Looking to find a challenging job or a career move in Dubai, a place where your effort and achievements are highly valued and accordingly reward! If yes, this is the place for you
Known as the City of Merchants, Dubai is the second largest of the seven Emirates that make up the UAE. In the entire Gulf, there is no place quite like Dubai. Its history began in the 1830s when the city broke away from Abu Dhabi and became a centre of commerce and trading in its own right. In fact, Dubai’s wealth is founded on trade, not oil. When oil was discovered in 1966, it merely contributed to the city’s prosperity and sped up modernization.
Modern development began at the turn of the last century with heavy import-export trading, mainly in gold. What opium was to the growth of Hong Kong, gold was to Dubai. As the leading centre for business and tourism in the Middle East, Dubai offers a fascinating kaleidoscope of contrasts in a distinctive blend of modern city and timeless desert, east and west, old and new.
As an exotic destination with a cosmopolitan lifestyle, Dubai combines the comfort and conveniences of the Western world with the unique charm of Arabia. Even with a high degree of tolerance for different lifestyles, Dubai remains close to its heritage.
Dubai’s souqs and shopping malls are crammed with goods - at some of the world’s best prices. But there is more to the city than shopping. Visitors find an outstanding museum and superb recreational facilities, ranging from golf and watersports to desert safaris and dhow cruises. As the sports capital of the Middle East, Dubai boasts four championship golf courses; it is a regular fixture on the European and Asian PGA circuits and hosts the Dubai World Cup - known as the world’s richest horse race. An endless array of restaurants and nightspots offers a wide choice of cuisine and entertainment.
Dubai is a place of fascinating contrasts, a distinct blend of modern city, timeless deserts, rugged mountains and miles of sandy beaches. The streets are clean and safe – Interpol has voted Dubai as one of the safest cities in the world.
With so many attractive attributes it is not surprising that Dubai rates highly with world-class travellers, businessmen and the international jet set.
Please Note: Our call falls during the time of Ramadan, when Moslems fast from daybreak until sunset each day. Non-Moslems are requested to avoid eating, drinking or smoking in the presence of a Moslem during this period. Some hotel restaurants remain open during this time, but will not serve
This section provides essential information which might be of use when living or relocating to Dubai
COMMUNICATIONS AND MEDIA
Telephone and fax: The telephone network operated by 2 telecom operators, Etisalat and, Du is superb: local calls are free and direct dialling is available to 150 countries.
The international dial code for UAE is +971. Cheap rates for international direct calls apply from 9 p.m. to 7 a.m. and all day on Fridays and public holidays. There is a complete list of rates at the back of each telephone directory. You do not need to use the emirate access code when dialling an internal number in that emirate. In other words to ring a number in Dubai from Abu Dhabi you must use the 04 prefix. If you are dialling a number in Dubai from another location in that Dubai you will not need to use a prefix. Pay phones, both card and coin operated, are located throughout Dubai. Phone cards for local use are usually available from Etisalat and, Du offices, supermarkets, pharmacies etc. Coin operated phones take Dh1 and 50 fils.
The main Etisalat offices in Dubai are located on the corner of Beniyas Road, Omar Ibn Al Khatab road, Behind Dusit Dubai on Sheikh Zayed Road, Jabal Ali. Opening hours are Saturday to Wednesday 8 a.m.- 8 p.m.
Mobile phones: Mobile phone (GSM) services are available throughout the country and provided by 2 main telecom operators, Etisalat with mobile code 050 and DU with mobile code 055. SIM cards can be purchased from Etisalat or DU offices or from supermarkets and petrol stations. To buy a new SIM card you require providing a copy of your passport. Visitors from outside Dubai can use those SIM cards with their own mobile phone handset. Recharge scratch cards can be bought from most supermarkets, petrol stations, mobile phone shops, airport and other outlets.
Emergency Numbers
Ambulance 998 or 999
Fire 997
Police 999
Coastguard 04 3450520
PUBLIC HOLIDAYS
Since Muslim festivals are timed according to local sightings of phases of the moon, the dates outlined below for Islamic religious holidays are approximate. The precise dates are not announced until a day or so before they occur. If a public holiday falls on a weekend, the holiday is usually taken at the beginning of the next working week. A three-day mourning period is usually announced when a member of the ruling families or a government minister or the head of a neighbouring state dies. Government offices and some private companies will close for the period.
· New Year's Day: January 1st
· Eid al-Adha (Feast of the Sacrifice at the end of the pilgrimage to Mecca (the haj) 3 day holiday
· Ras al-Sana (Islamic New Year)
· Mawlid al-Nabi (Prophet’s Birthday)
· Accession of HH Sheikh Zayed as Ruler of Abu Dhabi
· Lailat al-Mi’raj (Ascension of the Prophet Mohammed)
· National Day: D 2nd
· Eid al-Fitr (3 days at end of Ramadan)
Driving License
Permanent UAE driving licenses can only be obtained after a residence visa has been granted. Holders of driving licenses from most countries can rent and drive hired cars within the UAE. However, it is best to check before going out to rent a car.
Dress Code:
Lightweight summer clothing is suitable for most of the year, but sweaters or jackets may be needed for the winter months, especially in the evenings. Good quality sunglasses are advised, and photo-chromatic lenses for those who wear spectacles. Hats or some protection for the head are advisable when in direct sunlight. The United Arab Emirates has conservative dress traditions. Swimwear should be confined to the beach and hotel pools. Men and women should ensure shoulders and knees are covered when in public, especially in souks, shops and villages.
Imagine 12 acres of desert filled with 30 million litters of water and solely dedicated to having fun. That is Wild Wadi. There are 23 rides to entertain and excite every member of the family and in Dubai, this place has been more than just a shelter for those wanting to escape the heat of the desert. Adrenaline seekers will love Jumeirah Sceirah - a 33-meter high slide with steep angles to propel riders up to 80km per hour. There is also Breakers Bay, which has a wave machine creating 1.5-meter waves all day.
Skiing in Dubai
There are 2 key ski resorts in Dubai which you can enjoy state of the art indoors skiing facilities.
Ski Dubai in Dubai Emirates Mall which is considered to be the third largest indoors ski slope in the world measuring 400 meters and using 6000 tons of snow. Ski Dubai resort is the first Dubai indoor ski slope to open. Ski Dubai opened its doors to skiers in December 2005 and is located in the Mall of Emirates in Dubai, one of the largest integrated shopping malls in the world.
A second Dubai indoor ski slope is the Dubai Sunny Mountain Ski Dome in Dubailand which is due to open early 2007. It will provide a great attraction, featuring a revolving ski slope, an artificial mountain range, an ice bridge, a cable lift, a snow maze, an ice slide, polar bears cold water-aquaria and special sound and light effects.
Burj Al Arab
Burj Al Arab is the world's tallest structure with a membrane facade. This is the tallest operating hotel building in the world. Designed to resemble a billowing sail, the hotel soars to a height of 321 metres and 24 meter (79 feet) wide helipad, dominating the Dubai coastline. At night, it offers an unforgettable sight, surrounded by choreographed colour sculptures of water and fire. This all-suite hotel reflects the finest that the world has to offer and known to be the only 7-star hotel in the world
Desert Safaris
Trips to the desert in groups can be a great way to explore the desert and also know other people and find out a little bit more about the Arabic culture. Safaris are generally half day and can include an overnight stay in one of the Bedouin tents. Entertaining and dining is also offered as part of the safari. While on the safari you may choose to include a camel ride or dune buggy adventure along the sand dunes.
Double Decker Bus
Straight from the streets of London to the highways and byways of Dubai, these highly visual, vintage double-decker buses provide fun for everyone whatever the occasion. With lots of unique activities for all ages, Dubai’s only red double-decker buses provide an exclusive party venue, an eye-catching promotional media, or just a fun way to add interest to a corporate or public event.
Creek Tours
The Dubai creek can be explored with the help of an organized creek tour. It is a great way to see new and old Dubai side by side while enjoying a peaceful and relaxed journey. Many of the tours are in traditional wooden dhow or Abras (the traditional water taxi) which takes you on a short journey across the waterway from the glass-and-steel office blocks of Deira to the old-world Souks of Bur Dubai, providing a fascinating glimpse of Dubai's trading heritage.
Hatta Rock Pools
Nestled in the varied crags of the Hajar Mountains, the Hatta Rock Pools unfold its rocky corridors with bursting waterfalls and turquoise pools. Venture through the narrow passageways to find spring-fed pools that are yet to be discovered. Only half an hour from the ancient village of Hatta, this oasis is a hidden gem.
Dubai Heritage Village
A sort of time warp-meets-craft fair, the Dubai Heritage & Diving Village is a great place to see the more traditional aspects of Dubai life that are missing from the modern city. The Village is ideal for uncovering ancient artifacts unlike those found anywhere else in the world, and to pick up a unique Arabian bowl or basket.
Dubai Zoo
Dubai Zoo is a popular attraction, specially for families and animal lovers is located in Jumeirah. The zoo's modern facilities though small, house many indigenous Arabian species, including the Arabian Wolf, which is no longer found in the wild, Gordon's Wildcat and the world's only captive breeding colony of Socotra Cormorants. Dubai zoo also features in its large aviary are regional birds of prey. Nine species of large cats and seven species of primates are on show, along with many Arabian mammals. Dubai zoo will soon be replaced by a state-of-the-art and much larger zoo in a new 560-hectare site near Mushrif Park on the outskirts of the City
Dubai Marina
One of the largest man-made waterfronts in the world, Dubai Marina seeks to create a visionary city within a city. Dubai Marina offers a cosmopolitan, free-spirited atmosphere coupled with a unique, invigorating lifestyle. The Dubai Marina lifestyle is alive and glittering. It is a place for people to meet, laugh, live and enjoy life to the full. The new social centre of Dubai, Dubai Marina brings to life the fine art of dining. A wide range of restaurants cater to varying taste buds from Arabian food, authentic Indian cuisine to funky sushi and 50's American diner. The Dubai Marina promenade is home to restaurants and cafes, offering views of boats and blue waters as you sit and enjoy a cooling drink along the water. Unobstructed views across the marina, fresh sea breezes and the experience of a lifestyle most people can only dream about. With over 700 berths to choose, you can safely park your boat or yacht and cruise the clear blue waters of the Marina and the Arabian Gulf at your leisure
Burj Dubai
The Burj Dubai will be the world's tallest tower and the centrepiece of the Gulf regions most prestigious urban development to date. This architectural phenomenon will be a global tourist magnet that skyrockets Dubai into the global limelight. Burj Dubai will radiate out in a series of ellipses from the sky breaking tower encompassing residential, commercial, hotel, entertainment, and the world largest shopping mall, Dubai Mall. The planned Old Town with its intimate streets and architectural detail will create special ambience with the mystery of yesterdays Arabia. Old Town will feature every kind of restaurant from five-star dining to outdoor cafes overlooking parks and waterways
Dubai Wonderland
A 44-acre amusement park, Wonderland hosts the usual suspects - roller coasters, go carts, restaurants, as well as some exotic water park specials, including a water mist show and a water cinema (where films are projected onto a thin film of water). Located near Al Boom Tourist Village and Creekside Park for touring convenience, it offers a 'Ladies Only' special on Wednesdays and 'Families Only' special on Thursdays.
Dubai Creek Park
The foundation of the park was due to the policy of Dubai Municipality to expand the green land in the city and to provide the residents and tourists with recreational places enabling them to spend enjoyable times away from the stress of work. Reflects a green colour, the park creating a splendid harmony with the blue water of the creek, the clear sky of Dubai and the greenery of the Creek Club known for its deep-rooted sails in the sea of history. All these features amalgamate gradually with the high buildings that distinguish the palpitating heart of the bustling city centre.
Madinat Jumeirah
The Arabian Resort of Dubai, is a magnificent tribute to Dubai's heritage and is styled to resemble an ancient Arabian citadel. Luxurious and ornate, combining the height of opulence with an overwhelming sense of tradition. Meandering waterways transport guests to all parts of this intricate city of senses. Two grand boutique hotels, courtyard summer houses, a traditional souk, the Six Senses Spa, the region's leading conference and banqueting centre, unlimited recreational facilities and the superlative Quay Healthclub - all this and more combine to make Madinat Jumeirah the most fascinating Resort in the world.
Adventure Sports
Dubai is one of the biggest adventure sports capitals in the world, with lots of opportunities to get the adrenaline pumping. Diving and snorkeling opportunities are great in the spectacular UAE waters. Encountering different types of marine and coral life, including moray eels, small sharks, barracudas, stingrays, and smaller exotic fish is common. Shipwrecks are fascinating sites, with great sight-seeking opportunities. The MV Dara is one of the most historic shipwrecks of the West Coast wrecks. It accounted for the greatest loss of life at sea during peace since the Titanic. The death toll was 238 when it sunk in 1961. In the last 40 years, bountiful marine life has developed around the ship. To feel the rush of heights and absorb breathtaking scenery, parasailing offers an amazing view of the coast plus an exhilarating ride. A custom-built boat will carry up to eight passengers through the Gulf waters. Each person can take separate turns gliding over the ocean.
The thrill of free falling can only be truly experienced through skydiving. Umm Al Quwain Aeroclub offers a jump from 12,000 feet. Safety is not an issue for novices, as instructors accompany divers.
For the strong at heart, Moto-cross biking in Dubai is a thrill ride over bumpy, twisted terrain. The tracks are first-class but the ride is not, so dressing properly is essential. Riding in the desert and through the mountains is a great ride that is highlighted with beautiful scenery.
Mountaineering around Dubai is great during the cooler months from November to April. To the North of Dubai the Ru'us Al Jibal Mountains have peaks at over 2000 meters. The terrain is eroded due to the harsh desert climate. Trips vary between short easy walks, and all day treks on major routes. Note that no mountain rescue services exist so anyone heading out should be reasonably experienced.
There are several types of visas for visitors to Dubai. ? Nationals of “Israel” may not enter the U.A.E. ? A penalty charge of Dh 100 per day is imposed on visitors who overstay. ? For nationalities that require a sponsor, airlines may seek confirmation that the sponsor is holding a valid visa for the incoming visitor.
AGCC Citizens
Citizens of the Arab Gulf Co-operation Council member states (Bahrain, Kuwait, Qatar, Oman, Saudi Arabia) do not need a visa.
AGCC Residents
AGCC expatriate residents who meet certain conditions may obtain a non-renewable 30-day visa upon arrival at the approved ports of entry. Visitors who are businessmen, company managers or representatives, auditors, accountants, doctors, engineers or employees working in the public sector, their family members and drivers and servants sponsored by them are eligible for this visa. Employees from the labour and servant categories are not eligible for this type of visa.
Citizens of Western Europe and Pacific Rim
Citizens of UK (with the right of abode in the United Kingdom), France, Italy, Germany, Holland, Belgium, Luxembourg, Switzerland, Austria, Sweden, Norway, Denmark, Portugal, Ireland, Greece, Finland, Spain, Monaco, Vatican City, Iceland, Andorra, San Marino, Liechtenstein, USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, Brunei, Singapore, Malaysia, South Korea and holders of Hong Kong SAR passports will be granted a free of charge for One Entry Visit visa on arrival in the UAE.
Currently, it has been decided to postpone the implementation of the new regulation as far as Cyprus is concerned. The visa enables them to stay for 60 days. The visa is renewable for a total stay of 90 days for a fee of Dhs 500.
Entry Service Permit
An Entry Service Permit applies to the following categories and their families accompanying them: company manager’s representatives, sales managers, account auditors, delegations from companies or establishments to carry out a commercial activity in the UAE, enquirers requested by any of the establishments/companies operating in the UAE assumed to carry out an urgent task. Such visa is also availed to nationalities authorised to obtain a tourist visa, as per the Ministerial Council's decision.
This visa is valid for use within 14 days from the date of issue. The duration of stay is 14 days from date of entry, exclusive of arrival and departure days. It is non-renewable.
In order to complete the application, the sponsor will require the visitor’s date of arrival and flight details, and a photocopy of the first few pages of the visitor’s passport which should be valid for at least three months. This type of entry permit will only be issued as urgent at a fee of Dhs 220 .
The Entry Service Permit holder may enter and depart the U.A.E through any airport.
Visit Visas
The Visit Visa applies to tourists who wish to spend more than 14 days in Dubai, those coming for family visits as well as those on long-term business visits.
It requires the sponsorship of any U.A.E. resident or any company or hotel licensed to operate within the U.A.E. A refundable DH 2,000 guarantee from expatriates who wish to sponsor distant relatives is imposed.
This visa is valid for entry within two months from its date of issue.
The Visit Visa is valid for 60 days and is renewable for a total stay of up to 90 days. A fee of Dhs 500 is charged for this renewal.
In order to complete the application, the sponsor will require the visitor’s date of arrival and arrival details and a photocopy of the first few pages of the visitor’s passport, which must be valid for at least three months. There is a fee of Dhs 100 for obtaining a visit visa. There is also a fee of Dhs 10 for visa delivery service by DNATA. Hotels, hotel apartments, tour operators, travel agents and airlines may not levy supplementary charges or processing fees in excess of Dhs 50/- for arranging visas for visitors.
The Visit Visa holder may enter and leave the country through any port of entry in the U.A.E.
Tourist Visas
A special category of visas under the Visit Visa type is a Tourist Visa, which can be obtained for individual tourists from: East and West Europe, Turkey, Bulgaria, Poland, Ukraine, Albania, Russia, the Hellenic Republic, St Kitts-Navis, St Lucia, Mexico, Cuba, Bermuda, Belize, Guyana, French Guiana, Martinique, Antigua and Barbuda, St Vincent, Kingston, Palao other non-defined American nationalities, Thailand, South Africa, Singapore, China, Malta, Cyprus.
The Tourist Visa entitles its holder to a 30 day stay and is non-renewable. The Tourist Visa requires the sponsorship of hotels and tour operators who bring in visitors from the above listed countries. The fee is Dhs 100. There is also a fee of Dhs 10 for visa delivery service by DANATA. Hotels, hotel apartments, tour operators, travel agents and airlines may not levy supplementary charges or processing fees in excess of Dhs 50/- for arranging visas for visitors.
Multiple-Entry Visas
Multiple-entry Visas are availed to business visitors who have a relationship with either a multinational or other reputable local establishments, and who are frequent visitors to the UAE.
This type of visa is valid for six months from the date of issue and the duration of each stay is 30 days. The validity is non-renewable. The cost of this visa is Dh 1,000.
The visitor must enter the UAE on a visit visa and obtain the multiple entry visa while in the country. The visa would be stamped on the passport.
96-hour Visa for Transit Passengers
Transit passengers stopping at Dubai International Airport for a minimum of 8 hours and meeting the certain conditions mentioned below are eligible for obtaining a 96-hour transit visa. These conditions are as follow: ? Airlines sponsored only (prior arrangements maybe required) ? Applications should have confirmed onward booking to the 3rd destination For transit passengers or those holding special permits, or for visit or mission, the passport or the document must be valid for at least three months. Service for transit passengers
For Emirates Airlines travelers, the airline can handle the service for their travelers. However for those flying through other Airlines, they have to contact directly the “Marhaba Services” for any transit service. A contact detail is provided herewith: Marhaba Services Tel: 00971 4 2162657; 2164629 E-mail: marhaba@emirates.com
German Citizens
German citizens (tourists and business people) may apply to the UAE embassy in Germany for a one or two year multiple-entry visa. No sponsor is required. The maximum duration of stay of visa holders should not exceed three months a year. The visa fee is Dhs 1,500.
US Citizens
US citizens (tourists and business people) may apply to the UAE embassies in the US for one to ten year multiple-entry visas. A sponsor is required and the visa will be granted free of charge. The maximum duration of stay should not exceed six months a visit. Issuance date: 05 March 2006
Important Notice
Please note that this information is correct as of the date mentioned above. Please check with the nearest uae embassy for the latest information or contact the dubai naturalisation and residency administration department.
