Basic Information about the UAE and Dubai

The United Arab Emirates is a federation of Seven Emirates (Abu Dabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Ras Al Kheimah, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain, & Fujeirah) and its capital is Abu Dabi. Its population is around 2,760,000 (according to the census of 1998). Its main religion is Islam and the official language is Arabic especially in the private sector. The currency is the Dirham with no restrictions regarding importing and exporting currencies to and from the UAE.

Cars and Taxis are the main forms of transportation at UAE. Inter-emirate taxi services are also available. Buses circulate inside and in between cities. But taxis are the most common means for transportation. Car Rentals are in service too with companies arranging for a UAE driving license on submission of the visitor's driving license. European and American visitors are allowed to use their national driving licenses in UAE. Others have to apply for a UAE driving license and must undergo driving tests.

Official weekends are on Thursdays and Fridays. Thursdays are usually half working days. Large multi-national companies close on Fridays and Saturdays while most smaller private companies close only on Fridays.

Many international banks exist in the UAE. Bank transfers are easily done with no exchange control. Bank working hours are from 8:00 am till 1:00 pm. Some banks re-open from 4:00 pm till 8:30 pm in the afternoon. The UAE currency is the Dirham (abbreviated as AED) with an approximate USD exchange rate of 3.67. (1 USD = 3.67 AED) All major credit cards are accepted everywhere in big shops and stores. Cash is rather used in smaller shops.