Useful Info
Climate.
The UAE’s weather is described to be dry and steamy. The summer months from May to September can be scorching hot as the temperature ranges between 40C and 48C. The winter months offer much needed relief with temperatures ranging between 10C and 30C. The UAE sees approximately 13cm of rainfall annually, mostly during the winter months.
Clothing.
The weather makes it comfortable enough to wear summer clothing year round, however the temperature sometimes drops during the winter months. Swimwear is acceptable by the pool or on private beach areas, but in the city and public areas it is considered an offence to wear revealing clothing. Care should be taken when in public.
Language.
The official and national language of the UAE is Arabic, however English is generally used everywhere.
Currency
Dirham (AED) is the monetary unit used. The official exchange rate is US$1 = AED 3.657
Banks
Several international banks have branches open in Dubai and bank hours are from 0800 to 1330 from Saturday to Thursday
Credit Cards
Main hotels and shops generally accept Visa, MasterCard, Diners Club, American Express, etc.
Tipping
Tipping practices are generally the same as everywhere else.
Working Hours
Business hours: Saturday to Thursday 0800 – 1300 and 1600 – 1930. Most multinational companies work from 0900 – 1800 with a one hour break for lunch.
Government offices: 07:30 – 14:30, Saturday to Wednesday
Exchange houses: 0830 – 1300 and 1630 – 2030, Saturday to Thursday
Shopping Malls: 1000 – 2200, Saturday to Thursday, and 1600 – 2200 on Fridays
The weekend in the UAE is Friday and Saturday.
Photography
Tourist photography is acceptable; however, it is considered an offense to photograph Muslim women. It is also polite to ask for permission before photographing men.
Bargaining
It is expected to bargain in the souq and it is rather usual elsewhere. Especially for a cash sale, merchants will usually drop the price, sometimes substantially.
Communications
Telecommunications in the UAE are outstanding. Phones have international direct dialing to most countries in the world and full telex, telefax, and electronic mail facilities are widely available. Postal services in the UAE are efficient and reliable; the General Postal Authority also offers courier services. Mumtaz Post delivers to most parts in the world and commercial courier services are commonly used.
Media
In Dubai, three English language newspapers are published: Gulf News, Khaleej Times, and Emirates Today. International newspapers, magazines, and journals can be found at book stores and supermarkets. Arabic and English commercial radio and television stations are available, as well as access to international satellite TV programming.
Medical Care
Medical service in Dubai is of international standards.
Electricity
Supply in Dubai is 220/240 volts at 50 cycles. Transformers may be needed for US-made appliances.