Belarus

Belarus is a remarkable country in Eastern Europe, often called the "blue-eyed country" because of its countless lakes and rivers. It attracts travellers with its calm, peaceful atmosphere, the hospitality of its local people, and its rich history. The nation's capital, Minsk, is a modern city with wide avenues, well-kept parks, and fascinating museums, harmoniously blending its Soviet heritage with new trends. The city is considered a very safe destination for tourists.

Belarus is famous for its ancient castles and manors, such as the renowned Nesvizh Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage site. The country carefully preserves its cultural traditions, which are reflected in its folk crafts, music, and festivals. The nature of Belarus is its greatest treasure: lush forests, including the Belovezhskaya Pushcha, picturesque lakes like the Braslav Lakes, and national parks offer endless opportunities for ecotourism and outdoor activities.

A trip to Belarus is an opportunity to experience a unique culture, enjoy the beauty of untouched nature, and take a break from the hustle and bustle of city life. Besides the capital, it is worth visiting cities such as the heroic city of Brest with its memorial complex. Here, everyone will find something for themselves: from historical tours to a tranquil retreat in the heart of nature, leaving you with warm memories of the hospitable Belarusian land.

The national currency of Belarus is the Belarusian rouble (international code: BYN). The modern banknotes, introduced after the 2016 denomination, feature a vibrant design dedicated to the country's different regions, depicting famous architectural monuments and cultural sites. Coins of various denominations are also in circulation, having replaced the smaller-denomination notes.

You can exchange foreign currency for Belarusian roubles at bank branches and official exchange offices, which are widely available in cities, including at airports and train stations. For travellers from the UAE, it is advisable to carry US Dollars or Euros for exchange, as exchanging UAE Dirhams (AED) directly can be difficult. It is strongly recommended to avoid exchanging money with private individuals or at unauthorised locations. Credit and debit cards from international payment systems like Visa and Mastercard are widely accepted for payment in most shops, restaurants, hotels, and service centres, especially in major cities such as Minsk. However, cards issued by foreign banks may occasionally face service interruptions, so carrying some cash is recommended, particularly when travelling to smaller towns or for making payments at local markets.

When planning a trip to Belarus, it's important to know the visa requirements. For citizens of the United Arab Emirates holding a valid passport, a visa is not required for temporary stays. This visa-free regime allows for a stay of up to 30 days from the date of entry and also covers transit through the country via international border checkpoints. For residents of the UAE who hold other passports, visa requirements may vary, and it is necessary to check the specific rules for your nationality.

Regardless of visa status, you will need a valid passport to enter Belarus. It is also highly recommended to have return tickets, proof of accommodation, and a medical insurance policy valid for your stay. As visa regulations can change, we strongly advise you to check the most current information on the official websites of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Belarus or the Belarusian Embassy in the UAE before your trip.

When planning a trip to Belarus, you will not need to worry about changing time zones within the country. The entire territory of Belarus operates on a single time zone, which is UTC+3. This is just one hour behind the UAE, which uses Gulf Standard Time (UTC+4). This means the time in Minsk, Brest, Gomel, and other cities will be identical.

This arrangement makes it much simpler to plan travel and connecting flights around the country, allowing tourists to focus on exploring Belarusian culture and attractions without the inconvenience of adjusting their watches. Additionally, Belarus does not observe daylight saving time, so the time remains consistent all year round.

Reaching Belarus from the UAE is straightforward, with several convenient travel options available. The quickest and most popular way to travel is by air. The country's primary international gateway is Minsk National Airport (MSQ), which handles all direct flights from the region.

For travellers based in the UAE, direct flights to Minsk are operated from Dubai International Airport (DXB). flydubai and Belavia (the Belarusian national airline) both offer daily non-stop services on this route. The flight duration is approximately 6 to 6.5 hours. While direct flights are most common from Dubai, travellers from Abu Dhabi and other emirates can find convenient one-stop connections. Beyond the capital, other international airports operate in regional centres, which may be useful for travellers heading to specific parts of the country.

Due to its geographical position in the centre of Europe, Belarus is also well-connected by ground transport. This is an excellent option for those on a wider European tour. The country has a developed railway network with international trains connecting it to Russia, Poland, Lithuania, and other neighbouring states, offering a comfortable and often scenic journey. Regular bus services from many European cities are also widely available. Whichever method you choose, it is advisable to book your tickets in advance, especially if you plan to travel during peak tourist seasons or public holidays, to secure the best prices and availability.

For your reference, here is a summary of the main international airports in Belarus:

Belarus offers travellers a diverse range of cities and holiday destinations. There is something for everyone here, from vibrant capital city avenues to serene lake landscapes and ancient castles. The country is rich with historical centres, modern cities, and corners of untouched nature, perfect for relaxation and rejuvenation.

The heart of the country is undoubtedly its capital, Minsk. This dynamic city wonderfully combines wide avenues and the monumental architecture of the Soviet era with cosy, historic quarters like the Trinity Suburb. For Muslim travellers, major cities like Minsk are increasingly offering halal food options and have prayer facilities, including the Minsk Cathedral Mosque. Another significant city is Brest, famous for its heroic Brest Fortress, which will appeal to those interested in military history. For connoisseurs of palace and park ensembles, a must-visit is Nesvizh, with its magnificent Radziwill Castle, a UNESCO World Heritage site.

Vitebsk, the birthplace of Marc Chagall, is often called the cultural capital and hosts the famous annual "Slavianski Bazaar" arts festival. Nature and outdoor enthusiasts should turn their attention to Braslaw and its lake district, which offers excellent opportunities for fishing, boat trips, and eco-tourism. The ancient city of Polotsk, one of the oldest in Eastern Europe, will charm you with its rich history and spiritual shrines; visitors to religious sites are advised to wear modest attire. Each of these cities and regions has its own unique atmosphere, ready to offer tourists an unforgettable experience.

Belarus offers travellers a wealth of interesting places where history intertwines with modernity, and the hustle and bustle of the city give way to peaceful natural landscapes. Everyone will find attractions to their liking here, whether it's majestic memorials, ancient park ensembles, or colourful local markets.

One of the most iconic sights is Victory Square in Vitebsk. This is not just the largest square in the country, but also an important memorial site dedicated to the events of the Great Patriotic War. Here you can see the Eternal Flame and various monuments, or stroll through the well-kept alleys, feeling the spirit of history.

In Gomel, a visit to the Park of the Palace and Park Ensemble is a must. It surrounds the magnificent Rumyantsev-Paskevich Palace. This vast park, with its picturesque ponds, ancient trees, and cosy gazebos, is the perfect place for leisurely walks and discovering one of the country's most beautiful architectural complexes.

To experience an authentic atmosphere and taste local produce, head to Komarovsky Market in Minsk. It is the most famous and largest indoor market in Belarus, where you can find fresh farm products, national delicacies, and souvenirs. A review has noted that halal meat can also be found here. A visit to the market is an excellent opportunity to immerse yourself in the daily life of the city and interact with local residents. The Minsk Cathedral Mosque, the largest in the country, is also located a short drive from the market for those wishing to find prayer facilities.

Belarus welcomes visitors with a temperate continental climate, where every season has its own unique charm. The high season traditionally falls in summer, from June to August. During this period, the weather is pleasantly warm and sunny, offering a perfect escape from the UAE's summer heat. It is ideal for strolling through cities like Minsk, relaxing in nature by the numerous lakes and rivers, and for attending major cultural events, such as the famous 'Slavianski Bazaar' festival in Vitebsk. The advantages are clear: comfortable temperatures and a wide range of opportunities for outdoor activities. However, you should be prepared for a larger number of tourists and potentially higher accommodation prices.

The shoulder seasons – spring (April–May) and autumn (September–October) – are appealing for their beauty and fewer crowds. In spring, nature awakens with fresh greenery and blossoms, while in autumn, the forests of Belarus are painted in golden and crimson colours, creating a unique atmosphere for photography and peaceful walks. The weather during these periods can be changeable, ranging from warm, sunny days to cool and rainy ones, so it is advisable to pack a variety of clothing. Additionally, in early July, you can experience traditional folk celebrations like the Kupalle festival (Ivan Kupala). Winter (from December to February) is the time for those who enjoy snowy landscapes and winter sports, although some tourist attractions may have shorter opening hours.

Overall, the best time to travel to Belarus depends on your personal preferences. For an active summer holiday and festivals, summer is the ideal choice. If you appreciate tranquillity, the beauty of nature during its transitional moments, and more affordable prices, consider visiting in spring or autumn. The climate is quite uniform across the country, so these general recommendations are relevant for most regions. Regardless of the season, Belarus will offer you warm hospitality and fascinating discoveries.

Belarusians are known for their friendliness and openness. A handshake is a standard greeting, particularly between men, and making direct eye contact is considered important. It is customary to address strangers and elders with a formal tone. Hospitality is a cornerstone of the Belarusian character. If you are invited to a Belarusian home, it is seen as a sign of great respect, and it is customary to bring a small gift for your hosts, such as an odd number of flowers, sweets, or a non-alcoholic beverage. Refusing any food or drink offered may be considered impolite. Punctuality and showing respect for the older generation are also highly valued in Belarus.

While there are no strict dress codes for everyday life, visitors to Orthodox churches and monasteries should dress modestly. It is recommended for women to cover their head and shoulders and wear a skirt or dress that falls below the knee; men should wear long trousers and remove any headwear upon entering. At the dining table, it is polite to wait for the hosts to start eating first, and you should keep your wrists on the table. Key holidays that are deeply embedded in the culture include New Year's Day, traditionally celebrated with family; Victory Day (9th May), which is observed with great solemnity; and Kupalle, a vibrant folk festival celebrating the summer solstice on the night of 6th-7th July, complete with ancient rituals. Showing a sincere interest in local customs will always be met with warmth and hospitality by the Belarusian people.

Belarus offers tourists a diverse range of leisure and entertainment opportunities to suit a variety of tastes. Those who enjoy an active holiday will appreciate the country's picturesque nature: its numerous lakes and rivers are perfect for water sports, fishing, and simply relaxing by the water, while its dense forests are ideal for hiking and cycling. In some regions, you can find cross-country skiing trails in winter. Agro-ecotourism, which offers an immersion into rural life and traditions, is also gaining popularity.

The cultural life in Belarus is rich and multifaceted, especially in major cities such as the capital Minsk, Brest, or Vitebsk. Here you will find many theatres, philharmonic halls, museums, and art galleries offering both classical and contemporary programmes. In the evening, the cities come alive: numerous cafés and restaurants serving national and European cuisine invite guests to have a pleasant time. Halal food options are available in major cities like Minsk, which has several restaurants serving Turkish and Middle Eastern cuisine. The evening entertainment is most active in the capital and regional centres, where you can find establishments to suit every preference.

For those who love shopping, Belarus can offer interesting options. Traditional souvenirs include linen products, Belarusian knitwear, ceramics, items made from straw and wood, as well as famous sweets and local delicacies. Large shopping centres and department stores are mainly located in the big cities, offering a wide range of goods. Families with children will also find plenty to do: many cities have well-kept parks with attractions, zoos, and children's entertainment centres that will make a holiday interesting for all ages.

Planning a trip? Wonderful! To ensure the financial aspects of your journey do not come as a surprise, it is important to remember that currency exchange rates are constantly changing. Therefore, we strongly advise you to monitor the latest rates both before your departure and throughout your trip. To do this, you can use the data provided below—we monitor currency rates 24/7 and strive to provide the most up-to-date information.