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Generally, UAE is a safe country. There is minimal threat of terrorist attacks or kidnappings. The main worries in this side of the earth are the natural dangers like extreme heat and sandstorms. Westerners may not be used to the heat of this place. Thus, Western travelers are suggested to carry around a bottle of water throughout a trip. This is to avoid dehydration.
On sandstorms, as in any desert country, sandstorms occur in UAE. It cannot be helped. Because of this, visitors are asked to be wary of this natural calamity. Whenever one occurs, the advice is to get to the nearest shelter as soon as possible.
Aside from the natural occurrences, prospective travelers should note that UAE is a Muslim country. They are very strict on their rules. Women are asked to dress decently, with no flesh exposed. Men are not allowed to drink nor do drugs. This is punishable by years of imprisonment and caning.