Have a look at this quick and handy guide to ensure that you’ve a worry-free vacation in UAE.
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.
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.
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.
3. Sharjah, with its many heritage sights, traditional souks, and spectacular waterfront attractions, is rightfully called the Cultural Capital of Arab World.
4. Ajman, is the smallest emirate in the UAE. Besides attractions including Ajman Museum, it is home to a quaint beach.
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.
6. Umm Al Quwain, is the least populated emirate but it abounds in natural marvels and striking scenery.
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.
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.
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:
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
The UAE, being a country deeply entrenched in Islamic culture and traditions, entails visitors to dress modestly in public places including malls, beaches etc.