Landing in the UAE comes with more than just a warm welcome and sunny skies. Whether you’re a solo explorer, a family on vacation, or a business traveler extending your trip, your journey begins with instant perks. Tourists flying into Dubai or Abu Dhabi can access a wide array of exclusive benefits—free SIM cards, discount cards, transport upgrades, and hundreds of offers at top attractions—all for simply arriving in the Emirates.

Welcome to Dubai: Start with a Free SIM Card

One of the first surprises awaiting tourists at Dubai International Airport (DXB) is a complimentary Tourism SIM card courtesy of du, one of the UAE’s major telecom providers. This SIM, available upon clearing immigration, offers 1GB of data valid for 24 hours, helping new arrivals navigate maps, make bookings, or connect with loved ones back home immediately.

Eligibility includes those arriving on visit visas, transit visas, or with visa-on-arrival, as well as GCC nationals. Tourists can upgrade their plan at du kiosks located at the airport or through Dubai Duty Free counters. Alternatives are also available from other major telecom providers, Etisalat and Virgin Mobile, which offer prepaid SIMs with competitive packages designed specifically for tourists, often bundled with international minutes and longer data validity.

This small but essential service ensures that visitors stay connected, which is especially useful for ride-hailing apps, translation tools, and ticketing platforms widely used across the UAE.

ALSAADA Card: Dubai’s Digital Welcome Kit for Tourists

With the SIM card in hand, visitors gain access to another benefit—a digital ALSAADA Tourist Card, Dubai’s official tourist discount programme run by the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFAD).

To activate this card, tourists simply scan the QR code printed on the SIM card envelope, which directs them to download the ALSAADA mobile app, available on both Android and iOS. After a quick registration process, users can start exploring discounts and promotions available across restaurants, retail stores, wellness centers, leisure attractions, and shopping malls.

Unlike traditional paper coupons, the ALSAADA card is digital and updates in real-time, making it a handy tool for tourists wanting to make the most of their budget without carrying around brochures or discount books.

Chauffeur On Demand: Hire a Driver by the Hour

Exploring Dubai in comfort and style is easier than ever with the Hourly Rental limousine service offered by the Dubai Taxi Corporation (DTC). This service allows tourists to book a professional chauffeur to drive them around the city in a private vehicle—ideal for sightseeing, business meetings, or shopping tours.

Surprisingly cost-effective, this service starts at AED 400 for two hours and goes up to AED 1,100 for ten hours, with packages tailored to fit a variety of travel needs. Unlike regular taxis, the limousine option does not include waiting time charges, and you only pay extra if you exceed the allotted hours or distance.

Booking is simple via the “DTC” app, which offers real-time scheduling and payment options. Here’s a quick breakdown:

• Two hours: AED 400

• Four hours: AED 650

• Six hours: AED 800

• Eight hours: AED 900

• Ten hours: AED 1,100

• After package expiry: AED 3/km and AED 1/minute

This service is perfect for tourists planning to visit multiple locations in a single day, offering flexibility, comfort, and the prestige of private transport.

Show Your Boarding Pass, Get a World of Discounts

Perhaps the most surprising benefit of visiting the UAE is how your boarding pass becomes a ticket to savings. Two of the UAE’s flagship airlines, Emirates and Etihad Airways, offer special promotions for passengers who retain their boarding passes.

Emirates: “My Emirates Pass”

Emirates passengers can benefit from the My Emirates Pass, a seasonal discount programme that turns your boarding pass into an access card for offers at over 500 locations. Deals span across:

• Attractions like At The Top – Burj Khalifa, Dubai Frame, and Museum of the Future

• Amusement parks such as IMG Worlds of Adventure and Aquaventure at Atlantis

• Retail outlets and luxury brands at malls like Dubai Mall and Mall of the Emirates

• Fine dining restaurants, cafés, and spas

Offers are available to those who present a valid physical or digital boarding pass, along with ID, and are usually valid for up to a month from the date of arrival (subject to seasonal dates—check Emirates’ official site for the latest validity periods).

Etihad Airways: “Abu Dhabi Pass”

Etihad passengers arriving in Abu Dhabi can access the Abu Dhabi Pass, offering similar benefits across the capital’s top destinations. Exclusive discounts are available at:

• Yas Island attractions, including Ferrari World, Warner Bros. World, and Yas Waterworld

• Luxury hotels and spas, especially in Saadiyat Island and Corniche areas

• Dining establishments, from gourmet to family-friendly

These perks not only save tourists money but also encourage them to explore both Dubai and Abu Dhabi, enriching their travel experience.

The Bigger Picture: UAE’s Tourism-First Strategy

These offers are part of the UAE’s larger initiative to position itself as one of the most tourist-friendly destinations globally. With streamlined airport experiences, high-speed public transit, visa-on-arrival for over 80 nationalities, and now, digital discount programmes, the UAE is creating an ecosystem that values accessibility, affordability, and convenience for its international visitors.

For tourists, the message is clear: don’t throw away your boarding pass, and be sure to scan everything you receive at the airport. From that moment, the UAE starts paying you back for visiting.

Tip: Before arriving, check the official websites of Visit Dubai, Etihad, or Emirates, as offers and promotions may be seasonal or time-limited.

In light of recent tragic events involving Emirati tourists in Turkey, the UAE Embassy in Ankara has issued comprehensive travel safety recommendations for Emirati citizens planning visits to the country. These guidelines aim to ensure travelers enjoy a secure and hassle-free experience during their trips.

The embassy strongly urges all Emirati travelers to register themselves and accompanying family members with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ “Twajudi” service and to verify that their passports have at least six months’ validity remaining. Financial preparations are also emphasized: travelers should check Turkey’s local transaction preferences whether bank cards or cash are favored and confirm that their payment cards are activated for international use with their respective banks.

Travelers are advised to consult country-specific travel advisories available via the Ministry of Foreign Affairs’ website and mobile app. Special attention should be paid well in advance to visa requirements, particularly for domestic workers accompanying travelers. The embassy also recommends keeping copies of all identification documents and strictly observing local traffic laws to promote personal and public safety.

Additional safety measures include verifying that vehicle ownership documents correspond exactly with the traveler’s passport name, fulfilling any health requirements mandated by Turkish authorities, and reviewing procedures for recognizing or exchanging Emirati driver’s licenses—all detailed through the ministry’s travel advisory platforms.

These precautions follow a fatal accident on August 8 near Balık Lake in the Çaykara district of Trabzon, northern Turkey, when a tourist bus carrying Emirati family members veered off the road and overturned. According to Turkey’s IHA news agency, emergency responders swiftly arrived following calls from local residents and other tourists. Rescue teams worked extensively to extract the trapped passengers.

Tragically, two family members, 18-year-old Maryam Mohammed Ahmed Ibrahim and 32-year-old Abdul Majid Mohammed Ahmed Ibrahim, were confirmed dead. Three others—15-year-old Ibrahim Mohammed Ahmed Ibrahim, 53-year-old Samira Mohammed Abdul Rahman, and 60-year-old Mohammed Ahmed Ibrahim sustained injuries and were hospitalized for treatment.

The UAE Embassy’s advisory stresses that rigorous preparation and adherence to safety protocols are vital for Emirati citizens traveling to Turkey, aiming to prevent incidents like this and safeguard the wellbeing of all travelers.

This announcement serves as a timely reminder of the importance of thorough travel planning amid ongoing tourism exchanges between the UAE and Turkey.

Jozsef Varadi, the co-founder and CEO of Wizz Air Holdings Plc, has announced a bold plan to steer the budget airline back on course within the next two years, aiming to restore investor confidence after a series of operational and strategic challenges. Varadi, who helped launch Wizz Air in 2003, has set a target to complete the airline’s turnaround by mid-2027 — timing that coincides with the anticipated resolution of technical issues plaguing the airline’s Airbus fleet and the fading impact of its ill-fated expansion into the Middle East.

“The priority is a drastic improvement in our performance. By 2027, the Pratt & Whitney geared turbofan engine problems should be behind us,” Varadi said in an exclusive interview from London. “There is no worse scenario than being grounded.”

Wizz, headquartered in Hungary, has faced a daunting couple of years. Its share price has slipped by more than a third since early 2020, with a sharp 35% drop just last year, reflecting investor skepticism amid operational disruptions and external pressures such as geopolitical conflicts. One of the airline’s biggest challenges has been a critical defect in the metal coating of the Pratt & Whitney engines powering its Airbus planes, which forced Wizz to ground a significant portion of its fleet for expensive and lengthy repairs, derailing growth plans.

The airline’s ambitions to grow in the Middle East also suffered a major setback. After opening a base in Abu Dhabi to tap into routes connecting to India, Pakistan, and beyond, Wizz was compelled to retreat from the region following a mix of regulatory hurdles and challenging market conditions exacerbated by ongoing conflicts in surrounding areas. The withdrawal left some aircraft stranded in the UAE and dealt a blow to investor sentiment.

Asked if these difficulties stemmed from misfortune or missteps, Varadi acknowledged a bit of both. “There were unprecedented elements—engine troubles and regional instability. While I stand by many of our decisions, in hindsight, recalibrating our risk appetite might have been wise.”

Analysts back this view, noting the airline’s lack of visibility on the engine issues at the time of entering Abu Dhabi, and the unpredictable regulatory shifts in the Gulf’s aviation sector. Experts consider the recent course correction—exiting an unprofitable region—a smart move to stabilize the operation.
With expansion in the Middle East off the table, Wizz is now sharpening its focus on its core markets in Central and Eastern Europe.

 Facing stiff competition from rivals like Ryanair and EasyJet on western routes, Varadi is betting on enhancing Wizz’s foothold closer to home. The company aims to grow its market share from 26% to 30% or more in the region within five to six years, capitalizing on faster GDP growth and emerging travel hotspots like Albania’s coast and Romania’s Transylvania.

“Competition with Ryanair is a given, but there’s room for both of us to thrive while traditional airlines lose ground,” Varadi said.

A key feature of the recovery plan involves simplifying Wizz’s network and recalibrating fleet strategies. The airline no longer expects to take delivery of all 47 Airbus A321XLR super long-range jets it ordered; instead, Varadi plans to accept roughly a dozen, primarily for UK routes to Saudi Arabia, while converting many others to standard A321neos. Discussions with Airbus are underway to extend aircraft delivery schedules through 2030.

Despite the setbacks, including the heavier-than-expected XLR jets which increased operating costs, Varadi remains resolute. “We are still here,” he said. “It requires adjustments, corrections, and decisive actions, but we are committed to emerging stronger, more efficient, and with a more focused network.”

As Wizz Air charts its path forward, the emphasis is clear: a return to fundamentals, careful risk management, and a laser focus on Central and Eastern Europe to reclaim its place as a dominant low-cost carrier on the continent. The two-year deadline marks a critical milestone that could define the future of the airline and its appeal to investors eager for a turnaround.

If you’re planning a trip to Europe in 2025, selecting the right country for your Schengen visa application is more important than ever, as approval rates vary widely across the 29 Schengen member states. Recent data shows that while the average Schengen visa approval rate dropped to just 52.2% in 2024, some countries remain far more welcoming to applicants than others.

Schengen Countries With the Highest Visa Approval Rates (2024–2025)

Here’s a list of Schengen countries, ranked by their approval rates based on the latest available data:

Other countries noted for favorable acceptance rates (though not always in the top ten for 2025) include Latvia, Lithuania, Portugal, Bulgaria, and Finland.

Complete List of Schengen States in 2025

The Schengen Area comprises 29 countries49:

• Austria

• Belgium

• Bulgaria

• Croatia

• Czech Republic

• Denmark

• Estonia

• Finland

• France

• Germany

• Greece

• Hungary

• Iceland

• Italy

• Latvia

• Liechtenstein

• Lithuania

• Luxembourg

• Malta

• Netherlands

• Norway

• Poland

• Portugal

• Romania

• Slovakia

• Slovenia

• Spain

• Sweden

• Switzerland

Key Insights & Application Tips

• Iceland, Slovakia, and Italy are currently among the most favorable for visa applicants, thanks to their high approval rates and generally efficient processing times.
• Romania and Bulgaria joined the Schengen Zone in January 2025, so they now offer the same unified visa policy.
• Larger countries like France, Spain, and Germany tend to have much higher rates of rejection—often due to overwhelming application volumes and stricter scrutiny. For example, France’s rejection rate is around 16.6%, while countries like Malta and Belgium often deny more than a quarter of applications.
• Always apply for a visa from the country that is your main destination or where you will spend the most time, as “visa shopping” is against Schengen rules and can cause application problems.

To increase your chances of success, double-check all documents, provide clear travel and financial plans, and consider applying through countries with the best approval records, especially if you face a tight travel deadline or come from a country with historically higher rejection rates.

By strategically choosing Iceland, Slovakia, Italy, or similar countries with high acceptance rates, travelers can enjoy a smoother visa experience and maximize their chances of exploring Europe in 2025.

The prime time to explore Qatar is between November and April. During these cooler months, temperatures typically range from 18°C to 30°C (64°F to 86°F), creating a lovely atmosphere for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

The winter months—December through February—are particularly delightful, with average highs hovering between 20°C and 25°C. This milder climate is perfect for wandering through vibrant souqs, admiring desert landscapes, and enjoying Qatar's beautiful waterfront attractions.

In contrast, the summer months from May to September can be challenging due to extreme heat, with temperatures often exceeding 40°C (104°F) and high humidity, especially in July and August. This is known as the off-season, which brings lower hotel rates and fewer crowds. However, outdoor activities are limited, leading most visitors to seek refuge in air-conditioned indoor attractions.

Festivals & Events

Qatar's cultural calendar is especially vibrant from November to March, aligning with the peak tourist season. Notable events for 2025 include:

January:

• Qatar Kite Festival at Old Doha Port (Jan 16–18)
• Shop Qatar shopping festival (Jan 1–Feb 1)
• Doha Marathon (Jan 17)
• Qatar International Falcons and Hunting Festival (Jan 1–Feb 1)
• Qatar International Art Festival (dates vary)

February:

• Qatar International Food Festival (dates vary)
• Doha International Book Fair (dates vary)
• Qatar Tennis Open (ATP and WTA events)

March:

• Doha Jewellery & Watches Exhibition (dates vary)
• Qatar International Film Festival (dates vary)

Spring:

• Qatar National Sports Day (second Tuesday of February)

Autumn:

• Formula 1 Qatar Grand Prix (end of November)
• FIFA Arab Cup (December)
• Doha Film Institute Screenings (ongoing events)

Summer:

• Qatar Summer Festival (June to August), featuring sales and family-friendly activities.
• Art and Culture Exhibitions at museums and galleries.

Even in summer, Qatar offers unique indoor activities, including art exhibitions and special programs at museums and malls.

Must-See Tourist Attractions

1. The Museum of Islamic Art: A stunning architectural masterpiece housing a vast collection of Islamic artifacts from around the world, set against the backdrop of the Doha Corniche.
2. Souq Waqif: A traditional market where you can find spices, textiles, handicrafts, and local cuisine. It's a vibrant place for shopping and dining.
3. Katara Cultural Village: A cultural hub featuring theaters, galleries, and restaurants, celebrating arts and culture with various events throughout the year.
4. The Pearl-Qatar: An artificial island known for luxury shopping, dining, and waterfront living, offering beautiful marina views.
5. Qatar National Museum: An architectural marvel that tells Qatar's history and heritage through immersive exhibits and installations.
6. Khor Al Adaid: Also known as the Inland Sea, this UNESCO recognized area features stunning sand dunes and is perfect for desert adventures like dune bashing and camel rides.
7. Aspire Park: A large urban park ideal for picnics, jogging, and enjoying outdoor activities, complete with a lake and beautiful landscaping.
8. Doha Corniche: A picturesque waterfront promenade perfect for walks, cycling, and enjoying views of the Doha skyline.
9. Villaggio Mall: A unique shopping experience with a Venetian theme, complete with canals and gondolas, featuring a variety of shops and restaurants.

• Al Zubara Fort: A UNESCO World Heritage site, this historic fort offers insight into Qatar's past and is a great day trip from Doha.

Weather by Month

Essential Travel Tips

• Dress Code: Modesty is important—women should cover shoulders and knees, while men should avoid shorts in public, especially near religious sites.

• Cultural Respect: As a conservative Muslim country, it’s crucial to respect local customs, particularly during Ramadan when eating, drinking, or smoking in public is prohibited during daylight hours.

• Transport: Getting around is easy with taxis, rideshares, and the Doha Metro system. The Corniche is perfect for evening strolls or bike rides.

• Accommodation: Options range from budget hotels to luxury resorts. Booking in advance is highly recommended during peak season.

Quick Tips for Every Season

• Winter (Nov–Mar): Ideal for sightseeing, festivals, outdoor adventures, and camping.

• Shoulder Months (Apr, May, Oct): Generally enjoyable, but be prepared for occasional heat and sandstorms.

• Summer (Jun–Sep): Best for indoor attractions and bargains, but avoid outdoor activities during midday.

In summary, visiting Qatar from November to April offers the best weather and a rich array of festivals and events. With a unique blend of modern attractions and deep cultural traditions, there is something for every traveler year-round. Planning your visit around the weather will ensure you make the most of your trip!

Are you dreaming of a memorable vacation without the hassle of visa applications?

Qatar Airways invites you to embark on a journey to some of the world’s most stunning destinations that welcome Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) nationals and residents without requiring prior travel visas. From European coastlines to idyllic Indian Ocean islands, unforgettable adventures await.

Armenia: Museums, Mountains, and Lakes

Travel through time amid the serene landscapes of Armenia in the heart of the South Caucasus. Start in Yerevan, one of the world’s oldest cities, where wide boulevards and elegant Republic Square come alive at night with musical fountain shows.

Explore the fusion of Soviet and classical architecture, including the iconic pink volcanic stone buildings, and don’t miss the Matenadaran Museum with its priceless ancient manuscripts. GCC nationals and residents can enter Armenia visa-free from July 1 to December 31, 2025.

Indonesia: Natural Beauty and Warm Hospitality

Indonesia’s charm lies in its diverse cultures and the radiant smiles of its people. In Bali, bask in turquoise beaches and lush rice terraces, enjoy family-friendly surfing lessons, or go on a safari adventure.

Yogyakarta offers a deep dive into Javanese heritage with its historic temples, while the tranquil Gili Islands provide the ultimate escape. Don’t forget to taste the iconic chicken satay with peanut sauce! GCC nationals, among 169 eligible countries, can get a 30-day visa on arrival.

Morocco: Desert Adventures and Coastal Wonders

Explore Morocco’s varied climate and exciting landscapes, from the Mediterranean-Atlantic charm of Tangier to the ancient tanneries of Fez. Wander Marrakech’s lively souks and venture to Merzouga, your gateway to the Sahara.

Travel between cities by train and experience Morocco’s rich cuisine, featuring dishes like tagine and couscous. GCC nationals can visit visa-free, while many residents are eligible for an easy e-visa.

Maldives: Luxury at Your Fingertips

Seeking serenity and luxury? The Maldives offers overwater villas, pristine white-sand beaches, and captivating coral reefs. Adventurers can enjoy diving, kayaking, or marine life tours in glass-bottom boats. All nationalities receive a visa on arrival in this island paradise.

Turkey: Where East Meets West

Turkey perfectly blends Europe and Asia, making it ideal for families and couples alike. Discover Ottoman mosques, palaces, and bustling bazaars before a peaceful evening by Istanbul’s Bosphorus.

Soar over Cappadocia’s ancient landscapes by hot air balloon, or unwind in the lush Black Sea region of Trabzon and Uzungöl. GCC nationals can travel visa-free to Turkey.

Before You Go

Be sure to check the latest travel requirements before booking. Some countries may require specific professions or minimum residency validity for visa-free entry. Always consult official government sources to stay updated on the latest travel rules and guidelines.

Your next unforgettable adventure is just a flight away — and no visa is needed!

You can verify your eligibility before traveling by visiting this link (CLICK HERE)