Franz and Sofia's wedding
Travel Guide for Internationl Guests
Planning your trip to Abu Dhabi?
This checklist can help make your travel smooth and stress free. Whether you are flying in for the weekend or staying a little longer, everything you need to know is outlined below.
1. Book your flights
We recommend flying directly into Abu Dhabi International Airport (AUH), which is around 25 to 30 minutes from both the church and the reception venue.
You may also arrive through Dubai International Airport (DXB). If you choose this option, please plan ahead and prebook your transport to Abu Dhabi so your journey is smooth and hassle free. The drive from Dubai to Abu Dhabi typically takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes depending on traffic.
Our wedding is on Saturday, 31 January 2026, so it is best to arrive at least one day before and plan to leave the day after.
Check visa requirements
Filipino passport holders must obtain a UAE visit visa before traveling. You may apply through travel agencies such as Cozmo Travel or Pinas Tourism.
Visa fees are often cheaper when applying as a group. You may contact us if you need help coordinating. Processing time may vary by agency.
Some visas already include travel insurance, but coverage differs, so please double check before confirming your application.
For the latest requirements, confirm with your agency, airline, or the official UAE government portal (https://u.ae/en/information-and-services/visa-and-emirates-id).
Arrange your accommodation
We recommend staying near the wedding venues for comfort and convenience. The ceremony will take place on Saadiyat Island and the reception will be held in the city center.
There are many accommodation options in both areas including serviced apartments, hotels, and beachfront resorts. January is a busy month in the UAE, so booking early is highly recommended.
Prepare for the weather
January in Abu Dhabi is pleasantly cool. You may wish to bring a light jacket or shawl for comfort. Both the ceremony and the reception will be held indoors.
5. Review the dress code
Our wedding follows a formal daytime dress code and the church observes specific modesty guidelines. Please read the Dress Code section to ensure you are prepared.
6. Plan your transport
Taxis are reliable and widely available throughout Abu Dhabi. You may also book rides using the Yango app, which is the most commonly used option in the city. Careem and Uber are also available across the UAE.
If you prefer to drive, rental cars are available at the airport and at major hotels.
If you are coming from Dubai, you may also rent a private vehicle for the trip to Abu Dhabi. Please let us know ahead of time so we can help you plan your logistics and ensure a smooth arrival.
To make your trip smoother, we recommend downloading these apps before you travel to the UAE.
Yango: For booking taxis and private cars in Abu Dhabi.
Careem: Ride hailing (mostly in Dubai), food delivery, and basic errands in one app.
Uber: Available in both Abu Dhabi and Dubai. A convenient option for guests who prefer using their existing Uber account.
Waze: Helpful for driving and navigation if you plan to rent a car or travel by private vehicle.
Google Maps: For directions, live traffic, and checking routes between the church, reception, and your hotel.
Klook: For booking activities, theme parks, tours, and experiences before or during your trip.
You can find all of these in the Apple App Store or Google Play Store.
GCash card and most major credit cards work in the UAE. Please inform your bank of your travel dates to prevent any declined transactions. Contactless payments are accepted almost everywhere.
If you have roaming activated, you may continue using your home network. You may also purchase an e sim before arrival for convenience.
If you prefer a physical sim, Virgin, Etisalat, and du kiosks are available inside the airport where you can purchase a tourist plan on the spot.
Both locations have convenient drop off points, taxi access, and available parking.
Ceremony
St. Francis Church, Saadiyat Island
Reception
Le Royal Méridien Abu Dhabi
If you would like to enjoy Abu Dhabi outside of the wedding schedule, there are many beautiful places to visit such as Mamsha Al Saadiyat, Louvre Abu Dhabi, Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, and Yas Island.
You may also explore and book activities through the Klook app. It offers tours, theme parks, cultural experiences, and day trips that you can reserve in advance.
Mamsha Al Saadiyat
Louvre Abu Dhabi
Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque
Yas Island
We can’t wait to celebrate with you!
Please RSVP by 05 December, and feel free to reach out if you have any questions.