Dubai and the United Arab Emirates

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) comprises the seven independent emirates of Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, Ras Al Khaimah, Umm Al Quwain and Fujairah. Whilst Abu Dhabi is the capital city of the UAE, Dubai remains its commercial centre and now the fastest growing city in the world. Renown for its attention grabbing architecture which combines the ultra modern with traditional Arabian style, the city is a hive of development and The UAE is one of the world's wealthiest countries. Owing to the resources and foreign enterprises located in Dubai, more than 80% of the population are expatriates from across the globe and the city is home to almost 200 nationalities. Whilst Arabic is the official language, the large expat community means English is widely spoken especially in the business and tourism sectors.

Located on the Eastern coast of the Arabian Peninsula, in the South West corner of the Arabian Gulf, Dubai enjoys 365 days of warm sunshine, with cooler evenings and occasional showers in the months between November to March. Temperatures range from a low of 10 degrees (Celsius) to a high of 48 degrees. The average daily maximum is 24 degrees in January, rising to 42 degrees in July.

The city of Dubai embraces its namesake creek, dividing it into two halves. The main sightseeing circuit in Dubai is split between Bur Dubai and Deira which lie on opposite sides of the water, and the gently curving Dubai Creek is an attraction in itself. You will have plenty of opportunities for some brilliant views of the city from the water: gleaming skyscrapers on one side, and old trading dhows on the other.
If you drive west from the city centre, you will reach the popular suburb of Jumeirah, home to some of Dubai's finest luxury hotels and resorts, unspoilt stretches of sunny beaches and water sports complexes.

Places of interest

Deira has many attractions including the historic quarter of Bastakia, as well as old souks and covered marketplaces. Wandering along the alleys, you can explore the Spice Souk and the Gold Souk. The Dubai Museum is housed within the beautifully restored Al Fahidi Fort, and is a must-see for first time visitors to Dubai.

Bur Dubai is located on the opposite of the creek to Deira in the Shindagah area. It is a family destination where you can watch potters, weavers and artisans at their crafts. The adjoining Diving Village offers a cultural microcosm of pearl diving and fishing. Sheikh Saeed Al Maktoum House, a museum restored from the house of Dubai's former ruler and dating back to the late 1800s.

Jumeirah is located west from the city centre and is home to some of Dubai's finest luxury hotels and resorts, unspoilt stretches of sunny beaches and water sports complexes. In Jumeirah is the Grand Mosque, re-built in 1998, with the city's tallest minaret, nine large domes and 45 small domes - a distinguished landmark and an important place of worship.

Hatta Mountains are 115 kms south east of Dubai where the 3000 year old Hatta Village is situated. An important historical site for the region. The two towers overlooking the village used to be defence fortresses against hostile invaders, and during a relaxed day at the Village, you can visit the Houses of Traditional Handicrafts and Palm Products, The Castle Centre, and the 200 year old Sharia Mosque.

Activities and Tours

Beaches Some of Dubai's beaches are attached to private hotels, where, for a small fee, you can spend the day on the sand and in the waters of the Arabian Gulf. Other beaches and waterfronts - the Corniche and the Creek - are free for public access, and feature a range of water sports offered by several operators.

Desert safaris One of Dubai's most popular tourist attractions is the desert safari: a unique experience that combines an adventurous 4WD car ride over sand dunes with camels, belly dancers, henna designers, falconers, and a barbecue dinner by starlight. Other attractions include sand skiing, sand boarding, sand karting and 4WD desert driving

Fishing The warmth and shelter of the Gulf attract a large variety of fish, and several local companies provide full and half day trips to the best fishing waters about 12 kms offshore from the mainland.

Golf Dubai has the unique distinction of being the only golfing centre in the world to host major international tournaments on both the European and Asian PGA circuits. Visiting golfers can choose from various clubs and courses, each of championship quality and presenting a different type of challenge.

Ski Dubai
Dubai is home to Ski Dubai - the first indoor ski resort in the Middle East. This unique resort spans 22,500 square metres, which is temperature controlled at -1° to -2°, and covered with real snow throughout the year. The theme of Ski Dubai is that of a mountain resort - with qualified instructors to guide you through the intricacies of learning to ski or snowboard. Inside the resort, a retail shop, themed restaurants and the world's largest Snow Park, offer something for everyone.

Travel Tip and useful information

Climate The UAE has a sub-tropical, arid climate with infrequent and irregular rainfall, amounting to less than 13 centimetres a year. Temperatures range from a low of 10 degrees (Celsius) to a high of 48 degrees. The average daily maximum is 24 degrees in January, rising to 42 degrees in July.

Time zone The UAE is 4 hours ahead of GMT (+4 GMT)

Population Dubai is home to a little less than 1 million residents with 79% of the population employed.

Transport Dubai offers a variety of inexpensive and efficient public transportation and you can choose between metered local taxis, intra-city and inter-city buses, private car hire services and abras (local boats).

Currency and credit cards The official currency of the UAE is the Arab Emirates Dirham (AED or Dhs). Each Dirham is divided into 100 fils and is held constant against the US Dollar at an average of 3.67. All banks operate from 8.00am to 1.00pm, Saturday through Wednesday and 8.00am to 12.00pm on Thursdays. Currency exchange houses are open until late in the evening. All international credit and debit cards are widely accepted.

Dress code Visitors are free to dress according to their personal choice. Dress sensibly, although very revealing clothes shouldn't be worn in public or places of worship. Shorts and skirts are acceptable for ladies. Most Emirati men and women still choose to wear the traditional national dress. Lightweight summer clothing can be worn for most of the year, but the temperature can drop quite sharply at night during the winter.

Photography: Photography of buildings and sights is widely acceptable. Local people, especially the women, do not take kindly to being photographed without their prior permission. In general, it is best to avoid taking photographs (or video footage) of any individual in a National Dress.

Safety and security Dubai is a very safe city for visitors and residents alike, with minimal chances of untoward events. However, locking your car and minding your personal belongings is always recommended.