Gambia

The Gambia is the smallest country on mainland Africa, charming travellers with its unique atmosphere and natural treasures. As a welcoming Muslim-majority nation, it offers a culture of warm hospitality. Situated along the mighty Gambia River, from which it takes its name, the country is almost entirely surrounded by Senegal, with only a narrow coastline on the Atlantic Ocean. This distinct geography largely defines its character and way of life.

The culture of The Gambia is vibrant and welcoming, with a history closely intertwined with the river that once served as a major trade route. The nation's capital, Banjul, located on an island at the river's mouth, is the starting point for many journeys. The Gambia is renowned for its pleasant tropical climate, golden beaches, and an incredible diversity of birdlife, making it a paradise for ornithologists and nature lovers. The relaxed and friendly atmosphere is perfect for a leisurely holiday spent discovering local traditions, where halal food is widely available.

Beyond the coast, The Gambia offers many fascinating places to explore. You can embark on a river cruise, visit bustling markets, such as in the city of Serekunda, or encounter unique wildlife, like the sacred crocodiles at the Kachikally Crocodile Pool in Bakau. The Gambia leaves a lasting impression as a wonderfully sunny and hospitable country where there is something for everyone to enjoy.

The official currency of Gambia is the Gambian dalasi (GMD). Banknotes are in circulation in various denominations, often featuring local birds, animals, or portraits of the country's prominent figures. Coins, called bututs (1 dalasi = 100 bututs), are used less frequently due to their low value. It is advisable to carry a sufficient amount of cash, as this is the primary method of payment in most places.

You can exchange foreign currency for dalasi at banks and licensed exchange bureaus, which are typically located in tourist areas and in the capital, Banjul. Try to avoid exchanging money with street money changers, as this can involve the risk of fraud or an unfavourable exchange rate. Credit cards are mainly accepted in large hotels, some restaurants, and supermarkets in tourist areas; however, their use is not as widespread as in other countries. Therefore, for daily expenses, purchases at markets, and paying for services in smaller establishments, it is best to always have cash in dalasi with you.

When planning a trip to The Gambia, it is important to clarify the visa requirements in advance. For citizens of the United Arab Emirates, a visa is not required for short stays. UAE passport holders are permitted to stay in the country for up to 90 days without a visa. However, for residents of the UAE who hold other passports, a visa may need to be obtained in advance from the Embassy of The Gambia in Abu Dhabi.

Regardless of visa status, all travellers will need a valid passport to enter the country, which should be valid for the entire duration of your stay. It is also recommended to have return tickets, confirmation of your hotel booking, and a medical insurance policy. As visa regulations can change, we strongly advise checking the most current information on the official websites of The Gambia's embassies or visa centres before your trip.

When planning your trip to Gambia, you will not need to worry about changing time zones within the country. The whole of Gambia is in a single time zone: Greenwich Mean Time (GMT) or UTC+0. This means the time is the same in all cities and regions, including the capital, Banjul. For travellers from the UAE, it is useful to know that Gambia is 4 hours behind UAE time.

This consistency makes it much simpler to plan your movements and activities during your trip to this West African nation. You will not have to adjust your watch when travelling between different regions, making for a more comfortable and convenient holiday.

There are several ways to get to The Gambia, a charming country in West Africa, but the most common and convenient method is by air. The main gateway to the country is Yundum International Airport (BJL), located near the capital, Banjul.

For travellers from the UAE, there are no direct flights to The Gambia, but convenient one-stop connections are readily available. The most popular routes from Dubai and Abu Dhabi are typically via hubs in Africa or Europe. Major airlines such as Turkish Airlines (via Istanbul), Royal Air Maroc (via Casablanca), and Ethiopian Airlines offer connecting flights to Banjul. You can also check with leading UAE carriers like Emirates or Etihad Airways for potential codeshare partnerships that may provide seamless travel options.

For those who prefer overland travel or combined itineraries, it is possible to enter The Gambia from neighbouring Senegal, which surrounds the country on three sides. Several border crossings are open for cars, buses, or shared taxis. This can be an interesting option for exploring the region, but it is wise to consider the condition of the roads and potential delays at the border. As for sea travel, regular international passenger ferry services to The Gambia are limited, although the port of Banjul occasionally accommodates cruise ships. The country's inland waterways, especially the River Gambia, play a vital role in its domestic transport system but are not a primary means of international travel.

Regardless of your chosen mode of transport, it is advisable to book your tickets well in advance, especially if your trip falls within the peak tourist season (typically from November to April). It is also essential to check the latest visa requirements before planning your trip to hospitable The Gambia. While UAE citizens can enter visa-free for up to 90 days, other UAE residents must obtain a visa in advance from the Embassy of The Gambia in Abu Dhabi.

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

Gambia, often called ‘The Smiling Coast of Africa’, attracts travellers not only with its famous beaches but also with the opportunity to immerse oneself in a unique culture and explore its colourful cities and resort areas. There is something for everyone here: from serene relaxation on the golden sands of the Atlantic Ocean to discovering a vibrant city life and historical heritage.

Your journey should begin in the capital city – Banjul. This port city, located on an island, charms visitors with its colonial architecture, the bustling Albert Market, and the National Museum, where you can learn about the country's history. Nearby, life buzzes in Serekunda, Gambia’s largest city. It is a true melting pot of cultures, known for its craft markets where you can buy unique handmade items and experience an authentic African atmosphere.

For those seeking a combination of a beach holiday and nature, Bakau is the ideal choice. This resort town is famous for its botanical gardens, the sacred Kachikally crocodile pool and, of course, its beautiful beaches. And in Kanifing, an important commercial and residential centre, you can immerse yourself in modern Gambian life, visit local markets, and feel the country's dynamic development.

Despite its modest size, The Gambia offers travellers unique experiences and fascinating places to visit. Here, you can discover incredible nature, experience the local culture, and unwind on the coast of the Atlantic Ocean. Among the country's iconic sites, a few stand out as particularly remarkable.

One of The Gambia's most unusual and popular attractions is the Kachikally Crocodile Pool. This is a sacred site where, according to local beliefs, the crocodiles are thought to possess healing powers. Tourists can not only observe these ancient reptiles in their natural habitat but, with a bit of courage and under the watchful eye of guides, can even touch some of them. This location offers a deeper understanding of local traditions and beliefs, and an adjacent museum provides further insight into Gambian history and culture.

For those seeking a comfortable oceanfront retreat, the Ocean Bay Hotel & Spa provides luxurious accommodation and first-class service. Situated on a picturesque coastline, this five-star resort is an excellent destination for relaxation, enjoying the sun, and engaging in water sports. The hotel is well-suited for families, featuring a children's pool and playground. Its restaurants serve a variety of international cuisines, with halal and vegetarian options available to cater to all guests.

When planning a trip to The Gambia, it is important to consider the two main climate seasons, which determine the best time to visit. As The Gambia is a Muslim-majority country, travellers from the UAE will find a welcoming environment with readily available halal food and prayer facilities, making it a comfortable and culturally familiar destination.

The high season runs from approximately November to May. This period offers dry, sunny weather with comfortable temperatures and low humidity, making it ideal for beach holidays, excursions, and birdwatching—a famous attraction in The Gambia. Daytime temperatures typically range from 30-34°C, while the nights are pleasantly cool. The only drawbacks of this period can be higher prices for accommodation and more tourists at popular resorts and in Banjul.

The low season, or the green season, occurs from June to October. This time is characterised by higher temperatures and humidity, as well as short but intense rain showers, which most often occur in the afternoon or at night. Despite the rain, this season has its advantages: nature comes alive, everything turns a brilliant emerald green, there are significantly fewer tourists, and prices for hotels and services can be lower. For travellers from the UAE looking to escape the summer heat, this lush, green environment can be a refreshing change. However, some roads, particularly in remote areas, may become difficult to travel on. For photography enthusiasts, this period can offer incredible landscapes. While The Gambia has few cultural festivals tied to specific dates, local markets and celebrations are active year-round, allowing you to immerse yourself in the country's authentic atmosphere at any time.

Gambia is a country with rich cultural traditions, where hospitality is highly valued. Greetings play an important role here: it is customary to shake hands, often for a considerable length of time, always using the right hand, as the left hand is traditionally considered unclean for passing items or food. Maintaining eye contact during a conversation is also important and is seen as a sign of respect. If you are invited to someone's home, a small gift, such as fruit or sweets, will be gratefully accepted, although it is not strictly required. In terms of dress, especially outside of tourist areas and when visiting religious sites, it is recommended to choose modest attire that covers the shoulders and knees. This is a sign of respect for local customs, which are predominantly Muslim.

At the dinner table, Gambians often eat together from one large communal dish, using their right hand or a shared spoon. It is polite to wait for elders or the hosts to begin the meal. It is important to remember to ask for permission before photographing local people. Public displays of affection between men and women are not customary and may be met with disapproval. Avoid openly criticising local customs or religion and always show respect for your elders—this will help you build warm relationships with local people. Key events in the country include Independence Day (18 February), which is marked by parades and cultural activities, as well as important Muslim holidays such as Eid al-Adha (known locally as Tobaski) and Eid al-Fitr (known as Koriteh). The dates for these festivals are determined by the lunar calendar and are marked by family celebrations and feasts.

The Gambia offers a diverse range of leisure activities, especially for those who appreciate nature and authentic experiences. Active recreation here is closely linked to the country's unique geography: from relaxing on the sandy beaches of the Atlantic Ocean to fascinating boat trips along the majestic Gambia River, which is the true artery of the country. Birdwatching holds a special place – The Gambia is famous for its incredible variety of birdlife, which can be seen in its numerous national parks and reserves. River and sea fishing are also popular.

Cultural entertainment in The Gambia allows for a deep immersion into the West African atmosphere. Travellers can explore lively local markets, such as Albert Market in Banjul, where you can find everything from fresh produce to traditional fabrics and souvenirs. An introduction to the local culture is incomplete without traditional music and energetic dancing, which often accompany festivals or are part of evening programmes at hotels. Visiting craft villages provides an opportunity not only to buy unique handmade items but also to see them being made. In the capital and other cities, such as Serekunda, you can find small museums that narrate the history and way of life of the Gambian people.

Nightlife in The Gambia is mainly concentrated in the tourist areas along the coast, such as the Senegambia district. It is characterised by a relaxed and friendly atmosphere. Evenings can be spent in one of the many restaurants offering both local cuisine (such as domoda or yassa) and international dishes. As The Gambia is a Muslim-majority country, halal food is widely available in restaurants and markets. Many establishments delight guests with live music – from traditional African rhythms to reggae. Beach bars are the perfect place to enjoy a refreshing drink while admiring the sunset. As for shopping, visitors to The Gambia typically bring back items from local artisans: wooden sculptures and masks, batik, vibrant fabrics, handmade jewellery, woven goods, and musical instruments like the kora.

For a family holiday, The Gambia offers safe and clean beaches with a gentle entry into the sea, which is ideal for children. A visit to nature reserves and parks, where you can observe monkeys, various bird species, and other animals in their natural habitat, will be an exciting adventure for the whole family. One such interesting place is the Kachikally Crocodile Pool, where you can see these ancient reptiles up close. Many hotels are also geared towards family holidays and offer kids' clubs and entertainment programmes.

Planning a trip? Wonderful! To ensure you avoid any financial surprises during your journey, it is important to remember that currency exchange rates are constantly changing. We therefore strongly advise monitoring the latest rates, both before you depart and throughout your travels. You can use the data provided below for this purpose; we monitor currency rates 24/7 to provide the most up-to-date information.