The official language of the country is Arabic, although most people in
and out of the workplace communicate in English. There are many different
nationalities in the UAE, but English finds common ground with most people.
The majority of road and shop signs, restaurant menus etc. are in both English
and Arabic.
The basic monetary unit of UAE is the dirham, which is made up of 100 fils.
The paper currency comes in denominations of 500, 200, 100, 50, 10 and 5.
Summer – June to September – can be oppressively hot, with
humidity sometimes hitting 90 per cent. Temperatures can reach 118F (48C)
in the midday sun. October to April sees the most pleasant weather with temperatures
ranging between the 70s and 80sF (20s and 30sC).
The holy month of Ramadan (September/October), during which Muslims fast
from dawn till dusk, has a significant impact on the whole city. There’s
a ban on live music, many hotels won’t serve alcohol and everyone, regardless
of their religion, is required to abide by the fast in public.
There is currently a massive Metro project under construction for the emirate
of Dubai. The system is expected to be partially operational by 2009 and fully
operational by 2012.
Air-conditioned taxis can be hailed on the street or pre-booked by telephone.
Metered taxis, operated by the Transport Corporation, are distinguishable
by their colour and uniformed drivers. Occasionally, drivers do not have detailed
knowledge of cities and might ask passengers for directions.
Citizens of the UK, the United States and 32
other privileged countries may obtain a free UAE visa on arrival. It’s
valid for 60 days and can be renewed for a further 30 days for a fee. Full
details of visa matters can be found at guide.theemiratesnetwork.com/living/visa.php
UAE is rooted in the Islamic traditions that form the lifestyle of nationals.
However, the UAE is tolerant and welcoming to foreigners who don’t practice
the religion of Islam.
Expatriates are free to practice their own religion, alcohol is served
in hotels (in most emirates) and the dress code is liberal. Women don't face
discrimination.
It’s a cosmopolitan country - visitors can dress how they like. Even
so, respect for local customs is appreciated. In deference to local customs
and norms it’s a good idea for visitors not to wear very short, tight
clothing.
UAE nationals usually wear their traditional dress. For men this is the
dishdasha or khandura, a white full-length shirt-dress. It’s worn with
a white or red checked headdress known as a gutra. In public women wear the
black abaya, a long black robe that covers their normal clothes. They also
wear a headscarf.
Public Holidays 2009
1 Jan - New Year's Day.
7 Jan - Ashoura.
9 Mar - Mouloud (Birth of the Prophet).
20 Jul - Leilat al-Meiraj (Ascension of the Prophet).
21 Sep - Eid al-Fitr (End of Ramadan).
28 Nov - Eid al-Adha (Feast of the Sacrifice).
2 Dec - National Day.
18 Dec - Al-Hijra (Islamic New Year).
27 Dec - Ashoura
Note:
Muslim festivals are timed according to local sightings of various phases of the
moon and the dates given above are approximations. During the lunar month of Ramadan
that precedes Eid al-Fitr, Muslims fast during the day and feast at night and
normal business patterns may be interrupted. Many restaurants are closed during
the day and there may be restrictions on smoking and drinking. Some disruption
may continue into Eid al-Fitr itself. Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha may last anything
from two to 10 days, depending on the region.
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