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Dubai tourist info
The United Arab Emirates
The United Arab Emirates is a federation of seven Emirates formed in 1971 - the Arab world's Most lasting experiment in unity and in reality a creation of its seven rulers. The country's history dates back to the Mesopotamian civilization and the Indus culture. In the early years of this century, fishing and pearl diving were the major occupations of a largely coastal population. The export of pearls flourished in the second and third decades, providing the main basis for the regions trade.
The discovery of oil proved to be a turning point in the UAE's fortunes, changing the lifestyle of its citizen beyond recognition. Today the U A E has gained prestige in the Arab and international community and is playing a major role in the development of the region as an important commercial, tourist and cultural center of the middle east.
The seven Emirates are Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain, Ras Al Khaimah and Fujairah. Six of the Emirates share the same coastline on the Arabian Gulf. The seventh, Fujairah, lies along the Gulf of Oman. The U A E is bounded on the west by Qatar. On the east lies the Musandam Peninsula of Oman, and to the south by Rub Al Khali (Empty Quarter) of Saudi Arabia. The northern end of the Emirates lies very close to the Straits of Hormuz. The estimated area of the U A E is approximately 83,000 Sq. km. With a total population of 2.83 million (census of 1993). The official language of the U A E is Arabic. However, English, Urdu and Farsi are widely Spoken.
A visitor to the U A E can look forward to year-round sunshine, uncrowded clean sandy beaches, a cosmopolitan and welcoming ambiance, crime-free environment, Arabic heritage, exotic sights and experiences, desert safaris, fabulous water sports, championship, golfing, varied night-life and bargain shopping.
Visa
GCC nationals, British Citizens (with residence in the UK), nationals of France, Italy, Germany, Holland, Belgium, Luxembourg, Switzerland, Austria, Sweden, Norway,Denmark, Portugal, Ireland, Greece, Cyprus, Finland, Malta, Spain, Monaco, Vatican City, Iceland, Andorra, San Marino, Liechtenstein, USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, Brunei, Singapore, Malaysia and Hong Kong will be issued entry permits upon arrival in the UAE. Citizenss of countries other than the ones mentioned above will need to obtain a visa prior to arrival. Visa can either be obtained from the UAE Embassy in their respective country or a the hotel you will be staying at can assist you to obtain a visa.
The following information is required to apply for a visa:
Full name (as mentioned in your passport), Place and date of birth, Profession
Passport number, Date and place of issue, Date of expiry, Arrival flight number and time, Proposed duration of stay.
A clear copy of your Passport containing the above information is also necesary.
Processing of an Ordinary Visa takes generally 5 - 7 working days. The Immigration offices are closed on Thursdays and Fridays. An urgent visa can be obtained within 1 - 2 working days at an additional fee of Dhs. 100.
Visa Charges are: (Subject to change)
Ordinary Visa Dhs 180 or USD 50
Urgent Visa Dhs 280 or USD 77
Visas are subject to approvals from local immigration authorities and therefore cannot be guaranteed.
Business Hours
Commercial
Open from SAT-THU 0800 - 1300 & 1600 - 1900. Some establishments are open from 0830 - 1730.
Banks
Open from SAT-THU 0800 - 1200
Government
Summer - ( SAT - WED 0800 - 1400 ). Winter ( SAT - WED 0700 - 1330 .THU - 0700 - 1200) Shops - ( SAT - THU 1000 - 1300 & 1630 - 2200 & FRI - 1600 - 2200)
Holidays
Friday is the weekly holiday. Some establishments who follow the 5 day system now remain close on either Thursday, Saturday or Sunday. If you are on a business trip, it is advisable to fix your appointments prior to arrival.
Fixed public holidays are 2nd December - National Day, and New Year’s Day.
Other holidays such as Eid Al Fitr, Eid Al Adha, Hijra(Islamic New Year) and the Prophet’s Birthday are as per the Islamic Calendar.
Seasons and Temperatures
UAE has a sub-tropical arid climate. Summer months starting April through September with temperatures ranging between 29dg - 41 dg C. . Winters are very pleasant with occasional rainfall. Winter temperatures range from 18 - 25 dg. C.
What to wear
Cotton clothes are recommended during the months (April through September). Sweaters or jackets may be required during the winter months mainly (December and January).
Being an Islamic country, dressing should be modest, especially during the months of Ramadan. Swimming trunks, bikinis are acceptable at the pool or on the beach.
It is advisable to carry some protection for the head and wear good sun glasses/ or photo-chromatic lenses during mid-day or whilst in direct sunlight.
Language
Arabic, English, Urdu, Hindi and Farsi is widely spoken.
Currency
The local currency is the UAE Dirham. The Dirham is divided into 100 fils.
Notes are in the denomination of 500,200, 100, 50, 10 and 5.
Coins are in the denomination of Dh.1, 50 and 25 Fills. 1 US $ = 3.65 Dirhams.
No restrictions on import or export of currency.
Religion
Islam is the official religion of the UAE. Churches and temples frequented by expatriate community can be found in the country.
Social customs
Locals are known for their hospitality and as refreshments are always offered to the visitor, it is a polite gesture to accept. A handshake on meeting and bidding farewell is a must. Before entering a house it is customary to take off one's shoes. Care must be taken not to show the soles of one’s feet to the host.
