Dubai

GENERAL INFORMATION

Dubai is located at the crossroads between Europe, Africa and Asia. It is the second largest Emirate as well as the capital city, of the United Arab Emirates (UAE). The UAE compromises of Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al Queain, Ras Al Khaimah and Fujairah.

Dubai’s has a land area of 3885 square kilometres and a population of over 2.4 million. Dubai is well known for being one of the world’s fastest growing cities in culture, business, fun and value for money. Dubai continues to build the first, largest and biggest constructions in the world.

LANGUAGE, CULTURE AND CUSTOMS

Dubai’s official language is Arabic which is the language of commerce however English is widely understood. The local currency is the Dirham which has a conversion of 1AUD = 2.69AED.

Dubai’s culture is rooted in Islamic traditions. It is important that all tourists respect and behave suitably when visiting Dubai. The most prized virtue in Dubai is courtesy and hospitality. Visitors should always dress modestly especially in conservative areas and public places. Shorts and t-shirts are suitable attire in many placed however when visiting religious sites such as mosques, it is respectful to wear loose-fitted clothing that cover the shoulders, arms and legs.

It is customary to accept foods and drinks with your right hand and also it is the hand you should eat with. Avoid showing the soles of your feet and it is considered rude to cross your legs and point your finger. Alcohol is only allowed in confined areas such as a hotel, bar or nightclub.

POINTS OF INTEREST

Dubai is well known for its iconic, modern attractions which is a vacation hot spot. The city is filled with high-rises and shopping malls where people flock for sales and sightseeing attractions. 4 of the many attractions include:

Burj Khalifa

This building is Dubai’s landmark building standing at 829.8m tall and is the tallest building in the world. Visitors must take a trip to the observation deck on the 124^th floor where they’ll experience the views of the city skyline and the ocean.

Burj Khalifa - 829.8m

The Dubai Fountains

Burj al-Arab

At the base of the Burj Khalifa are the world’s largest dancing fountains. Set on 30 acres of land, the Burj Khalifa Lake fountains shoot water to as high as 500ft which is equivalent to a 50 storey building.

Burj al-Arab

The Burj al-Arab is the world’s tallest hotel standing at a height of 321m. Located on its own articifial island on the coastline of Dubai, the Burj al-Arab was designed to resemble a billowing dhow sail. Burj al-Arab is the only 7 star hotel in the world.

Palm Island

Palm Island

Palm Island has everything all families need to enjoy a holiday break. Palm Island provides family with relaxation and a range of activities including water sports, aquariums, theme parks, beaches, pools, gardens and a range of fine dining restaurants.

CUISINE

Dubai is the best place to try all types of food from the Gulf and Middle East.

Stuffed Camel

Stuffed Camel is one of the biggest, most popular dishes in Dubai. Chefs stuff a whole camel with herbs, spices and meat including chicken, fish and sheep.

Shawarma

Shawarma is famous and the most eaten food in Dubai. The dish is made from lamb or chicken meet, along with an array of vegetables, fries, pickles and garlic sauce. It is considered a fast food as it is served in a wrap. The dish is spicy and some find it too strong.

Mahalabiya

Mahalabiya is an all-time favourite dessert in Dubai. It is a refreshing recipe containing rosewater and pistachios. This dish is primarily a pudding.

Mahalabiya

TRAVEL TIPS

1. Always dress conservatively - respect all the residents and their culture

2. Get your money exchanged in a bank, hotel or ATM to avoid getting short-changed.

3. Remember to bring an electric adapter

4. Do not drink alcohol in public

5. Do not show any public displays of affection as they are offensive and are displays of homosexuality

6. Be aware of what you are taking photos of. Unless you are in a tourist area, avoid taking pictures of government buildings, mosques and airports. NEVER take a picture of a Muslim woman without permission.

7. You must get health insurance before visiting Dubai! Cost of treatment is very expensive in Dubai

8. Be aware of your internet usage. It is illegal to gamble and engage in any adult content.