Cayman Islands

The Cayman Islands are a British Overseas Territory, comfortably situated in the western Caribbean Sea. This small archipelago, consisting of three islands – Grand Cayman, Cayman Brac, and Little Cayman – entices travellers with its idyllic landscapes, luxurious resorts, and unique underwater world. The islands are renowned for their calm and safe atmosphere, making them an attractive destination for a relaxing holiday.

The heart of the archipelago is Grand Cayman, home to its capital, George Town. It is a bustling centre with duty-free shops, restaurants, and historic buildings; many dining establishments also offer halal food options upon request. The islands offer incredible opportunities for diving and snorkelling, thanks to the coral reefs and rich marine fauna. One of its main gems is the famous Seven Mile Beach, known for its pristine white sand and turquoise water. The tropical maritime climate ensures warm weather year-round, perfect for water activities and exploring nature.

The culture of the Cayman Islands is a harmonious blend of British heritage and Caribbean traditions, which is reflected in the local cuisine, music, and hospitality. Beyond beach holidays, the islands offer other interesting places; for example, the island of Cayman Brac attracts nature lovers with its limestone caves and hiking trails. The Cayman Islands are a place where you can enjoy a high level of service, explore stunning nature, and immerse yourself in an atmosphere of Caribbean tranquillity.

The national currency of the Cayman Islands is the Cayman Islands Dollar (KYD). The banknotes are quite colourful, featuring a portrait of Queen Elizabeth II, along with images of local flora and fauna. The coins also display symbols that reflect the nature and history of the islands. It is recommended to exchange currency at banks or official exchange offices; avoid questionable offers from street money changers. US Dollars are also frequently accepted for payment, especially in tourist areas, but you will most likely receive your change in the local currency.

Credit cards (Visa, MasterCard, American Express) are widely accepted in most hotels, restaurants, and large shops in the Cayman Islands. However, it is always useful to carry a small amount of cash for minor purchases, paying for taxis, or visiting local markets where card terminals may not be available. ATMs (Automated Teller Machines) are also accessible, particularly in Georgetown and other tourist centres, allowing you to withdraw cash in the local currency.

When planning a trip to the Cayman Islands, it is essential to familiarise yourself with the visa requirements beforehand. For citizens of the United Arab Emirates, a visa is required for tourism and business purposes. Regardless of visa status, all travellers must have a valid passport, and for UAE citizens, it must be valid for at least six months beyond the intended period of stay.

If a visa is necessary for your visit to the Cayman Islands, you will typically need to apply for a tourist visa. As the Cayman Islands are a British Overseas Territory, the application process is often handled through the embassies or consulates of the United Kingdom. In addition to a valid passport, it is recommended to have proof of accommodation, return or onward tickets, and a medical insurance policy. Since visa regulations can change, we strongly advise you to check the most current information on the official Cayman Islands immigration service websites or with the relevant UK diplomatic missions before planning your journey.

When planning a trip to the Cayman Islands, you will not have to worry about changing time zones within the country. The entire territory operates on a single time zone, Eastern Standard Time (EST), which is UTC-5. This means the time is the same on all islands of the archipelago, including Grand Cayman, Cayman Brac, and Little Cayman.

For travellers from the UAE, it is useful to note that the Cayman Islands are 9 hours behind Gulf Standard Time (GST). The UAE operates on UTC+4, and neither territory observes daylight saving time, making the time difference consistent throughout the year.

The absence of internal time zone changes or daylight saving time makes scheduling trips and activities on the islands very convenient. You can be sure that the time in George Town will be the same as on any other island, at any time of year.

The easiest way to reach the Cayman Islands is by air. For travellers from the UAE, there are no direct flights, but several convenient options with one or two stops are available. The most common routes involve connecting through major hubs in Europe, such as London, or in the USA, like Miami, New York, or Toronto. Airlines like Emirates, Etihad, British Airways, and Air Canada offer connecting flights to the country's main gateway, Owen Roberts International Airport (GCM), located in the capital, George Town. Flight times, including layovers, typically start from around 20 hours. In addition to the main airport, there are also airfields on the other islands of the archipelago which handle local and some international charter flights.

For those who enjoy sea travel, the Cayman Islands are a popular destination for cruise liners, which regularly call at the port of George Town. This is an excellent way to combine a visit to the islands with a wider Caribbean cruise. Given their island location, the Cayman Islands have no land connections to other countries. Regardless of your chosen mode of travel, it is advisable to book your flights and accommodation in advance, especially if your trip falls during the peak tourist season, to secure the best prices and availability.

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

The Cayman Islands offer travellers a unique blend of modern amenities and unspoiled Caribbean nature, spread across three main resort islands. Each has its own distinct charm, whether you are looking for a bustling centre or a secluded paradise. The main town and financial heart of the archipelago is George Town, located on Grand Cayman. It is not only a popular cruise port with duty-free shops but also the starting point for exploring the famous Seven Mile Beach and the rich underwater world. For Muslim travellers, the Islamic Society of the Cayman Islands is also located in George Town, providing a mosque and community hub.

For those seeking a more active holiday and a connection with nature, the island of Cayman Brac will be a true discovery. It is famous for its impressive limestone cliffs, mysterious caves, and scenic hiking trails. If your dream is maximum seclusion and an atmosphere of serenity, then the smallest of the islands, Little Cayman, offers just that. This small island is a true sanctuary of tranquillity, an ideal place for observing rare bird species, iguanas, and enjoying untouched beaches.

The Cayman Islands are famous for their amazing natural and man-made attractions, which draw tourists from all over the world. There is something for everyone here, from relaxing beach holidays to active pursuits and encounters with unique marine wildlife.

One of the islands' most famous gems is Seven Mile Beach. This magnificent stretch of coastline, with its white coral sand and crystal-clear turquoise water, is ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports. Along the beach, you will find numerous hotels, restaurants, and cafes creating a lively atmosphere.

A visit to Stingray City offers an incredible experience. This unique shallow water area allows you to swim with and feed friendly southern stingrays. Interacting with these gentle sea creatures in their natural habitat will create unforgettable memories for both adults and children.

For those seeking modern entertainment and shopping, a visit to Camana Bay is a must. This vibrant town offers a wide selection of shops, restaurants, and cafes, as well as a cinema and an observation tower with panoramic views. While many restaurants offer varied international menus, it is worth noting that some establishments may provide halal meat options if you call ahead to make arrangements. The town frequently hosts various events and festivals, making it a cultural hub on the island.

Another beautiful spot for relaxing by the water is Smith's Barcadere, also known as Smith Cove. This is a small but very picturesque cove with white sand, pristine water, and rocky formations along its edges. The beach is excellent for snorkelling right from the shore, as well as for enjoying a picnic in the shade of the trees.

The Cayman Islands enjoys warm weather all year round, but the best time to visit depends on your preferences. The high season runs from approximately December to April. During this period, the weather is most comfortable: sunny, dry, and with pleasant air and water temperatures, which is ideal for beach holidays, diving and snorkelling. However, it is worth noting that there are more tourists on the islands during this time, and prices for accommodation and services can be higher.

The low season, or rainy season, occurs from May to November. The weather becomes hotter and more humid, and the likelihood of short tropical showers increases. The official hurricane season lasts from June to November, although direct hits are not very frequent. The advantages of this period are fewer tourists and more affordable prices for hotels and flights. Many divers appreciate this time for the calm seas and excellent underwater visibility when there are no storms. A noteworthy event is the annual Pirates Week festival, which usually takes place in November and attracts many visitors with its vibrant parades, music, and fireworks. From May to November, you can also watch sea turtles nesting on some beaches.

The Cayman Islands are renowned for their friendly and hospitable atmosphere, where politeness and respect for local traditions are highly valued. When greeting someone, a smile and a simple "Good morning", "Good afternoon", or "Good evening" will suffice. A handshake is a common form of greeting, particularly when meeting someone for the first time. Maintaining eye contact during a conversation is perceived as a sign of openness and sincerity. Although the style of dress on the islands is generally casual and relaxed, it is important to remember that beachwear and swimwear are appropriate only at the beach or by the pool. Appearing in such attire in public places, shops, or restaurants is considered poor form. For visiting churches, it is advisable to choose more modest clothing that covers the shoulders and knees, a sign of respect that will be familiar to visitors from the UAE.

The local people are very hospitable, and if you are invited to their home, a small souvenir or a treat from your home country would be a pleasant gesture, though it is not strictly required. At the dining table, standard European etiquette is observed. To show respect for the local culture, try to avoid overly loud behaviour in public places and do not rush things – "island time" implies a more measured pace of life. While many restaurants serve international cuisine, visitors seeking halal options may find them in select establishments, often with advance notice. It is strictly forbidden to sunbathe topless or nude, as this is prohibited by law. It is also always wise to ask for permission before photographing local residents, so as not to invade their privacy.

One of the most vibrant and unique cultural events is the annual Pirates Week Festival, which will take place across the islands from 8 to 22 November 2025. This is a colourful celebration of the islands' pirate history, featuring parades, music, dancing, and theatrical performances that attract both locals and tourists. Taking part in or observing this festival offers an excellent opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of the spirit and history of the Cayman Islands. Following these simple rules and showing an interest in local customs will make your journey even more pleasant and rewarding.

The Cayman Islands offer a wide range of entertainments to suit every taste, but they are especially famous for their outstanding opportunities for water-based activities. The crystal-clear turquoise waters of the Caribbean Sea create perfect conditions for world-class diving and snorkelling, allowing you to explore colourful coral reefs and discover an amazing underwater world. Sailing, deep-sea fishing, kayaking, and boat trips are also popular. On islands such as Cayman Brac, you can find interesting hiking trails and explore caves, adding variety to your active leisure time.

For those who appreciate cultural entertainment, the capital city of George Town offers several museums where you can learn about the history and culture of the islands, as well as art galleries featuring works by local artists. As evening approaches, the islands come alive: the nightlife is mainly centred around the famous Seven Mile Beach and in George Town. Here, a multitude of restaurants offers dishes for every palate—from fresh seafood to exquisite international cuisine, with many establishments providing halal options upon request. Cosy bars invite you to relax with a tropical beverage. Shopping in the Cayman Islands is attractive due to the availability of duty-free jewellery, watches, and designer goods. For souvenirs, tourists often bring back local rum, the famous rum cakes, and handmade crafts, which can be found in boutiques and shops in Camana Bay or the capital.

A family holiday in the Cayman Islands will also create unforgettable memories. In addition to the magnificent beaches, which are ideal for playing and swimming, the islands offer unique opportunities to get acquainted with marine life. One of the most popular family attractions is a visit to the famous Stingray City, where you can swim with and feed friendly stingrays in their natural habitat. The islands also have turtle farms and centres offering educational and entertaining programmes for children and adults, making the Cayman Islands an excellent choice for a family trip.

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