Dubai Travel Checklist: 8 Must-Have Numbers Before You Go

Dubai Travel Checklist: 8 Must-Have Numbers Before You Go

4 min read Updated March 2026

Before you land in Dubai, save these 8 essential numbers to your phone. You'll thank yourself if anything goes sideways.

1. Airline

Save your airline's contact number before you travel. If you need to change, cancel, or rebook a flight, calling is much faster than waiting in customer service queues at the airport.

2. Hotel

Note your hotel's address and phone number. Useful for:

  • Finding your way back if you get lost
  • Giving taxi drivers directions
  • Calling the concierge for bookings and recommendations

3. Travel / Tour Company

Keep your tour company's number handy for updates, meeting point guidance, or help with any changes to your itinerary.

4. Embassy

Find your country's consulate or embassy contact details before you go. You'll need them if you lose your passport or require official assistance.

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Important

All embassies are located in Abu Dhabi, not Dubai. Operating hours are typically weekdays until 3pm.

5. Taxis

You can book a taxi by flagging one on the street or using Careem or Uber. For public taxis at metered rates, select "Hala Ride" in the Careem app.

Fare Type Starting Rate
Standard AED 12 minimum
Airport pickup AED 25
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First Time on Careem?

Check their promo codes for first-time user discounts.

6. Emergency Services

These numbers work anywhere in the UAE and are free to call, even from international phones.

Service Number
Police 999
Ambulance 998
Fire 997

7. Health Insurance Company

Keep your insurance provider's number accessible for:

  • Immediate assistance in emergencies
  • Clarity on what's covered
  • Guidance on required paperwork for claims

8. Bank

Write down your bank's international phone number. Banks may block your card if they see unexpected foreign transactions.

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Before You Leave

Notify your bank of your travel dates. If your card gets lost, stolen, or swallowed by an ATM, you'll need to call them immediately to block your account.

"Travel isn't always pretty. It isn't always comfortable. Sometimes it hurts, it even breaks your heart. But that's okay. The journey changes you; it should change you."

— Anthony Bourdain