Frequently Asked Questions

Know before you go guide

Do - Respect local customs and tradition - The Emiratis are friendly, welcoming people who demonstrate an open minded and tolerant approach to over 8 million international visitors annually. But their interesting culture and values should always be understood and respected to ensure you get the most out of your visit.

Do - Enjoy a drink and a dance - Dubai has hundreds of licensed restaurants, pubs and clubs where drinking is enjoyed. Remember that you need to be over 21 to drink legally in Dubai and alcohol abuse, drinking in non-licensed areas or being drunk in public are not tolerated, making it altogether a very enjoyable night out for all!

Do - Check you medication before your trip. Dubai has a strict policy on drugs, for further information please visit www.moh.gov.ae

Do - Behave in Public - Dubai laws and culture promote modesty and respect, so offensive language, spitting, aggressive behaviour and public displays of affection such as kissing won't be tolerated.

Do - Make the most of the Dubai during the holy month of Ramadan. Non-Muslims can eat and drink in many hotels and restaurants and often by the pool or on the beach too. Out of respect for those who are fasting these areas are screened off during the day. Clothing should considerately be kept more modest at this time of the year.

Do - wear respectful clothing - While swimwear is entirely appropriate by the pool or on the beach, this would be frowned upon by the conservatively dressed local population in more public locations such as in the streets or malls, where more modest clothing is more suitable.

Q: When is the best time to visit UAE & Dubai?

A: The UAE is blessed with year-round sunshine and blue skies with very little rain. The best time to visit is between October and April when temperatures hover at a pleasant 25-28°,°C (77-82°‚°F) and the Gulf is perfect for swimming. The hottest time of year is during the sweltering summer months of June to September, when humidity can seem unbearable and temperatures can skyrocket to 45°‚°C (113°‚°°F). The country is well prepared for hot weather however, with temperature controlled swimming pools and permanently air-conditioned hotels, malls and taxis. Rain and wind can occur in the months of January.

Q: What should I pack?

A: Lightweights, with medium weights clothing from November to March warmer clothes for evening.

Q: Do I need a visa to visit Dubai?

A: To enter the United Arab Emirates and Dubai a British citizens have to have 6 months left on their passports from the date of their return and must have evidence of a return or ongoing ticket.

A tourist Visa lasting 30 days (extendable on request up to 90 days), are issued free of charge on arrival, provided they passengers meet the requirements of the Resident and Nationalisation Authorities.

Q: Is local transport easily accessible?

A: we will provide all your transfers to/from the airport and port but if you want to go exploring Dubai:

Taxi:

Many travellers find taxis to be the quickest and most convenient method of travel within the UAE, as they are available everywhere with metered fares. Longer journeys can be agreed in advance and taxis booked by the day. Many expats take down the number and name of a taxi driver instead of relying on phoning local taxi companies. Make sure you carry smaller notes - anything over Dhs50 note will inspire grumbling.

Rail:

Dubai has now completed it's 300km (186-mile) metro system which is a cheap and effective way to move around the city and avoid traffic, with individual fares costing only a few Dirhams each way. The recently opened Green line will take passengers from north to south, running in parallel with Dubai Creek. See www.dubaimetro.eu for timetables, routes and information.

By water:

A water taxi travels between Dubai and Deira across the creek. The Road and Transport Authority recently launched Ferry Dubai. A ferry will sail Dubai Creek and link Jumeirah Beach, Dubai Marina and major waterfront developments.

Q: What happens during Ramadan?

A: The Holy month of Ramadan is when Muslims commemorate the revelation of the Holy Koran. During this period, all Muslims fast from sunrise to sunset. Eating, drinking and smoking in public areas during daylight hours is strictly prohibited, however hotels restaurants can accommodate tourists in covered tented areas.

Q: Will I be expected to pay tips?

A: Tax and service charge are usually included in the bills in restaurants; otherwise a 5-10% tip is adequate.

Q: Will I be able to use my electrical equipment in UAE & Dubai?

A: The standard electrical voltage in Dubai is 220 volts AC, 50HZ and the electrical outlets in UAE and Dubai take a three-pronged UK-type plug.

Q: Where can I get Internet access in UAE & Dubai?

A: Most five-star hotels offer guests internet access. Internet cheap rates are from 7 p.m. to 7 a.m.

Alternatively public internet access kiosks have being established in the UAE, at the major airports. The minimum charge for public access is Dh2 and 60 fils per minute. Payment can be made by credit card.

Q: Is UAE & Dubai safe for visitors?

A: The City of Dubai and the country as a whole (UAE the United Arab Emirates) are very safe and frequented by tourists, businessmen and expatriates from all over the world. The country has rarely seen turmoil, even with security levels lower than most western countries!

Q: Is English widely spoken?

The official language is Arabic, Arabic and English are commonly used in business and commerce. Hindi and Urdu are also widely used.

Q: What is the Currency in UAE & Dubai?

A: Arab Emirates Dirhams (AED or Dh)

Q: Drinking Water

A: The tap water in Dubai is perfectly safe however bottled water is also freely available and reasonably priced.

Q: Is Alcohol Legal in UAE & Dubai?

A: Wide choices of excellent wines, beers and spirits are available in licensed restaurants and bars. Dubai has several laws regarding alcohol which tourists should be aware of before visiting:

Alcohol is only available at licensed premises, usually attached to hotels (most nightclubs and bars are in or attached to hotels, though they may have separate entrances).

Alcohol is not sold on religious holidays, nor during daylight hours in Ramadan (even to non-Muslims).

It is illegal to drink alcohol in public places

Remember to carry some sort of identification when visiting a bar if you are young, as you will not be let in otherwise. The law prohibits anyone below 21 to enter.

Q: Legal Drinking Age

A: The Legal age for consuming alcohol in the UAE and Dubai is 21 years old and you are not allowed into a licensed premises unless you are 21.