Cambodia

Cambodia is an amazing country in Southeast Asia, beckoning travellers with its ancient history, rich culture, and incredible landscapes. It is a land where the past harmoniously intertwines with the present, offering a unique experience to everyone who decides to visit. From majestic temples to vibrant cities and tranquil rural areas, Cambodia leaves a lasting impression.

The heart of Cambodia's cultural heritage is undoubtedly the legendary temple complex of Angkor Wat, located near the city of Siem Reap. These ancient structures, testaments to the might of the Khmer Empire, captivate the imagination with their architecture and scale. When visiting these sacred sites, it is important to dress modestly by covering shoulders and knees to show respect for the local culture. The country's capital, Phnom Penh, is a dynamic city where you can explore the Royal Palace, gain insight into the country's poignant history at the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum, and immerse yourself in the atmosphere of local markets.

For Muslim travellers, finding halal food is becoming easier, particularly in major cities like Phnom Penh and Siem Reap, where a growing number of certified restaurants are available. The capital is also home to the Al-Serkal Mosque, one of the country's largest, with many halal eateries in the surrounding area. Beyond its historical treasures, Cambodia charms with its natural beauty. The tropical climate provides warmth all year round, and the landscapes vary from emerald rice paddies and dense jungles to sandy beaches on the southern coast, for example, in the Sihanoukville area. The country radiates a special atmosphere of tranquillity and hospitality, and the local people are always happy to share their culture and traditions.

The national currency of Cambodia is the riel (KHR). Banknotes of various denominations are in circulation, often featuring significant cultural and historical symbols of the country, such as the Angkor Wat temple complex or portraits of former monarchs. Interestingly, alongside the riel, the US dollar is very widely used in Cambodia, especially in tourist areas, for paying for hotels, excursions, and large purchases. Prices are often quoted in US dollars.

You can exchange currency at banks and official exchange offices, which are found in major cities like Phnom Penh and other tourist centres. It is advisable to avoid exchanging money with street money changers due to the risk of fraud or unfavourable exchange rates. Credit cards, mainly Visa and Mastercard, are accepted in large hotels, restaurants, and some shops in tourist areas. However, for smaller purchases, local markets, and in remote areas, it is preferable to have cash in either riels or small-denomination US dollars. ATMs that dispense both riels and US dollars are also quite common in cities.

A visa is required for most foreign nationals to visit Cambodia, including citizens and residents of the UAE. However, the process is straightforward, with several convenient options available for travellers.

Travellers from the UAE can obtain a tourist visa on arrival at the international airports in Phnom Penh and Siem Reap, as well as at some land border crossings. Alternatively, applying for an electronic visa (e-visa) online before your trip can save time upon arrival. The tourist e-visa is typically valid for 90 days from the date of issue and permits a single-entry stay of up to 30 days. To apply for either visa type, you will need a passport with at least six months' validity from your planned date of entry.

In addition to a valid passport, it is advisable to have your return flight tickets, proof of accommodation, and travel insurance readily available. As visa regulations can change, it is strongly recommended to confirm the latest requirements on the official Cambodian e-visa website or with the nearest Embassy of Cambodia before your travels.

When planning a trip to Cambodia, you will be pleased to know that the country observes a single time zone. The entire Kingdom of Cambodia operates on UTC+7 (Indochina Time, ICT). This means the time in the capital, Phnom Penh, is exactly the same as in any other city or on the nation's islands. For travellers from the UAE, it is useful to note that Cambodia is 3 hours ahead of the UAE (which is UTC+4).

This uniform time makes it incredibly convenient to plan your movements between Cambodia's different regions, removing any concern about missing transport or excursions due to time differences. It greatly simplifies your travel logistics, allowing you to focus on enjoying the beauty and culture of this amazing country.

The easiest way to get to Cambodia from the UAE is by air. While direct flights are not always available, there are excellent and convenient one-stop connections. Major carriers like Emirates offer daily flights to the capital, Phnom Penh, via Singapore, and also operate services to Siem Reap. Other popular options include flying with airlines such as Etihad Airways, Thai Airways, or Singapore Airlines, with layovers in major Asian hubs like Bangkok, Kuala Lumpur, or Singapore. The country has several international airports, with the main gateways being in the capital, Phnom Penh, and in Siem Reap, the home of the famous Angkor Wat temple complex. For Muslim travellers, prayer facilities are available at the major airports, and finding halal food is becoming increasingly easier in main cities. When visiting religious sites, it is mandatory to dress modestly, ensuring shoulders and knees are covered.

For those interested in exploring more of Southeast Asia, Cambodia shares land borders with Thailand, Vietnam, and Laos. Regular bus services connect Cambodian cities with major urban centres in these neighbouring countries, offering an affordable way to travel regionally. Crossing the border by private taxi is also possible, but it is essential to research the visa requirements and have all necessary documentation prepared in advance. Rail transport in Cambodia is not well-developed and is primarily used for domestic travel, with no international train routes currently in operation.

Arriving in Cambodia by sea is less common, but some unique options exist. For instance, you can travel from Vietnam's Mekong Delta to Phnom Penh via high-speed boats, offering a scenic journey along the river. Additionally, some international cruise liners make stops at the port of Sihanoukville. Whatever your travel plans, it is highly recommended to book your tickets well in advance, especially during the peak tourist season, to secure the best fares and availability.

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

Cambodia is a country of rich history and diverse landscapes, offering travellers an immersion into ancient culture as well as relaxation on its scenic coasts. For visitors from the UAE, it presents a unique blend of heritage, nature, and warm hospitality. Among its many interesting places, several key destinations stand out, each with its own unique charm. The nation's capital, Phnom Penh, is a vibrant centre where royal palaces and silver pagodas stand alongside reminders of recent history and modern cityscapes. It is a place where you can feel the pulse of contemporary Cambodia while honouring its past. When visiting sacred sites like the Royal Palace, a modest dress code is required, so be sure to cover your shoulders and knees to show respect for the local culture.

For those wishing to witness the grandeur of ancient civilisations, a visit to Siem Reap is essential. This city is the gateway to the legendary Angkor Wat temple complex, a wonder of the world that captivates the imagination with its architecture and scale. Beyond Angkor, the area around Siem Reap is rich with other ancient temples hidden in the jungle. The city itself offers comfortable hotels, lively markets, and a growing number of halal-certified restaurants, making it increasingly welcoming for Muslim travellers. Prayer facilities are also becoming more available, with dedicated prayer rooms at the new international airports in both Siem Reap and Phnom Penh.

If a beach holiday is your goal, then Cambodia's coastal towns are worth exploring. Sihanoukville, once a quiet resort, is now a rapidly developing hub offering beaches and water sports. For a more tranquil and secluded retreat, Kep is an excellent choice, known for its fresh crab markets and colonial atmosphere. Meanwhile, Kampot will appeal to lovers of nature and authenticity with its famous pepper plantations, river landscapes, and relaxed atmosphere. In these cities, as in the rest of the country, the local Cham Muslim community contributes to the availability of halal food options.

Cambodia is a country with a rich history and culture, offering travellers unique experiences. From ancient temple complexes to vibrant city centres, there is something for everyone here. The country's main attractions are a testament to its great past and dynamic present.

Without a doubt, the main jewel of Cambodia is the majestic Angkor Wat. This gigantic temple complex, originally dedicated to the Hindu god Vishnu before becoming a Buddhist site, is astonishing in its scale, complex architecture, and exquisite carvings. The sunrises and sunsets over Angkor Wat are a sight that will stay in your memory for a lifetime. As this is a sacred site, visitors are required to dress modestly, ensuring shoulders and knees are covered to show respect.

In the nation's capital, Phnom Penh, a visit to the Royal Palace is a must. This active palace complex is the residence of the King of Cambodia and includes several magnificent buildings, such as the Throne Hall and the Silver Pagoda. Visitors can admire traditional Khmer architecture and learn more about the country's monarchy. A strict dress code is enforced, requiring shoulders and knees to be covered; scarves are not accepted as coverings, so please dress accordingly before your visit.

For those interested in Cambodia's more recent, though tragic, history, an important place to visit is the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum in Phnom Penh. A former school that was converted into the S-21 prison during the Khmer Rouge regime, today it serves as a stark reminder of the country's dark past and a memorial to the victims of the regime.

After a full day of exploring ancient temples and historical sites, many visitors head to the famous Pub Street in Siem Reap. This bustling street offers a wide variety of restaurants where you can taste local cuisine and soak up the lively atmosphere. For travellers seeking halal options, several certified restaurants can be found nearby, serving Cambodian, Malaysian, and Indian dishes.

When planning a trip to Cambodia, it is important to consider the two main climatic seasons. The high season, which runs from November to April, is considered the most comfortable time to visit. During this period, the weather is predominantly dry and sunny, with pleasant temperatures, especially from November to February. This is an ideal time for exploring the magnificent temples of Angkor, such as the famous Angkor Wat near Siem Reap, and for relaxing on the coast in places like Sihanoukville or Kep. When visiting temples and other sacred sites, visitors should dress modestly by ensuring shoulders and knees are covered. However, it is worth noting that this is also the busiest tourist period, and prices for accommodation and services can be higher.

The low season, also known as the rainy season, lasts from May to October. This period is characterised by higher temperatures and humidity, as well as frequent but usually brief tropical downpours that most often occur in the afternoon. The advantages of travelling at this time include lush green landscapes, significantly fewer tourists, and lower prices. The rains revitalise the scenery, and Tonlé Sap Lake reaches its highest level, opening up new opportunities for boat excursions. When planning your trip, it is also worth paying attention to local festivals: the Khmer New Year (Choul Chnam Thmey), which is usually celebrated in April, and the colourful Water Festival (Bon Om Touk) in Phnom Penh and other cities, which typically takes place in November. These events offer a unique cultural experience but may involve large crowds at their venues.

When travelling to Cambodia, you will immerse yourself in a world of ancient traditions and remarkable culture, where respect for elders and spiritual values plays a key role. The traditional Cambodian greeting, the "sampeah" (palms placed together as if in prayer, with a slight bow), is an important part of etiquette; the height of the hands and the depth of the bow depend on the status of the person being greeted. Try to avoid touching the heads of local people, as the head is considered a sacred part of the body. Cambodians are very hospitable, and if you are invited into a home, a small souvenir or some fruit will be a pleasant, though not obligatory, gesture of appreciation. When visiting temples, such as the famous Angkor Wat, and other religious sites, it is extremely important to dress modestly: shoulders and knees must be covered. This rule also applies to everyday clothing in public places, especially outside of tourist areas.

At the dining table, it is customary to wait until you are shown to your seat, and often the eldest member of the family or group will begin the meal first. Use your right hand for eating and passing items, as the left hand is traditionally considered unclean. One of the most significant holidays in Cambodia is the Khmer New Year (Chaul Chnam Thmey), usually celebrated in April, when the entire country is transformed by a whirlwind of colourful ceremonies, games, and water splashing that symbolises purification. Another important festival is Pchum Ben (Ancestors' Day), a time for honouring deceased relatives. To show respect for the local culture, avoid public displays of anger or loud arguments, as this is considered extremely impolite. It is also not acceptable to point at people or objects with your feet, and you should always remove your shoes before entering a home or temple.

Cambodia offers tourists a variety of leisure options to suit a wide range of interests. Active holidaymakers can explore ancient temple complexes, such as the majestic Angkor Wat near Siem Reap, go trekking in national parks, or enjoy water sports and beach relaxation at resorts like Sihanoukville or Kep. Cycling through the countryside and boat tours on Tonle Sap Lake and the Mekong River are also popular, revealing picturesque landscapes and the daily life of local residents.

The cultural programme in Cambodia is rich and fascinating. In the capital, Phnom Penh, you can visit the Royal Palace, the Silver Pagoda, and numerous museums, including the Tuol Sleng Genocide Museum, which recounts the tragic pages of the country's history. When visiting sacred sites like the Royal Palace and Angkor Wat, a strict dress code is enforced; visitors must ensure their shoulders and knees are covered to show respect. Don't miss the chance to see a traditional Khmer Apsara dance – it is a mesmerising spectacle. As darkness falls, the night markets come alive. In tourist hubs such as Siem Reap, with its famous Pub Street, and in Phnom Penh, you will find a wide array of eateries, cafes, and vibrant nightlife spots. For Muslim travellers, halal food is readily available in major cities, with many restaurants serving local Khmer, Malaysian, and Indian halal cuisine.

Shopping in Cambodia is, first and foremost, an introduction to local crafts. At markets such as Phsar Leu Market in Sihanoukville or the Central Market in Phnom Penh, you can find high-quality silk products, silver jewellery, carved wooden statuettes, paintings, and traditional Khmer krama scarves. For a family holiday, consider gentle strolls through the temple complexes, visits to animal rescue centres, or culinary masterclasses where you can learn to cook local dishes. While the country lacks large theme parks, its natural beauty and cultural heritage offer plenty of opportunities for an educational and interesting time for the whole family.

Planning a trip? Wonderful! To ensure the financial aspects of your journey don't come as a surprise, it's 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 exchange rates 24/7 and strive to provide the most up-to-date information.