|
|
The
United Arab Emirates is a federation of the formerly independent seven
sheikhdoms of Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, Fujairah, Ras Al
Khaimah and Umm Al Quwain. It has a total population of 3.2 million
and has an area of about 84,000 square kilometers - three quarters of
the population are "foreigners". The country is known for its
openness, tolerance and hospitality which attract visitors from all
over the world.
Another
important factor is security - the UAE is amongst the countries with a
very low crime rate which is nearly zero. The UAE offers a unique
tourist infrastructure which meets even the highest requirements:
| |
 |
-
White sand beaches with crystal clear water
- Undiscovered desert
- Innumerable shopping centers
- Historical places and museums
- Magnificent choice of hotels in all categories from
luxurious to low budget
- Excellent restaurants
- Daily multiple flight connections from different
airlines to various cities of the world |
The economy
plays a vital role to the UAE, which is why it is constantly growing.
More and more international companies are attracted by the excellent
business conditions, which make them set up branches here. As a proof,
Dubai Internet City were established in the last 2 years. In the area
of conferences and conventions as well as for individual events, the
hotels and suppliers provide the best location, perfect service and
the most modern technology. So whatever your ideas are, there is
nothing you won't find in the UAE.
Basic Facts Part 1
see also
Basic Facts Part 2
| |
Language |
Arabic
is the official language of the UAE while English is the language
of business, though it competes with Urdu as the lingua franca.
You will have little trouble making yourself understood, though
when you venture out to the rural areas you will find that English
is not as widespread. Knowing the Iranian language, Farsi, will
help you get by.
Urdu and
Malayalam (the language of Kerala in India) can both be reasonably
useful because of the large number of Pakistani and Indian expats.
top ^ |
|
Currency |
The UAE
Dirham (Dhs) is divided into 100 Fils. Notes come in denominations
of Dhs 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200, 500, 1000. There are 1 Dhs, 50
Fils, 25 Fils, 10 Fils and 5 Fils coins (although the latter two
are rarely used today)
top ^ |
|
Visa |
Over 33
nationalities can get their visa directly at the Dubai
International Airport free of charge.
top ^ |
|
Climate |
Dry and
hot humid summer with comfortably soft winter.
top ^ |
|
Time |
Plus
four (4) hours GMT.
top ^ |
|
Shopping Timings |
Open
daily from 10:00 a.m. till 10:00 p.m., Lunch break from 1:00 p.m.
to 4:00 p.m.
top ^ |
|
Ramadan |
This is
the month during which Muslims fast from dawn until dusk. Bars and
Pubs are closed for serving the alcohol in a day time throughout
the month. Those with a liquor license can still buy alcohol for
consumption at home. Everyone, regardless of their religion, is
required to observe the fast in public. That only means not eating
and drinking but no smoking as well. Although it is unlikely you
will be arrested for breaking these rules, as you would be in
Saudi Arabia, you may stopped by the police and told to get rid of
your sandwich or put your cigarette out.
top ^ |
|
Alcohol |
In
Sharjah, alcohol is strictly prohibited
top ^ |
|
Photography |
in
taking photographs of places or people, ask for permission from
the concerned people in a very polite manner before taking the
shot. Military facilities must not be photographed at all.
top ^ |
| |
Other
useful links:
UAE facts part II
Religion
|
Tipping & Bargaining |
Telephone |
Useful Numbers
Business Hours |
Car hire |
Road
rules
|
Abras (Watertaxi) |
Taxis
Embassies & Consulates |
Food & Drink |
Nightclubs |
Pubs & Bars
Major Hospitals |
Major International Airports |
Major Airlines |
Shopping Malls
Dos & Don't
|
Souks
|
|
