Dubai Facts

  • Dubai is one of 7  Emirates making up the UAE.
  • The UAE was formed in 1971, the other Emirates being Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, Ajman, Ras Al Kaimah, Umm Al Quwain and Fujairah. Before 1971 it was locally ruled but under English protection and guidance. 
    Dubai is situated on the southern shores of the Arabian Gulf, bordered by Saudi Arabia to the south and the Sultanate of Oman to the east.
  • The population of Dubai is ever changing and is currently approx 2.4 million.
  • The Ruler of Dubai is Sheikh Mohammad bin Rashid Al Maktoum. He is also Prime Minister of the UAE. Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan is Ruler of the UAE.
  • The UAE government is made up of a Supreme Council of Rulers (Rulers of 7 Emirates), and also the Federal National Council (up to 40 members) which reports to the Supreme Council, the FNC monitors and implements government policy.
  • Each Emirate has its own Ruler and laws vary from one Emirate to another. Each Emirate has a separate police force.
  • Trade, manufacturing, tourism, finance and construction play a major role in the economic and social development of Dubai.
  • Dubai covers total area of 3,885sq km.
  • The official language is Arabic, however English is widely spoken. 
  •  Islam is the official religion of Dubai however many other faiths are acknowledged and facilitated.
  • The climate in Dubai is a dry subtropical climate, hottest months May – September with temperatures averaging mid 40s and associated high humidity. Coolest months are December- February with temperatures averaging mid 20s.  Infrequent rain falls during the winter months.
  • The Dubai time zone is GMT + 4, there is no day light saving in Dubai.
  • Currency is Dirham (AED) / coin denominations are fils- 100 fils = 1 dirham.
  • Electricity is 220 volts, 3 pin sockets are most common.
  • A visa is required by all residents to either visit or live in the country.
  • The international dialing code to Dubai is 00 971 4. UAE dialing code for Dubai is 04.
  • The weekend is Friday and Saturday. Friday being the holy day. 
  •  Private companies work 8am – 6pm, some government establishments work 8am -1pm and 4-7pm. Shops generally open 10am – 10pm and supermarkets 8am – 10pm.
  • School days vary slightly from one school to another but generally 7.30am – 2pm. The school year is September to June, working over 3 terms, similar to UK and other European countries.
  • There is no custom duty levied on personal effects entering Dubai or leaving Dubai. 
  • Dubai is essentially a tax free hub, however expect to pay 5% municipality tax on rent, 10% on food and beverages in restaurants, buying alcohol at a licenced store will incur upwards of 30% tax and there are visa fees, car registration, property service charges etc.
  • A licence is required to buy or be in possession of alcohol. There is zero tolerance of drunken driving or inappropriate behaviour whilst under the influence of alcohol.