Banks

There are many international banks represented in Dubai. Money exchange houses operate throughout the city and are in most shopping malls. Bank opening hours are 8.00 a.m. – 1.00 p.m. Saturday to Wednesday, although some also open from 4:30 p.m. – 6:30 p.m. On Thursdays, banks operate only from 8:00 a.m. to noon. Exchange houses are open from 8:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. and 4:30 p.m. – 8:30 p.m.

Business Hours

Private companies work either straight shift: 8:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. or a split shift: 8:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. and 4:00 p.m. – 7:00 p.m. The Government offices work from 7:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. The weekend here is Thursdays and Fridays for Government organizations. Private companies and multinationals are usually closed on Fridays and Saturdays.

Climate

In the summer (April to September), temperatures in the UAE will very between 38°C – 48°C (100°F – 118°F) in the daytime while at night it will very between 26°C – 30°C (79°F – 86°F) with high humidity levels. In the winter (October to March), the days are sunny and pleasant with an average of 26°C (79°F), while nights are cool with an average of 15°C (59°F).

Clothing

Dressing in Dubai is casual and modest.

Currency

The currency used in the UAE is called the Dirham and is abbreviated as Dhs or AED. The sub unit of a Dirham is a Fil and 100 Fils equal 1 Dirham. Credit cards and US dollars are widely accepted in hotels and major shops.

Customs

Visitors to Dubai must fill out a customs form upon arrival. You are allowed a maximum 40,000 AED undeclared cash, 2,000 cigarettes, 400 Cigars, 2kg of tobacco, 2 litres of spirits and 2 litres of wine.

As in most countries, it is illegal to bring in drugs, fire arms and pornography.

Electricity

Electricity is supplied at 220 volts, 50 cycles.

Emergency Call Numbers

Health

Dubai generally has a high standard of medical care, both in primary health and in hospital facilities.

Local Area Information

Dubai covers an area of 3,885 square kilometres and is the second largest emirate in the United Arab Emirates. Racking as the UAE's most important port and commercial centre, it is situated on the banks of the Dubai Creek, a natural inlet from the Gulf which divides the city into the Deira district to its north and Bur Dubai on its south.

The population, 4.1 million – as of 2002 inclusive of nationals and expatriates, is very cosmopolitan and the majority live in Dubai city and its suburbs.

Mobile Phones

Network accepted in Dubai is GSM.

Public Phones

In Dubai the public telephones are located easily and are operated by ETISALAT. Most require prepaid cards.

Shopping & Business Hours

Shopping malls are generally open from 10:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m. on all days except Fridays when they are open 2:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m.

Taxes

Taxes are not applicable.

Time Zone

GMT +4 hours.

Tipping

Tipping is widely accepted with 10% being the average. Most restaurants will include a service charge.

Tourist Information

www.dubaicityguide.com
www.dubaitourism.ae

Visa

Valid visas are required to enter the United Arab Emirates. The three entry requirements of obtaining a visa in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and its seven emirates (Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain, Ras Al Khaimah, and Fujairah) are that you are not a citizen of Israel, that your passport doesn't contain Israeli stamps, and that your passport is valid for at least 6 months before your arrival.

All current visa information can be obtained in the UAE Embassy or consulate or from your travel agent.