Posted by Anyone traveling to the United Arab Emirates usually thinks of sun, beaches, and modern cities first.
But even on a luxury trip, health should not be neglected.
This article explains which vaccinations for the Emirates are recommended in 2025, what medical precautions make sense, and what you should pay attention to before departure.
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1. Vaccinations are not mandatory – but highly recommended
Currently, no mandatory vaccinations are required for entry into the United Arab Emirates (UAE).
However, doctors and tropical medicine institutes advise travelers to check and update their vaccination status.
This is especially important for those staying longer, visiting rural areas, or traveling with children.
The UAE is a very safe destination with excellent medical care.
Still, heat, unfamiliar food, or small injuries can weaken the immune system – another reason to be well prepared.
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2. Standard vaccinations according to the German vaccination schedule
The Robert Koch Institute (RKI) recommends checking all standard vaccinations before any trip abroad.
These include:
- Tetanus
- Diphtheria
- Pertussis (Whooping cough)
- Polio
- Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR)
- Hepatitis B (for longer stays or close contact with locals)
- Influenza (especially in winter)
These are part of the normal vaccination schedule and should be reviewed at least every ten years.
A short doctor’s visit is usually enough to update your vaccination record.
3. Recommended travel vaccinations for the Emirates
In addition to the standard vaccines, tropical medicine specialists recommend the following for travel to the Emirates:
- Hepatitis A – strongly recommended for all travelers (transmitted via food and water)
- Typhoid – advisable for longer stays or trips to remote regions
- Rabies – only for extended outdoor stays or animal contact
Hygiene standards in Dubai and Abu Dhabi are very high,
but risks can increase slightly at street stalls, remote areas, or during desert camping.
4. Covid-19 vaccination – still recommended
Since 2024, there is no longer a vaccination requirement for tourists.
However, health authorities in the Emirates still recommend a current Covid-19 vaccination for adults and risk groups.
No proof is required for entry,
but hotels, clinics, or cruise companies may have their own policies.
5. Child vaccinations for family trips
The same basic rules apply to children as in Germany.
Ensure that standard vaccinations (MMR, Polio, Tetanus, Diphtheria, Hepatitis B) are up to date.
For babies and toddlers, the doctor should verify age-appropriate protection.
For families spending a lot of time outdoors or near animals, a rabies vaccination may be useful.
6. Travel medical consultation – when & where
At least four weeks before departure, make an appointment with your doctor or a tropical medicine institute.
In Germany, many public health offices offer travel medical consultations.
The doctor will check your vaccination status, issue medical certificates if necessary, and advise on medications.
If you have chronic conditions or take regular medication,
clarify early whether you need a medical certificate.
Some medications are prescription-only or banned in the UAE (e.g., strong painkillers).
More information is available in the article
“Tap Water & Health in Dubai”.
7. Health protection on site
Even without tropical diseases, there are some health risks in the Emirates – mostly climate-related:
- Sunstroke & heatstroke: Wear a hat and drink plenty of water
- Dehydration: Drink 2–3 liters daily, especially during excursions
- Mosquito bites: Occur in coastal areas – use repellents
- Colds: Air conditioning is often very cold
Good hotels provide drinking water; tap water is technically safe but often tastes of chlorine.
8. Travel documents & vaccination proof
An international vaccination card is not required for entry.
Still, it’s useful to carry it – especially if you continue traveling to Asia or Africa.
Digital proofs (e.g., CovPass or similar apps) are accepted,
though some clinics still prefer physical documentation.
9. Pharmacies & medical assistance
Pharmacies are easy to find in all cities and often open 24 hours.
Staff speak English, some even German.
Many medicines are available without prescription –
stronger ones require a doctor’s note.
If you need medical help, you’ll find modern clinics such as:
- Mediclinic City Hospital (Dubai)
- American Hospital Dubai
- Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi
A good travel health insurance will cover costs directly.
10. Special notes for long-term stays
Anyone working or living as a digital nomad in the Emirates should plan annual health check-ups.
For work visas, medical tests (e.g., HIV, Hepatitis B) are sometimes required.
Vaccinations are voluntary but beneficial for long-term wellbeing in the desert climate.
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11. Vaccinations for neighboring countries
If you also visit Oman or Qatar during your trip,
similar recommendations apply.
For desert tours or mountain trekking, rabies or typhoid vaccinations may also be advisable.
12. Conclusion
Traveling to the Emirates is safe from a health perspective – provided you are vaccinated and prepared.
With up-to-date standard and travel vaccinations, you protect yourself from preventable diseases and can fully enjoy your trip.
A mix of common sense, sun protection, plenty of water, and modern healthcare ensures maximum safety on holiday.
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