Travel Guide to Hungary for UAE Residents

Hungary is one of the beautiful countries that doesn’t face crowds like the other Schengen countries. This makes it the best choice for anyone looking for a Schengen destination to chill without facing the anxiety of huge crowds. You can enjoy all the architectural wonders of Budapest, like it’s reserved just for you.

This guide is curated with all the details for visiting Hungary for UAE residents. You will find all the information you need to explore Hungary. UAE residents will find Hungary visa requirements from Dubai, how to travel from Dubai to Hungary by flight, the best time for a visit, and the top attractions you must not miss.

Emirati passport holders and a few nationalities are exempt from getting a Schengen visa for Hungary.

On the other hand, most UAE residents who are non-EU passport holders will need a Schengen visa to visit Hungary. The good news is that with the Hungary visa, you can visit up to 29 European countries.

• Appointment & processing time for the Hungary visa application:
  The first requirement in the Hungarian visa application is to book an appointment to provide the documents. One of the advantages of getting a Hungary visa is that you will find a near slot for an appointment, compared to other Schengen visas, making it a quicker process. Usually takes around 10–15 working days.

• Documents for a Hungary visa from Dubai:
  What you need to apply for the Hungary visa is to gather all the required documents and follow the guidelines for preparing them. An application form for a Hungary visa is essential; you have to fill it out and gather the documents, such as a passport, travel insurance, flight & hotel booking, bank statements, and a completed visa application form. You have to take all these papers and go to the Hungarian Embassy in Abu Dhabi or the official center in Dubai.

Read More: Complete Schengen visa requirements for UAE Residents

• Direct Flights: Emirates, Flydubai, and Wizz Air offer direct flights from Dubai to Budapest. You can expect a 6-hour flight, so book a comfortable seat so you don’t get tired.
• Best Time to Book: Prices are cheaper if booked 6–8 weeks in advance of your trip.

• Spring (April–June): Perfect for sightseeing with pleasant weather and blooming landscapes.
• Summer (July–August): Festival season in Budapest, but expect higher prices.
• Autumn (September–October): These months provide cooler temperatures and fewer tourists.
• Winter (November–February): You will enjoy magical Christmas markets and thermal baths. Also, they are perfect to enjoy the cold weather, because it’s colder compared to winter in the UAE.

Hungary offers a fascinating mix of experiences, with natural landscapes. While Budapest is the jewel of the country, there are plenty of other cities worth exploring.

We suggest visiting these places on your trip to Hungary:

The capital city is split by the Danube River into Buda and Pest, each side offers different vibes, making every day an adventure. Together, they form one of Europe’s most stunning capitals. Hungary Budapest’s weather in winter is spectacular, and you have to plan your trip in the winter months to attend the festivals and do some shopping in the Christmas markets.

The top places in Budapest are:

• Buda Castle & Castle Hill: A UNESCO World Heritage site, home to royal palaces, museums, and panoramic views.
  
• Fisherman’s Bastion: A fairytale-like terrace offering Instagram-worthy views of the Parliament across the river.
  
• Hungarian Parliament Building: One of the most iconic Gothic Revival buildings in Europe.
  
• Széchenyi & Gellért Thermal Baths: Famous hot spring baths where you can relax like the locals.
  
• Ruin Bars in the Jewish Quarter: Trendy nightlife spots built inside abandoned buildings, with Szimpla Kert being the most famous.
  
• Danube River Cruise: The best way to enjoy the city’s skyline, especially at night.

This city is near Budapest, and you can book a train or bus to reach Eger in just two hours.

• Eger Castle: Known for its heroic defense against the Ottoman invasion.
• Dobó Square: The town’s lively center with cafes and historic buildings.
• Thermal Baths: Smaller but authentic spa experiences compared to Budapest.

Central Europe’s largest lake, Lake Balaton, is a summer paradise that anyone could dream about.

The top places in Lake Balaton are:

• Balatonfüred: A resort town with promenades, cafes, and family-friendly shallow beaches.
• Tihany Peninsula: Famous for lavender fields and the Tihany Abbey.
• Siófok: A party town for nightlife and beach clubs.
• Sailing & Water Sports: Popular during the summer months.
  

Hungary’s second-largest city is often called the “Calvinist Rome.” Top attractions are:

• Great Reformed Church: Symbol of the city and Hungarian Protestantism.
• Déri Museum: Home to fine art and historical exhibitions.
• Flower Carnival in August: A colorful festival attracting international visitors.
• Day Trips: Ideal base for visiting Hortobágy National Park.

A UNESCO World Heritage Site and Hungary’s oldest national park.

• Traditional Horse Shows: Featuring Hungary’s famous cowboys (csikós).
• Vast Plains & Wildlife: Home to rare bird species, cattle, and water buffalo.
• Authentic Rural Experience: A glimpse of Hungary’s traditional pastoral life.

Located near the Serbian border, Szeged is known for its pleasant climate.

• Szeged Cathedral: A monumental landmark in the city.
• Anna Thermal Baths: Relaxing spa experience.
• Szeged Open-Air Festival: Cultural performances held each summer.

Close to Croatia, Pécs has a warm climate and a mix of cultures.

• Early Christian Necropolis: A UNESCO World Heritage Site.
• Mosque of Pasha Qasim: A remnant of the Ottoman era.
• Zsolnay Cultural Quarter: Art and cultural hub.

You can plan your trip in Schengen to include Vienna or Bratislava after visiting Sopron, because they are near destinations.

• Firewatch Tower: Offering panoramic views of the old town.
• Medieval Streets: Beautifully preserved Baroque and Gothic architecture.
• Wine Routes: Known for crisp white wines, especially Kékfrankos.
  

An underrated destination in Northern Hungary, which you should visit for unique experiences and views.

• Cave Bath of Miskolctapolca: A unique thermal spa inside natural caves.
• Lillafüred Palace Hotel & Waterfall: A romantic retreat surrounded by forests.
• Bükk National Park: Perfect for hiking and nature lovers.

These are the top cities with the best tourist attractions in each, but you can’t visit all of them in one trip. Contact the Travnook team to customize an itinerary for Hungary and other Schengen countries.

Hungarian cuisine is rich and hearty, offering a unique taste for UAE travelers. You have to try these plates on your trip:

• Gulyás (Goulash): A traditional beef stew with paprika.
• Lángos: Fried bread topped with sour cream and cheese.
• Chimney Cake: A sweet, spiral-shaped pastry popular in markets.
• Halászlé: Spicy fish soup from the Danube.

If you are Muslim or a Vegetarian, you can find good options in the main cities, like Budapest, which is full of various restaurants.

• Hungary’s Currency is the Hungarian Forint (HUF), not Euros, so be prepared. Credit cards are widely accepted, but carry cash for small shops.
• Language: Hungarian is the official language, but English is common in tourist areas.
• Connectivity: Buy a local SIM card (Telenor, Vodafone, or Telekom) for affordable data.
• Budgeting: Hungary is relatively cheaper than Western Europe, making it a great value for UAE travelers.

Also Read: Must-Visit Non-Schengen Countries from Europe

Hungary is for anyone looking for a less crowded Schengen country and to enjoy the European beauty while being on a budget. This guide has covered all the information you may need to enjoy a trip in Hungary from Dubai.

TravNook can help you get a visa for Hungary easily from Dubai, in addition to the travel services that make travel arrangements smoother, like flight booking, accommodation booking, and customizing travel programs in the Schengen.

Q1. Do UAE residents need a visa for Hungary?

Yes, most UAE residents require a Schengen visa to enter Hungary. However, UAE nationals with an Emirati passport can visit it visa-free.

Q2. How long is the flight from Dubai to Budapest?

Direct flights from Dubai to Budapest take approximately 6 hours, and it can take 7 and a half hours.

Q3. Is Hungary expensive for UAE travelers?

Compared to Western Europe, Hungary is quite affordable. Dining, accommodation, and transportation are generally cheaper.

Q4. What is the best season to visit Hungary?

Spring and winter are the best times to attend various festivals and events in Hungary.

Q5. Is halal food available in Hungary?

Yes, halal restaurants and grocery stores are available, especially in Budapest. It’s always a good idea to check restaurant listings before you travel.

Q6. Can I use an AED in Hungary?

No, Hungary uses the Hungarian Forint (HUF), and Euros or dollars may be accepted in large stores. It’s best to exchange money before arrival.

Q7. Is Hungary family-friendly?

This country has many family-friendly attractions such as the Budapest Zoo, Margaret Island parks, and river cruises. TravNook can customize a travel program in Hungary to suit the family members and the trip duration.