Call 998 for an ambulance anywhere in the UAE. Police is 999 and fire is 997.
Food and preparation conversations
Dish names and recipes vary. These are prompts for a conversation, not a list of foods that are automatically unsafe.
Dips, breads and desserts
Sesame, wheat, milk and tree nuts may be present in dips, breads, pastries and sweets. Ask about toppings, fillings and shared bakery surfaces.
Mixed international kitchens
Hotel and mall restaurants may prepare many cuisines in one kitchen. Ask whether fryers, grills, utensils and buffet stations are shared.
Buffet service
Labels may describe ingredients but not utensil movement between dishes. Ask whether a fresh portion can be prepared away from the buffet.
A sample Arabic allergy statement
أعاني من حساسية شديدة تجاه سمسم والفول السوداني وبيض.
Build a card with the traveler’s exact allergens before using it.Questions to ask the restaurant
- Can the kitchen check every ingredient, sauce, garnish and cooking oil used in this dish?
- Is the same fryer, grill, pan, knife, board or serving utensil used for my allergen?
- Can my meal be prepared with clean hands, clean utensils and a clean preparation area?
- If the kitchen cannot confirm the ingredients or cross-contact controls, what unopened or simply prepared option is available?
Before you go
- Save the Arabic card with right-to-left text intact.
- Keep insurer and local emergency contacts available offline.
- Ask a clinician about travel medication storage requirements.
- Review current official UAE and home-government travel advice.
Official and primary sources
Links were checked during our August 12, 2026 review. Official guidance can change; inspect the current source before travel.