Frequently asked questions
Alcohol
Compared to some of its neighbours, Dubai takes a relaxed attitude towards alcohol, which is served in hotels, nightclubs and golf clubs. It does, though, operate a zero tolerance policy to driving under the influence of alcohol.
Beaches
Some of Dubai’s beaches are attached to private hotels, where, for a small fee, you can spend the day on the sand and in the waters of the Arabian Gulf. Public beaches and waterfronts – the Corniche and the Creek – are free for public access, and feature water sports.
Children
Many hotels operate clubs and programmes for children. Several shopping malls have entertainment centres for kids, while attractions like Wild Wadi water park are geared for all ages.
Dress code
Visitors are free to dress according to their personal choice – but be sensible, avoiding wearing revealing clothes in public places or places of worship. Swimwear is appropriate at beaches and swimming pools.
Electricity
220/240 volt, three-pin square plugs (the same as in the UK and Ireland).
Entry Requirements
British citizens do not require a visa before their arrival in the UAE. Following recent changes in visas regulations, the Ministry of Immigration says that visitors will receive a 30-day visit visa on arrival at the airport, seaport or land border, and that British nationals do not currently have to pay for a visa on arrival.
Visitors may extend this 30-day stay for a maximum of a further 30 days, after which they will be required to leave the country. If visitors do require this extension they should contact the Immigration Office of the Emirate in which you arrived, in good time before the expiry of the 30-day deadline.
All other British passport holders must obtain a visa before travelling to the UAE.
Golf
Visiting golfers can choose from superb clubs, including seven championship courses and others presenting different types of challenge.
Hand luggage
Passengers using Dubai International Airport can only carry small volumes of liquids/gels in their hand luggage. Containers of 100ml max must be held in a clear plastic bag no bigger than 20cm x 20cm. www.dubaiairport.com.
Health
No vaccinations are mandatory.
Insurance
Dubai’s hospitals are excellent, but treatment can be costly. Health insurance is crucial.
Karting
The Formula One track on the outskirts of Dubai opened in 2005, with a karting track behind the main grandstand. There’s also a one-kilometre track at Jebel Ali.
Language
The official language is Arabic, but English is widely spoken.
Money
Dirham, divided into 100fils.
£1 = 7.2 UAE Dirhams;
1 Euro = 5.7 UAE Dirhams
(June 2008).
Neighbouring cities
Tours are available to other emirates and feature the historic sights of Sharjah and Ajman, the Hajar Mountains near Ras Al Khaimah and the Corniche in Abu Dhabi.
Old Souk
Visitors can enjoy a traditional shopping experience by jumping on an abra for a trip across the Creek to the souks.
Population
Dubai is home to some 1.4 million residents, 80% of them expats.
Retail therapy
Dubai is a shopper’s delight, whether for gold, electronics, carpets, spices, textiles or more. Choose from markets, souks, malls and boutiques. The Gold and Diamond Park on Sheikh Zayed Road is the place for serious jewellery shoppers.
Road travel
Recent changes to the law now allow British nationals who are in the UAE on a visit visa to drive a car using their British driving licence. A British national living in the UAE with a residence permit must obtain a UAE driving licence. UAE licences can be obtained from the traffic department by expatriates with valid residency visas.
Safety and Security
Dubai is a very safe city for visitors and residents alike, and and virtually crime free.
Time
GMT +4 hours
UK & Ireland Tourist Office
Dubai Tourism and Commerce Marketing
First Floor, 125 Pall Mall, London SW1Y 5EA
Tel: +44 (0) 20 7839 0580
Fax: +44 (0) 20 7839 0582
Email: dtcm_uk@dubaitourism.ae
Website: www.dubaitourism.ae
Visas
Citizens of 33 countries, including the UK and Ireland, are granted a 30-day visa, free of charge, on arrival in Dubai. Visitors must have a full passport with at least six months’ validity from the end of their stay.
Wellness
Dubai is home to a large number of spas and wellness clinics, ranging from internationally renowned brands to ancient Chinese and Indian holistic treatments.
Year-round sunshine
Dubai enjoys 365 days of warm sunshine. The climate is sub-tropical, with intermittent rain, mostly in winter. Summer temperatures peak at 50C. From September to May, days are pleasantly warm, with an average of 24C in January.
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