Sint Maarten

Sint Maarten is the charming southern part of the Caribbean island of Saint Martin, belonging to the Kingdom of the Netherlands. This small yet surprisingly diverse corner of paradise is renowned for its sunny climate, magnificent beaches, and a unique blend of European sophistication and a relaxed Caribbean atmosphere. The island offers a vibrant contrast of cultures, as its northern part belongs to France, making it one of the smallest landmasses in the world to be divided between two nations.

The capital of Sint Maarten is the bustling town of Philipsburg, known for its colourful colonial-style buildings, duty-free shops, and lively entertainment options along the Great Bay boardwalk. The island attracts fans of beach holidays and water sports. Here, you can find both secluded coves and famous beaches, such as Maho Beach, where aircraft fly directly over the heads of holidaymakers. Furthermore, the Sint Maarten Cruise Port is one of the most popular in the Caribbean, welcoming numerous cruise liners.

The atmosphere in Sint Maarten is friendly and welcoming. For visitors from the UAE, it is useful to know that the Muslim community on the island worships at the Sint Maarten Islamic Center in Philipsburg. While halal-certified restaurants are not widespread, several establishments offer Lebanese and Middle Eastern cuisine with many suitable options. The island's culinary scene is a highlight, blending European, Creole, and Caribbean traditions. Visitors can enjoy vibrant festivals or simply relax under the palm trees while enjoying the sea breeze. This destination is ideal for those seeking a combination of active recreation, cultural experiences, and serene relaxation on a tropical island.

The official currency of Sint Maarten (the Dutch part of the island) is the Netherlands Antillean guilder (ANG). However, the US dollar (USD) is also widely used and accepted almost everywhere, with many prices quoted in dollars. Travellers from the UAE will need to exchange their Dirhams (AED) for either USD, which is the most convenient option, or the local guilder. Guilder banknotes typically feature vibrant designs with images of local flora, fauna, or historical motifs, making them quite recognisable.

You can exchange currency for local guilders or US dollars at banks or official exchange offices, which can be found in Philipsburg and other tourist areas. It is advisable to avoid exchanging money with street money changers due to the risk of fraud or unfavourable exchange rates. Credit cards, such as Visa and MasterCard, are widely accepted in most hotels, restaurants, and large shops. Nevertheless, it is always useful to carry some cash for small purchases, visiting local markets, or for services where cards may not be accepted.

Please note that the Netherlands Antillean guilder (ANG) is scheduled to be replaced by the new Caribbean guilder (XCG) on March 31, 2025. Both currencies will be in circulation for a transitional period of three months.

When planning a trip to Sint Maarten, it is essential to understand the visa requirements in advance. For citizens of the United Arab Emirates, tourist travel to Sint Maarten is visa-free for up to 90 days. However, all travellers must carry a valid passport, and it is recommended to also have return tickets, proof of hotel booking, and medical insurance for the duration of your stay.

For UAE residents of other nationalities that do require a visa, this is typically a short-stay Caribbean visa, which must be obtained beforehand from an embassy or consulate of the Kingdom of the Netherlands. As visa regulations can change, we strongly advise you to check the most current information on the official websites of the diplomatic missions for Sint Maarten or the Kingdom of the Netherlands before your journey. This will help prevent any issues and ensure your holiday preparations are stress-free.

When planning a trip to Sint Maarten, you will not have to worry about changing time zones within the country. The entire territory of Sint Maarten is in a single time zone – Atlantic Standard Time (AST).

This corresponds to UTC-4, meaning the local time is four hours behind Coordinated Universal Time. For travellers from the UAE, it is useful to know that Sint Maarten's time is 8 hours behind Gulf Standard Time (UTC+4). Thanks to the single time zone, you can easily keep track of the time wherever you are on this beautiful Caribbean part of the island.

The most convenient way to reach Sint Maarten, a picturesque island in the Caribbean, is by air. For travellers originating from the UAE, there are no direct flights; however, several airlines offer convenient one-stop connections. You can fly with carriers such as Air France via Paris, KLM via Amsterdam, or through various North American hubs with airlines like Air Canada. Flights from Dubai (DXB) and Abu Dhabi (AUH) are readily available, connecting through these major European and American cities.

The island's key transport hub is the Princess Juliana International Airport (SXM), located on the Dutch side of the island, near the capital, Philipsburg. The airport accommodates regular flights from many cities in North America (USA, Canada), Europe (particularly the Netherlands and France), and numerous other Caribbean islands, ensuring smooth connections for travellers from all over the world.

In addition to air travel, Sint Maarten is a popular port of call for cruise liners, making a sea voyage another attractive option for arrival. Many Caribbean cruise itineraries include Philipsburg, allowing tourists to explore the island. There are also ferry services to the neighbouring islands of Anguilla, St. Barthélemy, and Saba. As Sint Maarten is an island, there are no direct land routes from other countries; however, movement between the Dutch (Sint Maarten) and French (Saint-Martin) sides of the island is completely unrestricted.

When planning your trip, especially during the high tourist season (typically from December to April), it is strongly recommended to book flights and accommodation well in advance. This not only guarantees availability but also often helps in finding more competitive prices.

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

Sint Maarten, a charming Caribbean island, is renowned for its vibrant towns and picturesque resort areas, attracting tourists from all over the world. Among its popular destinations are places where one can enjoy both active pursuits and serene relaxation on magnificent beaches.

The key and most famous town on the Dutch side of the island is its capital, Philipsburg. This vibrant town offers tourists a unique blend of Caribbean flair and European heritage. You can stroll through its historic streets with colourful architecture, relax on the famous Great Bay Beach, or immerse yourself in the world of shopping at its numerous duty-free stores. While specific halal-certified restaurants can be limited, the island's diverse culinary scene includes many restaurants offering excellent seafood and vegetarian options; some establishments like Bold Buddha and Newa Chopstix provide Asian fusion cuisine that may align with dietary preferences. Philipsburg is also a major port for cruise liners, which adds to its lively and cosmopolitan atmosphere.

Besides Philipsburg, Sint Maarten offers other attractive resort areas and charming towns, each with its own unique charm, ready to provide unforgettable Caribbean holiday experiences. Explore them to fully experience the diversity of this amazing island.

Despite its modest size, Sint Maarten offers tourists an amazing variety of experiences. One of the key points of interest is the Sint Maarten Cruise Port in Philipsburg. This is not just a transport hub, but a lively place with shops, restaurants, and beautiful views of the bay, from where many island excursions begin. For visitors seeking halal dining options, Philipsburg offers a variety of restaurants with diverse cuisines. While specific prayer rooms at the port are not listed, prayer times for Philipsburg are readily available, and it is possible to find a quiet space for prayer.

For connoisseurs of local heritage and unique flavours, a visit to Topper's Rhum Distillery is a must. Here, you can learn about the history and production of Caribbean rum. The tour offers a behind-the-scenes look at the fermentation, distillation, and blending process. While the tour includes tastings of their signature and speciality rhums, it also provides an opportunity to sample non-alcoholic products like rum-infused cakes and gelato. This is an excellent chance to engage with local traditions and purchase authentic souvenirs.

Nature and exotic bird lovers will certainly enjoy Parotte Ville Bird Park. This welcoming sanctuary allows you to get up close with colourful parrots and other tropical birds, learn about their habits, and take bright photos. The park provides a calm and educational experience for the whole family and also features a heritage museum.

And if you are looking for something truly unusual, check out the Yoda Guy Movie Exhibit. This unique attraction was created by Nick Maley, one of the make-up artists who worked on the creation of the Yoda character for "Star Wars". It features memorabilia related to the filming of the famous saga and other works by the artist, making it a real find for science-fiction movie fans.

Sint Maarten, with its tropical maritime climate, enjoys warm weather all year round, but the best time to visit largely depends on your preferences. The high season traditionally runs from December to April. During these months, you can expect dry, sunny weather with comfortable temperatures, perfect for beach holidays, water sports, and exploring the island. This period is considered optimal for most activities. However, be prepared for a larger number of tourists and, consequently, higher prices for accommodation and services.

The low season, or off-season, falls between May and November. During this time, the island is hotter and more humid, with an increased chance of brief showers. The main drawback of this period is the hurricane season, which officially lasts from June to November, with peak activity typically from August to October. The advantages, however, are a significant reduction in the number of tourists and more attractive prices for flights and hotels. Some establishments may operate on reduced hours or close entirely during this period, particularly on the French side of the island. If you plan to travel at this time, be sure to monitor the weather forecasts closely. Notable events that attract tourists include the annual Sint Maarten Heineken Regatta in early March and the vibrant Carnival, which usually takes place in April, filling the streets of Philipsburg and other areas of the island with music and dancing.

The culture of Sint Maarten is a vibrant kaleidoscope of Caribbean, European, and American influences, which makes interacting with the local residents particularly interesting. Greetings are generally warm and friendly; a standard handshake and eye contact are perfectly appropriate. Locals will appreciate it if you begin a conversation with a simple "Good morning" or "Good afternoon" – English is widely spoken here. Hospitality is valued on the island, and if you are invited to someone's home, a small token of appreciation, such as a souvenir from your country or something for the table, is a thoughtful gesture, although it is not strictly required.

Regarding clothing, resort fashion is perfectly suitable for beaches and pools. However, when visiting towns like Philipsburg, shops, or restaurants, it is better to opt for more modest, casual attire. Some upmarket establishments may not permit entry in the evening to guests wearing shorts or beach footwear. To better understand the spirit of the island, try to experience its two main festivals: the Carnival (typically held between April and May), a spectacular procession with music, dancing, and colourful costumes, and St. Martin's Day (11th November), which unites both parts of the island in a shared celebration with cultural events and fairs. At the dining table, standard European rules of etiquette are generally followed.

When communicating, try to be polite, avoid raising your voice, and be respectful of the local, more relaxed pace of life – the famous "island time". It is considered good manners to greet people when entering small shops or other establishments. Always ask for permission before photographing people, as this is a sign of respect for their personal space. To avoid causing any discomfort, it is best to steer clear of sensitive political topics. Demonstrating patience and a friendly smile will help you connect with the islanders and ensure you have the most pleasant experience.

Sint Maarten offers guests a variety of exciting ways to spend their time, catering to the interests of many different travellers. The island is famous for its magnificent beaches, which are ideal for both relaxing holidays and active water sports. Diving and snorkelling in the crystal-clear waters of the Caribbean Sea are popular, as are sailing, fishing, and jet skiing. For those who enjoy exploring nature on land, there are opportunities for hiking along scenic trails with breathtaking views.

The island's cultural life reflects its rich heritage and Caribbean flavour. While Sint Maarten may not have an abundance of large, world-class theatres or concert halls, you can find small galleries showcasing the work of local artists and enjoy live music in restaurants and bars, often featuring calypso, reggae, and soca. As darkness falls, the island comes alive: the nightlife is mainly centred around the Philipsburg area and popular resorts, offering numerous bars, restaurants with diverse international cuisine, and casinos where you can try your luck. Visitors will find that many establishments can cater to specific dietary needs, including halal-friendly choices. The atmosphere ranges from relaxed seaside lounges to lively dance floors.

Shopping in Sint Maarten is a pleasure in itself, as the island is a duty-free zone. Philipsburg is especially popular for its numerous shops offering jewellery, watches, electronics, designer clothing, and local specialities and spices, which make excellent souvenirs. For a family holiday, the island offers safe beaches with gentle entry into the water, as well as some specialised activities, such as visiting parks with exotic birds or taking a boat trip that will appeal to both adults and children.

Planning a trip? That's wonderful! To avoid any financial surprises during your travels, it is important to remember that currency exchange rates are constantly changing. When travelling from the UAE, you will be exchanging the UAE Dirham (AED) for the local currency of Sint Maarten, the Netherlands Antillean Guilder (ANG). However, the US Dollar is widely accepted across the island and is used for most transactions. Therefore, we strongly advise you to keep track of the latest rates, both before you fly and throughout your journey. You can use the data provided below for this purpose; we monitor currency rates 24/7 and aim to provide the most current information available.