Must-Have Travel Apps and Tools for Visiting the United Arab Emirates
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is a fantastic travel destination packed with stunning skyscrapers, rich cultural heritage, and incredible experiences. To get the most out of your trip and make your travels in the UAE smoother, you need the right apps on your phone. Whether you’re navigating through Dubai, booking transportation, or need help with translation, these apps will make your journey stress-free.
Google Maps (Free)
Google Maps is essential for navigating around any city in the UAE. Whether you’re walking in old Dubai, driving through Abu Dhabi, or moving between the Emirates, Google Maps has accurate directions for all transportation modes. The traffic updates are helpful too, especially during peak hours. You can download maps offline if you’re worried about data.
Careem (Free, with paid rides)
Careem is the go-to app for local rides, offering services like taxis, ride-sharing, and even car rentals. It’s widely used in the UAE and is a great alternative to taxis you might hail on the street. The app covers all major cities in the UAE, and you can even schedule rides in advance.
RTA Dubai (Free)
This app by Dubai’s Roads and Transport Authority is a must-have if you’re staying in Dubai. It’s your one-stop solution for all things public transport, including maps, routes, and schedules for metro and buses. It shows the nearest stations and helps you plan your trip across Dubai with real-time updates.
MOHRE App (Free)
If you need services related to your visa or labor status while in the UAE, the MOHRE (Ministry of Human Resources and Emiratisation) app makes it simple. The app allows you to check visa information, application status, and relevant labor laws. It’s handy for expats or long-term visitors.
Noon (Free)
Running out of essentials or looking to shop while you’re in the UAE? Noon is one of the biggest online shopping platforms in the region. From electronics to fashion and home goods, you can get almost anything delivered to your doorstep.
The Entertainer (Paid)
The Entertainer is a deal-finding app that offers “buy one, get one free” vouchers for dining, attractions, and even activities in the UAE. Although it has a subscription fee, you’ll quickly get your money back with the deals it offers, especially if you like to eat out and explore popular tourist spots.
Zomato (Free, with paid delivery)
If you’re a foodie, Zomato is a must. It’s widely used in the UAE for restaurant reviews, menus, and food delivery. You can easily search for restaurants, read helpful reviews, view menus, and order food right to your hotel or Airbnb. It covers a wide variety of cuisines, making it easy to find what you’re craving.
Google Translate (Free)
English is widely spoken in the UAE, but it helps to know some basic Arabic phrases. Google Translate is a great free tool for translating Arabic to English (and vice versa) on the go. The camera translation feature also comes in handy when you’re reading signs or menus.
Booking.com (Free)
Booking.com is perfect for finding accommodation in the UAE. With plenty of options ranging from budget stays to luxury hotels, you’ll always find something suitable for your needs. The app’s filters and reviews make it easy to find the right place to stay, whether you’re in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, or beyond.
Klook (Free)
Want to book tours, attractions, or experiences in the UAE? Klook is a great tool for that. It offers discounted tickets for popular attractions like Burj Khalifa, Safaris, and theme parks. You can also find useful recommendations based on your preferences.
XE Currency (Free)
When you’re visiting a new country, keeping track of exchange rates can be tricky. XE Currency makes it easy to convert between different currencies, including the UAE Dirham (AED). It’s an especially handy app if you’re visiting multiple countries in the region and need to deal with currency conversions often.
Google Pay (Free)
The UAE is largely cashless, so having Google Pay installed is a huge help. Whether you’re buying groceries, paying for a ride, or dining out, you can use Google Pay almost everywhere. The app saves you from having to withdraw cash or carry lots of cards around.
Vox Cinemas (Free)
If you’re planning on watching a movie during your trip, especially in the major cities like Dubai or Abu Dhabi, the Vox Cinemas app makes booking tickets super easy. You can browse the latest films, select your seats, and even pre-order snacks right from your phone.
UDrive (Pay-per-minute car rentals)
For those who prefer to rent a car by the minute, UDrive is a fantastic app to try. It’s perfect if you need flexibility in your transportation. You’re only charged for the time you actually use the car, and gas and parking are included in the rental cost. UDrive operates in cities like Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Sharjah.
Skyscanner (Free)
Need to find flights to and from the UAE? Skyscanner is a perfect tool for comparing flight prices across airlines. It saves you time and money by searching for the cheapest flights, and you can also book hotels or even rent cars through the app. The price alerts feature helps you catch a deal at the best time.
Dubai Airports (Free)
This app from Dubai International Airport is helpful if you’re flying into or out of Dubai. It provides up-to-date flight information, gate details, and maps of the airport terminals. You can also access information about shopping and food options while you’re at the airport.
Talabat (Free, with paid delivery)
Talabat is a popular food delivery app in the UAE. From fast food to fine dining, you’ll find a variety of restaurant options on the platform. It’s super convenient when you want food delivered to your place without any hassle.
Duolingo (Free with paid extras)
Looking to pick up some Arabic during your stay in the UAE? Duolingo is a fun way to learn the basics. The app is free to use, and it turns language learning into a game. Even just a few minutes a day can help you pick up enough Arabic to improve your travel experience.
Waze (Free)
Another great navigation app, Waze is particularly useful if you’ll be driving in the UAE. The app gathers user-submitted traffic information, so you get real-time updates about road conditions, accidents, and the best routes to take. It’s a lifesaver during rush hour.
SkyScanner Car Hire (Free)
If you plan on renting a car to explore the UAE on your own, SkyScanner Car Hire helps you find the best rental deals. It’s connected to multiple car rental companies, so you get more options to choose from.
Airbnb (Free)
If you prefer staying in serviced apartments, Airbnb is a great platform for finding accommodations all over the UAE. You’ll often find stays in great city-center locations or more budget-friendly options compared to hotels. The app is easy to use, and it’s perfect for longer stays, or if you’re traveling with a group or family.
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