Location: Middle East
Local Time: GMT+4
Capital City: Abu Dhabi
Population: 8.26 million (inc migrant workers)
Area: 83,600357,021 square km, 32,278 square miles.
Language(s): Arabic, English
Dialling Code: 971
Emergency: Police: 999. Fire: 997. Ambulance: 998/999
TV Standard:
Driving: Driving is on the right. Temporary local licence required, issued on production of valid international licence or national licence issued by the following countries: Austria, Belgium, Canada, Denmark, Finland, Germany, Greece, Ireland Rep, Italy, Japan, Netherlands, Norway, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Turkey, United Kingdom or United States.
Electricity: 220V AC 50Hz (Northern States); 240V AC 50Hz (Abu Dhabi)
Currency: United Arab Emirates Dirham (AED 1 = 100 Fils)
Notes: AED: 5, 10, 50, 100, 200, 500, 1,000
Coins: AED: 1. Fils: 1, 5, 10, 25, 50
Credit Cards/Travellers Cheques: Credit cards and travellers cheques are widely accepted
Opening Hours
Bank: 0800-1300 Sun-Thu, 0800-1200 Fri
Office: 0800-1300 & 1600-1900 Sun-Thu, 0800-1200 Fri (0730-1330 Sun-Thu Government offices)
Shops: 1000-1300 & 1600-2200 (shops in larger cities & shopping malls operate longer hours. Some shops open Friday afternoons although most are closed)
Public Holidays
2012
Note: Muslim festivals are timed according to local sightings of various phases of the moon and the dates listed are approximate. During the lunar month of Ramadan that precedes Eid al-Fitr, Muslims fast during the day and feast at night and normal business patterns may be interrupted. Many restaurants are closed during the day and there may be restrictions on smoking and drinking. Some disruption may continue into Eid al-Fitr itself. Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha may last anything from 2-10 days, depending on the region.
Business/Social Hints: Compared to other Arab states, the UAE is fairly liberal. However, Muslim conventions apply and all visitors should respect local customs, particularly when outside their hotel or resort when they should wear appropriate clothing. Smoking is accepted but subject to some restriction in public places and public buildings, particularly during Ramadan. Alcohol is available in major hotels and restaurants. Many executives speak English, but a few words of Arabic will be appreciated. It is the convention to use the right and not the left hand when passing or receiving anything. On social occasions, eg invitation to restaurants, be reasonably punctual and dress as for business meetings unless otherwise indicated. There are some limitations on photography.
Tipping: Service charges are added to bills in restaurants & hotels, additional tips are discretionary. Tips are not customary for taxis
