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The United Arab Emirates is situated on the eastern side of the Arabian Peninsular, bordering Saudi Arabia and the Sultenate of Oman. The country comprises seven emirates – Abu Dhabi, Ajman, Dubai, Fujairah, Ras Al Khaimah, Sharjah and Umm Al Quwain.
The formation of the UAE came after the discovery of huge oil reserves in Abu Dhabi in 1958. The UAE is considered the second richest Arab country with just under 10% of the worlds proven oil reserves and the fourth largest natural gas reserves.
INFORMATION FOR VISITORS TO THE UAE
Obtaining a Visa
The United Arab Emirates probably has the simplest visa procedures. Over 30 nationalities can obtain a visa on arrival. Other nationalities can arrange visas through hotels or UAE embassies and consulates world wide.
Holidays
Friday is the weekly holiday. Some establishments who follow the 5 day system now remain closed on Saturday as well. If you are on a business trip, it is advisable to fix your appointments prior to arrival.
What to wear
Cotton clothes are recommended during the months (April through September). Sweaters or jackets may be required during the winter months mainly (December and January). Being an Islamic country, dressing should be modest, especially during the months of Ramadan. Swimming trunks, bikinis are acceptable at the pool or on the beach. It is advisable to carry some protection for the head and wear good sun glasses/ or photo-chromatic lenses during mid-day or whilst in direct sunlight.
The United Arab Emirates is situated on the eastern side of the Arabian Peninsular, bordering Saudi Arabia and the Sultenate of Oman. The country comprises seven emirates – Abu Dhabi, Ajman, Dubai, Fujairah, Ras Al Khaimah, Sharjah and Umm Al Quwain.
The formation of the UAE came after the discovery of huge oil reserves in Abu Dhabi in 1958. The UAE is considered the second richest Arab country with just under 10% of the worlds proven oil reserves and the fourth largest natural gas reserves.
While the United Arab Emirates (UAE) these days appears to be little more than a stage for Dubai to strut its increasingly crazy stuff, there’s far more to this fabulous little federation than Disneyesque dioramas. The UAE is a contradictory destination, an Islamic state where the DJs’ turntables stop spinning just before the muezzins’ morning call to prayer can be heard, and where a traditional Bedouin lifestyle and customs continue alongside a very Western version of rampant consumerism. While many visitors marvel at the fantastic (in the true sense of the word) hotel and real estate projects, the real wonder is how the savvy sheikhs manage to harmonise such disparate and seemingly opposing forces.
INFORMATION FOR VISITORS TO THE UAE
Language
Arabic, English, Urdu and Hindi and Farsi are widely spoken.
Currency
The local currency is the UAE Dirham. The Dirham is divided into 100 fils. Notes are in the denomination of 500,200, 100, 50, 10 and 5. Coins are in the denomination of Dh.1, 50 and 25 Fills. 1 US $ = 3.65 Dirhams. No restrictions on import or export of currency.
Religion
Islam is the official religion of the UAE. Churches and temples frequented by expatriate community can be found in the country.
Social Customs
Locals are known for their hospitality and as refreshments are always offered to the visitor, it is a polite gesture to accept. A handshake on meeting and bidding farewell is a must. Before entering a house it is customary to take off one's shoes. Care must be taken not to show the soles of one’s feet to the host.
Hotels
Dubai is a city of hotels. From 1 star to 7 Star hotels, Dubai caters to every type of traveller. All major international and local hotels chains are represented in the UAE.
Language
Arabic, English, Urdu and Hindi and Farsi are widely spoken.
Currency
The local currency is the UAE Dirham. The Dirham is divided into 100 fils. Notes are in the denomination of 500,200, 100, 50, 10 and 5. Coins are in the denomination of Dh.1, 50 and 25 Fills. 1 US $ = 3.65 Dirhams. No restrictions on import or export of currency.
Religion
Islam is the official religion of the UAE. Churches and temples frequented by expatriate community can be found in the country.
Social Customs
Locals are known for their hospitality and as refreshments are always offered to the visitor, it is a polite gesture to accept. A handshake on meeting and bidding farewell is a must. Before entering a house it is customary to take off one's shoes. Care must be taken not to show the soles of one’s feet to the host.
Hotels
Dubai is a city of hotels. From 1 star to 7 Star hotels, Dubai caters to every type of traveller. All major international and local hotels chains are represented in the UAE.
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