As your flight descends into the UAE, it wouldn’t be surprising if you mistook the skyscraper dotted skyline for a city in Europe. Dubai, one of the seven emirates that form the United Arab Emirates is a progressive nation, a role model for the Arab world, owing to its stable political environment and rapid economic development that has earned it global acclaim. Lying on the calm blue waters of the Gulf, Dubai is perhaps the most frequented destination in the UAE. From the timeless tranquillity of the desert to the lively bustle of the souk, Dubai offers a kaleidoscope of attractions for the visitor. The city of Dubai has something for everyone - for holidaymakers seeking a break from crowds to shopaholics yearning for a binge at the annual Dubai Shopping Festival. An ultra modern city, Dubai is both a dynamic international business centre and a laid back tourist escape. Whatever you want, from couture to coffee pots, you will find it here!

Business Hours
Banks are usually open Saturday to Thursday, 08.00 to 13.00 hours and are closed on Fridays. Shopping centres are open Saturday to Thursday from 10.00 hours to 20.00 hours and on Fridays; the larger shopping centres are normally open from 16.00 hours to 22.00 hours.

Climate
The UAE has a sub-tropical climate with a sunny, hot and dry weather most of the year. In January, temperatures range around 24 C during the daytime and 14 C during the night.

Credit Cards
Visa, MasterCard, American Express and Diners Club are generally accepted in hotels and larger stores but some retailers offer better bargains for cash.

Currency
The UAE Dirham (AED or Dhs) is made up of 100 fils. Coins are in denominations of AED 1, 50 fils, 25 fils, 10 fils and 5 fils. Notes are in denominations of AED 5, 10, 50, 100, 200, 500 and 1000. The Dirham is fully convertible and is pegged to the US dollar at a current exchange rate of USD 1.00 = AED 3.67.

Communications
Global links, including GSM mobile telephones, pagers and internet are world-class and inexpensive. Local and foreign television, radio, newspapers, magazines and books are readily available.

Dress Code & Guidelines for Ladies
No restrictions are imposed on visitors but modest dress is recommended in public places. Beachwear is acceptable at beach clubs and hotel pools.

Electricity
The electricity is 220/230 volts A/C and most sockets are three-pin. Although adaptors are available in most hotels, you may want to purchase one at your departure airport.

Water
Tap water is considered safe to use however you may prefer the taste of bottled water.

Health
No specific vaccinations are required to enter the country however it would be wise to check beforehand if you are travelling from a health-risk area.

Language
Although Arabic is the official language, English is widely spoken.

Alcohol
Alcohol is freely available in hotels, clubs, restaurants and bars however many restaurants outside hotels do not have a licence to serve alcoholic beverages.

Safety
The UAE is considered to be one of the safest places in the world to visit with a very crime low. It is however advisable to take out travel insurance and to take the normal precaution to safeguard yourself and your valuables.

Time
The local time in Dubai is GMT + 4 hours.

Tipping
Tipping practices are similar to most parts of the world. Where no service charge is included, it is customary to leave 10% as a tip to the service staff.

Useful numbers
Country dialling code: +971
Dubai area code: (0) 4
Fire: 997
Ambulance: 998
Police: 999