U.S. Virgin Islands

The U.S. Virgin Islands are a picturesque archipelago in the Caribbean Sea, attracting tourists with their white sandy beaches, turquoise waters, and relaxed atmosphere. This American territory consists of three main islands – St. Thomas, St. John, and St. Croix, each with its own unique charm. The capital, Charlotte Amalie, located on the island of St. Thomas, is a bustling port and historic centre.

The culture of the islands is a vibrant blend of Caribbean, African, European (especially Danish, as the islands were formerly a Danish colony), and American influences. This is reflected in the music, cuisine, architecture, and traditions. Historic forts, colonial buildings, and old sugar plantations tell the story of the archipelago's rich past. A friendly and hospitable atmosphere prevails here, perfect for relaxation and exploration.

Natural beauty is one of the main reasons to visit the U.S. Virgin Islands. Besides famous beaches like Magens Bay Beach, you can explore lush tropical forests and coral reefs ideal for diving and snorkelling, as well as visit the Virgin Islands National Park on the island of St. John. The year-round warm climate makes the islands an excellent destination for a holiday at any time of year, offering both tranquillity in nature and active adventures.

The official currency in the U.S. Virgin Islands is the US dollar (USD). As this is the same currency used throughout the United States, travellers whose funds are already in US dollars will not need to exchange money. Standard American banknotes and coins are in circulation, the design of which will be familiar to most tourists.

If you are arriving from the UAE, you will need to exchange your Dirhams (AED) for US dollars. This can be done at banks or official currency exchange offices located in cities, including the capital Charlotte Amalie, and at airports. It is advisable to avoid exchanging money with unauthorised individuals. Credit cards such as Visa, MasterCard, and American Express are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops, particularly in tourist areas. However, it is always useful to carry some cash for smaller purchases, tips, or for places where cards may not be accepted.

When planning a trip to the U.S. Virgin Islands, it is important to understand the visa requirements in advance. As the islands are an unincorporated territory of the United States, their entry requirements are the same as those for the U.S. mainland.

Citizens of the United Arab Emirates are not eligible for the U.S. Visa Waiver Programme (VWP) and must obtain a visitor visa (typically a B1/B2 visa) before travelling. This visa must be secured from a U.S. embassy or consulate in your country of residence. The same rule applies to citizens of many other nations residing in the UAE. However, residents holding passports from one of the 42 countries in the VWP, such as the United Kingdom, may be able to travel visa-free for up to 90 days by obtaining a valid Electronic System for Travel Authorisation (ESTA).

Regardless of your nationality, a valid passport is essential for entry into the U.S. Virgin Islands, and it should be valid for at least six months beyond your planned period of stay. It is also advisable to carry return or onward tickets, proof of accommodation, and travel insurance, as you may be asked to present these. Visa regulations can change, so it is strongly recommended to verify the most current information on the official websites of the U.S. Department of State or the U.S. embassy or consulate in the UAE before your trip.

The U.S. Virgin Islands operates on a single time zone. The territory is in the Atlantic Standard Time (AST) zone, which corresponds to UTC-4. For visitors from the UAE, this means the local time is 8 hours behind Gulf Standard Time (GST). This means that the time is the same on all islands, including Saint Thomas, Saint John, and Saint Croix.

This is very convenient for tourists, as when travelling between the islands of the archipelago you do not need to worry about time changes. When planning your trip, you can be sure that the time on your watch will be the same in all corners of this beautiful Caribbean territory.

The U.S. Virgin Islands are a popular Caribbean destination, and the most common way to get there is by air. While there are no direct flights from the UAE, travellers can find convenient connecting flights. Most routes involve one or more stops, typically in the United States or Europe. Major airlines like Emirates, Etihad, British Airways, and United Airlines operate flights from Dubai (DXB) and Abu Dhabi (AUH) with layovers in cities such as New York (JFK), Washington (IAD), or London (LHR), before the final leg to the islands.

The islands have two main international airports. The primary gateway is Cyril E. King Airport (STT) on the island of St. Thomas, serving the capital, Charlotte Amalie.

Besides flying, it is also possible to reach the U.S. Virgin Islands by sea. The islands are a major port of call for many cruise liners navigating the Caribbean Sea. Furthermore, there are regular ferry services connecting the islands within the archipelago and to some neighbouring islands. Regardless of how you choose to travel, it is highly recommended to book your tickets and accommodation well in advance, particularly if your trip is during the peak tourist season, to secure the best prices and availability.

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

The U.S. Virgin Islands offer travellers a kaleidoscope of experiences, from bustling port towns to secluded beach resorts. There is something for everyone here, whether you are seeking historic landmarks, luxurious beaches, or natural beauty.

One of the main draws is the capital, Charlotte Amalie. This city, located on the island of St. Thomas, is famous for its picturesque harbour, historic Danish architecture, and excellent opportunities for duty-free shopping. While the islands are a diverse destination, visitors seeking Halal dining options can find them, particularly in St. Thomas. No less attractive is the island of St. John, a large part of which is a national park, offering tourists pristine beaches, emerald coves, and magnificent trails for hiking and snorkelling. And the island of St. Croix, the largest of the U.S. Virgin Islands, captivates with its colonial heritage, sugar cane plantations, and rich marine life, including the famous underwater wall.

These islands are a true gem of the Caribbean Sea, where history intertwines with modernity, and natural wonders await at every turn, inviting you to explore their unique corners.

The U.S. Virgin Islands offer travellers a wealth of amazing places, from pristine white beaches to lush national parks and historic ruins. There is something for everyone here, whether it's a relaxing holiday on the shores of the Caribbean Sea or an active exploration of natural and cultural treasures. The islands are welcoming to visitors from all backgrounds and are an exceptional family-friendly destination.

One of the most famous spots is Magens Bay Beach, which regularly features on lists of the world's best beaches. This picturesque, heart-shaped bay on the island of St. Thomas is renowned for its calm waters, soft white sand, and the lush greenery that frames the coastline. It is an ideal place for swimming, sunbathing, and family outings.

For nature lovers, a visit to the Virgin Islands National Park is a must. Covering most of the island of St. John, as well as its coastal waters, the park offers breathtaking landscapes, hiking trails through tropical forests, the historic ruins of sugar plantations, and excellent opportunities for snorkelling and diving amongst the coral reefs.

On the island of St. Croix, you will find the St. George Village Botanical Garden. Situated on the site of a former 18th-century sugar plantation, this garden is an oasis of tranquillity, featuring a collection of over 1,500 species of native and exotic plants. A stroll through its shaded walkways and themed gardens is a wonderful way to discover the flora of the Caribbean.

If you are looking for panoramic views, head to the Paradise Point Skyride on St. Thomas. Once at the top, you will be rewarded with a stunning view of Charlotte Amalie Harbour, neighbouring islands, and the vast expanse of the Caribbean Sea. It is a popular spot for photography, especially at sunset.

When visiting towns and shops, it is customary to wear casual attire such as shorts and a shirt or a dress, as swimwear is generally reserved for the beach and pool areas. For Muslim travellers, a growing number of restaurants, particularly on St. Thomas and St. Croix, offer halal food options. It is always recommended to inquire about prayer facilities at your hotel, as some may provide dedicated rooms for prayer.

The U.S. Virgin Islands delight visitors with a tropical climate year-round, but choosing the best time for your trip depends on your preferences. The high season traditionally runs from December to April. During this period, the weather is most favourable: plenty of sunshine, low humidity, and a comfortable temperature, ideal for beach holidays, sailing, and exploring the islands. This is also when vibrant events take place, such as the Crucian Christmas Festival on St. Croix (late December to early January) and the St. Thomas Carnival (April-May), often centred in Charlotte Amalie. However, it is worth noting that during the high season, the islands see the most tourists, and prices for accommodation and flights can be significantly higher.

The low season, or off-season, falls between May and November. During this time, the weather becomes hotter and more humid, with an increased chance of rain. The official hurricane season lasts from June to November, with peak activity typically from August to October. Despite this, the low season has its advantages: far fewer tourists and more attractive prices for hotels and flights. Additionally, the colourful St. John Festival takes place in late June and early July on the island of St. John. If you are prepared for potential weather changes and wish to save money, this could be an excellent choice. The main thing is to monitor the weather forecasts and be aware that some establishments may operate on reduced hours or close temporarily, especially during the peak of the hurricane season.

In the U.S. Virgin Islands, you will be met with an atmosphere of friendliness and Caribbean warmth. The local residents value politeness, so a simple greeting such as "Good morning", "Good afternoon", or "Good evening", depending on the time of day, is the golden standard for interaction before starting a conversation or making a request. Do not be surprised if you are greeted in the same way in a shop or on the street; this is considered a sign of respect. Eye contact during conversation is also welcomed. Regarding attire, swimwear is perfectly appropriate on beaches and at resort pools, but it is advisable to wear more covering clothing when visiting towns, shops, restaurants, and especially churches. A light cover-up over swimwear, or shorts and a T-shirt, will show respect for local norms.

Hospitality is an important part of the islands' culture. If you are invited to someone's home, a small token of appreciation, such as a souvenir from your country or a local delicacy, would be a nice gesture, although it is not strictly required. The islands pride themselves on their vibrant festivals, most notably the colourful Carnivals, which take place on each of the main islands at different times of the year and showcase the rich culture through music, dance, and parades. Another significant day is Emancipation Day (3rd July), which commemorates the abolition of slavery in 1848. For Muslims, there is a small community and a mosque, the Nur Mosque, on the islands. While halal food options may be limited, it is worth enquiring at local eateries, particularly those with Middle Eastern or South Asian influences. To ensure your interactions with islanders are as smooth as possible, remember the concept of "island time"—there is no need to rush. Always greet people before asking a question or for help, and do not forget to ask for permission before taking photographs of people. Avoid loud conversations in public places and try not to discuss sensitive local topics if you are unsure of the context. This respectful approach will help you to immerse yourself more deeply in the unique and welcoming atmosphere of the U.S. Virgin Islands.

The U.S. Virgin Islands offer a diverse range of entertainments to suit the tastes of many different travellers. The main appeal of the islands is undoubtedly water-based activities: conditions are perfect for diving and snorkelling among coral reefs, sailing, kayaking, and fishing. Nature lovers will appreciate the opportunity to explore the Virgin Islands National Park with its scenic hiking trails and secluded beaches, as well as thrilling adventures like the Carambola Zipline.

For those interested in culture and history, the islands offer an insight into their colonial past through visits to old sugar plantations, such as Annaberg, and historic buildings in the towns, especially in the capital, Charlotte Amalie. Here, you can also find small museums and galleries showcasing local art. Shopping in the U.S. Virgin Islands is famous for its duty-free goods, particularly jewellery, perfumes, electronics, and watches. The main shopping areas are concentrated in Charlotte Amalie, for instance, at Havensight Mall or Yacht Haven Grande.

The nightlife on the islands is more relaxed than bustling, with a focus on restaurants and cafés with live music where you can enjoy Caribbean cuisine and tropical beverages. For visitors seeking halal options, a number of restaurants, particularly in St. Thomas, offer halal dishes, and many eateries can cater to dietary needs upon request. The only mosque in the territory, Masjid Nur Ahl-Us Sunnah, is also located in St. Thomas and welcomes visitors. Popular venues, such as Skinny Legs, offer a casual atmosphere. The islands are also perfectly suited for family holidays: numerous beaches with calm waters, such as the famous Magens Bay Beach, the chance to visit botanical gardens, or a ride on the Paradise Point Skyride for panoramic views, will ensure a pleasant experience for all ages.

Planning a trip? Wonderful! To ensure the financial aspects of your journey are clear and simple, it's important to know that the local currency is the U.S. Dollar (USD). For travellers from the UAE, this is particularly convenient as the UAE Dirham has a fixed exchange rate with the U.S. Dollar. This means you can plan your budget without worrying about daily fluctuations. We advise checking the information below for precise rates and other financial details to help you prepare for your trip.