Dubai's thriving tourist industry is based on sunshine, a clean and safe environment, bargain shopping, superb sporting facilities, beautiful beaches and Arabian hospitality. The hotels provide a standard of luxury, facilities and service to match the best in the World. A cultural blend of East meets West, Dubai offers visitors a unique holiday experience.
Project Dubai
Dubai is undergoing some of the most exciting architectural projects ever seen. This involves a marina, a new residential district and the spectacular Palm Island. As the project enters its final phase there will inevitably be some visual and sound impact. To help ensure that the enjoyment of your hotels is in no way affected, we are continually monitoring the impact of the construction work as these exciting developments take place and therefore we advise that you ask us for an update on the latest situation before booking.
What To See
Sample the historic sites and vibrant cosmopolitan life of Dubai by joining our comprehensive tour of the city. The tour begins in Jumeirah, the picturesque palace and residential area of Dubai. The next stop is Sheikh Saeed House (former residence of the ruling family). The tour continues to Al Bastakiya, the old part of Dubai, to reach the museum located in Al Fahidi Fort. All aboard the Abra (water taxi) to cross the Creek to the spice souk and before savouring the sights and sounds of the fish, fruit and vegetable market there is time to shop in the most famous landmark of Dubai - the Gold Souk.
The desert is also worth a visit where you have the opportunity to camel ride or go 'dune-bashing' in 4WD vehicles.
Food & Drink
Specialities of Arab cuisine include hoummus (chickpea and sesame paste), tabbouleh (bulghur wheat with mint and parsley), ghuzi (roast lamb with rice and nuts), warak enab (stuffed vine leaves) and koussa mashi (stuffed courgettes). In the Emirates makbous (spicy lamb with rice) and seafood with spicy rice are also popular. Local fruit and vegetables are increasingly available and there is excellent local fish. Hotels serve both European and Arab food and there is also a number of Chinese, Indian and other restaurants. As Dubai is a Muslim city, many restaurants are not licensed to serve alcohol. However, restaurants in the tourist and business hotels almost always serve alcohol. Sales tax at 10% is added to all bills. Service charges at 10-15% are also frequently added but, if they are not, a 10% tip is expected.
Shopping Customs duties are low and therefore luxury goods are cheaper than
in most countries. The Dubai duty-free shop is one of the cheapest in the world.
Souks sell traditional Emirate leather goods, gold, brass and silverware.
Activities
Dubai has been declared the number one golf destination worldwide, by the International Golf Tour Operators Association. Boats and water-skiing equipment are available for hire. Sailing and windsurfing are popular around Dubai and boats are available for hire. The waters off Dubai are considered among the best areas in the world for diving. There are sub-aqua clubs in main centres and an extensive range of equipment is available for hire. Swimming is possible in the many hotel pools or beaches. There is an abundance of game fish in the Gulf. Fully-equipped boats with crew can be hired from the Jebel Ali Hotel marina for deep-sea fishing trips.
Spectator sports include boat racing for about 30 rowers, a traditional sport that is becoming increasingly popular. Camel and horseraces are also held at various racetracks. Football has become more popular and can be seen in most large towns and there are three thriving rugby clubs in Dubai. Falconry is extremely popular among Arabs. Horseriding is available at several riding centres, and rides through the desert are organised regularly. Many hotels and clubs have tennis courts and there are squash courts in main centres. Bowling alleys can be found in hotels and clubs.
GENERAL INFORMATION (A-Z)
Airport
Dubai airport is 3 miles (5km) southeast of the city. Taxis are available at the airport. Airport facilities include duty-free shops, bank, post office, shops, car hire, restaurant, snack bar and bar. The airport consists of two terminals and a new concourse.
Climate
Dubai has a sub tropical, dry climate. Rainfall is not common. The summer months, from June to September are very hot. During this period there is a sharp drop in night-time temperatures.
Clothing
Muslim religious laws should be observed. Women are expected to dress modestly and men should dress formally for most occasions.
Currency
UAE Dirham (approx. Dh 6.82 to £1). Note: The Dirham is tied to the US Dollar.
Driving
Traffic drives on the right and the speed limit in built-up areas is 60kph (38mph) and 80-100kph (50-63mph) elsewhere.
Electricity
220/240 volts AC, 50Hz. Square three-pin plugs are widespread.
Flying Time
Approximately 6 hours 35 minutes from London to Dubai.
Getting Around
Most hotels run their own scheduled bus services to the airport, city centre and beach resorts. Taxis are available and urban journey fares are metered, whilst fares for longer journeys should be agreed in advance. There is a surcharge for air-conditioned taxis. Most international car hire companies have offices at airports or hotels. A passport and either a valid international or national licence are necessary.
Health
Medical facilities are of a very high quality, but are extremely expensive. Private health insurance is essential. For the latest immunisation requirements please contact your GP.
Holidays
2005 - January 1 (New Year's Day), January 21 (Eid al-Adha - Feast of the Sacrifice), February 10 (Al-Hijra - Islamic New Year), April 21 (Mouloud - Birth of the Prophet), August 6 (Accession of HH Sheikh Zayed), September 1 (Leilat al-Meiraj - Ascension of the Prophet), November 3-5 (Eid al-Fitr - End of Ramadan), December 2 (National Day). 2006 - January 1 (New Year's Day), January 11 (Eid al-Adha - Feast of the Sacrifice), January 31 (Al-Hijra - Islamic New Year), April 11 (Mouloud - Birth of the Prophet), August 6 (Accession of HH Sheikh Zayed), August 22 (Leilat al-Meiraj - Ascension of the Prophet), October 22-24 (Eid al-Fitr - End of Ramadan), December 2 (National Day).
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 ten days.
Language
Arabic is the official language. English is widely spoken and used as a second language in commerce.
Opening Hours
Banks and Post Offices are open Saturday to Wednesday 8am-1pm and 3pm-7pm. They are also open on Thursday from 8am-12pm.
Time
GMT + 4 hours.
Tipping
10-15% is added to bills. Taxi drivers do not expect tips.
Tourist Board
UK Office: 0207 839 0580.
Visa Requirements
None for UK passport holders (up to 1 month), but passport must be valid for at least 6 months after the return date.
