Essential Facts About Dubai
Geography
Dubai is located along the shore of the Arabian
Gulf, in the northwestern region of the United Arab Emirates
and is the second largest of the seven emirates. Dubai covers
an area of some 3,900 square kilometers.
Economy
Oil contributed lass than 10% of the total economic
production. Trading, manufacturing and services including
tourism now dominate the economy.
Local Time
The UAE is four hours ahead of GMT.
Population
In 2001 Dubai’s population was almost one million
and is now nearing two million. At current growth rates
it is expected to exceed four million by 2010.
Climate
Dubai has a sub-tropical, arid climate and blue
skies can be expected most of the year. Rainfall is infrequent
and irregular, falling mainly in winter. Temperatures range
from a low of about 15C\59F to a high of 48C\118F. The mean
daily maximum is 24C\75F in January rising to 41C\105F in
July.
Clothing
Lightweight summer clothing is suitable for most
of the year, but sweaters or jackets may be needed during
the winter months especially in the evenings.
Religion
Islam is the official religion of the United Arab
Emirates and there are a large number of mosques throughout
the city. However, other religions are respected.
Language
The official language is Arabic, but English is
widely spoken and understood, with both languages being
commonly used in business and commerce.
Transport
Taxis are the most common way of getting
round Dubai. Metered cabs from Dubai Transport Corporation,
Cars Taxi, National Taxi and Metro Taxi are efficient and
have well-trained and courteous drivers.
Currency
The monetary unit is the dirham (Dhs), which is
divided into 100 fils. The dirham is linked to the Special
Drawing Right of the International Monetary Fund and it
has been held constant against the US dollar since the end
of 1980 at a mid-rate of approximately US$1=Dhs.3.67.
Banks
Both the local banks and the many international
banks represented by branches in Dubai provide the usual
commercial banking services. Transfers can be made without
difficulty as there is no exchange control and the dirham
is freely convertible.
Business
The weekend for government, schools and some other
organizations is Thursday and Friday, but many organizations
now close on Friday and Saturday.
Government offices are open from 7.30am - 2.30pm Saturday
to Wednesday.
Private Sector offices hours vary but are generally from
8.00am - 1.00pm and 4.00pm - 6.00pm
Shop hours are similar but remain open until 9.00pm or 10.00pm.
Telecommunications
Telecommunications are excellent both within the
UAE and with the outside world and telephone calls within
Dubai city are free of charge. Direct dialing is available
to most countries while many hotels provide Internet facilities
for a small charge. Broadband connection for business and
private use are also widely available.
Medical
Dubai has many well-equipped hospitals. The Dubai
Department of Health and Medical Services runs Dubai, Rashid,
Maktoum and Al Wasl hospitals. Dubai hospital is one of
the best medical centres in the Middle East with specialized
clinics and Al Wasl is a specialized maternity and gynecological
hospital. The department also operates a number of out-patient
clinics, one of which is situated in Jebel Ali. In addition
there are a number of well-equipped private hospitals with
in and out patient facilities. |
