WELCOME TO DUBAI, UAE

WELCOME TO DUBAI, UAE

Induction Handbook

CONTENTS

Overview

2

Cultural Dos and Don'ts

5

Where to Live

7

Household Bills

11

Banking

12

Transportation

14

Schools, Nurseries and Universities 17

House Staff

19

Visas

20

Hospitals, Clinics and Doctors 22

Childrens' Entertainment

23

Online Information

25

Shopping Malls

26

Tourist Attractions

27

Basic Arabic Phrases

28

OVERVIEW

Located in the heart of the Middle East, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) is home to more than 150 nationalities. The formation of the UAE came after the discovery of huge oil reserve in Abu Dhabi in 1958. The UAE is considered the second richest Arab country with fewer than 10% of the world's proven oil reserves and the fourth largest natural gas reserves.

While proud and protective of its Islamic culture, the UAE is also one of the most progressive, cosmopolitan and openminded countries in the region. From the brash metropolis of Dubai to the desert wilderness of the Empty Quarter, its many landscapes lie waiting to be explored. Whether you're new to this remarkable land or have been living here for years, there's always something new to discover.

LOCATION

The United Arab Emirates is situated on the eastern side of the Arabian Peninsula, bordering Saudi Arabia and the Sultanate of Oman. The country comprises seven emirates ? Abu Dhabi, Ajman, Dubai, Fujairah, Ras Al Khaimah, Sharjah and Umm Al Quwain.

Abu Dhabi is by far the largest emirate, occupying over 80% of the country with the emirate of Dubai the second largest, although they have similar populations.

Dubai Abu Dhabi

United Arab Emirates

Oman



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OVERVIEW

DUBAI CLIMATE

Dubai has a subtropical and arid climate. Sunny blues skies and high temperatures can be expected most of the year. Rain falls on an average of only 25 days per year, mainly in winter (December to March). It rarely rains very heavily or for long periods.

Temperatures range from a low of around 10?c (50?f) in winter to a high of 48?c (118?f) in summer. Humidity is usually between 50% and 65%; however, when combined with the high summer temperatures, even 60% humidity can produce extremely uncomfortable conditions. The most pleasant time is in the cooler winter months, when temperatures are perfect for comfortable days on the beach and long, lingering evenings outside.

WEATHER AVERAGES FOR DUBAI

JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC

Avg. High ?C (?F) Avg. Low ?C (?F) Rain Mm (Inches)

24.0 (75)

14.3 (58)

15.6 (0.6)

25.4 (78)

15.4 (60)

25.0 (1)

28.2 (83)

17.6 (64)

21.0 (0.8)

32.9 (91)

20.8 (69)

07.0 (0.3)

37.6 (100)

24.6 (76)

00.4 (0)

39.5 (103)

27.2 (81)

00.0 (0)

40.8 (105)

29.9 (86)

00.8 (0)

41.3 (106)

30.2 (86)

00.0 (0)

38.9 (102)

27.5 (82)

00.0 (0)

35.4 (96)

23.9 (75)

01.2 (0)

30.5 (87)

19.9 (68)

02.7 (0.1)

26.2 (79)

16.3 (61)

14.9 (0.6)

CULTURE

The UAE has managed to establish a healthy balance between western influences and eastern traditions. The country has continued to uphold its strong cultural roots while at the same time continuing to become progressively modern and cosmopolitan, reinforcing an open-minded and liberal outlook.

When you first arrive you may find aspects of the local culture seem strange to you. Take time to observe and understand before you pass judgment; you'll soon realize that the many different nationalities living here make it a sometimes frustrating but ultimately fascinating city.



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OVERVIEW

RELIGION

Islam is more than just a religion; it is a way of life that governs even mundane everyday events, from what to wear to what to eat and drink. Therefore, the culture and heritage of the UAE is closely linked to its religion. However, the UAE is tolerant and welcoming; foreigners are free to practice their own religion, alcoholis served in hotels and the dress code is liberal. Women face little discrimination and, contrary to the policies of neighboring Saudi Arabia, are able to drive and walk around unescorted and with hair uncovered.

LANGUAGE

The official language of the UAE is Arabic. However, English, Hindi, Malayalam, Urdu, Tagalog, Russian and Farsi are commonly spoken.

Arabic is the official business language, but English is so widely used that you could conduct business here for years without learning a single world of Arabic. Most road signs, shop signs and restaurant menus are in both languages. The further out of town you go, the more you will find just Arabic, both spoken and on street and shop signs.

CURRENCY

The United Arab Emirates currency is called the Dirham. Arab Emirate Dirham (Dhs or AED) 100 Fils = 1 Dirhams. The UAE dirham is pegged to the US Dollar, with a constant conversion rate of 3.67.

The dirham is available in the following denominations:

Notes: 1,000 AED, 500 AED, 200 AED, 100

AED, 50 AED, 20 AED, 10 AED and 5 AED

Coins: 1 AED and 50, 25, 10 and 5 fils.



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CULTURAL DOS & DON'TS

Be mindful of the following dos and don'ts - by showing respect for local customs and traditions you will not cause offence and ultimately settle in more easily.

FEMALE ATTIRE

While beachwear is fine on the beach, you should dress a little more conservatively when out and about in public places. If in doubt, ensuring that your shoulders and knees are covered is a safe bet. They said, when out at bars and clubs in the evening, a little more `exposure' is considered acceptable. A pashmina is always useful for the journey home or in case the air conditioning is strong.

BUSINESS ETIQUETTE

Business meetings in the region will usually start with introductions and small talk before anyone actually gets down to business. Business cards are always exchanged and you should treat them with respect as an extension of the person who gives one to you. Punctuality to meetings is important and arriving late is considered to be very bad manner. However, it is important not to assume that your meeting will start at the scheduled time or that once started it will not be interrupted.

PUBLIC DISPLAYS OF AFFECTION

There are strict guidelines to follow and anything more than an innocent peck on the cheek will not only get you disapproving looks from passersby but also can ultimately lead to police action.



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