Languages - the official language is Arabic. English is widely understood and ranks alongside Arabic as the language of commerce.
Shopping - one of Dubai’s greatest visitor attractions is its superb shopping. The city draws large numbers of ‘ shopping tourists’ from countries within the region and from as far a field as Eastern Europe, Africa and the Indian Subcontinent.As an open port with low import duties, Dubai’s retail prices are reasonable and the variety of products available is virtually unrivalled. Free of tax, many top brand-name products are cheaper in Dubai than in the countries of their origin. Whatever the visitor’s tastes — be it couture from Paris or Milan, hi-tech electronics from , or a piece of silver Bedouin jewellery — he or she will find it at the right price in Dubai.
Normal Dubai hours are from 9.00am–1.00pm and 4.00–9.00pm or later. Some boutiques in the residential areas do not open until 9.30 or 10.00am. Shopping malls tend to open from 10.00am–10.00pm. Most supermarkets stay open until late at night seven days a week, while some remain open 24 hours. Shops close for prayers on Fridays from 11.30am–1.30pm. Shopping malls and most shops are open on Friday evenings until late. Bargaining is part of the fun of shopping in Dubai. While boutiques, some electronics shops, department stores and supermarkets may operate on a fixed-price basis, most other outlets consider friendly negotiation as a way of life.
Getting Around - taxis are the most common way of getting around. Metered cabs from Dubai Transport Corporation, recognised by their cream colour, are efficient and have well-trained and courteous drivers. Self-drive cars are available from car rental companies for visitors who have an international driving licence. Renters must produce their passport along with the valid licence. An interesting way to travel between Dubai and Deira is by water taxi across the Creek. The cost of this experience is 50 fils.
Currency - the local currency in Dubai is the Dirham with an exchange rate of approximately 7.10 Dirham’s to £1 as of 01 Jan 08.
Electricity - the electricity supply in Dubai is 220/240 volts at 50 cycles.
Clothing - 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. Compared with certain parts of the Middle East, Dubai has a very relaxed dress code. However, care should be taken not to give offence by wearing clothing which may be considered revealing. At the pool or on the beaches, trunks, swim-suits and bikinis are quite acceptable. 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.
