There are a few things you need to know / take into consideration before you go and while you are in the UAE. The UAE is a fabulous country who’s people are some of the most genuine, hospitable and courteous you will ever be likely to encounter anywhere in the world.  But this is not South Africa, this is the UAE steeped in centuries of tradition and devout religious following. One of the reasons you are looking to travel to the UAE is to experience the deep, rich history and traditions on offer. Always remember that you are in a different country with a different cultural and belief system to the majority of westerners, we can seem as strange to them as they might sometimes appear to us.  It’s like the old saying “When in Rome” – it is just common courtesy to respect your hosts as we expect visitors to South Africa to respect our laws and traditions. To ensure that your stay is memorable, for all the right reasons, keep in mind that you are no longer in South Africa. Respect the laws and values of the UAE and your stay should be an extremely enjoyable one! The UAE is tolerant and cosmopolitan and all visitors are welcome. However, Islam is a way of life in the country and therefore expats / tourists should adopt a certain level of cultural and religious sensitivity for the duration of their stay.

Leaving the UAE stress free

So you have decided to leave the UAE and go back home – or head somewhere else – and are wondering how long it will take to complete the exit formalities? This depends on how many commitments you have made here. For most people, leaving the UAE involves a common to-do list – the job to resign from, keys to hand over, bills to settle, stuff to pack. In this guide, the nitty-gritty you will want to know before you get on the plain for your next destination is explained.