Dubai is to the Middle East what Hong Kong is to Asia; a capitalist jewel buzzing with activity. Most visitors to the region stop here for at least a day to browse the shops, eat in the restaurants and soak up the atmosphere of a city oozing wealth and a general air of self-satisfied confidence.
Split into two by a long creek, a water taxi is an ideal starting point for orientation purposes and an opportunity to admire the modern palatial architecture, the hallmark of a successful Arab state. There isn't much here that isn't glistening new. Even the traditional souks that attract thousands of visitors each year are packed with up to the minute gadgets and the latest designer wear.
Dubai Transportation
As well as Dubai International Airport, there are other methods of transpot into Dubai. The UAE road network is inconsistent but is reasonable into Dubai city center. Rail is also an option.
Getting Around Dubai
For getting around Dubai there is a fairly good bus service, mini buses and taxis. Most people who are staying for some time make sure they have access to a vehicle, as there isn't a reliable public transport system beyond the city. Car hire is not too expensive, the roads are in good condition but the rules of the road are not always carefuly observed. Be very careful until you are used to it and be aware that roundabouts are particularly hazardous. as are wandering camels.
When to Visit - Arts and Events
Dubai's Muslim festivals, held annually on varying dates include Ramadan, the six weeks long religious fast which always ends in the festival Eid al-Fitr. The Islamic New Year and the Prophet's Birthday are the two main celebrations.
Dubai Dining
Traditional Middle Eastern cuisine consists of the staples 'fuul' made from fava beans flavoured with lemon juice, garlic and spices, 'felafel' which is fried chick pea paste and lamb or chicken served in pita bread and sold as 'shwarma'. Houmos is a widely available local speciality and tastes delightfully different from the westernised mayonnaise emulsion version.
Of course it is very easy to find all the old favourites in this cosmopolitan city: pizzas, pasta, steak, salads, shellfish platters, Indian cuisine and fastfood burger bars, but the country's traditional dishes are well worth sampling. Fresh produce stalls in the souks contain an extraordinary variety of highly exotic colourful fruits begging to be tried. In Dubai, alcohol is only available in restaurants and the more expensive hotels
Dubai Tipping Advice
Tipping is not a widely established practice in the UAE, as restaurants prefer to include a service charge. Given the low salary of many waiters however, tips are greatly appreciated.
Dubai Dress Code
Clothing should be conservative in Dubai. Women should avoid wearing revealing clothing, especially in rural areas, and go for loose clothing such as loose-cut trousers and long dresses.
Greeting Someone in Dubai
Usual practice is the use of "Sayed" (Mr) or "Sayeda" (Mrs) followed by the first name. The first name should always be prefixed with the honorific title, especially in business situations
Dubai Business Hours and Banking
Dubai's business community work Saturday to Thursday 08:00 to 13:00 and 16:00 to 20:00. Banking hours in Dubai are from 08:00 to 13:00, Saturday through Wednesday, although some also open from 16:30 to 18:30 pm. On Thursdays, banks are open between 08:00 and 12:00.
Dubai Smoking
Attitudes to smoking in Dubai are the same as in Europe and in most cases it is obvious where not to smoke. Visitors should remember that during Ramadan, it is illegal to eat, drink or smoke in public.
