‘Ahlan wa Sahlan’ – Welcome to Dubai

A dazzling blend of traditional and modern cultures at the crossroads of East and West, Dubai is the quintessential holiday destination. Its mesmerising appeal and scintillating skyline shapes a city where iconic architecture such as Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest tower, as well as man-made islands and indoor ski slopes coexist with peaceful desert horizons.

With sunshine guaranteed 365 days a year, this constantly evolving metropolis never ceases to amaze. Renowned for its timeless souks, magnificent shopping centres, pristine beaches and numerous leisure attractions, Dubai offers endless enjoyment for all the family.

With a legacy of gracious hospitality emerging in tandem with Dubai’s bold socio-economic expansion, the allure of this Emirate lies in bringing you holiday memories that are always cherished and never forgotten.

Under the bold stewardship of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, today this cosmopolitan environment has progressed into a modern metropolis with a fast-paced lifestyle. With excellent infrastructure, getting around town is easy. Dubai boasts a WIFI-enabled metro, the world’s longest automated driverless train system. Metered taxis and air-conditioned buses are also easily available. If you prefer to drive, leasing a car is simple and convenient. English is spoken throughout this Emirate, and almost everyone uses it to communicate freely.

A culinary destination of global repute, Dubai has become famous for its wealth of taste explorations. With plentiful cuisines like Arabic, Lebanese, Iranian, Pakistani, Asian, Italian, Japanese, Chinese, French, Korean, Thai, Malaysian or Mexican to sample, Dubai has inimitable flavours to suit every palate. Fast food chains are also to be found throughout the city.

Tips for Travellers

Dubai’s culture though cosmopolitan, is quite different to that of most European and North American societies. There are however, a few elements that travellers need to keep in mind when visiting this vibrant city.

Dress Code: With an honoured tradition of modesty, dressing appropriately in public places is essential. When visiting a mosque, ladies are requested to wear long-sleeved dresses as well as a head scarf. Men should refrain from wearing shorts and vests and opt instead for trousers and a shirt. Head-scarves (sheylas) and long cloaks (abayas) are also provided. Slip-on shoes are recommended as they have to be removed when entering the mosque.

Eating and Drinking: In keeping with Islamic culture, the distribution of Pork is restricted and therefore sold in separate areas within most supermarkets. Tap water is clean and can be safely consumed. Bottled mineral water is readily available. During the Holy Month of Ramadan visitors are requested to avoid eating or drinking in public from sunrise till sunset. Although Dubai has a cosmopolitan environment, it follows Islamic laws which must be respected by all travellers.

Medical Information: There are no specific vaccinations required for visitors to Dubai. Travellers must however be aware of certain medicines that are prohibited in the UAE. For more information, please visit http://www.moh.gov.ae

Drugs: The UAE adopts a strict zero tolerance practice to drug use. Possession of any quantity of illegal substances automatically leads to conviction and a prison sentence.

Alcohol: Consumption of alcohol is strictly confined to licensed premises and hotels.
Drinking alcohol in public, carrying alcoholic beverages or appearing inebriated should be avoided. Driving under the influence of alcohol is not tolerated and is punishable by law.

Rude hand gestures: If you are driving on the roads in Dubai, refrain from making rude hand gestures. Venting frustration physically or verbally can result in an arrest.

Kissing: Public displays of affection are not encouraged in Dubai between adults.
For more about Dubai, visit: www.definitelydubai.com