Planning a trip to Abu Dhabi? On your packing list you no doubt have your phone (of course!), camera, maybe even your laptop, hairdryer? But how do you charge all your devices in Abu Dhabi?
UAE Plug Type – Abu Dhabi Power Points
Power sockets in Abu Dhabi GENERALLY SPEAKING are TYPE G. That is, the rectangular, 3-pin socket like you would find in the UK.
Abu Dhabi and all of the United Arab Emirates operate between a 220V-240V supply voltage and 50Hz.
So what Abu Dhabi adapter do I need?
If you are planning to visit Abu Dhabi and your electrical devices do not have a Type G plug, you will need to pack an international adapter to convert your plug type into a UK/Type G plug.
This can be a multi-to-multi plug – ideal if you are largely charging devices that use a USB. Or if you have larger devices and charges to plug in, a type G plug that converts to those plugs of your own country.
You will, very occasionally still see some legacy plugs from other regions but unless you are staying in very old accommodation, this is highly unlikely.
- Type C – The standard European plug. Commonly used in Europe, South-America and Asia, but also in quite a few other countries. Plugs of type E and F will also fit in a type C outlet.
- Type D – Mostly used in India, Pakistan, Nepal, Sri Lanka and a few African countries. No other plug types will fit in a type D socket.
Pack a power board for Abu Dhabi
We would also strongly recommend packing a power board for multiple devices. Hotels never have enough plugs it seems (especially when you’re travelling as a family) for all your devices, so a single Type G plug is needed and then a universal plus board so you can simultaneously be charging devices all at once.
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Will my hotel room have a USB socket?
Some, but not all hotels in Abu Dhabi will now provide you with direct USB charging sockets in your room but it’s certainly not the case in every hotel. You are best packing a Type G plug with USB sockets for this purpose (or a power board including USB sockets that can then be plugged into the wall with a converter).
Remember power plug adapters will only convert plug type, they do not convert voltage – read on!.
You will need a voltage converter in Abu Dhabi?
All power sockets in Abu Dhabi & the UAE provide a standard voltage of 220V with a standard frequency of 50Hz.
You can use all your equipment in Abu Dhabi & the UAE if your country’s outlet voltage is between 220V-240V. This is the case in most of Europe, Australia, and most countries in Africa and Asia.
The standard frequency in Abu Dhabi and the UAE is 50Hz. If this frequency differs from the frequency used in your home country, please use caution when plugging in your devices. Check the small print on your device. If you see 100-240V 50/60Hz printed, the adapter is rated to work on all voltages used worldwide.
If the standard voltage in your country is in the range of 100V-127V (which is most common in the US, Canada and countries in South America) you might need a voltage converter in Abu Dhabi:
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If you are heading onward to other parts of the Middle East, you will find a great guide to power sockets and voltage converters you might need here.
Picking up electrical supplies in Abu Dhabi
Should you realise upon arriving in Abu Dhabi you do not have the right plug or voltage converter, fear not! These items are easy to grab at any of the major malls in Dubai, or even convenience stores. Expect to pay around 20 AED for a simple plug converter. A voltage converter could cost significantly more, so worth bringing your own if you know this will be an issue.
Before you go… Important things to consider when planning a trip to Abu Dhabi
- Pop into our essential planning information page, it includes everything you need to know about getting around Abu Dhabi, a handy guide on what to pack as well as top tips for first-timers on the dos and don’ts, laws, and customs in the UAE.
- Find the latest Abu Dhabi COVID-19 Guidance here.
- Discover the best places to stay in Abu Dhabi, or bag a bargain on your accommodation here:
