6
ESSENTIAL Information
FACT FILE
LOCATION: The UAE comprises seven emirates, namely Abu Dhabi (the capital), Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain, Fujairah and Ras al Khaimah. Qatar lies to the northwest, Saudi Arabia to the west, south and south-east, and Oman to the south-east and north-east.
LOCAL TIME: GMT +3/4 hours.
VISAS: Visa requirements vary greatly according to the nationality of the visitor and regulations should always be checked prior to travel, since they are liable to change without notice.
CUSTOMS: No customs duty is levied on personal effects entering Abu Dhabi. It is forbidden to import drugs and pornographic items. Luggage is x-rayed at Abu Dhabi International Airport on arrival and DVD/videos, books and magazines may be checked. DVD/videotapes may be confiscated temporarily for the content to be checked.
CLOTHING: Lightweight summer clothing in cottons or blends is ideal for the majority of the year. Sweat- ers, a light jacket or pashminas may be needed for the cooler evenings. Dress should be conservative as extremely revealing clothing may be considered offensive.
BUSINESS HOURS: The official weekend is Friday but govern- ment offices are closed Friday and Saturday. Most shops/malls open by 10am and close around 10pm, although they close later during Ramadan and on weekends. Banks, embassies and consulates are open from 8.30am to 12.30pm, Sunday to Thursday.
ELECTRICITY: The electrical sys- tem is based on 220/240 AC volts. US-made appliances may require an adaptor.
PHOTOGRAPHY: Tourist photography is allowed but it is considered offensive to photograph Muslim women. It is always cour- teous to ask permission before taking pictures.
abudhabi 2011
ALCOHOL: Alcohol is permitted for non-Muslims at licensed premises in hotels, sports facilities such as golf clubs, and exhibition venues. Outdoor events catered for by hotels or clubs are also allowed to serve alcoholic beverages.
RELIGION: Islam is the official religion while other faiths are also respected.
RAMADAN: During the Holy Month of Ramadan, Muslims fast, abstain- ing from eating, drinking and smok- ing in daylight hours (approximately 7am to 6.30pm). As a sign of respect, visitors are also required to refrain from these activities in public during fasting hours.
In 2011, the Holy Month of Ramadan is expected to begin around August 1st. At the end of 30 days, or on sighting of the new moon, Eid Al Fitr is celebrated and most public and private institutions close for at least three days.
LANGUAGE: The official language of the UAE is Arabic but English is widely spoken and understood, es- pecially in the hospitality industry. Guides and facilitators who speak other languages are also available.
CURRENCY: The monetary unit is the UAE Dirham (AED), which is divided into 100 fils. The exchange rate is approximately US$1 = AED 3.67 (correct at time of press).
CLIMATE: Sunny, blue skies can be expected throughout the year although June to September is hot and humid with tempera- tures averaging above 40¡C. The weather is pleasant from October to May with temperatures aver- aging 28¡C, although sweaters or jackets are occasionally needed for the evenings in January and February. The oasis city of Al Ain enjoys cooler temperatures even through the summer months due to sporadic rainfall.
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