitors except Israelis and travellers whose passports bear Israeli stamps.

Health Requirements

No health certificates are required for entry to Dubai, but it is always wise to check before departure, as health restrictions may vary, depending upon the situation at the time.

Customs

Duty-free allowances: Cigarettes -- 2,000; cigars -- 400; tobacco -- 2kg; alcohol (non-Muslim adults only) -- 2 litres of spirits and 2 litres of wine; perfume -- a reasonable amount.

No customs duty is levied on personal effects entering Dubai. Dubai Duty Free has a sales outlet in the Arrivals Hall (but alcohol may only be purchased on departure).