World Country Guide

1
Immunisation against polio is sometimes advised; typhoid occurs in rural areas.

2
Malaria is not considered to be a risk in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi nor in the cities of Ajman, Dubai, Sharjah or Umm al Qaiwain. There is, however, a risk of contracting the disease (predominantly the benign vivax form) in the valleys and on the lower slopes of mountainous areas of the Northern States. In these areas, chloroquine or proguanil are recommended, plus protection against mosquito bites.

Food & drink
Mains water in major cities is safe to drink, but in small villages it should be filtered, or bottled water should be used. Water used for drinking, brushing teeth or making ice should have first been boiled or otherwise sterilised. Milk is unpasteurised and should be boiled. Powdered or tinned milk is available and is advised, but make sure that it is reconstituted with pure water. Avoid dairy products which are likely to have been made from unboiled milk. Only eat well-cooked meat and fish, preferably served hot. Salad and mayonnaise may carry increased risk. Vegetables should be cooked and fruit peeled.

Other risks
Cutaneous leishmaniasis and tick-borne typhus may occur; avoid mosquito, sandfly and tick bites. Wear shoes to avoid soil-borne parasites. Take precautions against heat exhaustion and sunstroke. Immunisation against hepatitis A is recommended. Hepatitis B is endemic.
Rabies is present close to the border with Oman. For those at high risk, vaccination before arrival should be considered. If you are bitten, seek medical advice without delay. For more information, consult the Health appendix.

Health care
Medical facilities are of a very high quality but are extremely expensive. Private health insurance is essential.