Basic modern medical care and medicines are available in the principal cities of the UAE, but not necessarily in outlying areas. U.S. medical insurance is not always valid outside the United States. In some cases, supplemental medical insurance with specific overseas coverage has proven useful. The loss or theft of a U.S. passport should be reported immediately to local police and the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate. They are available from the Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington, D.C. 20402.
Travelers are subject to the laws and legal practices of the country in which they travel.
Penalties for possession, use or trafficking in illegal drugs are strict in the United Arab Emirates and convicted offenders can expect jail sentences and fines. Legislation enacted in January 1996, imposes the death sentence for convicted drug traffickers. Children of UAE fathers automatically acquire UAE citizenship at birth and must enter and leave the UAE on UAE passports. This does not constitute loss of citizenship, but should be reported to the U.S. Embassy in Abu Dhabi or the U.S. Consulate General in Dubai. Child custody decisions are based on Islamic law.