United Arab Emirates |
 |
The United Arab Emirates is a constitutional federation of seven emirates; Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm al-Qaiwain, Ras al-Khaimah and Fujairah. The federation was formally established on 2 December 1971.
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) occupies an area of 83,000 sq km along the south-eastern tip of the Arabian Peninsula. Qatar lies to the west, Saudi Arabia to the south and west, and Oman to the north and east. The capital and the largest city of the federation, Abu Dhabi, is located in the emirate of the same name.
Four-fifths of the UAE is desert, yet it is a country of contrasting landscapes, from awe-inspiring dunes to rich oases, precipitous rocky mountains to fertile plains.
The United Arab Emirates, one of the world's fastest growing tourist destinations, has all the right ingredients for an unforgettable holiday, sun, sand, sea, sports, unbeatable shopping, top-class hotels and restaurants, an intriguing traditional culture, and a safe and welcoming environment.
A lot more information regarding the U.A.E. can be found at:
World Fact Book
Locations
Dubai
Overview
Dubai’s recent history has been founded on pearl diving, gold trading and as an important economic hub with links to countries in the Gulf region, Africa and the Far East. Dubai continues its vigorous development and construction continues at a breathtaking pace with more cranes operating per square foot than anywhere else in the world.
Population
The estimated population of Dubai is 1.3 million people of which approximately 80% are expatriates from various countries.
Language
The official language is Arabic, although English is the most commonly used language. Hindi, Farsi and Urdu are also widely spoken.
Currency and Banking
The currency is the Emirati Dirham which is linked to the US Dollar. The Dirham is commonly referred to as either AED or DHS when shown in written format. The main banks opening hours are either 8 am to 1 pm Saturday to Thursday. All banks are closed on Friday. Access to ATM machines is readily available.
Climate
The UAE has a sub-tropical, arid climate. Rainfall is infrequent and irregular. Falling mainly in winter, it amounts to some 13 centimetres a year.
Temperatures range from a low of about 10 degrees Celsius to a high of 48 degrees Celsius. The mean daily maximum is 24 degrees in January rising to 41 degrees in July.
Culture
Dubai is a very relaxed, welcoming city and is fast becoming the major international hub for the Middle East, African and parts of Europe. There is plenty of activities on offer including a growing number of annual international sporting events. All types of cuisines are readily available. The city boasts a low incidence of crime. Good transport provides easy access to all parts of the city although the traffic can sometimes be a little chaotic. There are many local attractions and the area provides easy access to all other parts of the world.
Abu Dhabi
Overview
Abu Dhabi is both the name of the capital city of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and the name of the largest of the seven emirates that make up the country. As the capital, there are a large number of embassies and consulates as well as major Government agencies. The area is steeped in culture and tradition of Arabia it encompasses a warm and relaxed environment with all modern facilities.
Population
The estimated population of Abu Dhabi is 1.6 million people and is the largest population of the seven emirates. According to recent UN estimates, the UAE is expecting the current population to double by 2029.
Language
The official language is Arabic, although English is the most commonly used language.
Currency and Banking
The currency is the Emirati Dirham which is linked to the US Dollar. The Dirham is commonly referred to as either AED or DHS when shown in written format. The main banks opening hours are either 8 am to 1 pm Saturday to Thursday. All banks are closed on Friday. Access to ATM machines is readily available.
Climate
The UAE has a sub-tropical, arid climate. Rainfall is infrequent and irregular. Falling mainly in winter, it amounts to some 13 centimetres a year.
Temperatures range from a low of about 10 degrees Celsius to a high of 48 degrees Celsius. The mean daily maximum is 24 degrees in January rising to 41 degrees in July.
Culture
Both males and females can enjoy a relaxed and pleasant lifestyle in UAE. There is virtually no crime, the city is clean, there are few traffic jams (oh - execpt in Dubai), apartments and villas are modern, spacious and surprisingly to many, the climate is not only tolerable but also extremely pleasant for most of the year.
There are many clubs and societies in UAE. Freedom of worship is allowed to all religions, and Christian churches have existed in Dubai from many years. Foreign newspapers, magazines, films and videos are readily available. Alcohol may be consumed at home, in hotels and on licensed club premises. Women can drive and move about unaccompanied.
