Getting to Know Dubai
Dubai's Districts
Deira and Bur Dubai are the two main localities of Dubai. The Dubai Creek which is a sea water inlet running through the city of Dubai forms the locality of Deira on the eastern side and the locality of Bur Dubai on the western side. The Dubai Airport (DXB) is located south of the Deira locality. Deira is sometimes referred to Old Dubai while Bar Dubai is sometimes called the new Dubai.
Deira include the city center where all the heritage, old buildings, and souqs (markets) are. Bar Dubai is where you see the modern architecture and high rise buildings.
Dubai's Climate
Dubai is hot and humid in the summer, and cool and pleasant in the winter. Be prepared for some cold nights during the months of December and January. It rarely rains in Dubai, and if it does it rains in the winter.
Dubai's Geography
The emirate of Dubai borders Abu Dhabi from the south, Sharjah from the northeast, and Oman from the southeast. back to top
Dubai's Culture
Dubai is a vigorous city with many nationalities living in rapport and harmony. Millions of travelers come to Dubai every year and this adds life to the cultural mix of the city. Locals in Dubai are friendly, welcoming, and warmhearted.
The culture of Dubai is based on Islam and holds family values high. When you're outside in Dubai, you're likely hear the call to prayer coming from mosques built throughout the city. The weekend is Friday and Saturday. Fridays around noon is a special prayer for Muslims and the mosques are packed with worshippers to listen to the Friday prayer sermon. Most stores on Fridays open till around 3PM. Large retail outlets and grocery stores are open normal hours however.
Arabic is the official language of Dubai. English is widely spoken by most Dubai residents as well. The street signs are in both Arabic and English. The following Arabic words may be helpful when dealing with the locals.
| word | meaning in English |
| Marhaba | Hello |
| Naam | Yes |
| La | No |
| Shukran | Thank you |
In Dubai, you can see women covering themselves from head to toe, and women who's hair, lower legs, arms, and shoulders are not covered. Women can wear bikinis on beaches and men can wear shorts.
Dubai visitors should take note of a few cultural do's and don'ts when interacting with the residents of Dubai. Ask permission before taking pictures of local women; most likely the answer will be a "no." Some Muslim women and men may avoid shaking hands with members of the opposite sex per Islamic teaching. Local men may greet other local men by kissing cheeks or touching noses. If invited to coffee, tea or meal with a Dubai family, keep in mind the following. Before entering a home remove your shoes. While sitting, avoid pointing the soles of your feet in someone's direction as this is considered rude in Arab culture. Eat and drink with your right hand. You're most likely will be offered more food and drink by your host. Politely be persistent telling your host that you are finished when done eating.
During the Month of Ramadan Muslims fast from food and drink during day light hours. Non-Muslims are expected to respect the locals' fasting by refraining from eating, drinking, and smoking in public. Live musical and dance shows are suspended during Ramadan. It is also appreciated if women visitors dress more conservatively during Ramadan. Ramadan will start on the 2nd of September in 2008 and on August 22nd in 2009
Dubai is an exiting place to visit, enjoy your time and learn more about the culture while there. back to top
Dubai's Official Holidays
Fridays, and Saturdays are the official holiday in Dubai. Most shops close at 3:00 PM on Fridays.
Dubai's Main Language
The main language in Dubai is Arabic; English is widely spoken as well.
Dubai's Currency
The currency in Dubai is the UAE Dirham (AED). $1 USD = AED 3.67 Dirhams.
Major credit cards are widely used and accepted.
Dubai's Time Zone
Dubai's time zone is GMT + 4 hours.
Buying and Drinking Alcohol in Dubai
Alcohol can only be served at restaurants and bars located in major hotels and drinking alcohol in restaurants is intended for hotel guests only. It also can be bought upon Arrival in the Duty Free stores in the Dubai International Airport (DXB). Dubai has zero tolerance policy for drinking and driving. back to top