Albania

Albania, the pearl of the Balkan Peninsula, attracts travellers with its unique combination of rich history, stunning natural landscapes, and welcoming atmosphere. As a Muslim-majority country in Europe, it offers a comfortable and fascinating destination for visitors from the UAE. Situated on the shores of the Adriatic and Ionian seas, the country boasts magnificent beaches and majestic mountain scenery, remaining for many an undiscovered corner of Europe.

Albania's cultural heritage is multifaceted, bearing traces of ancient Illyrian civilisations, Roman rule, Byzantine influence, and the Ottoman period. The nation's capital, Tirana, is a vibrant and dynamic city where modern buildings stand alongside historic monuments like Skanderbeg Square, reflecting the country's rapid development. The city is home to numerous mosques, including the impressive Namazgah Mosque, the largest in the Balkans, and offers a wide variety of halal-friendly restaurants and cafes.

The natural beauty of Albania will leave no one indifferent, from its picturesque canyons and crystal-clear rivers to its untouched beaches and national parks. History enthusiasts will appreciate ancient cities such as Gjirokastër, with its famous fortress, while those seeking a seaside holiday will find their paradise in resort towns like Sarandë. With halal food widely available in major cities and prayer facilities easily accessible, Albania is a country where every day can be a discovery, full of vivid impressions and warm Balkan hospitality, making it an ideal choice for families from the UAE.

The national currency of Albania is the Albanian lek (ALL). Banknotes of various denominations are in circulation, featuring prominent historical figures and cultural symbols of the country. Coins are also used for smaller transactions. The design of the banknotes and coins is quite colourful and reflects the rich history and culture of Albania.

You can exchange currency for leks at banks, official exchange offices (marked as "Kambim Valutor"), and some hotels. It is advisable to avoid exchanging money with street money changers to prevent unfavourable rates or fraud. Credit cards, mainly Visa and Mastercard, are accepted in major cities like Tirana, as well as in larger hotels, restaurants, and big shops. However, in smaller towns, rural areas, and at markets, it is preferable to have cash on hand as it is more widely accepted. ATMs are quite common in cities, but a commission may be charged when withdrawing cash.

When planning a trip to Albania, it is essential to familiarise yourself with the country's visa regulations. For citizens of the United Arab Emirates, entry into Albania for tourism is straightforward and visa-free. UAE passport holders can stay in the country for up to 90 days within a 180-day period without a visa. Regardless of nationality, you will need a valid passport to cross the border, and its validity must cover your entire period of stay.

For UAE residents who are not UAE citizens, visa requirements depend on your nationality. However, you may be exempt from needing an Albanian visa if you hold a valid, multiple-entry Schengen, US, or UK visa that has been used at least once. Additionally, foreign nationals with a 10-year UAE residence permit may be granted visa-free entry, provided the permit is valid for at least one year from the date of entry. If your nationality does require a visa, you will typically need to apply for a Type C (short-stay) visa through the official Albanian e-Visa portal or the nearest embassy. Standard supporting documents often include return tickets, hotel booking confirmations, and medical insurance. It is crucial to check the latest visa requirements on the official websites of Albanian embassies or visa centres before your trip, as regulations can change.

Albania operates on a single time zone across the entire country. It follows Central European Time (CET) at UTC+1. During the summer, the country observes Central European Summer Time (CEST), which is UTC+2. For travellers from the UAE, this means Albania is three hours behind Gulf Standard Time (GST) during the winter and two hours behind in the summer.

This means that tourists will not need to adjust their watches when travelling between different cities and regions within the country, such as Tirana or the resort areas. The uniform time zone makes it much simpler to plan internal trips and excursions around Albania.

Albania is becoming an increasingly attractive tourist destination, and there are several ways to reach this picturesque country. For travellers from the UAE, the most common and fastest option is by air. Direct flights are available from both Dubai and Abu Dhabi, making the journey convenient.

From Dubai, flydubai operates several direct flights to Tirana each week, with a flight time of around six hours. From Abu Dhabi, Wizz Air Abu Dhabi also offers direct services to the Albanian capital. The country's main international hub is Tirana International Airport Nënë Tereza (TIA), which serves the capital city of Tirana and its surroundings. For those looking for connecting flights, major carriers like Emirates, Etihad Airways, and others offer routes with one stop. Besides the capital's airport, the country also has other airports, such as Kukës International Airport Zayed, expanding arrival options to different regions of Albania.

For those who prefer overland routes or are travelling around the Balkan Peninsula, Albania can be reached by bus from neighbouring countries such as Montenegro, North Macedonia, Greece, and Kosovo. International bus services offer regular and reasonably comfortable journeys. Rail connections with other countries are less developed, so the bus is often the main choice for crossing the border by land. Thanks to its long coastline on the Adriatic and Ionian seas, Albania can also be reached by sea. Regular ferry services connect Albanian ports, particularly Durrës and Vlorë, with Italian cities like Bari, Ancona, and Brindisi. This can be an especially pleasant way to start your journey, enjoying the sea views.

When planning a trip to Albania, especially during the high tourist season (typically June to August), it is highly recommended to book flights and ferry tickets in advance. This will not only help you save money but also guarantee availability for your desired dates. It is also worth noting that prices can vary depending on the season and demand.

For clarity, here is a summary of the main airports:

Albania offers travellers an amazing variety of destinations, from lively urban centres to idyllic resorts on the coasts of the Adriatic and Ionian seas. The country's capital, Tirana, is the pulsating heart of Albania, where modern life harmoniously intertwines with rich history and culture, offering guests numerous museums, galleries, and bustling cafés.

For beach lovers, Albania is a true paradise. Popular resorts, such as Saranda in the south, entice with their crystal-clear waters and sunny beaches, serving as a popular gateway to the Albanian Riviera. No less attractive is Durrës – one of the country's oldest cities and its main port, where you can combine a seaside holiday with exploring the impressive Roman amphitheatre and other historical monuments.

Beyond its coastal gems, Albania prides itself on its historic cities with a unique atmosphere. For example, Gjirokastër, known as the 'City of a Thousand Steps', is a UNESCO World Heritage site and captivates with its distinctive Ottoman architecture and majestic fortress. Each of these places offers its own unique experience, inviting you to delve deeper into Albanian culture, history, and hospitality.

Albania is a country with a rich history and a wealth of interesting places capable of surprising even the most seasoned traveller. Here, ancient ruins sit alongside vibrant modern cities, and the natural beauty is simply breathtaking. Let's explore some of the main attractions that you should definitely include in your itinerary.

One of the symbols of the capital and the entire country is Skanderbeg Square in Tirana. This is the heart of the city, named in honour of Albania's national hero. Important cultural and administrative buildings are located here, including the National Historical Museum, the Opera and Ballet Theatre, and the Et'hem Bey Mosque. The square is an excellent starting point for getting to know Tirana and its atmosphere. When visiting the historic Et'hem Bey Mosque, women should dress modestly, covering their head, shoulders, and knees, while men should wear long trousers. Scarves are often available at the entrance for visitors.

Fans of antiquity should certainly visit the Amphitheatre of Durrës. This is one of the largest and best-preserved Roman amphitheatres in the Balkans, dating back to the 2nd century AD. Gladiator contests were once held here, and today it stands as an impressive monument of ancient architecture, offering a tangible connection to history.

The majestic Gjirokastër Fortress is another must-see. Perched on a hill overlooking the "city of a thousand steps," this citadel is one of the largest in the Balkans. Inside the fortress, you will find a military museum, and its walls offer stunning panoramic views of the city of Gjirokastër, a designated UNESCO World Heritage site.

For those looking to immerse themselves in an authentic atmosphere and purchase souvenirs, the Old Bazaar of Korçë will be a real discovery. It is one of the oldest and most colourful bazaars in Albania, where you can find traditional crafts and local delicacies. The lively market is an ideal place to enjoy the vibrant trade and the hospitality of the local people. While many traditional foods are naturally halal, it is always advisable to ask the vendor.

Albania welcomes guests all year round, but choosing the best time for your trip depends on your plans. With direct flights from the UAE taking around six hours, it's an accessible European getaway offering a refreshing contrast to the climate back home.

The high season traditionally falls during the summer months of June to August. This period, often coinciding with the Eid al-Adha and school holidays, is perfect for a family trip. The weather on the coast of the Adriatic and Ionian seas is hot and sunny, ideal for beach holidays and water activities in resort towns like Saranda, Vlorë, or Durrës. Air temperatures often exceed +30°C, which, while warm, can feel more comfortable than the peak summer heat in the UAE. The advantages are clear: maximum sunshine and warm sea water. However, be prepared for a large number of tourists and higher prices for accommodation and services.

For those who prefer a quieter holiday and more moderate temperatures, spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) are excellent choices. During these periods, the weather is usually mild and pleasant with fewer travellers, allowing you to enjoy the sights of Gjirokastër or stroll through Tirana without the hustle and bustle. Prices during the shoulder seasons are generally lower. In spring, nature is in full bloom, while autumn delights with warm colours and a comfortable sea temperature in September. A possible downside could be some weather instability, especially in early spring and late autumn, and not all tourist facilities, particularly in small resort villages, may be fully operational. Winter (November-March) is the lowest season; the coast is mild but rainy, and snow falls in the mountains.

When planning your trip, it is also worth considering cultural aspects and local customs. Albania is a Muslim-majority country and is very welcoming to travellers from the UAE. Halal food is readily available in major cities like Tirana, Durrës, and Shkodër, with many restaurants offering Turkish, Middle Eastern, and traditional Albanian dishes prepared according to halal guidelines. In more remote areas or along the Riviera, halal-certified options can be less common, but seafood and vegetarian dishes are plentiful. Mosques are widespread in the cities, making it convenient for daily prayers. When visiting religious sites, a modest dress code of covering shoulders and knees is respectful. If you plan to visit mountainous regions, such as the areas around Shkodër, picturesque Pogradec on Lake Ohrid, or historic inland cities like Korçë, it is always useful to check the specific weather forecast before your trip.

Albanians are renowned for their warmth and hospitality, an important part of their culture known as 'mikpritja', which is based on the ancient code of honour, 'Besa'. When meeting someone, it is customary to shake hands while maintaining eye contact. Hugs and kisses on both cheeks are common among friends and relatives. If you are invited to someone's home, it is considered good manners to bring a small gift for the hosts, such as flowers, sweets, or a small souvenir from your home country.

An interesting feature of communication in Albania is that a nod of the head up and down often means 'no', while shaking the head from side to side means 'yes', which can be confusing for an unprepared tourist. When visiting religious sites, such as mosques or Orthodox churches, it is important to observe the dress code: clothing should cover your shoulders and knees. In daily life, there are no strict rules, but overly revealing outfits may be frowned upon in more conservative areas. As a country with a significant Muslim population, halal food is widely available in many restaurants.

At the dining table, it is customary to show respect for elders and wait for the hosts to invite you to start the meal. Refusing a dish that is offered to you may be seen as impolite. Significant holidays include Independence Day (28th November), which is celebrated with great fanfare, and Summer Day (Dita e Verës, 14th March), a pagan festival welcoming spring that is especially popular in certain regions of the country. To show respect for the local people, try to be polite, avoid raising your voice in public places, and do not discuss political topics unless you are certain it is appropriate.

Albania offers tourists a wide range of entertainments to suit every taste. Active holiday enthusiasts will appreciate the stunning coast of the Adriatic and Ionian seas, which is ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and various water sports such as diving and kayaking. The Albanian Alps and other mountain ranges provide excellent conditions for hiking, trekking, and mountaineering, revealing breathtaking landscapes. For those seeking more of a thrill, options like rafting on turbulent rivers or paragliding are becoming increasingly popular.

In cultural terms, Albania boasts a rich heritage. Travellers can immerse themselves in history by visiting ancient ruins, medieval castles like Gjirokastër Fortress, and numerous museums scattered throughout the country, especially in cities such as Tirana and Gjirokastër. Theatres and concert halls offer a chance to experience contemporary Albanian art. As evening falls, major cities, particularly Tirana, and coastal resorts like Sarandë and Vlorë, come alive with a vibrant nightlife. Here you will find a variety of bars, from cosy establishments to trendy lounges such as F. Fehmi Bar Restaurant, as well as restaurants offering delicious local and international cuisine, for example, Urat Traditional Restaurant. While many restaurants serve traditional dishes, it is advisable to inquire about halal options, as they are not always widely available but can be found.

For shopping enthusiasts, Albania offers unique opportunities. Local markets and bazaars, such as the Old Bazaar of Korçë, are excellent places to find traditional handicrafts, kilim rugs, silverwork, and local delicacies like olive oil and honey. Modern shopping centres are also present in the larger cities. Families travelling with children will also find plenty to do. Although large theme parks are not very common, many coastal resorts offer family-friendly beaches, and cities often have pleasant parks, like Rinia Park, for leisurely strolls. Exploring historical sites, such as the Durrës Amphitheatre, can also be a fascinating activity for older children.

Planning a trip? Excellent! To avoid any financial surprises during your travels, it's important to remember that currency exchange rates are constantly fluctuating. Therefore, we strongly recommend monitoring the latest rates both before you fly and throughout your journey. To do so, you can use the data provided below — we monitor exchange rates 24/7 and strive to provide the most up-to-date information.