Dominican Republic

The Dominican Republic, occupying the eastern part of the picturesque island of Hispaniola, entices travellers with its endless white-sand beaches, turquoise waters of the Caribbean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean, and evergreen tropical forests. It is a country of eternal summer, where warm and sunny weather reigns year-round, creating the ideal conditions for an unforgettable holiday.

In addition to its natural beauty, the Dominican Republic boasts a rich history and a unique culture, which intertwines European, African, and Taíno traditions. The heart of the country is its capital, Santo Domingo, the oldest European city in the Americas, where every stone tells a story of the colonial era.

A holiday in the Dominican Republic offers more than just leisurely time on the beaches of famous resorts like Punta Cana. It is also an opportunity to immerse yourself in the vibrant rhythms of merengue and bachata, explore national parks with their unique flora and fauna, and enjoy the hospitality of the local people. Here, everyone will find an activity to suit their tastes, whether it's active pursuits or complete relaxation in a Caribbean paradise.

The national currency of the Dominican Republic is the Dominican Peso (DOP). Banknotes and coins of various denominations are in circulation, with the notes featuring important historical figures and national symbols of the country. It is recommended to exchange currency at official banks or authorised exchange offices (casas de cambio), which can be found in airports, cities, and tourist areas. Avoid exchanging money with street money changers to prevent fraud or unfavourable exchange rates.

Credit cards, particularly Visa and Mastercard, are widely accepted in most hotels, large shops, and restaurants in the tourist areas of the Dominican Republic. However, it is preferable to have cash in pesos for smaller local establishments, markets, or more remote parts of the country. It is also worth noting that a small commission may sometimes be charged for card payments. As a standard precaution for international travel, it is advisable to inform your bank in the UAE about your trip in advance to avoid your card being blocked.

When planning a trip to the Dominican Republic, it is essential to check the visa requirements in advance. Good news for UAE passport holders is that you do not need a visa for short-term tourist visits. Citizens of the United Arab Emirates can enter the Dominican Republic visa-free for a stay of up to 90 days.

Regardless of the visa-free status, you must have a valid passport, and its validity should cover the entire period of your intended stay. Some sources recommend a passport validity of at least six months beyond your entry date. Border officials may also ask for a return airline ticket, proof of accommodation, and evidence of sufficient funds for your stay. Additionally, all travellers entering or leaving the Dominican Republic must complete a mandatory electronic form, known as an E-ticket, before travel. This digital form combines the immigration, customs, and health declarations and generates a QR code that you must present upon arrival and departure. As visa and entry rules can change, we strongly recommend always checking the latest information on the official websites of the Dominican Republic's embassies or visa centres before your journey.

When planning your trip to the Dominican Republic, you will not need to worry about changing time zones within the country. The entire Dominican Republic operates on a single time zone – Atlantic Standard Time (AST), which is UTC-4. This means the time is the same across all cities and resort areas, including the capital, Santo Domingo, Punta Cana, Puerto Plata and other popular tourist destinations. For travellers from the UAE, it is useful to know that the Dominican Republic is 8 hours behind Gulf Standard Time (GST).

The absence of internal time zone changes makes planning transfers and excursions much simpler, allowing you to enjoy your holiday to the fullest without the need to adjust your watch.

Planning a trip to the sunny Dominican Republic? The main and most convenient way to reach this Caribbean paradise is by air. While there are no direct flights from the UAE, several major airlines offer convenient one-stop connections. From the UAE, you can fly with carriers like Emirates, Etihad, British Airways, and others via hubs in Europe or North America. The country has several international airports ready to welcome guests from all over the world. The largest of these, such as Punta Cana International Airport and Las Américas International Airport in the capital, Santo Domingo, serve as the main gateways. The most popular routes from the UAE are to Punta Cana and Santo Domingo.

For those who enjoy sea travel, the Dominican Republic is a popular destination for cruise liners, which often include its picturesque ports in their Caribbean itineraries. As for ground transport, the Dominican Republic shares the island of Hispaniola with Haiti, so entry by land is theoretically possible, but it is a less common option for most international tourists. In any case, to ensure your journey goes smoothly, we recommend booking your flights and accommodation in advance, especially if your trip falls during the peak tourist season, which typically lasts from December to April, as well as during public holidays.

For your reference, here is a summary of the country's main international airports:

The Dominican Republic offers travellers an amazing variety of destinations, from lively cities with a rich history to world-renowned resorts with paradise-like beaches. Every corner of this Caribbean country can provide unforgettable experiences, combining natural beauty, colonial heritage, and modern tourist infrastructure.

The ultimate destination for a beach holiday and the country's most popular resort is Punta Cana. This place is famous for its endless white-sand beaches, washed by the turquoise waters of the Atlantic Ocean, and its luxurious all-inclusive hotels. Punta Cana is an ideal choice for a serene holiday, water sports, and enjoying tropical nature.

For those interested in history and culture, a visit to the capital, Santo Domingo, is a must. It is the oldest European-founded city in the Americas, and its Colonial Zone is a UNESCO World Heritage site. Here, you can stroll through historic streets and see the first cathedral and the first university on the American continent. Equally appealing is Puerto Plata on the north coast, known for its picturesque landscapes, the Amber Museum, and the only cable car in the Caribbean, which leads to the top of Mount Isabel de Torres.

Among other popular resort areas is Bavaro, which is often considered part of the greater Punta Cana region but has its own unique charm, magnificent beaches, and well-developed tourist infrastructure. Whether you are looking for a secluded beach retreat, a deep dive into history, or active adventures, the Dominican Republic has cities and resorts to satisfy the most discerning taste.

The Dominican Republic is more than just endless white-sand beaches and azure seas. The country offers a wealth of amazing places capable of impressing even the most seasoned traveller. Discover some of the most spectacular attractions that will make your holiday unforgettable.

One of the gems of the north coast is the Puerto Plata Cable Car. Ascending by funicular to the summit of Mount Isabel de Torres, you can enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the city and the Atlantic Ocean. It is a wonderful opportunity to see Puerto Plata from a bird's-eye view and take stunning photographs.

On the same Mount Isabel de Torres lies the magnificent Isabel de Torres National Park. Here, you will find lush botanical gardens with exotic plants, winding paths for strolling, and the famous Christ the Redeemer statue, a smaller version of the one in Brazil. It is the perfect place for nature lovers wanting to enjoy the tranquillity and beauty of tropical flora.

For those looking to combine relaxation with some pleasant shopping, the Punta Cana Shopping Centre offers excellent opportunities. Located in one of the most popular resort areas, this mall provides a wide selection of shops, from souvenir stalls with local crafts to boutiques from well-known international brands. You can also find cosy cafés and restaurants to take a break after shopping, with some establishments in the wider Punta Cana area offering halal food options.

The Dominican Republic is a delight for tourists all year round, but the best time to travel depends on your preferences. The high season traditionally runs from December to April. During this time, the weather is at its most comfortable: lots of sun, pleasant air and water temperatures, and low humidity. This is the perfect period for beach holidays, diving, and excursions. However, it is worth noting that during the high season, the resorts are more crowded, and prices for accommodation and services can be higher.

The low season, or off-season, covers the period from May to November. Air and water temperatures remain high, but the likelihood of rain increases, along with humidity. The hurricane season also runs from June to November, although direct hits on popular resort areas are not that frequent. The advantages of this period are fewer holidaymakers and more attractive prices. If you are planning a trip at this time, it is wise to monitor the weather forecasts. One of the highlights that might influence your choice of when to visit is the famous Dominican Carnival, which takes place in February and early March in various cities across the country, including Santo Domingo and La Vega.

When travelling to the Dominican Republic, you will meet wonderfully warm and open people. Greetings are usually accompanied by a handshake, direct eye contact and a smile; do not forget to use the polite phrases ‘por favor’ (please) and ‘gracias’ (thank you). Dominicans greatly value personal connection and friendliness. Hospitality is an important part of the local culture: if you are invited into a Dominican home, it is a sign of sincere goodwill, and a small souvenir or sweets for the hosts would be a pleasant gesture. Remember that locals appreciate calm and respectful communication; try to avoid public displays of impatience. Also, be aware of the concept of ‘Dominican time’ – being late for informal meetings is not uncommon here, so it is best to be understanding.

Regarding appearance, light resort wear is perfectly acceptable on beaches and within hotel grounds. However, for walking around cities, visiting places of worship or official buildings, it is advisable to choose more modest attire that covers the shoulders and knees. At the dining table, Dominicans generally follow European rules of etiquette, and the atmosphere is usually relaxed and informal. To gain a deeper understanding of the country's soul, try to experience the celebration of Independence Day (27 February) – the main national holiday, filled with patriotism and pride – or the colourful February carnivals, which are especially vibrant in Santo Domingo and La Vega. These events offer a true immersion into Dominican traditions, lively music, and dance.

To ensure your interactions with local residents are as comfortable and pleasant as possible, try to avoid sharp criticism of the country or its customs. It is considered impolite to point at someone or something with your index finger; Dominicans often use their lips, puckering them in the desired direction, or simply nod their head instead. It is also best to avoid asking overly personal questions, especially when first meeting someone. Overall, a sincere interest, a smile, and respect for the local culture will always be met with warmth and will help you to get to know this wonderful country better.

The Dominican Republic offers tourists a kaleidoscope of entertainment to suit all tastes, turning any holiday into an unforgettable adventure. Fans of active recreation will find paradise here: from diving and snorkelling in the crystal-clear waters of the Caribbean Sea and the Atlantic Ocean to surfing the waves of the north coast. Boat trips, fishing, and buggy adventures through tropical forests are also popular. For family holidays, many resorts, especially in popular places like Punta Cana, offer entertainment programmes, kids' clubs, and safe beaches, as well as opportunities to visit theme parks and discover exotic nature.

The cultural life of the Dominican Republic is not only centred in its capital, Santo Domingo, with its rich historical heritage, museums, and colonial architecture, but is also evident in the numerous local festivals, music, and dances found throughout the country. In the evening, the promenades and tourist areas come alive, especially in the resort towns. Visitors can enjoy restaurants with Caribbean and international cuisine, with some establishments in major cities and resorts offering halal meal options upon request. Cosy cafes and lounges with live music and lively venues offer the chance to dance the merengue and bachata well into the night. The evening atmosphere here is relaxed and festive, perfect for socialising and having fun.

When it comes to shopping, popular souvenirs from the Dominican Republic traditionally include aromatic coffee, cocoa, local cigars, and sugarcane products. Items made from Larimar—a unique blue stone mined only here—and amber are also highly sought after. In tourist centres such as Punta Cana or Puerto Plata, you can find numerous souvenir shops and stores. In Santo Domingo, there are large shopping centres like the Agora Mall, which offers a wide range of goods. While dedicated prayer facilities are not widespread, the Al-Noor Mosque is located in Santo Domingo for daily prayers.

Planning a trip? Wonderful! To ensure the financial side of your journey doesn't bring any surprises, it is important to remember that currency exchange rates are constantly changing. Therefore, we strongly advise you to monitor the latest rates both before you fly and throughout your trip. You can use the data provided below for this purpose — we monitor currency rates 24/7 and strive to provide the most up-to-date information.