Do I need a visa to visit the UAE?

Citizens of the US, UK, EU, Australia, and many other countries get visa-free entry for up to 30 days. Check with your embassy.

What currency is used?

UAE Dirham (AED); US dollars are widely accepted at exchange centres.

Is English widely spoken?

Yes, English is common in shops and restaurants, but Arabic is the official language.

What is the dress code for tourists?

Modest clothing covering shoulders and knees is recommended in public areas. Swimwear only at pools/beaches.

Is it safe to drink tap water?

Tap water is treated and safe, but most prefer bottled water due to taste.

Can I use my credit card?

Yes, major cards are accepted in most shops and restaurants. Cash is useful for small purchases.

How do I get from Dubai Airport to Ar Rāshidīyah?

By taxi (approx. 30 mins, $25-35) or by bus (Route 91 from Al Ghubaiba to Sharjah, then local taxi).

Are there supermarkets and restaurants in Ar Rāshidīyah?

Yes, several small supermarkets and local eateries serving Indian, Pakistani, and Emirati cuisine.

Is alcohol available in Ar Rāshidīyah?

No, alcohol is not sold in this residential area. Licensed venues are in Sharjah city or Dubai.

What is the weekend in the UAE?

Friday and Saturday are the official weekend. Government offices are closed Friday mornings.

Are there any tourist attractions in Ar Rāshidīyah?

The area itself is mainly residential; attractions like Al Noor Island, Sharjah Aquarium, and the Blue Souk are nearby.

Can I take photographs?

Yes, but avoid photographing government buildings, military areas, and local people without permission.

Ar Rāshidīyah

SuburbDubai, United Arab Emirates

Ar Rāshidīyah is a SUB AREA in Dubai, United Arab Emirates.

Ar Rāshidīyah is a quiet, family-oriented residential suburb located in the Emirate of Sharjah, UAE, blending local Emirati charm with modern convenience. Its tree-lined streets and low-rise villas offer a peaceful escape from the bustle of Dubai, which lies just a 20-minute drive away. The area is popular among expat families seeking a secure, community-focused lifestyle with easy access to schools, parks, and small shopping centres. While not a tourist hotspot, it provides an authentic glimpse into everyday Emirati life, with neighbourhood mosques, local cafés, and the occasional traditional souk. For travellers based in Dubai or Sharjah, a visit to Ar Rāshidīyah offers a chance to experience suburban tranquillity, stroll through well-maintained parks, and sample home-style Emirati dishes at modest eateries. The nearby Al Noor Island and the Sharjah Art Museum are within short driving distance. This is not a destination for nightlife or major attractions, but for those seeking a slower pace, cultural immersion, and a safe environment, Ar Rāshidīyah serves as an ideal home base or a peaceful day-trip escape.

Best time to visit Ar Rāshidīyah

The best time to visit Ar Rāshidīyah is from November to March, when temperatures are pleasant (20-30°C). This period sees the Sharjah Light Festival and other cultural events. Summer (June-September) is extremely hot (40-48°C) and humid, making outdoor activities uncomfortable. Spring and autumn are transitional, with occasional sandstorms.

October

Now

Typical for October

Weather: Warm 25-35°C

Travel notes

Crowds: Moderate
Prices: Moderate

Good time for evening walks

Know before you go

Getting there

DXB

Dubai International Airport

International

25 km away

SHJ

Sharjah International Airport

International

10 km away

DWC

Al Maktoum International Airport

International

60 km away

Getting around

"Getting around Ar Rāshidīyah is easiest by car, as public transport is limited. Taxis are readily available and affordable – a ride to Sharjah city centre costs around $5-8. Ride-hailing apps like Uber and Careem operate. Buses (Sharjah's Mowasalat network) connect to Dubai and other emirates, but stops are few. Walking is feasible for short distances within the neighbourhood, but sidewalks are sparse. Bicycle-friendly paths are rare."

Stay connected

WiFi speed

30 Mbps

Mobile data

Excellent

WiFi

Good in cafés and homes; free Wi-Fi in some public areas

Local SIM

Local SIM from Etisalat or du at the airport from $5 (tourist plans available)

Stay safe

Overall

9/10

Very low crime; main risk is road traffic. Scams rare.

Night safety

8/10

Very low crime; main risk is road traffic. Scams rare.

Transport

7/10

Scam risk

8/10

"Ar Rāshidīyah is one of the safest areas in the UAE, with very low crime rates. Violent crime is extremely rare. Petty theft like pickpocketing is minimal, but standard precautions apply – keep valuables secure. The area is well-lit at night and patrolled by police. Women travelling alone should feel safe, though modest dress is advised. Traffic can be a hazard; always use pedestrian crossings. Scams are uncommon but beware of unofficial taxi touts."

Police

999

Ambulance

997

Fire

997

Entry and health

Health information

"Medical facilities in Ar Rāshidīyah include a few private clinics and pharmacies. For serious cases, the nearest major hospital is Al Qassimi Hospital in Sharjah (15 mins drive). Tourists should ensure they have comprehensive travel insurance. Tap water is considered safe but bottled water is recommended. Pharmacies are widely available for over-the-counter medicines, and many staff speak English. In an emergency, dial 997 for an ambulance."

Culture

Local customs

"The UAE has conservative cultural norms. Dress modestly, especially in residential areas: cover shoulders and knees for both men and women. Public displays of affection are frowned upon. During Ramadan, eating, drinking, or smoking in public from sunrise to sunset is prohibited. Alcohol is only served at licensed venues (none in Ar Rāshidīyah). Always greet with 'As-salamu alaykum' or a handshake (if offered). Photography of locals, especially women, requires permission."

Arabic (official)EnglishHindiUrduMalayalamBengaliTagalogPersianArabic

Costs and practicals

Cost level

Mid-range

Meals

$5-10 | a cheap local meal costs around $5-10

Hotels

$40-80 | budget hotels range $40-80/night

Local transport

$1-2 | local bus ride ~$1, taxi ride within area ~$5

Cost notes

No luxury hotels in Ar Rāshidīyah; nearby Sharjah has mid-range options.

Timezone

Asia/Dubai
Local time 00:47

More facts

Population

38,425

Type

Suburb

Frequently Asked Questions

Also known as: Al Rashidiya, Ar Rashidiyah, Ar Rāshidīyah, Rashdia, Rashidiyah, Rashīdīyah, alrashdyt, الراشدية, شارع الرَّاشِدِيَّة, Ar Rashidiyah Street

Suburb

Ar Rāshidīyah

Best time to visit Ar Rāshidīyah

October

Know before you go

Getting there

Getting around

Stay connected

Stay safe

Overall

Night safety

Transport

Scam risk

Police

Ambulance

Fire

Entry and health

Health information

Culture

Local customs

Costs and practicals

More facts

Nearby areas in Dubai

Abū Hayl

Al Bada'a

Al Furjan

Al Hudaiba

Al Karama

Al Khabaisi

Al Khawaneej 1

Al Mizhar First

Al Mizhar Second

Al Murar al Qadīm

Al Muteena

Al Qusais 1

Al Qusais Second

Al Safa

Al Sufouh

Al Twar 3

Al Twar First

AL Twar Second

Al Waheda

Al Warqaa

Al Wasl

Ar Riqqah

As Saţwah

As Saţwah Sharq

Būr Sa‘īd

Business Bay

Dayrah

Downtown Dubai

Dubai Festival City

Dubai International Financial Centre

Dubai Internet City

Dubai Investments Park

Dubai Marina

Dubai Silicon Oasis

Dubai Sports City

Hawr al ‘Anz

International City

Jumayrā

Knowledge Village

Mankhūl

Mirdif

Nadd al Ḩumr

Nāyf

Oud Metha

Umm Al Sheif

Umm Suqaym

Za'abeel

Frequently Asked Questions