Electrical outlets in Dubai are not the same as in America! As such, you will need an adapter to charge your electrical appliances during your trip.
So if you're going to Dubai soon and you're wondering how to charge your phone or your camera on the spot, I'll explain everything about the electric plugs in Dubai in this article.
WHAT IS THE VOLTAGE IN DUBAI?
If in America the voltage is 120 volts with a frequency of 60 Hz, in Dubai (and in all the states of the United Arab Emirates) it is 240 volts (with a frequency of 50 Hz).
Our electrical outlets in America have two to three flat pins that are parallel or in a triangular pattern, but the ones in Dubai are completely different. In America, we use the A and B type of plugs, while in Dubai the plugs are equipped with three rectangular pins in a triangular pattern and are thicker. This is the G-type plug (which is British in origin).
However, some homes in the UAE are equipped with the A (US) type plugs.
To help you see things a little more clearly, here are the different sizes of plugs pictured:
United-States | Dubai |
|---|---|
Type A and B plug | G-type plug |
A  B  |  |
BUY A G-TYPE PLUG ADAPTER
You can find universal adapters and converters in general or specialized stores such as Best Buy for example, or on various websites like Amazon or eBay. The models are numerous and the prices vary.
A universal adapter will be a very good investment for your next trips! Especially if it allows you to charge several electrical devices via the USB port.
As far as I'm concerned, considering the regular trips I make, the universal adapter has become an essential in my "gadget backpack" 🙂
I always have one at hand, this way I am never bothered for recharges when I travel (train station, airport, ...) and I don't need to wonder if the hotel will be able to lend me one or if it will be included automatically with the room.
I can only advise you to take a quality adapter, working in a good number of countries, so that you won't need to buy several adapters for different countries, and so that it can last you a long time for your various travels. Some adapters cover over 150-200 countries... There's plenty to go around! 😉
Below are 3 recommendations for universal adapters:
Set of 2 simple G-type plug adapters.
USA to UK plug. This model is more compact and less expensive, but it will only suit your needs in Anglo-Saxon countries that use the G-type plug.
It is however compatible for your stay in Dubai.
Brand | Skross | Kwmobile | Welly Enjoy IT |
|---|---|---|---|
|
|  |  |
Prices | $30 | $16 | $12 |
Comments | I currently own this model and it is very complete! It covers more than 200 destinations and offers the possibility to choose different versions depending on your needs. A new model has just been released with USB plugs, which will allow you to charge several devices at the same time. Even more practical! As soon as there is a small discount, I will take the opportunity to upgrade 🙂 | Set of 2 simple G-type plug adapters. USA to UK plug. This model is more compact and less expensive, but it will only suit your needs in Anglo-Saxon countries that use the G-type plug. It is however compatible for your stay in Dubai. | Like the first model presented, this adapter will be able to meet your needs in many destinations. This model has 2 USB ports and is equipped with a protection against surges and electric shocks for children. You also have the possibility to take other versions more or less developped, depending on your needs. The first version starts at less than $9 |
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IS AN ADAPTER MANDATORY TO GO TO DUBAI?
You will have understood, unless you have electrical outlets on which there is already a USB port, you will need an adapter in Dubai if you want to recharge your computer or your camera, for example.
It would be a shame to run out of battery power to photograph the Burj Khalifa 😉
The format of electrical outlets in Dubai being the G-type plug, this means that to use your American electrical appliances, you will need to bring an adapter with you. This device will allow you to plug them into the G-type wall socket and charge them like in America.
Be careful, to make the current flow, you must in some cases press a switch that is located at the wall socket. So don't forget to press the button 🙂
WHICH ADAPTER TO BRING WITH YOU?
Most hotels in Dubai will provide you with an adapter for free (well, especially the high end hotels). But if you worry about not having one at your disposal, I advise you to buy one and put it in your luggage.
It only costs a few dollars and at least you will have peace of mind! Personally, I am always happy to have an adapter with me when I travel.
But be careful not to take just any adapter! You need a device that you can use safely.
ONE LAST TIP
If you ever forgot to buy an adapter, run to the nearest supermarket once you arrive in Dubai to get a power strip. Their holes are larger than those of the american power strips and you will be able to insert the american plugs of your appliances 😉
Although it's not a trick that can last long, it will be quite handy and cheap for you!
Here are some questions/answers to finish this article on electrical outlets in Dubai:
DO YOU HAVE TO BUY DIFFERENT ADAPTERS IF YOU WANT TO VISIT OTHER COUNTRIES AROUND THE UNITED ARAB EMIRATES?
If you want to travel around Dubai, you should know that G-type power outlets are also common in Oman. So you won't need an extra adapter to go there.
WHAT IS A G-TYPE PLUG?
It's an electrical power outlet that you'll find throughout Dubai and its surroundings, but it is also the standard British electrical outlet, used in Great Britain, Ireland and Malaysia, as well as in Malta, Singapore, and of course in the Arabian Peninsula.
So it will really come in handy if you are a travel addict!
WHERE CAN I BUY AN ADAPTER?
You can choose! If you have time before your departure, the easiest way is to buy one online, on the brand's website or on Amazon. You will have a wide range of choices and then just have to wait for it to arrive!
If you would rather go to a store, any electrical store sells all types of adapters. If you are still unsure about which model to choose, you can ask a salesperson for advice!
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