Dubai
The land of sand and shopping
Information
Over 3.1 million people live in Dubai. It is known for its luxury shopping, opulent architecture and a lively nightlife scene. Dominating the skyline is Burj Khalifa, an 830m-tall towe. At the base of this tower complex is the Dubai Fountain, water jets and lights are choreographed to music. Dubai is also known for its group of artificial islands just offshore in the shape of a palm tree. Part of this complex is both a marine and wildlife park.
QUICK FACTS:
Currency: Arab Emirate Dirham
Language: Arabic and English
Visa: On arrival for most countries
Power: 220 volts AC. Plug types Same as UK
Safety: Dubai has very little serious violent crime and in this aspect is safe to travel. BUT the law is where you will find possible problems. The law is made from a version of Sharia Law, which can make what you may consider small things illegal.
Gen up on the laws regarding dress code and behaviour and you should have no trouble.
There is a constant and evolving threat of conflict with neighbouring countries – check with your local consulate about current safety.
TRANSPORT:
Trams, Trains and Buses are a great way to get around. Relatively cheap and a great network. Just add time to your journey plan if not stopping in a shopping center as it takes time to find your way out.
Car rental is another option, Dubai is an easy place to drive, large roads and not too much traffic.
FESTIVALS:
Shopping Festival, January
Marathon, January
International Jazz Festival, February
Dubai World Cup, March
Art Dubai, March
Food Festival, March
Boat Show, March
Dhow Race, November
International Film Festival, December
Planning
Dubai winters are from November to April and this is the best time to visit. April to October is when temperatures begin to rise, often into the high 40’s with humidity too. Not pleasant for outdoor activity (fine for shopping though).
Rainfall is under 100mm per annum.
Packing:
Dubai is a Muslim country so please pack appropriate clothing, and it will be hot. Conservative clothing is recommended and not too casual as you will feed under dressed against the majority.
BUDGET:
Accommodation:-
Budget Double Room with air cond 175 AED
Mid Range Double Room with air cond 300 AED
Luxury 300 AED and up
Food:- Prices vary from fairly cheap to extremely expensive
Stalls from 5 AED pp
Local restaurants 65 AED pp
Resort or similar 100 AED pp and up
Transport:-
Buses, Trams and Trains
Single red card, the trip cost 0,68 – 1,77 USD = 2.5 – 6.5 AED depending on the distance of travel. Reusable silver card, trip costs 0,63 – 1,58 USD = 2.3 – 5.8. AED the card costs 5,4 USD = 20 AED ( 3,8 USD = 14 AED on the account)
Car Hire
Cost of car hire 250 AED and up, depending on type of car and length of hire.
Fuel costs are very cheap at 2.2 AED per litre.
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