Moldova

Moldova, officially the Republic of Moldova, is a small yet wonderfully hospitable country in South-Eastern Europe, nestled between Romania and Ukraine. It attracts travellers with its picturesque, hilly landscapes, rich history and, of course, its age-old traditions of viticulture. Moldova offers a unique blend of tranquil, unhurried relaxation and an opportunity to experience an authentic culture where ancient customs harmoniously blend with modern life. For travellers from the UAE, it presents a lush, green escape, and citizens of the United Arab Emirates can enjoy visa-free travel to Moldova for up to 90 days.

The heart of the country is its capital, Chisinau, a green and lively city with wide boulevards, numerous parks, and interesting architecture. Here, you can wander through the historic centre, explore museums, and soak up the welcoming atmosphere. For Muslim travellers, Chisinau has a few mosques and prayer facilities, including the Islamic Centre (Mosque Kishinev). While halal food options are still growing, a number of restaurants serving kebab and other suitable dishes can be found. Moldova is renowned for its cultural heritage, reflected in its rock-hewn monasteries, ancient fortresses, and folk traditions passed down through generations.

Beyond the capital, Moldova prides itself on its celebrated wine-growing regions. A trip here would be incomplete without visiting its world-renowned underground cellars, such as Cricova, which house vast and unique collections. History and nature enthusiasts will appreciate Orhei, home to the famous Old Orhei archaeological complex with its ancient monasteries and breathtaking views. The mild climate and fertile lands make Moldova an excellent destination for agritourism and for discovering the local cuisine, known for its simplicity and rich flavours. When visiting religious sites or monasteries, a modest dress code is often appreciated.

The national currency of Moldova is the Moldovan leu (international code: MDL). The banknotes are adorned with images of prominent historical figures; for example, a portrait of the ruler Stephen the Great (Ștefan cel Mare) can be seen on various denominations. Coins are also in circulation. You can exchange currency at banks or official exchange offices (marked as "Casa de Schimb" or "Birou de Schimb Valutar"), which are easy to find in cities. It is advisable to avoid exchanging money with individuals on the street to prevent potential fraud.

Credit and debit cards, primarily Visa and Mastercard, are widely accepted for payment in Chișinău and other major cities, especially in hotels, restaurants, supermarkets, and shopping centres. However, it is preferable to have cash on hand in smaller towns, at markets, or in small shops. ATMs are also common in cities, allowing you to withdraw the required amount in lei.

Planning a trip to Moldova? Good news for UAE passport holders: you can enter Moldova for up to 90 days without a visa. The primary document required for crossing the border is a valid passport, which must be valid for at least 3 months after your intended date of departure from Moldova.

For residents of the UAE holding other nationalities that do require a visa, you will typically need to apply for one in advance at a Moldovan embassy or consulate. In some cases, an e-visa option may be available. Besides your passport, the standard set of documents you might need includes return flight tickets, proof of hotel booking, and a medical insurance policy. As regulations can change, we strongly recommend checking the most current visa information on the official websites of Moldova's diplomatic missions before your trip.

When planning a trip to Moldova, you will not need to worry about changing time zones within the country. The entire nation operates on a single time zone: Eastern European Time (EET), which is UTC+2. For travellers from the UAE, this means Moldova is two hours behind UAE local time (Gulf Standard Time, UTC+4).

It is also important to note that Moldova observes daylight saving. Clocks are moved forward by one hour from the last Sunday in March to the last Sunday in October, switching to Eastern European Summer Time (EEST), which is UTC+3. During this period, the time difference with the UAE is reduced to only one hour. As the UAE does not observe daylight saving time, it is always a good idea to confirm the current time difference before you travel.

There are several ways to get to Moldova, with air travel being the most common option for the majority of international travellers. The country's main air hub is Chișinău International Airport, located near the capital city, Chișinău. For those travelling from the UAE, flydubai operates direct flights from Dubai to Chișinău. Other airlines, such as Turkish Airlines and Pegasus Airlines, offer convenient connecting flights, allowing you to find a suitable itinerary.

For those who prefer to travel by land, Moldova is accessible via international bus and train routes. There are regular bus services connecting to neighbouring countries like Romania and Ukraine, as well as other European nations. The rail network also links Moldova with several countries in the region, offering an alternative way to enter the country. As Moldova is a landlocked country, it is not possible to arrive by sea. Regardless of your chosen mode of transport, it is advisable to book your tickets in advance, especially during the peak tourist season or public holidays, to secure the best prices and availability.

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

Moldova, a country with a rich history and a distinctive culture, offers tourists a variety of destinations for a fascinating journey. From bustling urban centres to quiet corners with unique traditions, everyone will find something to their liking here. The heart of the country is undoubtedly its capital, Chisinau, a green and hospitable city that combines Soviet-era monumentalism with a modern European look. Here you can stroll through shady parks, visit numerous museums and theatres, and enjoy the national cuisine in cosy restaurants. While halal-certified restaurants are limited, many places offer vegetarian and seafood dishes, and it is advisable to ask about ingredients.

Besides its capital, Moldova is famous for its winemaking traditions. One of the most famous places for connoisseurs is Cricova, home to the renowned wine cellars listed in the Guinness Book of Records. This is a genuine underground city with streets named after wine varieties. For those interested in history and culture, a visit to Soroca is a must, where an impressive medieval fortress stands tall. Also attractive is Orhei, known for the Old Orhei (Orheiul Vechi) historical and archaeological complex, where you can see traces of ancient civilisations. When visiting the monastery complex, a modest dress code should be observed: men should wear long trousers, while women are required to wear a long skirt or trousers and cover their heads.

Each of these cities and regions of Moldova has its own unique charm and is ready to offer travellers a unique experience. Discover the hospitality and beauty of this amazing country by exploring its most popular corners.

Moldova, a country of rich history and scenic natural beauty, offers visitors a wealth of fascinating places to explore. From tranquil parks to important historical monuments, there is truly something for everyone to enjoy.

One of the capital's most delightful spots for relaxation is Rose Valley Park. The park is renowned for its series of cascading lakes and, naturally, its splendid rose gardens, which are particularly captivating when in full bloom. It is the perfect setting for leisurely family walks and enjoying nature within the city limits.

In the city of Bălți stands the majestic Stephen the Great Monument. This monumental sculpture is dedicated to the eminent ruler of the Principality of Moldavia, Stephen III the Great. It serves as a significant symbol of national history and culture, drawing the attention of both local residents and international visitors.

For those who appreciate nature and serenity, a visit to the Dendrarium Park in Chișinău is essential. Its expansive grounds feature an impressive collection of trees, shrubs, and flowers from various parts of the world. It is a veritable open-air museum of greenery, where one can spend hours exploring the rich diversity of plant life.

Another of the capital's green jewels is Stephen the Great Central Park. As the oldest park in Chișinău, it is a cherished spot for relaxation among both residents and visitors. Here, you can enjoy a walk along shaded avenues, admire the fountains and monuments, including a bust of the famous poet A.S. Pushkin, who spent a portion of his exile in the city.

The best time to visit Moldova is from late spring to early autumn, roughly between May and September. During this period, the weather is warm, sunny, and most favourable for travel. It is perfect for strolling through cities like Chisinau, visiting the country's famous historic cellars, and enjoying the picturesque natural scenery. This is the high season, when all tourist attractions are fully operational and the country is vibrant with activity. However, be aware that summer months can be quite hot, and you can expect a higher number of tourists and increased prices for accommodation.

The shoulder season, covering April and October, is also an excellent time for a trip. In spring, nature is in full bloom, while autumn offers golden colours and a bountiful harvest. In early October, Moldova hosts the renowned National Wine Day (Ziua Vinului), a vibrant cultural festival celebrating the nation's rich grape harvest traditions, which attracts visitors from all over the world. During these months, there are generally fewer tourists and prices are more affordable, although the weather can be unpredictable. For travellers from the UAE, several airlines offer direct flights to Chisinau, making the journey convenient. While in the capital, visitors can also find some restaurants with halal food options. The low season is during the winter (from November to March). It is cold with a chance of snow. The advantages of visiting in winter include very low prices and the absence of tourist crowds, allowing for unhurried visits to museums and peaceful exploration of the vast underground cellars. However, some attractions, particularly in rural areas, may have reduced opening hours or be closed.

The people of Moldova are renowned for their warmth and hospitality. If you are invited into someone's home, consider it a sign of special respect. It is customary to bring a small gift for the hosts, such as flowers, a box of fine chocolates, or pastries. Declining a host's offer of food is not recommended, as they take pride in presenting the very best they have to their guests. A handshake is the standard form of greeting, particularly between men. When speaking with strangers or elders, it is polite to use a formal and respectful tone. Moldovans appreciate sincerity, so direct eye contact during a conversation is considered normal and a sign of attentiveness.

While there is no strict dress code for daily life, it is important to show respect for local traditions when visiting active churches and monasteries. Similar to the etiquette for visiting a mosque, women are advised to cover their head and shoulders, and to wear a skirt or dress that covers the knees. Men should avoid wearing shorts and sleeveless tops. At the dining table, the main principles are to be moderate and show respect for your hosts; be prepared for them to insistently offer you a variety of dishes as a sign of their generosity. It is advisable to avoid loud conversations in public places and to be punctual, as this is highly valued. Festivals are an important part of the culture. For instance, Mărțișor, celebrated on 1st March, symbolises the arrival of spring, when people give each other small red-and-white lapel pins. Independence Day on 27th August is also a major public holiday and is widely celebrated.

Moldova offers a variety of entertainment for its guests, from peaceful relaxation in nature to a rich cultural programme. Fans of outdoor activities can enjoy picturesque hiking and cycling routes through the country's hilly terrain or explore the scenic vineyard trails. Cultural life is concentrated in the cities, where travellers will find theatres, concert halls, museums with interesting exhibitions, and art galleries that introduce the country's rich heritage and contemporary art.

As evening arrives, a wide variety of restaurants, cafes, and clubs come to life, especially in the capital, Chisinau, where you can immerse yourself in an atmosphere of hospitality and fun. While some restaurants may offer halal options, it is advisable to confirm beforehand. For prayer facilities, visitors can find mosques in the city, such as the Chisinau Central Mosque. Shopping in Moldova is an opportunity to bring home not only local gastronomic specialities but also unique handmade crafts, such as ceramics, embroidery, and traditional carpets. Major cities also have modern shopping centres with a wide selection of goods.

Family-friendly holidays in Moldova also offer suitable options. Numerous city parks, such as Valea Morilor Park and Dendrariu Park, provide excellent conditions for walks and recreation with children. In some cities, you can find more active entertainment, such as water parks, which will bring joy to young travellers and their parents. The calm atmosphere and hospitality make the country attractive for family trips.

Planning a trip? That's wonderful! To avoid any financial surprises during your travels, it's important to remember that currency exchange rates constantly fluctuate. Therefore, we strongly advise monitoring the latest rates both before you fly and throughout your journey. To do this, you can use the data provided below — we monitor exchange rates 24/7 and aim to provide the most up-to-date information.