Essential Dubai information

Essential Dubai information

There will, understandably, be many questions you ask yourself when planning a trip to Dubai. Any far off destination throws up doubts about the local currency, the necessary documentation, cultural etiquette, etc. We will address those doubts here.

Necessary documents

Find out about the different documents and visas necessary for traveling to Dubai. A valid original passport is always required to travel.
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Medical Insurance

We strongly recommend that you contract medical insurance to avoid any high medical bills if you have an accident or medical problem.
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Language

Although the official language of Dubai is Arabic, most inhabitants can speak English. Here are some basic Arabic words which may be useful on your trip.
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Dubai Weather

The climate in Dubai and the UAE is subtropical and arid. Rain is infrequent and irregular. Discover the best time to travel.
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Money

The currency in Dubai is the Dirham (AED). Find out about the exchange rate, where to take money out, and how to pay by card, on your trip to Dubai.
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Public Holidays

Find out about the most important public holidays and festivals in Dubai before your trip. Watch out - the majority are based on the lunar calendar.
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History of Dubai

History of Dubai

The history of Dubai, as we know it today, is very brief. This modern city began life as a fishing settlement in the 18th century.
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Geography of Dubai

Downtown Dubai

Downtown Dubai

With the Burj Khalifa as its focus, Downtown Dubai has become the modern heart of Dubai. This is area is simply unmissable.
Dubai Marina

Dubai Marina

Located in the heart of modern Dubai, the marina is one of the most pleasant parts of the city and where the most modern buildings are located.
Deira

Deira

Deira is the old centre of Dubai and was historically an important commercial area of the city. Find out the what to see here.
Bur Dubai

Bur Dubai

Bur Dubai retains the charm of days gone by and offers a different side of Dubai, far removed from the famous modern skyscrapers. Discover it for yourself.
Jumeirah

Jumeirah

Jumeirah is the most famous beach zone of Dubai, and the preferred residence for expats who have made the city their home. Find out more here.
Work in Dubai

Work in Dubai

If you are thinking of taking a big leap in life and going to Dubai to work, here is everything you need to know.
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More information

Dubai in figures

With huge annual growth Dubai has replaced Abu Dhabi in terms of population.Dubai currently has about 3,300,000 inhabitants, representing 27% of the total population of the United Arab Emirates.

Currency

The official currency of Dubai is the dirham (Dh, AED). Each Dirham is worth 100 fils. The approximate exchange is 4.1 dirhams to the euro.

Timetables

The majority of the shops open from 9 am to 1 pm and 4 pm to 9 pm. Commercial centers remain open from 10 am to 10 pm. It is possible to find some 24-hour establishments around the city.

Friday is traditionally a day when the shops remain closed. However, nowadays fewer and fewer shops adhere to this custom and open at midday if not all day.

Electricity and plugs

In Dubai, no special adaptor is needed. These plugs are two-pronged and the voltage is 220V.

Alcoholic drinks

The legislation on alcoholic drinks in Dubai is more relaxed, unlike other Arab countries. Non-Muslims can buy and drink alcohol in most establishments.

Dress code

Even though the alcohol laws are considerably less strict than in other Muslim cities, the dress code remains stringent. It is not advisable to wear a short skirt or short sleeve shirt in commercial centers or public places.

On the beaches and in the swimming pools of the hotels there is no problem with respect to the dress code.

Signs of affection

Kissing, hugs, and shows of affection in general, are not tolerated kindly and in some circumstances may even be penalized.

Illegal substances

In Dubai, possession of drugs is a serious offense with the minimum punishment being a jail sentence. It is even a crime to have ingested drugs before entering the country.

Dubai in Ramadan

During Ramadan, it is considered rude to eat, drink, or smoke during daylight hours.

Official time

The official time in Dubai is GMT+4.

Health and vaccinations advice

Healthcare in Dubai is of a good standard, and services and pharmacies are easy to find. However, it is not free for tourists and costs are high. Therefore it is strongly suggested that you purchase travel insurance which includes health coverage.

Working in Dubai

Many people inquire about the possibility of finding work in Dubai. You can find a short guide via the following link:

Useful phone numbers

  • UAE prefix: +971.
  • Dubai prefix: 04.
  • Police: 999.
  • Ambulance: 999.
  • Fire service: 997.