·         Geography

Dubai lies on the Gulf of the northern shore of the Arabian Peninsula, bordered by the Emirates of Abu Dhabi, Sharjah and the Sultanate of Oman.  This part of the Arabian Desert is sandy rather than gravelly, with majestic dunes and little water other than the Dubai Creek. The Hajar Mountains lie to the southeast.

·         Climate

It is sunny in Dubai for most of the year and the winter months from December to March are quite pleasant, with short spells of rainfall. It is important to keep well hydrated and protected in the sun all times.

·         Time

Dubai operates on Gulf Standard Time (GTS) which is GMT+4. There is no daylight saving.

·         Visas and entry formalities

Citizens of Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries and number of others specified can enter without a visa. Please be aware of the latest regulations that apply (they do occasionally change) at the website of General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs Dubai (http://www.dnrd.gov.ae) or with your local UAE embassy or airline.

·         Photography

There are many great opportunities to take photographs in Dubai, however we do recommend you consider asking for permission before and photography, especially when people are involved.

·         Language

The national language spoken is Arabic but English is widely used. However Dubai is home to many different nationalities with an array of languages spoken.

·         Clothing

Summer clothing may be worn for most of the year but the temperature can drop during the winter. At the pool or on the private beaches, swimwear is quite acceptable, but when in the city and public areas, care should be taken not to offend others by wearing clothing that may be considered revealing.

·         Currency

The UAE Dirham (abbreviated as AED or Dhs), You are likely to get preferable currency exchange rates at banks and private financial institutions rather than at hotels. Visa and Mastercard credit cards are move widely accepted than American Express or Diner`s Club.

·         Banks

Many International Banks are represented by branches in Dubai. Bank hours are subject to the location and branch. Opening hours are usually 8.00am to 3.00pm and as late as 9.00pm in some malls, Saturday to Thursday.

·         Driving

Cars are left-hand drive and proceeds on the right side of the road as they do in Europe. (Note that international driving permits and overseas driving licences are not valid in private cars in the UAE).

·         Communication

There are many readily available communication methods in Dubai. With international dialling telephones, postal and courier services, Dubai is a central hub for global connection. Electronic mail and fax facilities are also widely available.

·         Electricity

The electricity supply in Dubai is 220/240 volts at 50 cycles. U.S or European made appliances may require a transformer and adaptor.

·         Medical Care

Medical services in Dubai are of an widely available..

·         Drinking Water

Tap water is considered safe to drink, however it is common to drink bottled water as these are procedures for service in hotels and restaurants