Belgium

Belgium is a charming country in the heart of Western Europe which, despite its compact size, offers travellers an incredible variety of experiences. It is often called the "crossroads of Europe", and for good reason: for centuries, cultures have intertwined and history has been made here, leaving a rich heritage that can be felt at every turn.

The main draw for travellers are its cities, each with its own unique character. Of course, the capital, Brussels, is not only the administrative centre of Europe but also a city of magnificent architecture, the famous Grand-Place, and the futuristic Atomium. Equally appealing are fairytale-like Bruges with its canals and medieval streets, and the dynamic city of Antwerp, known as the world's centre for the diamond trade and the birthplace of Rubens. Belgian culture is also defined by its world-famous chocolate and waffles, and sampling these local delicacies is an essential part of any visit. Many establishments in major cities offer halal-certified or Muslim-friendly options.

Beyond its urban treasures, Belgium also offers picturesque landscapes – from the hilly Ardennes in the south, perfect for hiking, to the sandy beaches of the North Sea in the north. The climate is temperate maritime, with mild winters and cool summers, making the country comfortable to visit at any time of year. The overall atmosphere of Belgium is a wonderful combination of historical heritage, a modern European pace of life, and a truly hedonistic approach to life's pleasures. For convenience, prayer facilities can be found in major airports like Brussels Airport, as well as in mosques in larger cities.

The official currency of Belgium is the euro (EUR), as the country is a part of the Eurozone. Euro banknotes, used across all Eurozone countries, have a standard design that features architectural styles from different periods in European history. The windows, gateways, and bridges on the notes symbolise openness and cooperation. Euro coins have a common side and a national side; Belgian coins typically feature a portrait of the reigning monarch, King Philippe.

For travellers from the UAE, it is advisable to exchange currency for euros at banks or official exchange offices (known as bureau de change or wisselkantoor), which generally offer more favourable rates than airports or hotels. Credit cards, particularly Visa and Mastercard, are widely accepted throughout Belgium, especially in cities, hotels, restaurants, and larger shops. However, for smaller purchases, public transport fares, or visiting local markets, it is always useful to carry some cash.

For entry into Belgium, citizens of the United Arab Emirates do not require a visa for short stays. Thanks to an agreement between the UAE and the European Union, UAE passport holders can travel to Belgium and other Schengen Area countries for up to 90 days within any 180-day period without a visa.

For other residents of the UAE, visa requirements depend on your nationality. Many expatriates will need to apply for a Schengen visa in advance to visit Belgium. This visa must be obtained from the Belgian embassy or consulate, or an accredited visa application centre in the UAE, before you travel.

Regardless of visa status, you will need a valid passport to enter the country. It is also highly recommended that you carry copies of your return tickets, hotel booking confirmation, and valid travel medical insurance. As visa regulations can change, we strongly advise you to check the latest information on the official website of the Belgian embassy or the relevant visa application centre in the UAE before your trip.

When planning a trip to Belgium, you will not have to worry about changing timezones within the country. The entire territory of Belgium operates on a single timezone. Its standard time is Central European Time (CET), which is UTC+1.

For travellers from the UAE, this means Belgium is three hours behind UAE time (which is UTC+4) during the winter months.

Like many European countries, Belgium observes daylight saving time. During this period, the country switches to Central European Summer Time (CEST), which is UTC+2. This reduces the time difference with the UAE to two hours. The switch to summer time occurs on the last Sunday in March, and the return to standard time happens on the last Sunday in October. This means you will not need to adjust your watch when travelling across different regions of Belgium.

Getting to Belgium, located in the heart of Europe, is straightforward for travellers from the UAE. For most visitors, air transport is the primary and most convenient option. Travellers can fly directly from the UAE to Belgium, with major carriers like Emirates offering non-stop flights from Dubai (DXB) and Etihad Airways flying non-stop from Abu Dhabi (AUH). These flights land at the country's main international gateway, Brussels Airport (BRU), which serves as a major hub for numerous European and intercontinental flights.

Once you have arrived in Belgium, its advantageous geographical position and highly developed transport infrastructure make it easy to travel by ground transport. The country shares borders with France, Germany, the Netherlands and Luxembourg, which makes travelling by train or bus particularly convenient. High-speed trains, such as Eurostar and Thalys, connect Brussels with Paris, London, Amsterdam and Cologne. International bus operators also offer many routes at affordable prices. For those exploring Europe further, it is also possible to travel to and from the United Kingdom via sea transport, with ferries regularly sailing to Belgian ports, for example, from Hull to Zeebrugge.

Regardless of your chosen method of transport, it is recommended to book tickets in advance, especially if your trip falls during a peak tourist season (summer months, Christmas and New Year holidays). This will not only help you save money but also guarantee the availability of seats on your chosen flights or trains.

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

Belgium is a country that will surprise you with its variety of tourist destinations. It offers a harmonious blend of lively, historic cities, charming medieval towns that look as if they have come from the pages of a storybook, and pleasant resorts on the North Sea coast. Every traveller will find something special in Belgium, whether it is immersing themselves in cultural heritage, making gastronomic discoveries, or enjoying a relaxed beach holiday. The country is well-suited for family travel, with many attractions and activities for all ages.

Of course, for many, an introduction to the country begins with its capital. Brussels is not only the administrative centre of Europe but also a city of magnificent architecture, the famous Grand-Place, the city's symbol – the Manneken Pis, and numerous world-class museums. For Muslim travellers, the city offers a growing number of halal-certified restaurants, particularly those serving Middle Eastern, Turkish, and Iranian cuisine. Prayer facilities are also available in major transport hubs and several mosques across the city. Equally popular is the fairytale city of Bruges, often called the "Venice of the North" for its picturesque canals, ancient bridges, and perfectly preserved medieval atmosphere. Halal food options can also be found here, ensuring a comfortable visit. A boat trip along the canals of Bruges or a visit to its chocolate boutiques will leave unforgettable impressions.

For connoisseurs of art, fashion, and diamonds, a visit to Antwerp is a must. This dynamic port city is famous for its Royal Museum of Fine Arts, the Rubens House museum, and a bustling fashion quarter. The city is welcoming to Muslim visitors, with several mosques and prayer facilities available. If you are dreaming of a seaside holiday, the elegant resort of Knokke-Heist offers wide sandy beaches, stylish boutiques, art galleries, and exquisite restaurants, making it an ideal place for relaxation and enjoying the coastal atmosphere. The town is known for its luxury shopping, featuring many high-end designer stores. While there is no strict dress code in Belgium, modest attire is recommended when visiting religious sites out of respect.

The heart of Brussels and undoubtedly one of Europe's most beautiful squares is the Grand-Place. It is the city's historical centre, surrounded by magnificent guildhalls, the impressive Town Hall, and the King's House. The square is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is striking for its architecture and atmosphere, especially during the famous Flower Carpet event, which takes place here every two years. The surrounding area offers a variety of dining options, including several restaurants serving halal food.

No less famous is the futuristic Atomium, an iconic symbol of Brussels and all of Belgium, built for the 1958 World's Fair. This giant model of an iron crystal, magnified 165 billion times, consists of nine spheres interconnected by tubes. Inside the spheres, there are exhibition halls, and the top sphere offers a breathtaking panorama of the city.

In the charming city of Bruges, a visit to the famous Belfry of Bruges is a must. This medieval bell tower, standing 83 metres tall, majestically rises over the Market Square and symbolises the city's freedom and former wealth. After climbing the 366 steps, you will be rewarded with a stunning view of the historic city centre, often called the 'Venice of the North'.

For nature lovers and family holidays, the Antwerp Zoo is an excellent choice. Located in the heart of Antwerp, right next to the central railway station, it is one of the oldest and most respected zoos in the world. It is home to a vast number of animal species, and the zoo actively participates in conservation programmes for rare species and impresses with the beautiful architecture of its pavilions. For visitors' convenience, the associated conference centre, 'A Room with a ZOO', offers rooms that can be used for prayer upon request.

Choosing the best time for your trip to Belgium largely depends on your travel goals and what you want to experience. The journey is convenient, with direct flights from the UAE taking around 7-8 hours with carriers like Emirates and Etihad.

High season in Belgium traditionally runs from May to September. This period offers the warmest and sunniest weather, providing a pleasant escape from the intense summer heat of the UAE. It's the perfect time for long strolls through enchanting cities like Brussels, Bruges, and Antwerp, and for attending the many summer festivals. These cities are also hubs for luxury shopping and offer a growing variety of halal dining options. The main benefits are comfortable temperatures and plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities. However, be prepared for larger crowds of tourists and, consequently, higher prices for accommodation and flights.

The shoulder seasons—spring (March-April) and autumn (October-November)—can be an excellent choice. Tourist numbers are noticeably lower, and prices for hotels and flights are often more attractive. The weather can be changeable, ranging from pleasant sunny days to cooler temperatures and rain, so packing layers is advisable. In spring, Belgium is alive with colour; for instance, the famous Hallerbos forest becomes a carpet of wild hyacinths. In autumn, the scenery turns to beautiful golden hues. This is a great time for those who prefer a quieter, more thoughtful exploration of the country and don't mind the unpredictable weather. Rainy days can be spent exploring world-class museums, galleries, and covered shopping arcades.

Low season in Belgium is during the winter, from December to February. The days are shorter and the weather is cool, sometimes with frost and snow, especially in the hilly Ardennes region in the country's southeast. For travellers from the UAE, this offers a wonderful opportunity to experience a true European winter. Winter has a unique charm, thanks to the famous Christmas markets that create a magical atmosphere in many Belgian cities. Advantages of this period include fewer tourists and a cosy, festive feeling. The downsides are the colder weather and potentially shorter opening hours for some attractions. While major cities like Brussels and Antwerp have dedicated prayer facilities, it's always wise to check the locations and timings in advance.

When travelling to Belgium, it is worth remembering a few cultural nuances that will help you feel more confident and show respect to the local people. It is customary to shake hands when meeting and parting. Among close friends and acquaintances, light kisses on the cheek are common (usually one or three, starting with the left cheek). Belgians value punctuality and politeness in conversation, and making eye contact during a discussion is considered a sign of sincerity. If you are invited to someone's home, it is good manners to bring a small gift for the hosts, such as high-quality chocolate (for which the country is so famous!) or flowers. In general, Belgians may seem reserved at first, but they are hospitable and welcoming.

In daily life, there are no special dress requirements; however, when visiting churches and other religious sites, it is advisable to choose more modest attire that covers the shoulders and knees. At the dining table, adhere to general European etiquette: do not rest your elbows on the table and wait for your hosts to begin the meal before you start eating. Avoid loud conversations in public places and discussing sensitive political topics, especially those concerning the country's linguistic divisions. An important national holiday is Belgian National Day, celebrated with great fanfare on 21st July to commemorate the anniversary of the oath taken by Leopold I, the first King of the Belgians. Remember that addressing people you do not know well too informally can be perceived as over-familiarity, so it is best to begin interactions with a respectful, more formal tone.

Belgium offers travellers an amazing variety of entertainment to suit every taste. Fans of outdoor activities will appreciate the scenic routes for cycling and hiking, especially in the hilly Ardennes or along the North Sea coast. The cultural programme in Belgium is extremely rich: world-famous museums await you here, from art galleries with works by Flemish masters to unique themed exhibitions dedicated, for example, to comics or the history of chocolate. Numerous historical monuments, theatres, and concert halls, especially in cities like Brussels, Bruges, and Antwerp, offer a wealth of choice for art connoisseurs.

As evening approaches, Belgium's nightlife comes alive, especially in the major cities. You will find many welcoming cafés, elegant dining establishments, and vibrant social spots with diverse music. Halal food is widely available in cities like Brussels and Antwerp, with numerous restaurants serving everything from Moroccan tagines to other international cuisines. Many restaurants also offer evening programmes. Shopping in Belgium is a pleasure in itself. The country is famous for its exquisite handmade chocolate, fine lace, tapestries, and antiques. The main shopping streets and districts with world-brand boutiques, local designer shops, and souvenir stalls can be found in almost every tourist centre, offering goods for every taste and budget.

For a family holiday, Belgium also has much to offer. Various theme parks, modern zoos, water parks, and interactive museums aimed at children will keep both young travellers and their parents entertained. Many cities also offer special children's routes and activities. Whether it's exploring a rich cultural heritage, enjoying active time in nature, making gastronomic discoveries, or searching for unique souvenirs, Belgium can satisfy the demands of a wide variety of tourists, offering bright and memorable experiences.

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 monitoring the latest rates both before you fly and throughout your trip. You can use the data provided below for this purpose — we monitor currency exchange rates 24/7 and strive to provide the most current information.