About Dubai

Located on the Southern shore of the Arabian Gulf, Dubai is the second largest of the 7 emirates which make up the United Arab Emirates.

Climate

Enjoying a sub-tropical climate, temperatures range from an average low of 10°C to a high of 48°C and rainfall is infrequent and irregular.

Language

The official language of Dubai is Arabic, but English is generally understood and ranks alongside Arabic as the language of commerce. In addition, Hindi and Urdu are widely used.

Transport

Most major hotels provide shuttle bus services for guests and there are also public buses which run between 06:00-23:00. Metered taxis can be hailed on the street or hired in advance (taxis are easily recognisable by their cream colour and uniformed drivers). Tipping is not expected in Dubai.

Shopping

Shops in Dubai traditionally open between 09:00-13:00 and again between 16:00-21:00, however many shops in Dubai now stay open all day, with some 24 hour supermarkets. Most shops will open on a Friday, but are required to close for Friday prayers between 11:30-13:30.

Attractions

The Creek - A natural sea water inlet, the Creek cuts through the centre of Dubai, separating the two major cities of Dubai and Deira. To experience the Creek at its best, charter a trip on one of the traditional Abra (water taxi) or dhow (wooden boats).

Sheikh Saeed′s House - Located in the Bur Dubai complex and built in the late 1800s, this is a fine example of traditional regional architecture.

Jumeirah Mosque - This is a major city landmark and a fine example of modern Islamic architecture. The Jumeirah suburb also boasts some of Dubai′s finest hotels and beaches.

The Souks - A wide variety of goods such as spices, incense, medicinal products, gold, textiles and fish can be purchased from the traditional markets.

Hatta Heritage Village - This 16th Century village has been carefully restored to provide a fine example of village architecture. The village features a Mosque, two watchtowers and 20 houses made of stone, mud, reeds and palm tree trunks, all built around the Hatta Fort which protected inhabitants against invasion.

Bedouin Village - A trip into the desert provides an opportunity to experience the traditional desert village way of life