Dubai is quickly becoming the destination du jour for western tourists. From desert sands to dazzling skyscrapers, designer stores to dynamic souks, Dubai is a place of contrasts that come together for an unforgettable holiday. Dubai is part of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), which was formed in 1971. It's seventh heaven for any shopper, but sports-junkies, beach bums and culture enthusiasts will also find themselves on cloud nine in this second biggest emirate, where people will welcome you with open arms. |
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When to travel
The local climate is sunny and arid. Summer temperatures (June to September) rise up to 42°C, sometimes 50°C in the height of summer. Winter (December to March) is more pleasant with temperatures between 14°C to 23°C. And there's sunshine all year round.
For your information: Ramadan is between 13 September to 13 October 2007, with the completion of fasting; in 2008, fasting begins on 01 September until 01 October; and Ramadan is between 22 August to 20 September in 2009. If you do travel during Ramadan, remember that it's illegal to drink or smoke in public places between sunrise and sunset.
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Health and Safety
Dubai is one of the safest places to visit. Tap water is suitable to drink, but stick to bottled water to be on the safe side. There are numerous pharmacies in case you forget to pack your own over-the-counter medicines for flu or fever. In case you come down with something more serious, Dubai has very modern medical facilities where English is spoken. It is a wise idea to take out travel insurance in the event of an emergency. |
What to wear
Light and breathable clothing is suitable for most of the year. Warmer items are recommended for winter evenings and air-conditioned environments. Wear modest clothing in public places out of respect for the culture and religion. Women can wear swimsuits at the beach but should avoid string bikinis as a matter of respect. Pack a smart outfit for an evening at your hotel's nightclub or one of the city's many hotspots. |
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Costs in Dubai
The currency used in Dubai is the dirham (Dhs), divided into 100 fils. Most banks and shopping malls have ATMs, which accept most major cards. You can exchange money and traveller's cheques at many banks and hotels, although you'll get a better rate at the money exchanges across the city, such as the Forex offices near Al Fahidi Street. Although most places accept major international credit cards, smaller stores might prefer cash or charge for the use of credit cards, so keep some cash on you - also handy for taxi fare.
Remember to factor the cost of alcohol into your budget; it's imported for tourists so doesn't come cheap. |
Food and Drink
Grab a schwarma or falafel anywhere in Dubai at minimal cost, with the Ashwaq Cafeteria in the Gold Souk one of the more popular schwarma specialists. As Dubai is dominated by an expatriate population, its cuisine is rich in diversity - for example, the Ravi Restaurant sells Pakistani food and the Automatic Chain is a Lebanese food favourite. Wafi Gourmet is popular with the locals, and is a great spot to indulge in Arabic delicacies and smoke a sheesha to round off the meal.
Not all places serve alcohol so check beforehand if this is what you are looking for. For restaurant and bar hotspots consult Timeout Dubai for the latest listings. And for non-experimental eaters or those simply longing for a familiar taste, Starbucks can be found in some malls, as well as KFC and McDonalds. |
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The Palm and other developments to come
The Palm Jumeirah is a man-made island in the shape of a palm tree that will be the location for over twenty themed hotels. The Jebel Ali Palm is the entertainment branch of the three Palm Island development and will include a total of six marinas and awesome water park. The third, final and largest ‘palm' - the Palm Deira - will comprise mostly of residential properties, shopping malls and sporting complexes.
The World Islands are another man-made marvel in the shape of the world's continents. It will be made up of around 300 artificial islands built off the coast of Dubai, which will be divided between residential estates and vacation resorts. Shot from above, this development looks exactly like a giant-sized map of the globe floating on the sea, and is sure to make your jaw drop upon completion.
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‘Yaalla!'...Let's go
It's always good to know a little of the local lingo to get you on your way...why not write them down if you are afraid to pronounce the phrases:
Thank-you: shukran
Please: min fadlik
Do you speak English?: hal tataHaddath al'ingiliiziyya
How much is this?: bikam hatha?
It is too expensive: ghalia katheer
The toilets: IL hamam
The hospital: IL mustashfa
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