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Dubai Shopping Festival 2021-22 with 5 Star Hotels

Have a look at this quick and handy guide to ensure that you’ve a worry-free vacation in UAE.

I. Location

Lying along the Arabian Peninsula’s south-east tip, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) is a country strategically placed in the Middle East. Bordering the Persian Gulf and with Oman and Saudi Arabia as its immediate neighbors, the UAE is one of the six nations that make up the GCC (Gulf Co-operation Council) states.

II. Administrative Divisions Facts & Figures

Covering an area of approximately 84,000 square kilometers, the UAE is divided into seven emirates, each of them being headed by a heritable emir. They are:

1. Abu Dhabi, besides the largest of all emirates, serves as the seat of administrative and political system in UAE.

  • Area: Roughly 67,500 square kilometers
  • Area Code: 2
  • Must-Sees: Sheik Zayed Grand Mosque, Heritage Village, Emirates Park Zoo, Yas Island, and Abu Dhabi Falcon Hospital

2. Dubai, is second only in terms of its size but no other emirates can perhaps beat Dubai when it comes to its soaring structures, futuristic architecture, glitzy malls, and uber classy leisure options.

  • Area: Roughly 4,100 square kilometers
  • Area Code: 4
  • Must-Sees: Burj Al Arab, Palm Island, Global Village, Ski Dubai, Dubai Marina, Bastaqiya Quarter, and Downtown with attractions like Burj Khalifa and Dubai Mall.

3. Sharjah, with its many heritage sights, traditional souks, and spectacular waterfront attractions, is rightfully called the Cultural Capital of Arab World.

  • Area: Roughly 2,600 square kilometers
  • Area Code: 6
  • Must-Sees: Sharjah Arts Museum, Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilisation, Al Qasba, and Eye of the Emirate

4. Ajman, is the smallest emirate in the UAE. Besides attractions including Ajman Museum, it is home to a quaint beach.

  • Area: 260 square kilometers
  • Area Code: 6
  • Must-Sees: Ajman National Museum, Ajman Fort, Dhow Yard, and Etisalat Tower

5. Ras Al Khaimah, is located at the UAE’s northernmost tip. The picturesque beauty of Hajjar Mountains punctuated by striking landscapes, tranquil hot springs, and mesmerizing inlets, makes this emirate exceptionally striking.

  • Area: Roughly 1,650 square kilometers
  • Area Code: 7
  • Must-Sees: Ras Al Khaimah Pearl Museum, National Museum, Iceland Waterpark, and Dhayah Fort

6. Umm Al Quwain, is the least populated emirate but it abounds in natural marvels and striking scenery.

  • Area: Roughly 750 square kilometers
  • Area Code: 6
  • Must-Sees: Dreamland Waterpark, Aquarium, Umm AL Quwain Museum, and Happyland

7. Fujairah, along the Gulf of Oman, is distinctively unique, being the only emirate on the country’s eastern side. Its mountainous setting with lush greenery, wadis and beaches is alluring all on its own.

  • Area: Roughly 1,170 square kilometers
  • Area Code: 9
  • Must-Sees: Fujairah Fort, Al Bidya Mosque, Fujairah Museum, and Al Hayl Castle

III. Rulers

HH Sheikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan – the ruler of Abu Dhabi – is the president of the UAE. The vice president and prime minister is HH Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, who is also the Dubai’s ruler.

IV. Visa

Foreigners who wish to make a visit to UAE will require a visa. But there are exceptions based on their nationality. The citizens of GCC countries can enter the country without a visa. Likewise, nationalities of certain countries, mainly from Far East, Europe, and America, need not have to apply for a visa before their intended visit to the UAE, as they are eligible for a visa on arrival. People who do not fall under these categories should apply for a visa in advance, when they plan for a UAE trip. Different types of UAE visas include:

  • Transit Visa (96-hour Visa)
  • 14-Day Single Entry Visa
  • 30-Day Single Entry Visa
  • 90-Day Single Entry Visa
  • 30-Day Multiple Entry Visa
  • 90-Day Multiple Entry Visa

Contact our visa department directly to know regarding the visa type that is apt for your upcoming Dubai visit, along with the requirements and procedures for the application as well as approval of visa.

V. Currency

The UAE’s official currency is Dirham, with AED as its ISO 4217 Alphabetic code. Shortened as Dhs, the dirham is divided up into 100 fils. One US dollar is equivalent to 3.67 Dirhams.

VI. Language

Arabic is the official language of the UAE, though English is widely spoken. This is because 80% to 85% of population is expats. French, Persian, and many languages of Indian origin, such as Urdu, Hindi, and Malayalam find top position among the list of most extensively used languages in the UAE.

VII. Transportation

All of UAE’s major cities boast world-class public transport system, which includes taxis and buses. For longer stays, you can opt for a rent-a-car service. The most convenient way to move around while in Dubai is metros, which is completely automated and driverless, with two lines: Red & Green. The Dubai RTA (Road and Transport Authority) also operates inter-emirate buses between Dubai and other emirates.

VIII. Climate

The UAE is characterized by hot and dry climate throughout the year, with temperatures soaring above 45 degree Celsius during summer months from May to August. Winter months (November to March) are generally salubrious, as mercury drops down to 24 Degree Celsius.

IX. Dressing Etiquette

The UAE, being a country deeply entrenched in Islamic culture and traditions, entails visitors to dress modestly in public places including malls, beaches etc.

X. Fast Facts about UAE

  • Country Code: 971
  • UAE nationals are known as Emiratis
  • Abu Dhabi is the UAE’s capital and largest city
  • Not to miss in UAE: Desert Safari, Dhow Cruise, Sightseeing, Shopping in its swanky malls and traditional souks
  • Emergency Numbers
  • Police: 999
  • Medical: 999
  • Fire: 999
  • National Day: December 2nd
  • Best Time to visit UAE: October to April
  • Religion: Islam