Register your overseas travel and/or residential details here.
Reviewed: 21 November 2012
Still current at:
18 May 2013
There is some risk to your security in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) due to the threat from terrorism and we advise caution.
Terrorism
While the UAE has not experienced major terror attacks, international terrorist groups continue to issue statements threatening to carry out attacks in the Gulf region, including against Western interests. Public and commercial areas known to be frequented by Western expatriates and travellers could be potential targets for attack and New Zealanders are advised to take particular care in these places.
Local travel
Travellers entering the Gulf area by sea should be aware that 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. Mariners in particular should make careful enquiries before considering entering these waters.
General travel advice
New Zealanders are advised to respect religious and social traditions in the UAE to avoid offending local sensitivities. Modesty and discretion should be exercised in both dress and behaviour. The use of bad language, rude gestures or public displays of affection may result in charges being laid by the local authorities.
During the holy month of Ramadan, New Zealanders travelling to Muslim countries including the UAE should show respect and pay attention to religious and cultural sensitivities. Do not eat, drink or smoke in public view during the daytime. This is considered disrespectful and it is against the law. Failure to comply could result in arrest.
Alcohol must only be consumed on licenced premises or at home providing the alcohol has been purchased with a licence. There is no tolerance for drinking in public places, or public drunkenness. There is zero tolerance for drink driving"
Some prescribed and over-the-counter medicines that are readily available in New Zealand are considered controlled substances in the UAE. If a traveller arrives with certain medication and without the required documentation and prior approval, they will not be allowed into the country and may be prosecuted. Any medication considered a controlled substance in the UAE is not allowed into the country without prior permission from the UAE Ministry of Health. For more information, consult the UAE Embassy, Canberra.
New Zealanders travelling or living in the United Arab Emirates should have comprehensive medical and travel insurance policies in place.
New Zealanders in the United Arab Emirates are encouraged to register their details with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Trade.
See our regional advice for the Middle East
Other Countries' Travel Advisories
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Contact details are:
Street Address Villa 226/2, Al Karamah St. (24th St, between 11th & 13th), Al Karamah Area, Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
Telephone +971 2 4411222
Facsimile +971 2 4411555
Email nzembassy.abu.dhabi@mfat.govt.nz
Website nzembassy.com/united-arab-emirates
Office Hours Sun – Thu 0830-1600
Notarial Services Monday and Wednesday 0900-1200 hrs (by appointment only)
Contact details are:
Street Address Suite 1502, 15th Floor, API Tower, Sheikh Zayed Road, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Postal Address PO Box 23-156, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
Telephone +971 4 331 7500 Facsimile +971 4 331 7501
Email dubai@nzte.govt.nz
Office Hours Sun - Thu 0830-1700 hrs
Consular Hours Sun, Tue, Thu 0900-1200hrs
