Dubai History and Cultural Heritage
The history of Dubai can be traced back to the year 1830 when it was taken over by a branch of the Bani Yas tribe from the Liwa oasis, led by the Maktoum family, who still rule the emirate today.
In 1894, Sheikh Maktoum Bin Hasher Al-Maktoum, the ruler of Dubai, exempted foreign traders from taxes, making way for Dubai's modern development - starting with local merchants selling items like pearls, fish, spices and dates. Traders from India and Persia were also attracted to Dubai because of the liberal attitudes of the rulers, and soon began to settle in the growing town, which developed a reputation as the leading commercial centre for the region. Trade was based around the safe, natural anchorage of the Creek, which was and still is the visual and commercial heart of the city, with numerous dhows still sailing to other countries.
Dubai is simultaneously a dynamic, international business centre and a relaxing tourist destination. These features make Dubai a truly cosmopolitan place to live; but the rich history of the emirate also provides a culture deeply rooted in the Islamic traditions of Arabia. At the same time, Dubai is a very tolerant and welcoming place for foreigners, with visitors free to follow their own religions. Drinking alcohol in hotels and licensed health and sports clubs is permitted for non-Muslims.
Heritage
Dress code is liberal for visitors to the emirate. Women are free to drive and go out unescorted, making Dubai a very relaxed place to visit and live; however, it is important for visitors to respect their hosts and abide by local regulations.
Each year, Muslims commemorate the revelation of the Holy Koran during the holy Month of Ramadan, during which Muslims abstain from eating, drinking and smoking between dawn and dusk. The fast is broken each day with the Iftar feast at sunset. Visitors also must take care to not eat, drink or smoke in public places between dusk and dawn.
The dates of Islamic holidays are not fixed dates on the Hijri (Islamic) calendar, as they are based on the sighting of the moon. Holidays are frequently announced less than 24 hours in advance, although some non-Muslim holidays are fixed according to the Gregorian calendar. Below is a list of some of the main festivals and holy days.
Festivals
The major festivals that are observed throughout the UAE and most Gulf countries are Eid-al-Fitr, a three-day celebration marking the end of Ramadan; and Eid-al-Adha, a four day festival that marks the return of devotees from the Hajj (pilgrimage) to Mecca.
In addition, a few Holy Days are also observed throughout the region:
- Lailat-al-Qader, or the 'night of power of determination' falls on one of the odd-numbered nights during the last 10 days of Ramadan (usually the night of the 27th) and commemorates the night on which the first divine revelations of the Koran were given to the Prophet Mohammed.
- Lailat-al-Miraj, or the 'night journey to heaven' falls on 27 Rajab (7th month) and commemorates Prophet Mohammed's journey to Jerusalem and then to heaven.
- Mawlid-al-Nabi, the 'Prophet's birthday' falls on 12 Rabi' al-Awwal (5th month), but its observance is traditional, rather than Islamic, as Islam does not centre on any human being.
Heritage
Dress code is liberal for visitors to the emirate. Women are free to drive and go out unescorted, making Dubai a very relaxed place to visit and live; however, it is important for visitors to respect their hosts and abide by local regulations.
Each year, Muslims commemorate the revelation of the Holy Koran during the holy Month of Ramadan, during which Muslims abstain from eating, drinking and smoking between dawn and dusk. The fast is broken each day with the Iftar feast at sunset. Visitors also must take care to not eat, drink or smoke in public places between dusk and dawn.
The dates of Islamic holidays are not fixed dates on the Hijri (Islamic) calendar, as they are based on the sighting of the moon. Holidays are frequently announced less than 24 hours in advance, although some non-Muslim holidays are fixed according to the Gregorian calendar. Below is a list of some of the main festivals and holy days.
Festivals
The major festivals that are observed throughout the UAE and most Gulf countries are Eid-al-Fitr, a three-day celebration marking the end of Ramadan; and Eid-al-Adha, a four day festival that marks the return of devotees from the Hajj (pilgrimage) to Mecca.
In addition, a few Holy Days are also observed throughout the region:
- Lailat-al-Qader, or the 'night of power of determination' falls on one of the odd-numbered nights during the last 10 days of Ramadan (usually the night of the 27th) and commemorates the night on which the first divine revelations of the Koran were given to the Prophet Mohammed.
- Lailat-al-Miraj, or the 'night journey to heaven' falls on 27 Rajab (7th month) and commemorates Prophet Mohammed's journey to Jerusalem and then to heaven.
- Mawlid-al-Nabi, the 'Prophet's birthday' falls on 12 Rabi' al-Awwal (5th month), but its observance is traditional, rather than Islamic, as Islam does not centre on any human being.
- Ras as-Sana, the Islamic new year, falls on 1 Muharram (1st month) and marks the Prophet Mohammed's migration from Makkah to Medina.From the majesty of the desert and its surrounding mountains to five-star hotels and beaches; from original old houses complete with wind towers to modern, high-tech buildings and shopping malls, Dubai attractions cater to every kind of visitor.
The world-class events held here, such as the Rugby 7s, the Desert Classic golf tournament, ATP and WTA Tennis Championships and the Dubai World Cup (the richest horse race in the world) all add to the increasing revenues from tourism. A comprehensive list of annual events is available in the International Events section.
Tourists can enjoy any number of activities, like a slow tour of the creek on an abra (water taxi), a visit to the wildlife sanctuary, or a creek-side cable car ride. For the more active, Dubai also provides a wide choice of sports activities.
Top Dubai Attractions
Bastakiya offers a glimpse of old Dubai, through narrow lanes and traditional courtyard houses with cooling wind towers and gives a fascinating insight into traditional life.
Bastakiya offers a glimpse of old Dubai, through narrow lanes and traditional courtyard houses with cooling wind towers and gives a fascinating insight into traditional life.
Excavation Sites can be found at Al Ghusais, Al Sufooh and Jumeirah. The first two are graveyards dating back more than 2000 years while the one in Jumeirah site reveals artifacts from the seventh to 15th centuries.
Sheikh Saeed's House was once an observation post for monitoring the shipping activity below. It is located in Dubai Creek and offers visitors a peek into the life and history of the ruling family of Dubai.
Dubai Museum in Al Fahidi Fort, which once guarded the city's landward, approaches now houses typical scenes from traditional Arabian houses, schools and mosques as well as the spice souqs and people at work. The desert and the animals that inhabit it are presented in an interactive way that is fun for both adults and children. A huge room is dedicated to marine life and the activities of the pearl divers.
Dubai Mosques, the most majestic being Jumeirah Mosque. Built of stone in medieval Fatimid tradition with twin minarets and a majestic dome, the Jumeirah Mosque stands as a city landmark and is worth visiting, especially at night when it is fully illuminated.The Grand Mosque near the Ruler's Court in Bur Dubai boasts the city's tallest minaret at 70 metres, and 45 small domes in addition to nine large ones, making it a dominant landmark and place of worship.
Family fun
Heritage & Diving Villages located near the mouth of the creek has potters and weavers working on their crafts, along with dancers, Arabic restaurants and many other traditional pursuits.
Heritage & Diving Villages located near the mouth of the creek has potters and weavers working on their crafts, along with dancers, Arabic restaurants and many other traditional pursuits.
Dubai Zoo houses a variety of imported animals alongside indigenous Arabian species, which are no longer found in the wild. Regional birds of prey can be found in the large aviary.
Wild Wadi is a 12-acre water park themed in the style of Sinbad and ancient Arabia and combines thrilling rides, a surf area, a wave pool and many more water activities for all ages.
Parks and Picnic Areas offer a peaceful respite from urban life. Popular with families, they offer attractive picnic spots and children's play areas with a variety of entertainment facilities. The largest of the city's parks are Jumeirah Beach Park, Dubai Creekside Park, Mushrif Park, Al Mamzar Park and Safa Park.
The Desert and Mountains offer great opportunities for outdoor activities, including four-wheel drive excursions in your own vehicle or with a tour company. Pack a picnic and explore what is over the other side of the dunes, but remember to take lots of water and a shovel in case you get stuck! You can book a dune dinner and experience a traditional Arabic meal in the desert under the stars and even stay overnight. Or , ride a camel in the desert in the style of the ancient Bedouin traveler.
Looking towards future attractions, DUBAILAND™, the world’s most ambitious Leisure, Tourism and Entertainment destination with over 3 billion square feet of world class theme parks, culture, well being, sports, shopping, hospitality and entertainment is set to launch its first phase at the end of 2010.
Don’t miss:
Burj Dubai, a skyscraper currently under construction, is currently the tallest man-made structure on Earth. Construction began on September 21, 2004, and it is expected to be completed and ready for occupation in September 2009.
Burj Dubai, a skyscraper currently under construction, is currently the tallest man-made structure on Earth. Construction began on September 21, 2004, and it is expected to be completed and ready for occupation in September 2009.
The Burj Al Arab , the world’s only 7-star hotel , that, at 321 meters (1,053 ft), is the tallest building used exclusively as a hotel.
The Beaches
Dubai has endless stretches of clean sandy beaches. Many of the five-star hotels have private beach clubs for residents, but you can use their facilities by paying a fixed price. There are also plenty of public open beaches along the length of Dubai. Most popular among these are the Jumeirah and Mamzar Beach Parks - both public parks offering a café and changing facilities, as well as areas for barbeques and picnics.
Dubai has endless stretches of clean sandy beaches. Many of the five-star hotels have private beach clubs for residents, but you can use their facilities by paying a fixed price. There are also plenty of public open beaches along the length of Dubai. Most popular among these are the Jumeirah and Mamzar Beach Parks - both public parks offering a café and changing facilities, as well as areas for barbeques and picnics.
Dubai is a bustling centre of excellence; and in addition to being the commercial capital and tourism centre of the region, it is one of the most cosmopolitan cities in the world. A city of contrasts, Dubai is where you can see outstanding modern architecture and soaring skyscrapers stand alongside traditional Arabic buildings and suburban villas. Though relatively a new tourist destination, Dubai has gained popularity in recent years. Its international taste and unmatched blend of history, tradition and culture, are well known throughout the world.
Visitors to Dubai are guaranteed a unique experience every time they come here. Clean, sandy beaches, towering sand dunes, barren rocky mountains, PGA-standard golf courses, old-style souqs, brand new shopping malls, ancient Arabic forts and modern five star hotels are just a few of the splendours that the city offers.
Dubai is the product of 20 years of intensive development. Prior to that, it was a small trading port, clustered around the mouth of the creek. Today, Dubai offers excellent tourism opportunities. Whether you're keen on scuba-diving, serious about sightseeing or simply a shopaholic, there’s something here for you. The city has a strong service-driven economy and is a centre for all kinds of businesses. The presence of seaports and specialist free trade zones encourages international trade and industrialisation, as well as various projects. Dubai Media City and Dubai Internet City are a few of these projects, bringing 21st century technology and communication to Dubai in the form of the world's first Free Zone dedicated to e-business.
Furthermore, there is a unique trend in the city whereby specialised areas of interest have their own unique districts, featuring a concentration of similar projects. For example, Dubai Academic City and Knowledge Village are areas which, as the names suggest, are dedicated to higher learning and education. Dubai Healthcare City, on the other hand, is a complex housing the best medical and diagnostic facilities in the country. Dubai Sports City is a purpose-built, state-of-the-art complex which will cater to training athletes and be home to all the sporting events in the city.
Dubai Government
The Dubai government is made up of the Supreme Council of the UAE - the highest federal authority - headed by the hereditary rulers of the seven emirates. It is responsible for general policy matters involving education, defence, foreign affairs, communications, development and the establishment federal laws.
On January 4th 2006, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum became the Ruler of Dubai. Under his leadership, Dubai is fast becoming one of the major cities in the world. His Highness Sheikh Mohammed is also the Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE. His Highness Sheikh Hamdan Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, is the Deputy Ruler of Dubai and Minister of Finance and Industry for the UAE.
The Federal Council of Ministers is responsible to the Supreme Council. It has the executive authority to initiate and implement laws and is a consultative assembly of 40 representatives who are appointed for two years by the individual emirates. The council monitors and debates government policies, but has no power of veto.
On January 4th 2006, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum became the Ruler of Dubai. Under his leadership, Dubai is fast becoming one of the major cities in the world. His Highness Sheikh Mohammed is also the Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE. His Highness Sheikh Hamdan Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, is the Deputy Ruler of Dubai and Minister of Finance and Industry for the UAE.
The Federal Council of Ministers is responsible to the Supreme Council. It has the executive authority to initiate and implement laws and is a consultative assembly of 40 representatives who are appointed for two years by the individual emirates. The council monitors and debates government policies, but has no power of veto.
Dubai Health
In addition to the Emirates Group's own first-class medical and dental facilities at the Emirates Clinic (available to certain employees and their families), Dubai has many well-equipped public and private hospitals and clinics, as well as private hospitals and clinics.
The Dubai Department of Health and Medical Services runs the government hospitals and local clinics, including Dubai Hospital, Rashid Hospital, Maktoum Hospital and Al Wasl Hospital.
Dubai Hospital is one of the best healthcare centres in the Middle East, with specialised clinics for the public. Al Wasl is a specialised maternity and gynaecology hospital. The private hospitals, such as the American and Welcare Hospitals, offer both in and out-patient facilities.
Please note, that for Emirates employees who do not utilise the Group's own clinic, other Dubai clinics, both private and government-run, offer excellent services for all medical needs.
The Dubai Department of Health and Medical Services runs the government hospitals and local clinics, including Dubai Hospital, Rashid Hospital, Maktoum Hospital and Al Wasl Hospital.
Dubai Hospital is one of the best healthcare centres in the Middle East, with specialised clinics for the public. Al Wasl is a specialised maternity and gynaecology hospital. The private hospitals, such as the American and Welcare Hospitals, offer both in and out-patient facilities.
Please note, that for Emirates employees who do not utilise the Group's own clinic, other Dubai clinics, both private and government-run, offer excellent services for all medical needs.
Dubai Restaurants
An ever-growing cosmopolitan population means Dubai literally serves the world on a plate. Dubai's restaurants cater to every palate, be it Arabic, European and Indian, or even Far Eastern and Latin American. Whether it's fine dining or fast food you want, Dubai has an outstanding choice of restaurants and bars.
Dubai hotels offer a remarkably diverse range of food and beverage outlets, partly because they serve not only their own guests, but also attract large numbers of local residents. Their restaurants cover everything from coffee shops to fine dining and specialty outlets and the standard of service is on par with the best in the world.
Dubai is an excellent place to sample all types of Gulf and Middle Eastern cuisine, including Iranian, Moroccan and Lebanese.
Arabian food makes up an important part of most buffet spreads. Specialities include:
• Hoummus: A dip made from chickpeas and sesame seeds
• Tabbouleh: Chopped parsley, mint and crushed wheat
• Ghuzi: A whole roast lamb on a bed of rice mixed with nuts
• Wara enab: Vine leaves stuffed with rice
• Koussa mahshi: Stuffed courgettes
Local dishes include:
• Hoummus: A dip made from chickpeas and sesame seeds
• Tabbouleh: Chopped parsley, mint and crushed wheat
• Ghuzi: A whole roast lamb on a bed of rice mixed with nuts
• Wara enab: Vine leaves stuffed with rice
• Koussa mahshi: Stuffed courgettes
Local dishes include:
• Matchbous: Spiced lamb with rice
• Hareis: A rich delicacy of slow-cooked wheat and tender lamb
• Seafood served with specially seasoned rice. Naturally, dates are a feature of any Arabian meal.
• Hareis: A rich delicacy of slow-cooked wheat and tender lamb
• Seafood served with specially seasoned rice. Naturally, dates are a feature of any Arabian meal.
Delicious regional desserts include:
• Umm Ali: A type of bread pudding
• Esh Asaraya: A sweet kind of cheesecake with a cream topping
• Mehalabiya: A pudding sprinkled with rosewater and pistachios
• Esh Asaraya: A sweet kind of cheesecake with a cream topping
• Mehalabiya: A pudding sprinkled with rosewater and pistachios
In addition, Dubai has numerous international fast food chains such as McDonalds, Burger King, Hardee's, Kentucky Fried Chicken, Pizza Hut, Round Table Pizza and Pizza Corner. Theme restaurants such as TGI Friday's, Planet Hollywood, Hard Rock Café and Henry J Bean's can also be found around the city.
Dubai Schools
Dubai has a wide range of primary and secondary schools to choose from, all of which are fee paying for non-nationals. Many schools have their own websites giving details of facilities and costs.
The standards of teaching are considered comparable with other countries, with most schools being able to offer a range of extra-curricular activities. Schools are regularly inspected by the local Ministry of Education to ensure all regulations are being upheld. Most schools insist on a uniform, and some school fees include books and transportation to and from school in a bus, but you must check this with the individual establishment.
There are a few restrictions parents should note with regard to enrolling your child within the schooling system in the UAE. From the end of January each year, you are not able to transfer your child to another school after they have already enrolled in a Dubai school for the academic year, unless approval is provided by the Ministry of Education under special circumstances. Therefore, it is necessary to choose your school very carefully either before or after arriving in Dubai. If you arrive in Dubai on or after the 1st May each year you will not be able to enrol your child into the schooling system in the UAE for the last academic term which finishes in late June. Instead, you would be required to enrol your child for the beginning of the new schooling year (in most schools, early September - but please check with each school).
For further education, Dubai has a small number of accredited universities offering degree and diploma courses. Higher education courses are also available from commercial companies, like the ones available at the Emirates Training College.
Dubai Shopping and Events
Dubai hosts two major shopping events during the year. The fiercely promoted Dubai Shopping Festival (DSF) is held from December to February.
The lower-key Dubai Summer Surprises, held from June to August, is designed, along with affordable hotel rates, to attract tourists during the summer, when the outside temperatures are high, but the air-conditioned malls are cool.
In addition, Dubai is home to a variety sporting events, includingthe ATP and WTA Tennis Championships, Dubai Desert Classic Golf Tournament, Rugby 7s and the Dubai World Cup (the richest horse race in the world).
The Dubai International Film Festival and the International Jazz Festival are among Dubai's most popular cultural events.
There are also technology–focused events such as GITEX and numerous exhibitions and conferences.
The lower-key Dubai Summer Surprises, held from June to August, is designed, along with affordable hotel rates, to attract tourists during the summer, when the outside temperatures are high, but the air-conditioned malls are cool.
In addition, Dubai is home to a variety sporting events, includingthe ATP and WTA Tennis Championships, Dubai Desert Classic Golf Tournament, Rugby 7s and the Dubai World Cup (the richest horse race in the world).
The Dubai International Film Festival and the International Jazz Festival are among Dubai's most popular cultural events.
There are also technology–focused events such as GITEX and numerous exhibitions and conferences.
Dubai Sports
Sports enthusiasts can find a wide range of activities in Dubai. The most prominent are golf, sailing, windsurfing, water-skiing, fishing, snorkelling or scuba diving, with many of the beach hotels and clubs offering facilities for water sports and lessons. You can even go indoor skiing at Ski Dubai, the first indoor ski resort in the Middle East, located within Mall of the Emirates.
Alternatively, visitors are free to use their own equipment on one of the many stretches of public beaches. There are also numerous sports you can play or enjoy as a spectator, including rugby, soccer, ice-hockey, shooting, go-kart, racing, netball, golf, cycling and many more. In fact, most sports are catered for due to diversity of nationalities and interest that make up Dubai’s population.
On the other hand, you can also try sandboarding over the dunes, trips for which can be arranged by Arabian Adventures. Some of the many activities on offer in this sports city are go-karting, ice-skating, archery, target shooting, bowling, tennis or off-road driving, to name just a few. Furthermore, Dubai has many sports and recreational clubs for all ages and interests. Most require annual membership but non-members can participate in some of the activities on offer.
Dubai Sports
Sports enthusiasts can find a wide range of activities in Dubai. The most prominent are golf, sailing, windsurfing, water-skiing, fishing, snorkelling or scuba diving, with many of the beach hotels and clubs offering facilities for water sports and lessons. You can even go indoor skiing at Ski Dubai, the first indoor ski resort in the Middle East, located within Mall of the Emirates.
Alternatively, visitors are free to use their own equipment on one of the many stretches of public beaches. There are also numerous sports you can play or enjoy as a spectator, including rugby, soccer, ice-hockey, shooting, go-kart, racing, netball, golf, cycling and many more. In fact, most sports are catered for due to diversity of nationalities and interest that make up Dubai’s population.
On the other hand, you can also try sandboarding over the dunes, trips for which can be arranged by Arabian Adventures. Some of the many activities on offer in this sports city are go-karting, ice-skating, archery, target shooting, bowling, tennis or off-road driving, to name just a few. Furthermore, Dubai has many sports and recreational clubs for all ages and interests. Most require annual membership but non-members can participate in some of the activities on offer.
Dubai Weather, Geography and Timezone
Geography and Climate of Dubai
One of seven emirates that make up the UAE, Dubai is located directly within the Arabian Desert, on the Arabian Gulf coast of the United Arab Emirates and is roughly at sea level (16 m/52 ft above). The emirate shares borders with Abu Dhabi in the south, Sharjah in the northeast, and the Sultanate of Oman in the southeast. The Arabian Gulf borders the western coast of the emirate. The location of Dubai on the map is precisely positioned at 25.2697° N and 55.3095° E and the emirate covers an area of 4,114 km² (1,588 mi²).
The weather in Dubai is hot and dry with many months recording temperatures of over 40 °C (104 °F). In the past few years, rainfall has been light and mostly happens during the first quarter of the year. However, heavy rain is not uncommon in Dubai during the winter months, and January 2008 saw a record of 120mm (or 5") of rain falling in just 24 hours, though only during one week.
Time Zone
The UAE, and Dubai, are four hours ahead of GMT. To find out the local time in Dubai right now, visit
http://wwp.greenwichmeantime.com/time-zone/asia/united-arab-emirates/dubai/time.htm
http://wwp.greenwichmeantime.com/time-zone/asia/united-arab-emirates/dubai/time.htm
Embassies and Consulates
Being a cosmopolitan city with multiple nationalities, it is essential that Dubai cater to each and every one of them. The following list is not inclusive of all foreign Embassies and Consulates and is subject to change.
| Country | Embassy | P.O. Box (Dubai) | Tel(+9714) | Web or E-mail Address | Fax(+9714) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Australia | Australian Consulate | 9303 | 3313444 | http://www.austembuae.com/ | 3314812 |
| Bangladesh | Bangladesh Consulate | 4336 | 2726966 | dbool@emirates.net.ae | 2727965 |
| Canada | Canadian Consulate | 52472 | 3521717 | http://www.canada.org.ae/ | 3517722 |
| Denmark | Royal Danish Consulate | 2988 | 2227699 | dkcons@emirates.net.ae | 2235751 |
| lndia | Indian Consulate | 737 | 3971222 | http://www.cgidubai.com/ | 3970453 |
| Italy | Italian Consulate | 24910 | 3314167 | http://www.italy-ambass.org.ae/ | 3317469/ 314279 |
| Lebanon | Lebanese Consulate | 7800 | 3977450 | http://www.lebconsol.org.ae/ | 3977431 |
| Oman | Sultanate of Oman Office | 1898 | 3971000 | http://www.ocodubai.com/ | 3977688 |
| Panama | Panaman Consulate | 2121 | 2263366 | pancondp@emirates.net.ae | 2263315 |
| Romania | Romanian Consulate | 1404 | 3940580 | romcons@emirates.net.ae | 3940992 |
| Sri Lanka | Consulate of Sri Lanka | 51528 | 3986535 | slcondxb@emirates.net.ae | 3984687 |
| Thailand | Royal Thai Consulate | 51844 | 3492863 | thaidub@emirates.net.ae | 3490932 |
| Turkey | Turkish Consulate | 9221 | 3314788 | tcdubkon@emirates.net.ae | 3317317 |
| U.K. | British Embassy | 65 | 3971070 | http://www.britain.uae.org/ | 3942153 |
| Uzbekistan | Uzbekistan Consulate | 53432 | 3947400 | consuzb@emirates.net.ae | 3945234 |
Entertainment and Nightlife
Dubai has a lively after-dark scene, with numerous pubs and clubs to keep you partying till the early hours. Dance the night away at a wide choice of nightclubs around the city where popular DJs keep the music flowing. Or, for a more local flavour, visit the Middle Eastern, Indian, Filipino and Asian nightclubs where singers and dancers perform regularly. Of late, a number of internationally acclaimed DJs are making regular appearances in most of the clubs in Dubai, including Buddha Bar, 400, Peppermint and The Lodge. What’s more, they also double up as venues for a selection of International Music Festivals and gigs, which take place on a regular basis.
International entertainers come to Dubai regularly, as do theatre groups who include Dubai as an important part of their tours. Major dance groups from Europe and Asia, as well as ballet and opera companies from around the world, are regular visitors to the Emirates, as are a stream of international comedians.
Visitors can also visit the Dubai Community Theatre & Arts Centre (DUCTAC), the first modern, non-profit, cross-community creative centre in the Gulf. This flagship project was the brainchild of local theatre-lovers and business people who recognised the need for an entertainment and educational centre for the community and future generations of Dubai.
Read more about entertainment and nightlife in Dubai here.
Read more about entertainment and nightlife in Dubai here.
Dubai Law and Order
Dubai is seen as one of the safest cities in the world and a relatively crime-free place to live. The Dubai Police, while not always highly visible, are very efficient at ensuring safety and security. On the roads, the Dubai Police will, when needed, attend vehicle incidents and accidents and watch for dangerous driving. Anyone committing a serious crime will be punished with imprisonment and/or deportation.
Media
Telephone and Internet
Telephone calls between land lines within Dubai city are free. Calls between land and mobile, or mobile to mobile incur a small charge. Direct dialling to most countries is available, and one can avail off-peak rates if calling abroad after 9.00pm during the week and all day on Friday. The United Arab Emirates is the most wired nation in the Arab world and one of the top upcoming nations of the online world. Access to the internet is available to businesses and individuals at competitive rates. Residents of the UAE can subscribe to the Internet and choose from several access methods to meet their surfing needs. There are also services that are designed for both residents and visitors who need to access the internet while on the move and without having to subscribe to an Internet Service Provider (ISP). Currently, Etisalat and Du provide both telephone and internet services in the UAE.
Telephone calls between land lines within Dubai city are free. Calls between land and mobile, or mobile to mobile incur a small charge. Direct dialling to most countries is available, and one can avail off-peak rates if calling abroad after 9.00pm during the week and all day on Friday. The United Arab Emirates is the most wired nation in the Arab world and one of the top upcoming nations of the online world. Access to the internet is available to businesses and individuals at competitive rates. Residents of the UAE can subscribe to the Internet and choose from several access methods to meet their surfing needs. There are also services that are designed for both residents and visitors who need to access the internet while on the move and without having to subscribe to an Internet Service Provider (ISP). Currently, Etisalat and Du provide both telephone and internet services in the UAE.
Newspapers
Gulf News, Khaleej Times, Gulf Today, Emirates Today and 7 days are the daily English-language newspapers while Arabic newspapers include Al-Bayan, Al-Ittihad and Al-Khaleej. Many foreign newspapers and magazines, especially British and Asian, are easily available in supermarkets and bookshops. Online versions of all the papers and tabloids mentioned above are available for viewing without many restrictions.
Gulf News, Khaleej Times, Gulf Today, Emirates Today and 7 days are the daily English-language newspapers while Arabic newspapers include Al-Bayan, Al-Ittihad and Al-Khaleej. Many foreign newspapers and magazines, especially British and Asian, are easily available in supermarkets and bookshops. Online versions of all the papers and tabloids mentioned above are available for viewing without many restrictions.
Television & Radio
Most hotels and homes can receive international news and entertainment broadcast via satellite. Star TV, Orbit, e-vision and Showtime are among the satellite networks that transmit a wide variety of programmes, including BBC World, CNN, Sky News, National Geographic, Discovery Channel, the Disney Channel, Cartoon Network etc, plus well-known sports and movie channels. There are several local free-to-air channels as well, with One tv and MBC being the most popular. There are numerous English-speaking radio channels as well as Hindi, Urdu, Pinoy and Arabic channels. The most recent entrant in this arena is Virgin Radio.
Most hotels and homes can receive international news and entertainment broadcast via satellite. Star TV, Orbit, e-vision and Showtime are among the satellite networks that transmit a wide variety of programmes, including BBC World, CNN, Sky News, National Geographic, Discovery Channel, the Disney Channel, Cartoon Network etc, plus well-known sports and movie channels. There are several local free-to-air channels as well, with One tv and MBC being the most popular. There are numerous English-speaking radio channels as well as Hindi, Urdu, Pinoy and Arabic channels. The most recent entrant in this arena is Virgin Radio.
The monetary unit in the UAE is the Dirham (Dhs/ AED), divided into 100 fils. There are denominations of 25 and 50 fils coins, and paper currency is in the form of 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200, 500 and 1000 dirham notes. In the UAE, the Dirham is linked to the Special Drawing Right of the International Monetary Fund. It has been held constant against the US dollar since the end of 1980, at a mid-rate of approximately US$1= Dh3.66.
Exchange rate
If you wish to see the current exchange rate of any currency against the Dirham, visit www.xe.com/ucc/
If you wish to see the current exchange rate of any currency against the Dirham, visit www.xe.com/ucc/
Dubai Banks
All banks in Dubai , both local and international, provide a range of commercial banking services. Banking hours in the UAE are normally 8.00am to 1.00pm, from Saturday to Wednesday, although some Dubai banks are open until 4:00pm. On Thursdays, banks in the UAE operate only from 8.00am to noon and all banks are closed on Fridays. As a rule, all major credit cards, like American Express, Diners Club, Visa, MasterCard, etc. are accepted in the main hotels and larger shops - but some retailers offer better bargains for cash.
All banks in Dubai , both local and international, provide a range of commercial banking services. Banking hours in the UAE are normally 8.00am to 1.00pm, from Saturday to Wednesday, although some Dubai banks are open until 4:00pm. On Thursdays, banks in the UAE operate only from 8.00am to noon and all banks are closed on Fridays. As a rule, all major credit cards, like American Express, Diners Club, Visa, MasterCard, etc. are accepted in the main hotels and larger shops - but some retailers offer better bargains for cash.
Insurance
Dubai also offers easy insurance options for cars and households through many well-known international insurance companies based in the UAE.
Dubai also offers easy insurance options for cars and households through many well-known international insurance companies based in the UAE.
Taxes
Dubai has the distinction of being a tax-free city. Visitors to Dubai enjoy the added bonus of a tax-free salary plus all goods in shops can be bought for tax-free prices. Compared to many other countries, this is a welcome relief to tax payers. However, in some countries, there are tax laws enabling them to tax expatriates on their earnings in Dubai, so we recommend you seek legal advice if this is an issue for you..
Dubai has the distinction of being a tax-free city. Visitors to Dubai enjoy the added bonus of a tax-free salary plus all goods in shops can be bought for tax-free prices. Compared to many other countries, this is a welcome relief to tax payers. However, in some countries, there are tax laws enabling them to tax expatriates on their earnings in Dubai, so we recommend you seek legal advice if this is an issue for you..
People and Languages
The population of Dubai is increasing every day, with many people choosing to make Dubai their home. Some 292,000 more people have become Dubai residents in just one year, as the emirate's population increased to 1.422 million in 2006 from 1.130 million in 2005. This population is made up of more than - 150 nationalities, bringing a richly cosmopolitan character to the city and to the UAE.
Due to the fact that Dubai is home to over 150 nationalities, it’s no wonder that just as many, (if not more) languages are spoken in the city. Although Arabic is the national language, English, Urdu, Hindi and Farsi are spoken by a number of people. Arabic and English are the main business languages.
Due to the fact that Dubai is home to over 150 nationalities, it’s no wonder that just as many, (if not more) languages are spoken in the city. Although Arabic is the national language, English, Urdu, Hindi and Farsi are spoken by a number of people. Arabic and English are the main business languages.
