United Arab Emirates

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has solidified its position as the world's leading hub for air connectivity, operating through aviation giants such as Emirates and Etihad Airways. The sector is regulated by the General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA), which dictates safety policies and consumer rights. With the ongoing expansion of Dubai International Airport (DXB) and Zayed International Airport (AUH), the country enforces rigorous regulations to ensure operational efficiency and passenger protection, fully aligned with ICAO and IATA international standards.

• Passport: A minimum validity of 6 months from the date of entry is required.
• Tourist Visas: The UAE operates a Visa-on-Arrival system for many nationalities, alongside e-Visa systems. It is imperative to consult the official portal of the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security (ICP).
• Electronic Authorizations: As of 2026, the UAE has not implemented a system similar to ETIAS for tourists; however, pre-registration or eligibility verification via smart travel lanes at airports is strongly encouraged. GCC residents are subject to specific entry rules.

Air passenger protection in the UAE follows the GCAA Passenger Welfare Program (CAR-PWP), in force since 1 January 2025, plus commercial law and the Montreal Convention.

• Assistance: for delays and cancellations, the airline must provide meals and refreshments from a 2-hour delay and a means of communication from 3 hours; if an overnight stay cannot be avoided, a hotel and transport.
• Cash compensation: there is no fixed amount in law for delays or denied boarding; it depends on each airline's policy.
• Refund: for cancellations, the passenger chooses between a refund of the ticket and rerouting to the final destination.
• Flights departing from Europe or the United Kingdom: the European (261/2004) or British (UK261) rules apply, with cash compensation.

There is no single federal law establishing mandatory minimum baggage allowances for all airlines; baggage policies are defined contractually by each carrier (usually based on either a weight or piece system).

• Regulation: The GCAA requires airlines to clearly disclose excess baggage fees at the time of booking.
• Carry-on Baggage: Security regulations are strict. Prohibited items (liquids over 100ml, sharp objects) follow international standards. It is mandatory for airlines to specify the dimension and weight limits for carry-on luggage on the ticket.

The importation of animals into the UAE is controlled by the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment (MOCCAE).

• Import Permit: It is mandatory to obtain a prior import permit before travel.
• Vaccination and Health: The animal must be microchipped (ISO 11784/11785), vaccinated against rabies (with an antibody titer test performed in an approved laboratory), and possess an official Veterinary Health Certificate issued by the country of origin.
• Quarantine: Animals that do not meet the requirements may be deported or quarantined at the owner's expense. Certain dog breeds (deemed aggressive) are prohibited from entering the country.

• Unaccompanied Minors: Airlines in the UAE have specific Unaccompanied Minor Service protocols with stringent safety measures. Written authorization from parents or legal guardians is mandatory.
• Documentation: Children must hold their own passports. Foreign residents or visitors traveling with minors who do not share the same surname may be required to present birth certificates or authorization letters to avoid complications at immigration.

The UAE maintains a robust policy for "People of Determination" (the official term used for people with disabilities).

• Accessibility: Airports such as DXB and AUH provide free assistance (wheelchairs, priority boarding, tactile paths, and trained staff).
• Procedure: Assistance requests should be made to the airline at least 48 hours before the flight. Local regulations require airlines to facilitate boarding and disembarking, as well as the handling of medical equipment, at no additional cost.

• General Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) - Passenger Rights: https://www.gcaa.gov.ae
• Ministry of Climate Change and Environment (Pet Import): https://www.moccae.gov.ae
• Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs & Port Security (Visas): https://icp.gov.ae
• Visit Dubai - Planning and Requirements: https://www.visitdubai.com
• Etihad/Emirates - Passenger Information (Market Standards): https://www.etihad.com | https://www.emirates.com