Although English is increasingly used in business relationships, in many situations Arabic is the key language, as you would expect. If you really want to learn the language, then you should perhaps attend a course by one of the international providers such as Berlitz. Below are a few phrases that will give you the basics in Arabic. Arabs will be particularly impressed that you have at least made an effort to learn their language, and will score you some points in a business situation. The words are deliberately pelled to help you pronounce them correctly. Introduction
Assalaam Alaikum -Peace be up on you To which the reply is: Wa Alaikum assalaam -And peace be upon you Sabah al khair - good morning To which the reply is: Sabah al noor
Masah al khair -good afternoon / evening To which the reply is: Masah al noor
Ahlan wa sahlan -Welcome To which the reply is: Ahlan beek - welcome to you (to a male) Ahlan beech (to a female) Ahlan beekum (to a group) This is usually used in introductions
Keef haluk? -How are you? Sometimes shortened to Keefak To which the reply is: Al hamdu lillah (bi khair) - praise be to Allah (well)
Aysh ismuk -what is your name? Ismi Jason -my name is Jason
Inta min weyn? -where are you from? Anamin ingliterra -I'm from England Umreeka -USA Oostraaalia -Australia Al imaraaat -UAE Wa inta? -and you? Maasalaamah -Goodbye To which the reply is: Fi aman allah or Maasalaamah
Miscellaneous Words
Inshallah -If Allah wishes This phrase is used in reference to a future, since all things are at Allah's will. So if you say, see you tomorrow, you might be replied with Inshallah. Maashallah -What Allah wishes This is used when complimenting something, usually in the context of family or health. Mabrook - Congratulations This is used in any congratulatory context, more so than you would use in English.
Naam - yes Aywa - yeah/ok La - no Min fudluk - please Shoo? - what? Shoofi mafi? -what's up? or what's the matter? Shoohada? - what is this? Mafi mushkil -no problem Itfudul -be my guest / my pleasure
When you sneeze you say Al hamdu lillah
Tamaam - perfect Baadin - later Dilwaati - now Ilyoum - today Bukra - tomorrow Ashoofook bukra - see you tomorrow Aadhi - it's normal Jebli shai - bring me some tea Kallemni - call me/talk to me Ma adhri - I dont know Mumkenasaduq - can i help you Sida - straight Yasar - left Yameen - right Tabaan - of course Kam -how much Affwaan -excuse me Kull -everything
Dubai Sports City, the world's first purpose-built sports city, will incorporate state-of-the-art sporting venues and academies along with residential and commercial developments. These will combine to offer a world class venue for sports events and activities at all levels with a residential lifestyle unrivalled in the region and possibly the world.
Construction of Dubai Sports City is well under way and with the first sports facilities and homes being completed by late 2007, the future of sport and the future of living is nearer than you might think.
Dubai Sports City is the world’s first purpose-built sports city. Set on 50 million square feet of land within the Dubailand development, Dubai Sports City will feature four magnificent stadia: a 60,000 seat multi-purpose outdoor stadium, a 25,000 capacity cricket stadium, a 10,000 seat multi-purpose indoor arena, and a field hockey venue for 5,000 spectators.
In addition, Dubai Sports City will be the venue for Ernie Els’ first golf course design in the Middle East: an 18-hole championship course named The Dunes which will be the centrepiece of a luxury golf residential community called Victory Heights.
Dubai Sports City will host the first purpose-built Manchester United Soccer Schools facility in the world as well as the International Cricket Council’s (ICC) own Global Cricket Academy, a David Lloyd Tennis Academy and the first Butch Harmon School of Golf outside the United States. The academies area will also house a 3,000 square metre gymnasium and an olympic-length swimming pool.
In addition to the sporting facilities, Dubai Sports City will boast all of the residential and commercial developments expected in a purpose-built city, including international schools, world-class medical facilities, hotels, leisure opportunities and a well-being and lifestyle country club, the Next Generation Club. The primary shopping destination at Dubai Sports City will be a sports-themed retail mall with a leasing capacity of approximately 1.2 million square feet. This mall will be complimented by a multitude of shops, markets, retail plazas and boutiques.
The first phase of Dubai Sports City, which will include the golf course, sports academies and other facilities, as well as the opening phase of the Victory Heights residential community, will be completed by the end of 2007, with the entire development set for completion by 2010
The property and real estate market in Dubai, UAE is a rapidly expanding business. Investors can expect almost a 30% or more return on any property. Dubai is one of the few Arabian states open to the West in terms of culture and social integration and secure in terms of political and economic environments. The Dubai property market is growing and anyone who invests in the real estate of Dubai will see a rapid turnover in their investment.
Dubai is especially attractive for people who are thinking of settling outside their home country in Europe, South Africa or South East Asia. The sunny weather, the exchange rate and the completely cosmopolitan nature of the state is something that is found in few other countries.
Dubai is developing into a nation that is the epitome of globalization. Though a middle eastern country it lacks the formality, conventions and traditional flavors found in the Arab region. Dubai, has reinvented itself to suit the needs of all cultures and conventions. It is a commercial region where the real estate, the property and the investments are being created to cater to a universal regime.
Dubai, UAE is creating a real estate and property boom that will tickle the fantasy of most people. It is creating regions within its borders that are representative of the world. Whether you want to buy, sell or invest in the real estate of dubai the return rate is excellent.
The open nature of the society in Dubai makes it a haven for people who want to retire, relocate their families in a more successful manner and/or are simply looking for a secure return on their money. Dubai is a lively place which has people of all religions, is open to various entertainment factions, has excellent education and healthcare facilities and is overall a place where living is dream.
Click here to find real estate agents, who can help you find your dream home!!
There are several theories as to how Dubai was named:
1. One theory is that the word Dubai is a combination of the Farsi words for two and brothers, the latter referring to Deira and Bur Dubai.
2. Others believe that ‘Dubai’ was named by people who considered its souq a smaller version of a thriving market named ‘Daba’.
3. Another possibility is that the name came from a word meaning money - people from Dubai were commonly believed to have money.
It is worth mentioning that there is another town named Dubai in the Al Dahna' region of Saudi Arabia, between Riyadh and Ad Dammam.
Going back in time
In the 18th century, Dubai was a small fishing and trading village inhabited by members of the Bani Yas.
The Al Maktoum family settled in Dubai in 1833 when members of the Al Bu Falasah seceded from Abu Dhabi.
Although he was young, Sheikh Maktoum bin Buti ruled Dubai effectively and it grew into a flourishing coastal town. As the population grew, Dubai branched into three distinct areas:
1. Deira was the largest and the main commercial centre. 2. Bur Dubai was located on the western bank and separated from Shindagha by a wide stretch of sand called Ghubaiba, which would flood during high tide. 3. Shindagha, situated on a narrow strip of land separating the sea from the creek, was the smallest area and the main residential district. The ruling sheikhs traditionally lived here and the late Sheikh Saeed's house is still standing. Shindagha was probably the site of the original Bani Yas village.
Transportation - Way back when
Donkeys and camels provided transportation on land. Crossing the creek meant a long and arduous journey around the end of the creek or a ride in an abra, a small wooden boat that ferries passengers to this day. Abras were also used to transport people to ships.
Deira's souq
Deira's souq, the town's public market, was lined with narrow, covered passageways. With 350 shops of commodities from around the world, it was the largest market in the region. ‘Many of the craftsman in the suq had no shop, but worked on a vacant piece of ground as close as possible to their clients. They were known by name, and the cry would go round the suq, "Where is Hassan the mattress-maker?" until it reached him and he was able to make contact with the potential client. A mattress-maker's creation was vulnerable to visits from passers-by, who might stop to pray on it or simply to rest and chat.
Before the wonder that is electricity Prior to the introduction of electricity in 1952, kerosene lamps or candles were used for lighting and charcoal, imported from the interior of Oman, was used for cooking and making coffee. Sweet water came from wells around Dubai.
Housing
The majority of the inhabitants lived in barastis, huts constructed from palm fronds. Extended families dwelled in compounds amid the compounds of relatives. Houses were constructed of gypsum from the salt marshes at the end of the creek and coral stone.
The town's highest points were the windtowers of the coral stone houses, the watchtowers and Al Fahidi Fort. Windtowers were used for ventilation - a house would cool as water on the floor beneath the tower evaporated. Built in 1799, the Fort is Dubai's oldest surviving structure and it has served as the seat of government, the ruler's residence and as a jail.
With a thriving port and market, Dubai's residents enjoyed a higher standard of living than their neighbours in the region
Everything you need to know about Dubai International Airport including: which terminals, where to check in, what facilities are available, assistance for the disabled, transportation, shuttles, car hire and airport rentals, restaurants and bars, access to flight information, banking hours and shopping options.
Full Airport Name Dubai International Airport
Address Department of Civil Aviation, Dubai International Airport, PO Box 2525, Dubai, UAE
Location The airport is located 4km (2.5 miles) southeast of Dubai
Time Zone GMT + 4
Number of Terminals 2
Transfer between Terminals Transfer between the terminals takes about ten minutes using the airport shuttle service. The Terminal 1 Departures concourse (Sheikh Rashid Terminal) is linked to Terminal 1 via a tunnel with travelators. Terminal 2 is used exclusively for business and charter flights. Driving Directions The Airport Road runs directly southeast from Dubai city centre on the east side of The Creek (Al-Khor). From locations south of Dubai, cross Al-Khor at Al-Garhoud Bridge and drive north, then turn right at the intersection with Airport Road. Terminal 2 is situated to the north of Terminal 1, accessed from Al Towar Road and Rashidiya.
Car Parking Both short-term (Car Park A) and long-term (Car Park B) parking facilities are available.
Car Hire There are several car hire companies available in the Terminal 1 Arrivals hall, including Avis, Budget, Hertz and Thrifty.
Public Transport Road: Taxi: Prepaid taxis to the city centre are available 24 hours a day in the Terminal 1 Arrivals hall. Limousine: Limousine hire can be arranged in the Arrivals hall (journey time to the city centre: 10 minutes). Bus: A bus service runs to the city centre. Bus stations are situated opposite both Terminal 1 and 2. Local buses no: 4, 11, 15, 33 and 44 connect with Terminal 1, while bus no. 2 connects with Terminal 2. Dubai International Airport Buses provide air-conditioned transport into the city centre and over 80 hotels.
Information and Help Desks The DTCM Tourist Kiosk (Department of Tourism and Commerce), in the Terminal 1 Arrivals hall, provides tourist information, maps and tours. The travel desk, situated next to the customs X-ray machines, can arrange hotel reservations.
Airport Facilities
Money and communications: The airport has banking services and ATMs in both terminals. There are 24-hour bureaux de change facilities near gates 8, 18 and 22 and a 24-hour post office near gate 18 on the Sheikh Rashid Departures concourse. Dubai Duty Free (website: www.dubaidutyfree.com) also offers foreign exchange, banking and Internet facilities.
Eating and drinking: There are some 25 restaurants, cafés and bars in the Sheikh Rashid Departures concourse. The Food Court is located on the upper level, between gates 13 and 15, with outlets including fast food and international cuisine. An Irish Village is located near gate 23. There are also restaurants in Terminal 2.Shopping: There is comprehensive duty-free shopping at the airport. Dubai Duty Free has a massive array on offer at the Terminal 1 Sheikh Rashid Departures concourse and the ground level of the Departures hall, while Terminal 2 has a special bulk purchasing desk.
Luggage: There is a baggage relocation system in place, which electronically tags each piece of luggage, in order to make retrieval of lost luggage faster and easier.
Other facilities: There is a 24-hour fully-equipped medical centre, located on the ground level of the Terminal 1 Sheikh Rashid Departures concourse, near gate 13. There are also prayer rooms (for either men or women), a lounge for women, a children’s play area and the the G-Force Health Club (tel: (0)4 216 4257) with a swimming pool, gym and massage facilities.
Conference and Business Facilities There are two business centres within the Terminal 1 Scheikh Rashid Departures concourse. The Connect Business Centre (tel: (0)4 216 4278), in the Dubai International Airport Hotel, has five meeting rooms, accommodating from six to 18 delegates, and a conference room for up to 60 delegates. There is also a first-rate communications system, eight workstations, and secretarial and office services facilities. Global Link, near gate 16, has six ISD booths, workstations with Internet and fax, and secretarial services around the clock. Touch-screen Internet kiosks, which take credit card payments, are located opposite the DCA First Class Lounge (gate 9) and the Irish Village (see above). There are several first- and business-class lounges, many with workstations and Internet access, in both Terminal 1 and 2. VVIP and VIP lounges, with private offices and showers, are available for passengers using the Am Majilis facility, which must be booked 24 hours in advance (via the airport’s website).
Disabled Facilities There are desks dedicated to passengers with special needs between rows A and B in the Departures hall. Electric carts are available to transport passengers to/from the new Sheikh Rashid Departures concourse, where disabled passengers can access special lounges near gates 9 and 22; a dedicated lounge for disabled travellers is also available in the Arrivals hall. Assistance is available for those with special needs; passengers should request special assistance from their airline prior to travel. Rooms for disabled passengers are available in the Dubai International Airport Hotel (see below).
Airport Hotels The Dubai International Airport Hotel (tel: (0)4 216 4300 or 4289), a five-star facility, is located on level three of the Sheikh Rashid Departures concourse; rooms are available on a nightly and hourly base. There are many hotels situation in the vicinity, the closest being Holiday Inn Dubai, Golden Tulip Aeroplane, Rimal Rotana Suites, InterContinental Dubai, Le Meridien Hotel Dubai, Sheraton Diera Hotel, Taj Palace Dubai, Four Points Bur Dubai, Sheraton Dubai Hotel, Ramada Dubai and Marriott JW Dubai. Many hotels offer courtesy shuttle buses to/from the airport. Hotel reservations can be made in the Arrivals hall. Fore more hotels click here
Dubai Desert Challenge Start from: 10/26/2007 End Date: 10/26/2007
The UAE Desert Challenge rally kick off with a prologue for spectators in Dubai before its official launch in Abu Dhabi the following morning. The show serves as a qualifying stage, establishing the running order for the main event in the desert.
The Dubai Tennis Championships 2008 Start from: 3/3/2008 End Date: 3/8/2008 Dubai Duty Free Men's Open will start from March 3rd - 8th, 2008. The Dubai Tennis Championships is owned and organized by Dubai Duty Free and comprises a WTA Tier ll tournament played back-to-back with an ATP World Series Gold tournament.
SEMINARS
The New Arab Women Forum Start from: 10/22/2007 End Date: 10/23/2007 A new Arab woman is promising from decades of under representation in all walks of life. The Forum is organized by 'Al-Iktissad Wal-Aamal Group', the leading conference organizers in the Arab countries, and 'Al Hasnaa' magazine. The new Arab woman is more educated and empowered, and engaged in a whole spectrum of political, social, business and cultural activities and positions.
Public Relations Congress 2007 Start from: 10/28/2007 End Date: 11/1/2007 Public Relations Congress provides an unique platform for the delegates and speakers to share their regional and international public relation challenges and exchange innovative ideas and interactive public relations best practice in order to remain ahead of competitors.
TRADE SHOWS
Dubai International Fashion Week Start from: 10/22/2007 End Date: 10/25/2007 Venue: Royal Mirage, Dubai
DIFW encourage the growth of outstanding regional talent, to drive the fashion trade, and to promote and highlight designers from the region and beyond to create awareness among the ultimate consumers of fashion. DIFW brings together regional designers, retailers, the media, and fashion aficionados at an event aimed at approaching the fashion envelope promote in the region.
Prestige 2007 Start from: 10/23/2007 End Date: 10/25/2007 Venue: Dubai International Exhibition Centre
PRESTIGE is the essential fashion trade fair in the Middle East, organized in Dubai, the economically most advanced metropolis throughout the Arabian peninsula. You are invited to participate in this quality and brand orientated fashion exhibition, including a conference programme and seminars for international exhibitors. The offer of the fifth edition of PRESTIGE will focus on products presented for advance orders of the spring and summer season 2008.
Gifts & Premium - Dubai 2007 Start from: 10/23/2007 End Date: 10/25/2007 Venue: Dubai World Trade Center
Gifts & Premium- Gifts & Premium - Dubai 2007 is region’s only specialised annual trade show for Gifts, Giftware, Corporate Gifts, Trophies & Medals, Festive Decorations, Stationery and Handicrafts
EXHIBITIONS
Private Label Middle East Exhibition Start from: 10/23/2007 End Date: 10/25/2007 Venue: Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre
The 4th Private Label Middle East exhibition is specially for retailers, traders, wholesalers and businesses to meet manufacturers of competitive priced products. It is the region's only brand and private label products exhibition.
Small & Medium Enterprises Expo & Conference Start from: 10/23/2007 End Date: 10/25/2007 Venue: Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre
The Small & Medium Enterprises (SME)Expo and Conference to be held on October 23 – 25, 2007 at the Dubai World Trade Centre, Dubai. SME Expo provides the perfect platform for Small and Medium Enterprises from around the globe to interact, learn, develop lasting business relationships and explore new business opportunities.
Annual World Dental Congress & Exhibition Start from: 10/24/2007 End Date: 10/27/2007 Venue: Dubai International Convention & Exhibition Centre The FDI’s World Dental Exhibition provides a unique opportunity to meet with leading manufacturers from the international and national dental trade and industry. The FDI and the organisers of the AEEDC exhibition combine to welcome visitors and exhibitors from all over the world.
The Oil & Gas ICT Summit Start from: 11/19/2007 End Date: 11/21/2007 Venue: J.W. Marriott Hotel - Dubai – UAE
The Oil & Gas ICT Summit bring together the Oil & Gas ICT industry elite to take the right technology decisions. The Oil & Gas ICT Summit will provide following opportunity for Oil & Gas Industry .
It wasn't so long ago when Dubai was frequently referred to as one of the world's best-kept golfing secrets by golf travel publications and tourism brochures. Now, of, course, the cat's out of the bag thanks to one the biggest and best golf tournaments in the world, the Dubai Desert Classic.
The opening of the Emirates Golf Club in 1988 heralded the start of the golfing revolution in Dubai. Host to this year's Dubai Desert Classic and many more beforehand, it was voted the players favourite venue on the European Tour.
Although the Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club has hosted just two of the sixteen Dubai Desert Classics staged so far, the city-based club is also a popular venue for tourists and is a landmark in this bustling metropolis.
Situated in the heart of the city on the shores of the creek, Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club has recently undergone a major redevelopment, transforming it into a true golfers’ paradise. The club’s 18-hole, par 71 course rolls 6,857 undulating yards along well-groomed fairways lined with date and coconut palms, attractive water hazards and shrubbery that lend a distinctly tropical air. The course boasts a new front nine, re-designed by Thomas Björn, providing an even greater challenge for residents and tourists alike. There is also a new nine-hole Par 3 course, a hi-tech studio, a floodlit driving range, and extensive short game practice facilities.
At the Nad Al Sheba the accurate golfer is rewarded with lush, rolling fairways and gently undulating greens, but wayward golfers may need to watch out for the nine course lakes and deep pot bunkers. Moreover, the course presents an additional experience for golfers under floodlights and the cool, Arabian night sky. Nad Al Sheba Club was the first fully floodlit 18-hole course in the Middle East region, and golf can be enjoyed until midnight, every night of the year.
To illustrate just how far Dubai has come in terms of its current standing, its oldest golf club, the Dubai Country Club, only opened in 1971. Here, you play on sand fairways and oiled putting surfaces which are known as "browns". The members are mainly expatriates and the course is still referred to as the local course and visitors are more than welcome.
Dubai's diving is often overlooked by visitors, but the limited tidal swells and current make it a good spot for snorkellers and novice divers, and there are some interesting wrecks off the coast.
If wreck diving is not your thing, you can always volunteer as a "Water tank cleaner" at the Burj Al Arab" (see video)
Dubai coast lies along the shallow Arabian Gulf. Diving and snorkelling into these waters is a one of its kind experience. The sea is calm here as there is little tidal activity. The reefs and underwater wrecks present a spectacular feast for the eyes.
Some of the best spectacles are offered by submerged rocks covered with beautiful coral polyps. The sea off the coast of Dubai abounds with wrecks whose depth ranges between 10m and 80m. Some wrecks have been submerged manually so that corals can form their colonies while there are many that are a result of bad weather and accidents.
Dubai seas have an abundance of marine life such as dolphins, barracuda, turtles, batfish, sea snakes, angelfish, batfish, hammerheads and sting rays. Amateurs and professional divers alike can explore the aquatic treasure trove of Dubai.
Dubai offers a number of diving centers, that can help you set up an amazing diving trip:
The Pavilion Dive Centre: The Pavilion Dive Centre offers daily dive excursions to certified divers and boasts being the only Dive Centre in Dubai to have it's own private Artificial Reef. The diving off the coast of Dubai consists mainly of wrecks and The Pavilion Dive Centre visits all of these popular dive sites, which range from 10 metres up to 30 metres deep.
Al Boom Diving: Al Boom Diving started operations in Dubai, UAE in the year 1996. Al Boom Diving is a part of Al Boom Marine, a market leader in the Middle East within retail and distribution of watersports equipment and accessories, marine equipment, beach wear and leisure wear and accessories.
Dubai is quite literally a shopper’s paradise! It has in excess of fifty notable shopping centres and a great many souks which all offer consumers an incredible array of items at highly attractive tax free prices.
Bargaining is part of the fun of shopping in Dubai. While boutiques, some electronics shops, department stores and supermarkets may operate on a fixed price basis, most other outlets consider friendly negotiation as a way of life. The Dubai shopping scene offers something for everyone. Apart from competitively priced electronic products, watches, cameras and other international items, popular traditional gifts include:
* Arabic coffee pots * Silver and brass swords and khanjars (Arabic curved daggers) * Prayer beads * Soapstone figures * Coasters, letter racks, jewellery boxes, chests etc decorated with lapislazuli, turquoise, malachite and other semi-precious stones * Marble goblets * Silver antique jewellery * Brass items * Silver and wooden dhows * Persian carpets and cotton dhurries (oblong floor coverings).
Carpets Dubai is just across the Gulf from Iran, so the supply of Persian carpets is considered one of the best outside of Iran. Prices are also good if you know a bit about carpets and bargaining. If you don't, this is a good opportunity to take the time to learn about designs, quality, origins, and of course prices.
The Blue Souk (Central Market) in Sharjah is famous for its carpet and gold shops. Be sure to visit the Tabriz Carpet Exhibit.
Gold The Covered Gold Souk in Deira is Dubai's most famous gold market. Designs range from 22 carat Indian extravaganzas to delicate18 carat Italian pieces. Prices are based on weight and craftmanship and fluctuate frequently. The Sharjah Blue Souk is another popular gold market only 15 minutes away from downtown Dubai.
There are also lots of jewelry shops in Dubai's many modern malls. This is, after all, one of the largest retail market for gold in the world.
Shopping malls Attractive modern shopping plazas are conveniently located throughout the city, housing a wide range of shops, boutiques, supermarkets, restaurants and fast food outlets. Leading malls in the Deira district include Al Mulla Plaza, the Intercontinental Plaza, Abu Hail Shopping Centre, The Galleria, Al Ghurair Centre, The City Centre, The Al Manal Centre, The Center and Hamarain Centre. On the Dubai side of the Creek, the Wafi Mall, Bur Juman Centre, and Holiday Centre are among the largest complexes.
The Jumeirah district has Magrudy's Shopping Mall, Markaz Al Jumeirah and The Beach Centre. In addition, there are many top class department stores and boutiques throughout the city.
Dubai Shopping Festival During Dubai Shopping festival the entire emirate becomes one massive shopping mall. With over 40 themed malls, souqs, well-lit streets, shops and boutiques tempting shoppers with dazzling displays, attractive price-offs, discounts, bargains, incredible offers and promotions, shoppers find themselves amidst an entertaining set-up that enthralls one and all.
Dubai malls with over 1,000 outlets host the world’s finest brands in fashion, jewellery, watches, cosmetics, home accessories, furniture, and electronics. The shopping is supported by winning opportunities presented through various purchase-related raffles and scratch ‘n’ win promotions. Additionally, the Surprises brings together world-renowned music shows, art exhibitions, and folk dances that make your shopping experience a truly memorable one.
From the timeless tranquillity of the desert to the lively bustle of the souk, Dubai offers a kaleidoscope of attractions for visitors.
The emirate embraces a wide variety of scenery in a very small area. In a single day, the tourist can experience everything from rugged mountains and awe-inspiring sand dunes to sandy beaches and lush green parks, from dusty villages to luxurious residential districts and from ancient houses with windtowers to ultra-modern shopping malls.
Below a list of attractions worth mentioning and visiting in Dubai:
1. Dubai Creek Dubai Creek, a natural seawater inlet that cuts through the center of the city, is the historic focal point of life in Dubai. A stroll along the banks of Dubai Creek evokes the city's centuries-old trading traditions.
2. Dubai Museum Dubai Museum, occupying the Al-Fahidi Fort on the Bur Dubai side of Dubai Creek, is not to be missed. At the entrance of Dubai Museum, visitors can browse through a collection of old maps of the Gulf and the Emirates.
Dubai Zoo Dubai Zoo is located in Jumeirah, and is a popular attraction, especially for families. Dubai zoo also features in its large aviary are regional birds of prey.
Grand Mosque The Grand Mosque in Bur Dubai is home to the city's tallest minaret. It might appear to be a beautiful example of restoration work, but was in fact built in the 1990s.
Hatta Hatta, an enclave of Dubai nestled in the Hajar Mountains, is a great weekend getaway. Some 120 kilometers to the east, Hatta is an extremely attractive location.
Palm Island Dubai Dubai has unveiled plans for the Palm Island Dubai on land reclaimed from the sea that will add 120 kilometers of sandy beaches and be visible from the moon.
Sheikh Saeed House Dating from the late 1800s, Sheikh Saeed House was built in a commanding position near the sea so the Ruler could observe shipping activity from its balconies Wild Wadi Dubai Waterpark Situated between Burj Al Arab and the Jumeirah Beach Hotel, the Wild Wadi Dubai Waterpark is designed to offer hours of fun and pleasure to thrill-seekers and families alike.
Dubai is also famous among travelers for:
The beaches Dubai's main beaches run along Jumeira Road. In truth, it is one long beach divided up by hotels and private clubs, interspaced by a few public access beaches. The Jumeira beaches have soft white sand that slip into the shallow warm turquoise waters of the Arabian Gulf. Hotel beaches are very well maintained with luxury facilities. This usually means lawns and swimming pools with beachside food and beverage service.
There is also a public beach at Al Mamzar Park on the Deira side of the Creek. The public facilities include playgrounds, barbecue sites, food kiosks, and picnic areas for families.
The Desert Dubai may be an ultra-modern city in the 21st Century but its heart and soul is rooted in the sand dunes of the Arabian Peninsula.
Desert activities attract visitors and residents alike. One can experience midnight at an oasis under the stars in a bedouin camp with camels tethered nearby. Or enjoy the thrill of 4 or 3-wheeling through the endless dunes. Falconry remains a popular sport throughout the Middle East. Visitors will find information about various activities and excursions available at most hotels.
Parks Dubai offers a pleasant variety of parks and family attractions. Along with the theme parks, there are playgrounds, landscaped gardens and the Dubai Zoo. Families have picnics along the various waterway parks that include various fun activities for one and all. Creekside Park is a popular destination that includes rides in the water taxis that provide transportation across the Creek all day long.
Dubai is part of the seven states that comprises the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and the second largest. 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 city ranks as the UAE's most important port and commercial centre.
When to go The best time of the year to visit Dubai is between November and April, when the weather is coolest. The rest of the year you're more likely to be running from one air-conditioned environment to the next instead of getting out and exploring. Ramadan, which takes place at a different time each year on the Western calendar, is the Muslim month of fasting and is strictly adhered to throughout the UAE. That means that it's illegal, not to mention rude, to eat, drink or smoke in public from sunrise to sunset at this time. On the 'up' side, hotel rates drop to 50% of their usual cost.
Economy
Dubai has changed dramatically over the last three decades, becoming a major business centre with a more dynamic and diversified economy. Dubai enjoys a strategic location and serves as the biggest re-exporting centre in the Middle East. Its low logistical and operational costs and excellent infrastructure, international outlook and liberal government policies are attracting investors in a big way. Activities such as trade, transport, tourism, industry and finance have shown steady growth and helped the economy to achieve a high degree of expansion and diversification
Climate
Dubai has a sub-tropical, arid climate, with perfect weather for at least six months out of the year. Rainfall is infrequent and happens mainly in winter. Usually it amounts to about 13 centimeters, spread over five days per year. Temperatures range from a low of about 10 degrees Celsius on winter nights, to a high of 48 degrees Celsius in the midday summer heat.
Religion
Islam is the official religion of all of the emirates. A vast majority of the locals are Sunnis. There are foreign minority Hindus, Sikhs, and Christians as well. Dubai is the only emirate that has Hindu temples and a Sikh gurudwara.
Culture
Culture in Dubai is rooted in Islamic traditions that form UAE National's lifestyles. However, the UAE is tolerant and welcoming to foreigners who do not practice the religion of Islam. Expatriates are free to practice their own religion, alcohol is served in hotels and the dress code is liberal. Women don't face discrimination. Courtesy and hospitality are one of the many virtues of Dubai. Rulers are keen to maintain their culture and do so through a number of practices. One is promoting sporting events that are representative of their past. Falconry, camel racing and dhow sailing are still popular in Dubai.
Population of Dubai
Dubai city recorded one of the highest growth rates in urban population because of a business upsurge that has turned the city into the region's main commercial hub. The city has a population of 1.35 million (2005 estimate). Dubai has a highly cosmopolitan environment and a large part of the population are non-UAE nationals, primarily a mix of other Arab nationals, Asians and Europeans. 80% of Dubai's population is comprised of expatriates with Europeans and Asians.
Languages
The official language of the country is Arabic, however most people in and out of the workplace communicate in English. There are so many different nationalities in Dubai, English finds common ground with most people. The majority of road and shop signs, restaurant menus etc. are in both English and Arabic.
Dresscode
Dubai is a cosmopolitan city and visitors can dress however they like. Still, a good amount of respect for local customs is appreciated. In deference to local customs and norms it is a good idea for visitors not to wear very short, tight clothing, at least until such time as they are comfortable with the city. UAE nationals usually wear their traditional dress. For men this is the dishdasha or khandura, a white full-length shirt-dress. It is 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.
Electricity 220 / 240 volts (50 cycles) is the standard electrical current and a 3 square pinned adapter may be required.
Education Nursery & Pre-school (Age: 2 - 4 years) English is the medium of instruction in most schools which adopt variations of the popular Montessory method of instruction. Annual fees vary dramatically. Some play-schools like the New Dubai Nursery (Satwa) accept children from 18 months onwards.
An academic record of your child is required for admissions. Some schools conduct entrance tests. Schools offer GCSE, 'A' Levels, French, American, Indian, Japanese and any other system that you can think of! Standards are above average.
Universities (Age: 18 years and above)
Most expatriates prefer sending their children to their countries of origin at this stage. However, the scene is changing as you are reading this piece. Educational Institutes are affliliating themselves to prestigious colleges abroad and students will not have to leave the Emirates for higher education.
Health Dubai generally has a high standard of Medical care, both in primary health and in Hospital facilities. It must be remembered that the conditions in the Middle East are quite different from our home countries and these conditions lead to some special precautions and requirements to live in Dubai in a healthy manner. Many Medical Centres exist around the city, the private clinics are mostly for the local community, there are several catering to the specific needs of the expatriate community. Most provide after-hours care and some ,house calls. Look for a clinic which provides for your specific family’s needs.
Visa/vaccination As visa regulations change frequently, it's worth checking with your local embassy, but American and British nationals don't need to obtain a visa before travelling. No vaccinations are needed, but avoid the tap water, dairy products, raw salads and kebabs if you have a sensitive stomach. Certificate required for cholera and yellow fever if arriving from affected area.
Hours of work Government - 7:30 am - 14:30 pm. Closed Thursdays and Fridays
Tipping etiquette It is customary to tip when you feel you have received good service, although it's not obligatory. Gratuities are at your discretion. Most restaurants add service charges, 15%, to the bill, but whether you want to leave an extra tip is up to you. If the service charge isn't added, the usual tip is 10% of the bill. Taxi drivers often give you part of your change and wait to see if you ask for the rest. Tipping them is discretionary but most customers give a few dirhams extra. Public holidays The fixed dates are as follows:
- 1st January, New Year's Day - 11th January, Mount Arafat Day - 6th August, Accession of Sheikh Zayed - 2nd December, UAE National Day Variable dates include: - Eid Al Adha, a three-day feast to mark the end of the haj pilgrimage to Mecca - Ras al Sana, Islamic New Year - Mawlid al-Nabi, The prophet Mohammeds' birthday - Lailat Al Miraj, the accession day of the prophet Mohammed - Eid Al Fitr, the three days at the end of Ramadan
Dubai, has an excellent nightlife scene with a large choice of bars and nightclubs for you to be able to enjoy whilst there. You will need to know that most of the bars that can serve alcohol are only in hotels, there are though a few exceptions. Dubai also has some interesting laws regarding clubs; they all must close at 3 am, you must be 21 to drink alcohol, 25 to enter a nightclub, and interestingly they are not allowed by law to refuse entrance to anyone, including at members only clubs.
There are no specific nightlife districts as many of the best bars are in the big tourist hotels, which are situated throughout the city. Many of these are open until 1 or 2 am. A cheaper and livelier option is the independent bars that are dotted around town. Happy hours are common, with Thursday and Saturday as the biggest nights for going out. Tuesdays and Sundays are often 'Ladies Night', with female revellers receiving free drinks. A beer is generally in the region of Dh15-20.
The club scene is a curious one, with nightclubs often delineated along ethnic and national lines. Increasingly, big name DJs are being attracted to Dubai, as a Western-style clubbing scene starts to develop. Dress codes for bars are generally relaxed, although some bars and all clubs insist on no jeans, trainers or sandals. A more mellow night out can be had at one of Dubai's coffee houses, where you can smoke apple-flavoured tobacco from a shisha pipe.
Some of the more popular nightlife places includes:
Hard Rock Cafe: Popular with locals, expatriates, and families. The building itself is worth travelling to and makes a great holiday picture. The bar area is relatively small, with more space being offered to seating arrangements, for dinner etc.
Planetarium: The Planetarium has very strict membership and entrance regulations allowing entrance only to Members, Ladies and Couples. Entrance is free except on special occasions. The club is located next to the Pyramid centre. The busiest nights are Sunday (two drinks for the price of one, Tuesday, and Thursday with Tuesday being Ladies night, where ladies are offered two free drinks before 1am and all cabin crew get a special 50% discount all night. The club is closed Saturday's.
Atlantis: Located right next door to the Hard Rock Cafe, this popular disco gets busy around midnight. They have performances such as dancing girls and drum masters, that add to the lively atmosphere. They have ladies night Sunday, Tuesday, Thursday. The crowd is young and hip.
Dubai’s cosmopolitan flavor is vastly enhanced by the wide selection of excellent restaurants to be found in the city - making dining in Dubai a real pleasure. From Michelin starred chefs and Chaine des Rotisseurs events, to streetside shisha (hubble bubble) cafes and budget bites, the Dubai dining scene is as expensive, as it is diverse, and has prices to suit every budget. Quality and presentation of food is usually extremely high, coupled with imaginative settings and locations, the highest standards of service and lively atmospheres, this all adds up to a fantastic culinary experience. It’s no wonder that dining out is a favorite Dubaiian pastime !
Alcohol is widely available in 4 and 5 star hotels and in some leisure and entertainment complexes, and as a result of this, many of Dubai’s busiest and best restaurants are to be found here. Restaurants located outside of hotels are not permitted to serve alcohol, but should certainly not be dismissed, as many are culinary delights in their own right. The districts of Bur Dubai, Satwa and Karama are home to many small, independent outlets that take a great pride and passion in the food that they serve and are gre
