UPC Dubai 2025

Visitor Info

HOW TO GET VISA

HOW TO GET A VISA
Visa Requirements Before traveling to the UAE, please check your visa requirements to ensure you meet the necessary entry conditions. Certain nationalities are eligible for visa-free entry or visas on arrival, while others may require a pre-arranged visa. Additionally, your passport may need to be valid for at least six months from your date of entry. For the latest updates on visa requirements and application procedures, please click here.

Congress-Specific Visas The UAE will issue dedicated visas for the 28th Universal Postal Congress delegates, subject to fulfilling documentation requirements and obtaining approval from the relevant authorities. Details on the application process will be announced on 7th April 2025.

If you choose to enter the UAE on a standard visit visa or, if eligible, obtain a visa on arrival, the length of stay will be determined by the regulations associated with these visa types.

Dubai is a major global aviation hub, making it easily accessible from virtually anywhere in the world. Delegates attending the 28th Universal Postal Congress are encouraged to fly into Dubai International Airport (DXB).

Alternative Airports

In addition to Dubai International Airport, delegates may also consider flying into:

  • Abu Dhabi International Airport (AUH) – A key transit hub in the UAE’s capital with excellent global connectivity.
  • Sharjah International Airport (SHJ) – A convenient option with access to budget-friendly airlines.


National Carriers

The UAE is home to two world-class airlines:

  • Emirates (based in Dubai)
  • Etihad Airways (based in Abu Dhabi with busses that go to Dubai)

For the best travel experience, delegates are encouraged to book their flights early and check entry requirements before travelling.

Dubai is home to a diverse range of hotels, from luxury resorts to business-friendly accommodations and budget-friendly options, ensuring there’s something for every traveller. The city hosts many of the world’s leading hotel brands alongside exceptional independent properties, all offering world-class hospitality, outstanding amenities, and a variety of dining and leisure experiences.

For delegates attending the 28th Universal Postal Congress, we have curated a selection of partner hotels with special packages to enhance your stay. Official hotels will have shuttle services provided to and from the airport and Congress venue.

To explore your accommodation options and access exclusive rates, click here.

The 28th Universal Postal Congress will be held at Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC), a centrally located venue with multiple transportation options for easy access.


Congress Shuttles

Shuttle services will be available to and from official hotels and the Congress venue, ensuring a seamless travel experience for delegates. The Congress Shuttle schedule will be posted closer to the event date.


Dubai Metro

Dubai’s safe, efficient, and cost-effective metro system provides direct access to Dubai World Trade Centre Station on the Red Line. Trains run every few minutes from 5 AM to 11 PM, with extended hours on weekends. Passengers must use a Nol Card, available for purchase at metro stations. For journey planning, visit the Dubai Metro website for more information.


Taxis

Dubai’s regulated, metered taxis operate 24 hours-a-day/7 days-a-week and are widely available offering a comfortable way to travel. Most drivers are familiar with Dubai World Trade Centre drop-off points, and Ladies-only taxis are also available. Taxis can be hailed or prebooked, with fares starting at 5 AED (or 12 AED for pre-booked rides), and most taxis accept credit card payments.


Ride-Hailing Apps

Careem and Uber operate in Dubai, offering app-based ride-hailing with various car categories, including sustainable and oversized vehicles. Delegates can use their existing Careem or Uber apps or download them from Android and iOS.


Car Rentals & Parking

For those preferring to drive, Dubai offers both local and international car rental options. The Congress venue has multiple parking areas, including:

  • Six paid car parks and two free car parks
  • Valet services and electric vehicle charging stations

Driving regulations vary, so international visitors should check eligibility for driving in the UAE with their embassy or consulate.

Dubai experiences a hot desert climate, with warm temperatures year-round. In September, when the 28th Universal Postal Congress takes place, the weather is typically hot and dry, with daytime temperatures averaging between 30°C to 40°C (86°F to 104°F) and lower humidity levels compared to the peak summer months.


What to Expect:

Daytime: Hot and sunny, with minimal rainfall.

Evenings: Slightly cooler but still warm, with temperatures rarely dropping below 28°C (82°F).

Indoor Comfort: All venues, including the Congress venue, hotels, and transportation systems, are fully air-conditioned for a comfortable experience.


What to Pack:

When not attending the congress, light, breathable clothing for outdoor activities and a light jacket or shawl for air-conditioned spaces is recommended. Include, sunglasses, sunscreen, and a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated.

For real-time weather updates closer to your visit, check the UAE National Center of Meteorology.

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is a dynamic blend of rich heritage and modern innovation. Deeply rooted in Islamic values, the country embraces diversity, tolerance, and hospitality, making it a welcoming destination for visitors from around the world.

Tradition remains central to Emirati culture, reflected in its architecture, arts, cuisine, and historic landmarks. At the same time, the UAE’s cosmopolitan cities offer a vibrant, modern lifestyle, where global influences meet local traditions.

 

The UAE is known for its courtesy and hospitality, with visitors experiencing the warmth and generosity of the people. While Islam is the official religion, freedom of worship is respected, and the dress code is generally liberal, with modest attire appreciated in certain settings.

 

With  its seamless mix of heritage and progress, the UAE offers a unique and enriching cultural experience to all who visit.

 

National Dress

Emirati nationals often wear traditional attire in public. Men typically wear a kandura, a long white robe, paired with a ghutra (white or checkered headdress) secured by a black agal. On formal occasions, leadership members and dignitaries may wear a bisht, a gold-trimmed cloak, over their kandura. Women wear an abaya, a flowing robe worn over regular clothing, along with a sheyla (headscarf). Abayas often feature delicate embroidery or beadwork, reflecting personal style. Some women wear a thin black veil, while older generations may wear a burka, a traditional face covering.

 

Photography

While normal tourist photography is acceptable, it is polite to ask permission before taking photos of people, particularly women. Photographs of government buildings, military installations and ports and airports should not be taken. Also, cameras may be banned in certain public areas designated for women and children only.

Dubai’s electricity supply operates at 220/240 volts, 50 Hz, with British-style three-pin sockets (Type G) being the standard. Travelers are advised to bring a plug adapter, though most hotels provide them upon request, and they are widely available for purchase in local supermarkets.

The UAE has two major telecom providers, Etisalat and du, both offering visitor SIM card packages with data, calls, and SMS options. A passport and visa are required to purchase a local SIM, which can be obtained at airports, malls, and authorized retail stores.

 

The Congress venue will provide high-speed Wi-Fi, ensuring seamless connectivity for all attendees. Additionally, free Wi-Fi is widely available in hotels, malls, and public areas across Dubai.

Read more about mobile and internet services, click here.

As per UAE federal law, all visitors must have medical insurance during their stay. In case of an emergency, hospitals provide free stabilizing treatment, after which further care requires insurance coverage or direct payment.

For urgent medical assistance, dial 998 for an ambulance anywhere in the UAE. Air ambulances are available as well if required.

 

At the Congress venue, basic medical services will be available to ensure the well-being of all attendees. The UAE is home to world-class healthcare facilities, with leading hospitals and clinics offering advanced medical care across the country.

For any non-emergency medical needs, pharmacies and clinics are widely accessible throughout Dubai.

The local currency in the UAE is the dirham (AED or Dhs), divided into 100 fils and pegged to the US dollar at a fixed rate of 1 USD = 3.67 AED.

Payment & Currency Exchange

  • Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and retail stores.
  • Cash is preferred in souks (markets) and smaller shops (but most also accept card payments).
  • Foreign currencies and traveller’s cheques can be exchanged at licensed exchange offices, banks, and hotels (passport required).
  • Personal cheques are rarely accepted.
  • Money exchange offices (“Bureau de Change”) offer competitive rates and are found in major malls and shopping districts.

 

Banking & ATMs

The UAE has a well-established banking network, regulated by the UAE Central Bank, offering commercial and personal services.

  • Banking hours: Saturday to Thursday, 8 AM – 1 PM, with some branches open later and in malls.
  • ATMs: Available at malls, supermarkets, petrol stations, and the airport, accepting major cards including Visa, MasterCard, Cirrus, Plus System, and American Express.

 

Important Travel Advisory

If carrying cash while traveling, ensure the amount is less than AED 60,000. Larger amounts must be declared to customs upon arrival.

HOW TO GET
VISA

Before you travel to the UAE, please check your visa requirements and make sure you have a valid visa if needed, or if your passport needs to be valid for a minimum period. Holders of non-standard passports and travel documents may also have different entry requirements: find out if you need to apply for a visa and other passport requirements.

Step1

Check your ELIGIBILITY

Step2

Apply for visa

Step3

fly dubai

UPU COMING
EVENTS

Dubai is famous for its extensive array of luxury business hotels and resorts, but it also boasts more than its fair share of standard and value hotels to meet any price point. Many of the leading international hotel chains are represented in Dubai, as well as a number of fine independent properties. All offer an extensive selection of food and beverage outlets, services and facilities of the highest standards, whether for business, sport or just relaxation. Your attendees are sure to enjoy their stay in our vibrant and unique city.

ABOUT DUBAI

Home to more than 150 nationalities, Dubai boasts the most modern amenities found anywhere in the world – both in its entrepreneurial business environment, and things to do, see and experience. As the Middle East’s fastest-growing, most dynamic and exciting cosmopolitan city, Dubai is a true melting pot of different cultures and lifestyles.