Are you going to Dubai and want to know which vaccines are compulsory or recommended for traveling or settling in the United Arab Emirates (UAE)?
Only yellow fever vaccination is compulsory if you come from a high-risk country. Other vaccines, such as hepatitis A or B, are strongly recommended, depending on your profile.
The United Arab Emirates attract millions of travelers and expatriates every year. But before enjoying the beaches of Dubai or the modern life ofAbu Dhabi, there's an essential question to ask: how can you prepare for your health before you leave?
In this article, you will discover :
- Mandatory vaccinations for entry into the UAE.
- Vaccinations recommended for all travelers.
- Recommended vaccinations according to length and type of stay.
- Practical advice on how to travel with peace of mind, between hygiene and local regulations.
Follow the guide, and make sure you enjoy your experience in the Emirates with complete peace of mind!
Mandatory vaccines in the United Arab Emirates
In the United Arab Emirates, no vaccination is required for entry, except in one specific case: if you are arriving from a country where yellow fever exists, a vaccination certificate is required. Without this document, entry may be refused, or even result in quarantine.
If you are arriving directly from Europe, America or most Asian countries, no vaccinations are required.
Only the yellow fever vaccine is compulsory, and only for travellers from high-risk countries such as sub-Saharan Africa or certain regions of South America.
The certificate is requested on arrival at the airport, just like a medical passport.
Vaccinations recommended for all travellers to the Emirates
To travel or live in the Emirates, it is advisable to have your basic vaccinations up to date:
- DTP: diphtheria, tetanus, poliomyelitis.
- MMR: measles, mumps, rubella.
- Whooping cough: often included in booster doses.
- Hepatitis B: especially if you're planning a long stay.
These vaccines are already available in many countries, but a recent booster is always preferable.
Recommended vaccines in the Emirates according to type of stay / profile
Here are the recommended vaccinations before the big departure to Dubai.
1. Hepatitis A
Hepatitis A is a disease transmitted by contaminated food or water. In Dubai, the risk is particularly high if you often eat out.
Here is the vaccination schedule :
- A first dose provides protection for several years.
- A booster dose 6 to 18 months later provides lasting protection, often for life.
This vaccine is highly recommended for medium- to long-term stays, especially if you like to discover the local cuisine.
2. Hepatitis B
Hepatitis B is transmitted through blood or sexual relations. It is especially recommended for long stays or if you work in the health sector.
Classic diagram:
- 3 injections: 0, 1 and 6 months.
- Long-lasting protection, sometimes for life.
Fast-track scheme (if departure is imminent):
- 3 doses in 1 month (0, 7 and 21 days).
- A booster after 1 year is essential to consolidate protection.
3. Rage
Rabies is rare in Dubai, but vaccination is recommended for certain profiles:
- Long stays or regular contact with animals.
- Healthcare professionals, veterinarians, expatriates living in rural areas.
- Travelers involved in outdoor activities (hiking, camping).
Vaccination schedule:
- 3 injections: 0, 7 and 21 or 28 days.
- A booster every 2 to 5 years, depending on the risk of exposure.
In the event of a bite, even if you have been vaccinated, you should seek immediate medical attention for further treatment.
4. Typhoid
Typhoid is transmitted through contaminated food or water. In Dubai, the risk is low, but it may exist if you live in precarious conditions. Vaccination recommended for :
- Long stays with frequent local food.
- People exposed to limited hygiene (simple housing, construction sites, frequent travel).
Possible schemes:
- Single injection (protection for about 3 years).
- Oral capsule vaccine (protection for around 5 years, depending on product).
This vaccine is especially recommended for workers or expatriates in modest circumstances.
Other useful vaccinations in the Emirates & routine vaccines
In addition to the vaccines already mentioned, some are very useful for living comfortably in the Emirates :
- Seasonal flu: air-conditioning encourages its circulation, so it's best to get vaccinated every year.
- COVID-19 : strongly recommended, and sometimes required for certain procedures.
- Meningitis: recommended for pilgrimages (Hajj, Omra) via Saudi Arabia.
- HPV: useful for young adults, protection against certain cancers.
And of course, don't forget your routine vaccinations:
- Tetanus, diphtheria, polio (booster shots every 10 years).
- Measles, mumps and rubella (MMR), essential if you travel a lot.
These vaccinations are not compulsory, but they will give you everyday security and peace of mind.
Additional health precautions in the United Arab Emirates
In addition to vaccinations, here are some essential health precautions for a worry-free stay in Dubai :
- Food hygiene: drink bottled or filtered water, and wash fruit and vegetables before eating.
- Mosquitoes: rare in towns, but protect yourself with repellents and long clothing if you're traveling in rural areas.
- Heat: keep well hydrated, wear a hat and avoid the sun at peak hours.
- Medicines: some are regulated or prohibited (even common in Europe). Check the official list before you travel, and keep your prescriptions with you.
- Health insurance: a must! Health care is excellent, but can be very costly without appropriate coverage.
- Pharmacies: numerous and well-stocked, but some molecules are only available with a local prescription.
Plan your trip to the Emirates with peace of mind
We're coming to the end of this guide together!
You now know which vaccinations are compulsory to enter the United Arab Emirates, and which are recommended depending on your profile and the length of your stay. You've also discovered some practical advice on how to travel safely and avoid unpleasant surprises linked to local regulations.
In short, good medical preparation is the key to making the most of your experience, whether on vacation or on a long-term expatriation.
If you're planning to relocate to Dubai, it's just as important to plan ahead for your healthcare needs as it is to find the ideal accommodation.
At Dubai Real Estate, our team of experts will support you at every stage of your real estate project in Dubai: from finding the perfect property to settling in, with personalized follow-up.
→ Discover our available properties in Dubai now and start preparing for your new life in the Emirates!
