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Language
The official language of the country is Arabic, although English is the official business language. English is widely used and most road and shop signs, restaurant menus, etc are in both languages.
Culture
Dubai’s culture is firmly rooted in the Islamic traditions of Arabia. However Dubai is very tolerant of the customs of its visitors and is relatively liberal when it comes to European dress codes and serving alcohol in hotels. Among the most highly prized virtues are courtesy and hospitality, visitors are sure to be charmed by the genuine warmth and friendliness of the people.
Geography
The second largest of the seven emirates which make up the United Arab Emirates, Dubai is located on the southern shore of the Arabian Gulf. It has an area of some 3,900 square kilometres. Outside the city itself, the emirate is sparsely inhabited and characterised by desert vegetation.
Climate
Dubai has a sub-tropical, arid climate. Sunny, blue skies can be expected most of the year. Rainfall is infrequent and irregular, falling mainly in winter Temperatures range from a low of about 10.5°C/50°F to a high of 48°C/118°F. The mean daily maximum is 24°C/75.2°F in January rising to 41°C/105.8°F in July.
Economy
Oil contributes just 20 per cent of economic production. Trading, manufacturing and services - including tourism - now dominate the economy.
Clothing
Lightweight summer clothing is suitable for most of the year, but sweaters or jackets may be needed for the winter months, especially in the evenings. Compared with certain parts of the Middle East, Dubai has a very relaxed dress code. However, care should be taken not to give offence by wearing clothing which may be considered revealing. At the pool or on the beaches, trunks, swim-suits and bikinis are quite acceptable.
Shopping
The shopping capital of the Middle East! Prices are competitive in many products from gold to carpets, textiles or designer labels. The key to shopping here is to bargain where possible since prices, especially in the souks, can drop quite substantially.
Souks
Souks are the Arabic markets where any kind of goods are bought, sold and exchanged. Over the years, the items on sale have changed dramatically from spices, silks and perfumes to include electronic goods and the latest kitsch consumer trends.
Food
Dubai offers pretty much every type of international cuisine imaginable. Whilst restaurants located in hotels are able to offer a five star service they can be expensive - some of the best places to eat are the small street side stands around town.
Nightlife
Dubai has numerous cinemas, cafes, bars, nightclubs and discos to suit all tastes and ages. There are a number of local magazines available from newsagents listing details of the above facilities.
Alcohol
Alcohol is available in hotel and club restaurants and bars. However, restaurants outside hotels are not permitted to serve alcoholic beverages.
Tours & Sightseeing
There are many companies in Dubai offering an exciting variety of city and safari tours. An organised tour can be a great way to discover the UAE. Tours range from a half-day city tour to an overnight safari visiting the desert or mountains and camping in tents. Most trips require a minimum of four people for the tour to run. It is advisable to book three or four days in advance although in some cases less notice is not a problem.
For more tourism info visit: http://www.dubaitourism.ae/Travel/default.asp
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