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Dubai

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Learn About This Location...

Dubai is the city and capital of the Emirate of Dubai, one of the seven wealthiest emirates that make up the federation of the United Arab Emirates, which was created after independence from the United Kingdom in 1971. Dubai is a city of skyscrapers, ports and beaches where big business is done, along with tourism in the sun. With its large expat population, it feels like a melting pot of the Middle East, with a generally tolerant atmosphere. Religion is not an important aspect of city life. Islam is the main religion, but Hindu churches and temples coexist with mosques in Dubai.

Discover the luxury of Dubai, the fastest growing city in the world. Dubai is a relatively crime-free place where administrative efficiency and openness to business have fueled explosive growth. But criticism of Dubai’s authoritarian government and ruling elite is not allowed, and the atmosphere of corruption persists.

The western region of Dubai has small stretches of sandy beaches that drive tourism to the city. Dubai’s rulers sought to expand the city’s limited coastline and, in the absence of natural offshore islands, encouraged developers to build huge artificial islands off the city’s coast. The most famous of them is Palm Jumeirah, which is shaped like a palm tree. Other islands include the “World” islands, which are a group of small islands arranged to look like a map of the world seen from above.

General FAQs

What is the time difference between India and Dubai?

India is 1 hour and 30 minutes ahead of Dubai – United Arab Emirates.

What is the visa procedure for Indian visitors?

You need a pre-applied visa to come to Dubai. You get a single entry 30-day renewable tourist visa. Ensure that you have a passport with a minimum validity of six months and required travel insurance before you apply.

What is the currency of Dubai? Do I have to carry credit cards or traveler's cheques?

The currency used in Dubai is Arab Emirate Dirham. There are plenty of ATMs throughout the city to withdraw money from. Also, all major international debit and credit cards are accepted at most shopping malls, hotels and restaurants.

What type of food do I get in Dubai? Will I get vegetarian food in Dubai?

Dubai has world-class restaurants offering everything from traditional Arabic cuisine to British, Chinese, Filipino, French, German, Greek, Indian, Italian, Japanese, Korean, Mediterranean, Portuguese, Russian, Spanish, Swiss, and Thai. You can get vegetarian food easily at most restaurants.

What is the restriction on the alcohol and tobacco products bought under duty-free?

There are certain restrictions on the amount of alcohol and tobacco products that can be brought in duty-free: 400 cigarettes, 50 cigars, and 500 grams of loose tobacco are allowed. 4 liters of alcohol/ 2 cartons of beer with 24 cans each are permitted.

What is the best way to travel internally?

The bus network in Dubai connects all the major landmarks and tourist spots of the city and is very comfortable. You can also take the economical Big Bus sightseeing tour which takes you to all the major attractions and offers live commentary and free admission to the Dubai Museum and a dhow cruise. The metro comprehensively covers all the major landmarks and is another economical mode of transport. Taxis are a convenient way of getting around and are easily available throughout the city. The water bus is another economical and preferred way to travel from Bur Dubai to Deira and vice versa. You can hire a car and drive, but it is not advisable as there is bad traffic congestion in the city. You will need to have a credit card and an international driving license for that.

Is there a dress code to adhere to?

Being an Islamic nation, you cannot wear short skirts, shorts, micro-minis, see-through clothes, while you are in public. Also, women need to cover their head if they are entering a mosque

What are the prohibited goods to carry in Dubai?

Drugs, narcotics, chemicals and organic fertilizers, KhusKhus (poppy seeds) or paan (betel leaves), pornographic material, non-Islamic religious pamphlets for missionary activities, fireworks, ivory, weapons and ammunition, laser pens, radar jammers/other unauthorized communication devices, plants or endangered animals, and any other objects which do not adhere to the religious and moral values of the UAE are prohibited. If caught, serious punishment is awarded to the offender.

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