About Dubai
Dubai is a leading regional commercial hub with a state-of-art infrastructure amid a world class business environment. With its strategic location and consistently strong economic outlook, Dubai is the ideal base for multinationals targeting markets in Central Asia, the Middle East, Africa, the Asian Subcontinent and the Eastern Mediterranean.
Geography
Dubai is located along the Arabian Gulf, in the northwestern region of the United Arab Emirates. The second largest of the seven Emirates, Dubai is divided by a long creek, and has a total area of roughly 3,900 square kilometers.
About the City
Dubai is renowned for its international sporting events, world-class shopping, sun-drenched beaches, luxury hotels and unique blend of traditional and modern architecture. It is the hub of commerce and tourism in the Middle East. The city has an exotic flair that buzzes with activity day and night.
Economy
Oil contributes less than 6% of the total economic production of Dubai. Trading, manufacturing and services – including tourism – now dominate the economy.
Local Time
The UAE is four hours ahead of GMT and nine hours ahead from Eastern Standard Time.
Population
In 2004, the population of the United Arab Emirates was estimated at 4,300,000. The population of Dubai alone is currently estimated at 1.35 million.
Language
The official language of the UAE is Arabic. In Dubai however, English is commonly used. All signposts are in both English and Arabic. Given the large size of the expatriate population in Dubai (over 185 nationalities), a variety of other languages are also widely spoken.
Climate
Dubai has a sub-tropical arid climate characterized by hot humid summers and mild temperate winters. From November until March, temperatures range from 14 to 30 degrees centigrade. From May until September, temperatures can reach as high as 45 degrees centigrade with severe humidity on occasion. However, every building, office and car is air-conditioned.
Religion
Islam is the official religion of United Arab Emirates and there are a large number of mosques throughout the city. However, other religions are respected, and Dubai has several Christian churches and other places of worship.
Photography
Normal tourist photography is acceptable, but it is considered offensive to photograph women. It is also courteous to ask permission before photographing men.
Clothing
Lightweight summer clothing is suitable for most of the year, but sweaters or jackets may be needed during the winter months, especially in the evenings. Compared with certain parts of the Middle East, Dubai has a relaxed dress code. However, care should be taken not to give offence by wearing clothing that may be considered inappropriate or revealing. At the pool or on the beach, trunks, swimsuits and bikinis are quite acceptable. Sunglasses and sun protection are also advisable when in direct sunlight.
Click on these links for more information about Dubai:
www.dubaitourism.ae
www.dubaitourism.co.za
