You’ve definitely seen some of your friends on Facebook or Instagram having a trip to Dubai or Abu Dhabi. And it’s no surprise, since the Emirates are the world’s top travel destination. But how do you communicate in a country in the middle of the desert? Although Arabic is the official language in the UAE, almost everyone there speaks English well. Moreover, you’ll see road signs, restaurant menus, hotel services, and reservation systems in English. So, save some phrases of Travel English and book your vacation in the Emirates!

English at the Airport

Arriving at the airport in a new country, have some English phrases on hand to be on the safe side. 

• Please tell me where the baggage claim area/passport control is. 

• Excuse me, where can I find the currency exchange? (Better have some cash just in case.)

• Where is the car rental desk/pick-up area located? 

• My luggage hasn’t arrived on the belt. Where is the Lost and Found desk? (Hope you won’t need this one!)

Getting a Rental Car

Handling useful things on the checklist before even arriving is smart. Like arranging a personal vehicle to travel around the UAE. Renting a car is the most convenient way to explore all the sights without having to plan difficult routes from one place to another. If you intend to rent a car in advance, consider a trusted online service like Renty.ae where you can quickly find a vehicle of any class and price in Dubai. To rent a car through the rental service and to communicate with a rental manager, you’ll need the following phrases:

• What’s included in the rental price?

• Does the price include full insurance and a daily mileage limit? (The last part of a question is especially necessary if you are going to travel to  other Emirates.)

• How does the Salik system work? (It’s about toll roads, you’d better ask the rental company’s manager not to get a fine.)

• Is a security deposit required? And when will it be refunded? (Certain rentals or cars may not even require a security deposit.)

• Where exactly should I return the car? 

• I have a child. Can I add a car seat to my booking? (Necessary if traveling with kids.)

Our advice is also to ask the manager about local traffic rules and speed limits, as fines for traffic violations in the Emirates are very strict. 

At the Hotel

Hotel staff in Dubai and other Emirates speak English well. Thus, clearly stating your requests will help ensure you get the best room or additional services.

Check-in:

• I’d like to check in, please. 

• I have a booking; my name is ….

• Is there a room on a high floor with a city view available? 

• Can I have a room with a king-size bed?

• Can I have additional towels/pillows? (Your comfort is highly important on vacation!)

• Is breakfast included in my booking, and what time is it served?

Stay and Check-out:

• Could you please clean my room and provide fresh towels?

• Are there any laundry facilities? 

• Is late check-out possible? How much does it cost? (In case you want to stay longer before the flight home.)

Public Transport & Taxis

If you plan to combine a rental car with trips on public transport, like the Dubai Metro, driverless trains, buses, or taxis, you’ll need some standard phrases to help you get around the city: 

• Where is the nearest Metro/bus station?

• Where can I buy a Nol card for the Dubai Metro? (You’ll need it to travel by Metro.)

• Which line goes to the Dubai Mall?

• What’s the next stop?

• Please, take me to …

• Could we stop near …? (In case you need to pick up someone, for instance.)

• Could you drop me off near the …?
• Can I pay with a card? (Paying with Apple or Google Pay makes life easier; It’s possible to pay with your phone almost everywhere in the UAE.) 

Building a basic vocabulary for travel English prepares you to speak and find solutions in any situation, whether you need a taxi or your luggage is lost. You’ll easily rent a car, ask for a king-size bed, and ask for directions. Save this guide to your bookmarks and use it to make your vacation in the UAE as easy and comfortable as possible!