Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
GETTING AROUND
As fuel is cheap throughout the region and vehicles are relatively inexpensive to buy, road transportation is the most pop-
ular means of travel within the Peninsula. Car hire (with or without driver) is inexpensive and travel by taxis and bus are
cheap. A train service operates in Dubai, the only passenger service in the region.
The only complication of land travel is obtaining a transit visa for Saudi Arabia, which hampers transport from one
Gulf country to another. As such, it's often easier for the traveller to move from country to country by air and there's a
good air network linking all major Peninsula cities.
If you do decide to try your luck overland, bear in mind the following general advice:
»
Although restrictions in some Gulf countries are beginning to relax, the rules regarding visas and land crossings in the
region are subject to contradiction, misinformation and frequent change even between the UAE and Oman.
»
You are strongly advised to check the latest information with relevant embassies before travelling.
»
You need to have insurance for all countries you're passing through if driving.
»
Many car-hire companies insist you return cars to country of original hire.
»
Stories are legion of individuals who obtain visas in their country of origin only to find them invalid at the Saudi bor-
der: double-check with your local Saudi embassy and, if possible, with the authorities in Saudi Arabia.
»
Check the book Directory and the Directory of each of the country chapters for detailed information about visas.
»
Check the individual country transport chapters for information on border crossings.
Air
Reputable travel agencies in all major Peninsula cities can advise you about the best intercity deals and it's better to use
their services than go directly to the airlines. Note that prices fluctuate considerably according to the season or if there's a
public holiday (such as
eid
).
Airlines in the Arabian Peninsula
The Peninsula boasts some world-class airlines with good safety records, modern aircraft and well-trained crew. Dubai of-
fers a famously slick international airport with superb facilities, including hotels, business centres and extensive duty-free
sections. Some other key information:
»
For detailed information on safety records visit
www.airsafe.com
.
»
Award-winning Gulf Air, Emirates, Qatar Airways, Etihad and Oman Air are increasing their direct flight networks reg-
ularly.
»
Yemenia (the national airline of Yemen) can be unreliable but still offers good service.
»
Saudi Arabia, Oman, the UAE and Yemen have domestic flight networks, which are reasonably priced.
»
Smaller regional airports are adequate, and many are in the process of being modernised and expanded.
»
Arrival procedures are straightforward, quick and efficient. Note, however, the import prohibition on various items, par-
ticularly in Saudi Arabia.
