Alcohol
Alcohol is available in clubs, restaurants and bars located in hotels. Restaurants outside the hotels are not permitted to sell alcohol.
Climate
Dubai enjoys almost year round sunshine and what little rainfall there is, usually occurs during the months of December until April.
Average Temperatures in October: 31°C
Customs and Excise
Care should be taken along with common sense when considering goods to bring into the U.A.E. Being a Muslim country the laws on illegal drugs and alcohol are very strict. None may be brought into the country from outside. Alcohol may be purchased by non-Muslim visitors in the baggage hall on a duty free basis and may be consumed only on private property e.g. not in public places. Alcohol may also be purchased and consumed within licensed restaurants, bars and hotels. The laws on prescription drugs can be somewhat ambiguous and commonly accepted prescription drugs from other countries may well be banned in the U.A.E. It is recommended that if you are carrying prescription drugs from another country you also carry the signed and stamped prescription with you. Pornography is not permitted.
Dress Code
Visitors are free to dress according to their personal choice. It is recommended to dress sensibly and very revealing clothes shouldn't be worn in public or places of worship. Shorts and skirts are acceptable for ladies but be sympathetic to local customs and cultures. 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.
Electricity
The voltage is 220v and utilising the traditional British 3-pin plug.
Health
Health insurance is recommended for all travellers. The facilities are excellent with state of the art hospitals in all areas of expertise, however costs are high.
Language
While the official language is Arabic, English is also widely spoken and understood.
Local Customs
Adultery and homosexual behaviour are illegal in the UAE, and it is an offence to swear or make rude gestures, or show a public display of affection. In general, the country has a tolerant approach to Western visitors, but local laws and sensitivities should be respected.
Medicine
If you are taking a prescribed medicine, please ensure you bring an adequate supply. Whilst travelling, carry prescribed medicines in your hand luggage (make sure the medicine containers are labelled properly as Customs Inspectors periodically examine these).
Money
Cash is accepted everywhere as are all major credit and debit cards, cheques however, are not. ATM's can be found all over the city, as are money exchange booths. Changing currency at the airport is the best deal as typically there are no handling charges.
Photography
It is impolite to photograph Emirati's especially women, without asking their consent first. Avoid taking photos of government and military buildings.
Safety
Dubai is one the safest cities in the world; you will witness cars with their engines running outside the supermarkets! However, crime is not non-existent and as a rapidly growing city it is suggested you take the due care and attention as you would anywhere else in the world.
Shopping in Dubai
Shops in Dubai generally open at 10am and close for a lunch break between 1pm and 4pm, after which they are open until 10pm. Shopping malls are generally open from 10am to 10pm except on Fridays when they are open from 2pm to 10pm.
Smoking
Smoking prohibited in public areas including malls, shopping areas etc. Some bars and restaurants still allow smoking. Where smoking is banned this will be clearly signed.
Telephones
Pre-paid phones and SIM cards can be purchased with a 'pay as you go' SIM card on arrival at the airport or from the local operators Etisalat or Du at their local outlets or dealers.
Local calls are based on reasonable rates.
The international dialing code for Dubai is +971 2.
Transport
Public transport, other than taxis is limited the Dubai metro rail system which opened at the end of 2009 now services many areas. It is recommended you use the taxis that are efficient and extremely economical too. Car hire is available although not all countries driving licenses are permitted so if possible remember to bring your International Driving Licence.
Water
Tap water is safe for drinking, although most tourists prefer buying bottled water. |