GENERAL INFORMATION

TRAVEL IDEAS

Dubai 3 day stopover
Burj Al Arab

BEST TIME TO GO

Spring and autumn are probably the best times to visit Dubai because of the constant sunshine, warm water and the beautiful skies. The temperature is most pleasant from November through April, although it can get cool between December and February.

Although July and August are the most humid months, summer runs all the way from June to September. You'll probably want to avoid the coast during these months.

Dubai

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE YOU GO

CLIMATE

Dubai has a subtropical, arid climate. Sunny blue skies can be expected most of the year. Rainfall is infrequent and irregular falling mainly during the winter. Temperatures range from a minimum of 27 degrees Centigrade (81F) to a maximum of 41 degrees Centigrade (106 F) from June to September. October to May is cooler with temperatures ranging from a minimum of 14 degrees Centigrade (57 F) to a maximum of 37 degrees Centigrade (99 F).

LOCAL TIME

The UAE is 4 hours ahead of GMT.

LANGUAGE

The official language is Arabic although English is widely spoken and understood.

RELIGION

Islam is the official religion of the UAE. Other religions are respected. Non-Muslims are not allowed to enter mosques.

CURRENCY

The local currency is the UAE Dirham divided into 100 fils. In addition to banks and hotels, there are many licensed moneychangers in the major shopping centres and souks.

CREDIT CARDS

Most retail outlets, hotels and car rental companies accept internationally recognized credit cards.

HOURS OF BUSINESS

Offices:
Saturday/Wednesday, 8:00 am to 1:00 pm. and 4pm. to 7:00 pm.
Thursday 8:00 am to 1:00 pm.
Friday closed.
Banks:
Saturday/Thursday, 8:00 am to 1:00 pm.

ELECTRICITY

The voltage in Dubai is 220v. Most sockets are three pin, although adapters for two pin plugs are available at most hotels.

MEDICAL SERVICES

Most hotels have in-house nurses or doctors on call and medical treatment is also available at private and government hospitals.

DRINKING WATER

Tap water is safe to use although bottled water, which is served in hotels and restaurants, is recommended for drinking.

DRESS CODE

Dubai is an Islamic country and clothing should be modest. During the winter months light sweaters are recommended. Beachwear is acceptable at beach clubs, hotels and public beaches. During the daytime, the dress code is fairly casual although more exclusive restaurants may expect guests to dress more formally during the evening.

TRANSPORTATION

Taxis are readily available and reasonably priced. Metered taxis are recommended over private taxis whose rates are negotiable. There is a surcharge on taxis from Dubai airport.

SHOPPING

Dubai is known as a shopper's paradise. Many of the world's finest goods are available at prices well below what would be paid in other parts of the world. The Gold Souk is deservedly famous for its jewellery. Bargaining is acceptable although the basic gold price is set and is dependent on weight.
In the main souks, you will find everything from a range of textiles and tailors to perfumed oils and electronic items. Bargaining is expected and a discount of 15 to 25 per cent is usually given.

VISAS

Canadians and Americans may enter the United Arab Emirates for 60 days without a visa (an entry permit will be stamped in their passport upon arrival). An extension is possible for another 30 days.

RAMADAN

During the Holy Month of Ramadan all Muslims fast from sunrise to sunset, and eating, drinking and smoking in public areas during daylight hours is strictly prohibited. Alcohol will not be served during this time; however, alcohol is served in restaurants and bars after sunset for non-Muslims. Live entertainment, loud music and dancing are prohibited during this period. Most businesses and shops are open only for a few hours in the morning and re-open after sunset until well after midnight.

All Goway's featured hotels make concessions for their clients and keep a restaurant open during the day for resident guests only. Sunset marks the start of Iftar, which is the breaking of the fast. This begins with a traditional meal of dates, dry fruits and fresh juices, followed by a lavish feast of grilled meats, flavoured rice and other typical Arab fare including sweetmeats. Throughout Ramadan conservative dress should be worn in public.