Svalbard

Svalbard is a harsh and majestic archipelago in the Arctic Ocean, located halfway between mainland Norway and the North Pole. This is a world where nature dictates the rules: there are more polar bears than people, and the landscapes captivate the imagination with glaciers, fjords, and vast tundra. A journey here is an opportunity to find yourself at the edge of the world, where the polar night gives way to the midnight sun, creating a truly unforgettable atmosphere.

Most journeys through the archipelago begin in its administrative centre, the town of Longyearbyen. It is the world's northernmost settlement with a population of over a thousand people and serves as the gateway to the Arctic wilderness. Despite its modest size, the town offers surprisingly well-developed infrastructure with hotels, restaurants, and cultural sites. To gain a deeper understanding of the history of this region's exploration and its local nature, a visit to the Svalbard Museum is highly recommended, as it houses a collection of unique exhibits.

Svalbard attracts adventure seekers from all over the globe. In winter, you can witness the Northern Lights, ride snowmobiles, and experience dog sledding, while summer offers hiking to glaciers and boat trips to observe whales and walruses. This is a destination for those seeking a unique experience and who are ready to encounter wild, pristine nature. After an eventful day, you can visit the world's northernmost Svalbard Brewery, a notable local landmark.

The official currency in Svalbard is the Norwegian krone (international code: NOK), as the archipelago is under the sovereignty of Norway. Norwegian kroner are issued as banknotes in various denominations (e.g., 50, 100, 200, 500, and 1,000 kroner) and coins. The design of the banknotes is modern, often featuring maritime themes and famous Norwegian figures. It is advisable to exchange your money for Norwegian kroner before arriving in the archipelago. ATMs are extremely limited in Svalbard, with only one available in Longyearbyen, so it is highly recommended to withdraw cash in mainland Norway before you travel. While some major hotels may offer currency exchange, it is best to confirm this in advance as such services are very limited.

Credit and debit cards (especially Visa and Mastercard) are widely accepted in Svalbard, particularly in Longyearbyen. Most hotels, restaurants, shops, and tour providers prefer cashless payment. In fact, in many places, card payment is the primary or even the sole method of transaction. Therefore, there is no need to carry large sums of cash. Nevertheless, a small amount of cash might be useful for minor, unforeseen expenses, although such situations are rare.

When planning a trip to Svalbard, it is important to understand its unique status. The archipelago itself is a visa-free zone, meaning that you do not need a visa to stay on Svalbard. However, as the vast majority of travel routes to Svalbard pass through mainland Norway, which is part of the Schengen Area, you must comply with Norway's visa regulations.

For residents of the UAE who are not citizens of a Schengen visa-exempt country, a Schengen visa is required to enter Norway. Crucially, because Svalbard is outside the Schengen Area, you will need a double-entry or multiple-entry Schengen visa. This is because you enter the Schengen Area in Norway, exit it to fly to Svalbard, and must then re-enter the Schengen Area from Svalbard for your return journey. Regardless of visa requirements, a valid passport is mandatory for visiting Svalbard. It is also recommended to carry proof of accommodation booking, return tickets, and a medical insurance policy that provides coverage for the Arctic region. As visa rules and entry conditions can change, we strongly advise you to check the most up-to-date information on the official website of the Governor of Svalbard (Sysselmesteren på Svalbard) and with the Norwegian consular services in the UAE before your trip.

When planning a trip to Svalbard, you will not need to worry about changing time zones within the archipelago. The entirety of Svalbard operates on a single time zone, Central European Time (CET). In winter, this is UTC+1, while in the summer, it observes Central European Summer Time (CEST), which is UTC+2. Daylight saving time begins on the last Sunday in March and ends on the last Sunday in October. Therefore, the time in the archipelago's capital, Longyearbyen, is the same as on all the other islands.

There are several main ways to get to Svalbard, a remote Arctic archipelago, with air travel being the most dominant method. For travellers originating in the UAE, the journey typically involves flying to Oslo, the capital of Norway, and then taking a connecting flight. Airlines such as Emirates and Etihad offer flights from Dubai and Abu Dhabi to Oslo. From Oslo, airlines like Scandinavian Airlines (SAS) and Norwegian operate year-round services to the archipelago's main gateway, Svalbard Airport, which is located near the administrative centre, Longyearbyen. Given the archipelago's unique and isolated location, there is no direct land connection to the mainland.

During the summer navigation season, Svalbard also becomes a destination for some expedition cruise liners. This is more of an opportunity for an exciting Arctic journey rather than a regular mode of transport for independent tourists. However, if you plan to explore the fjords and observe wildlife from a vessel, this option can be very appealing.

When planning a trip to Svalbard, it is crucial to book your flights and accommodation well in advance. This is especially true for the peak tourist season, which occurs during the summer months. Demand increases significantly at this time, and finding available options at the last minute can be difficult.

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

Svalbard, an archipelago in the Arctic Ocean, offers unique Arctic experiences, and its settlements, though few in number, serve as gateways to this incredible world. The main and largest settlement, as well as the administrative centre, is Longyearbyen. This town is the starting point for most expeditions and tours across the archipelago.

Longyearbyen attracts travellers with its extraordinary atmosphere as the world's northernmost town with a permanent population of over one thousand people. Here, you can learn about the history of Arctic exploration, visit the local museum, and see the world's northernmost church. For Muslim travellers, there are no dedicated mosques, but prayer can be performed in private accommodations. While there are no halal-certified restaurants, many establishments offer seafood and vegetarian options. The town provides a unique opportunity to witness majestic nature – from vast glaciers to polar animals in their natural habitat. Of course, all excursions into the wild must be done with a professional guide while observing strict safety precautions. The town also offers incredible opportunities to see the Northern Lights in winter and experience the midnight sun in summer. Although Svalbard is not a typical resort destination, Longyearbyen serves as the main base for those seeking high-latitude adventures.

Svalbard, despite its remote location and harsh climate, offers travellers unique experiences and attractions, mainly concentrated in its capital, Longyearbyen. There is something for everyone here, from museums detailing the history of Arctic exploration to unusual points of interest.

One of the main places to get acquainted with the archipelago is the Svalbard Museum. The museum's exhibits detail the 400-year history of the islands, covering everything from whaling, exploration, and trapping to modern mining and scientific research. Here you will see artefacts, photographs, and models that provide a deeper understanding of life in these harsh conditions.

An equally significant site is the Svalbard Church. It is the world's northernmost church, serving not only as a place of worship but also as an important meeting place for the local community. Its simple yet cosy architecture and welcoming atmosphere make it a must-visit. The church is open to everyone and often hosts various cultural events.

For those interested in local curiosities, a visit to the Svalbard Brewery is worthwhile. It is recognised as the world's northernmost brewery, where drinks are crafted using pure, 2,000-year-old glacial water. Visitors can learn about the unique production process required in Arctic conditions, which makes for a truly exclusive experience.

Choosing when to travel to Svalbard is a key decision, as this Arctic archipelago offers a completely different experience depending on the season. For residents of the UAE looking for an escape from the desert heat, Svalbard presents a world of breathtaking ice and snow. The climate is harsh and Arctic, with distinct periods of polar day in summer and polar night in winter, each holding a unique appeal for travellers.

High Season in Svalbard traditionally runs from June to August. During this time, the archipelago is bathed in the light of the never-setting sun, an extraordinary phenomenon known as the polar day. Air temperatures are cool and refreshing, typically ranging from +3°C to +7°C, and sometimes higher. This is the perfect period to discover the unique nature of the Arctic: you can enjoy boat trips to glaciers, observe countless seabird colonies, see walrus haul-outs and, with luck, encounter polar bears (always at a safe distance with experienced guides). Summer is also popular for trekking across the tundra and kayaking among icebergs. The main advantages of this season are the maximum opportunities for outdoor activities and relatively comfortable weather. However, be aware that Svalbard is busiest with tourists in the summer, and prices for accommodation and excursions can be higher.

The shoulder and winter seasons reveal a completely different side of Svalbard. Spring (March–May) is a time of gradual return of the sun after the long polar night. The snow cover is still stable, making this period ideal for thrilling snowmobile safaris, dog sledding, and exploring spectacular ice caves. In early March, the archipelago's capital, Longyearbyen, hosts the Solfestuka festival, celebrating the sun's return. Autumn (September–October) brings the first frosts, paints the tundra in vivid colours, and increases the chances of seeing the mesmerising Northern Lights. Winter (November–February) is dominated by the polar night, when the only light comes from the moon, the stars, and the incredible displays of the Aurora Borealis. In February, Longyearbyen hosts the famous Polarjazz festival. The advantages of these seasons are the unique atmosphere, the opportunity to witness incredible natural phenomena, and generally fewer tourists than in summer (although demand for Northern Lights tours is growing). The disadvantages include harsh weather conditions, very low temperatures, and limited daylight (or its complete absence in winter), which can affect the availability of some activities.

Information for Travellers from the UAE

For Muslim travellers, it is important to plan ahead. There are no certified halal restaurants in Longyearbyen, but seafood and vegetarian dishes are widely available in most eateries. It is always a good idea to confirm dietary options with restaurants or your hotel in advance. There are no dedicated mosques on Svalbard; however, prayers can be conducted in the privacy of your hotel room. It is advisable to bring a prayer mat and use a mobile app to determine the Qibla. The unique daylight cycles also affect prayer times, so consulting specialised apps for polar regions is recommended.

The culture of Svalbard is largely defined by its unique Arctic location and the international nature of its small population, with a strong influence from Norwegian traditions. When interacting with local residents, including staff in hotels and shops in Longyearbyen, a simple and friendly greeting is customary, often accompanied by a handshake and direct eye contact. English is widely spoken. One of the most noticeable local traditions, which is important to observe, is the custom of removing outdoor shoes when entering homes, many hotels, public buildings, and even some shops. This is done to maintain cleanliness indoors, a practical measure against the snow and coal dust of the past.

There are no special dress code requirements for visiting public places in Svalbard, beyond the obvious need for warm and functional Arctic gear. A casual style is the norm. At the dining table, standard European etiquette is observed. The main element that shapes the archipelago's 'cultural code' is a profound respect for the harsh yet fragile Arctic environment. Tourists must strictly adhere to all rules of conduct in nature: do not disturb wildlife (especially polar bears, an encounter with which requires extreme caution and following guides' instructions), do not leave any litter, and do not damage vegetation or historical sites.

Significant events that reflect the spirit of Svalbard include 'Solfest' (Solfestuka) – a week of celebrations marking the sun's return after the long polar night, typically in early March. This is a joyous occasion for all residents, signalling the end of the darkness. Additionally, as in mainland Norway, the 17th of May – Norwegian Constitution Day – is celebrated with enthusiasm, featuring parades and public festivities. To ensure your stay is pleasant and you cause no inconvenience to the local residents, always follow the instructions of your guides, particularly concerning safety and environmental protection, and be mindful of the regulations established to preserve the unique ecosystem and ensure safety throughout the archipelago.

Svalbard offers a unique range of entertainment, shaped by its Arctic location and stark beauty. Outdoor recreation here is primarily about adventures in a pristine natural setting. Popular activities include snowmobile expeditions, dog-sledding, ice caving to grottos and glaciers, and boat trips to observe walruses, seals, and, with luck, polar bears. In the summer, opportunities open up for tundra hiking and kayaking along the fjords. It is important to remember that any excursions outside the settlements require the accompaniment of an armed guide due to the risk of encountering polar bears.

The cultural life of Svalbard is centred in its capital, Longyearbyen. Here you can visit the Svalbard Museum, which introduces the history of the archipelago's development, its nature, and life in the Arctic. Another interesting site is the Svalbard Church, the world's northernmost church. Visitors are welcome, but it is requested to dress respectfully and remove shoes before entering. Various cultural events, exhibitions, and lectures that reflect the unique character of this place are periodically held in Longyearbyen. A unique experience can be a visit to the local Svalbard Brewery to learn about production in Arctic conditions.

For dining and socialising in Svalbard, Longyearbyen has several cosy restaurants and venues where you can spend an evening with fellow travellers and locals. The atmosphere is friendly and relaxed, conducive to conversation and sharing impressions of Arctic adventures. While there are no certified halal restaurants, many establishments offer excellent seafood and vegetarian options. Popular venues include the Barentz Gastropub and Karlsberger Pub. Shopping on the archipelago is mainly focused on souvenirs with an Arctic theme: products from reindeer hides, warm knitted items, books, and postcards with views of Svalbard. You can also purchase high-quality outdoor gear. For Muslim travellers, it should be noted there are no mosques or designated prayer rooms in Longyearbyen; prayers can be performed in a hotel room or other private space.

Family entertainment in Svalbard is also connected with nature and discovery. Visiting museums can be interesting for older children. Some tour operators offer family-friendly short hikes or dog-sledding trips. The key is to choose activities that are appropriate for the children's age and physical fitness, and always remember the safety measures in Arctic conditions. Observing wildlife from a safe distance can also be an unforgettable experience for the whole family.

Planning a trip? Excellent! To ensure the financial side of your journey does not come as a surprise, 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 exchange rates 24/7 and aim to provide the most up-to-date information.