Population of Dubai:
Dubai city recorded one of the highest growth rates in urban population because of a business upsurge that has turned the city into the region's main commercial hub. The city has a population of 1.35 million (2005 estimate). Dubai has a highly cosmopolitan environment and a large part of the population are non-UAE nationals, primarily a mix of other Arab nationals, Asians and Europeans. 80% of Dubai's population is comprised of expatriates with Europeans and Asians.

Languages:
The official language of the UAE is Arabic according to the constitution of the country, while English is widely spoken especially in business and trade fields. Expatriates use their mother tongues but not at official level.

Entry and Customs:
Passport valid for a minimum of three months from date of arrival (six months for business travel) required. Often a sponsor will hold a visitor's passport. In these cases a receipt will be issued. This will generally be accepted in place of a passport where a transaction may require one.

A valid visa Required by all natinalities except the following:

(a) Nationals of the UK with the endorsement 'British Citizen' for a maximum of 30 days (extendable on request up to 90 days);

(b) Nationals of EU countries (except nationals of Cyprus, Czech Republic, Estonia, Hungary, Latvia, Lithuania, Malta, Poland, Slovak Republic and Slovenia), for a maximum of 30 days (extendable on request up to 90 days);

(c) Nationals of Andorra, Australia, Brunei, Canada, Cyprus, Hong Kong (SAR), Iceland, Japan, Korea (Rep), Liechtenstein, Malaysia, Malta, Monaco, New Zealand, Norway, San Marino, Singapore, Switzerland, the USA and Vatican City for a maximum of 30 days (extendable on request up to 90 days);

(d) Nationals of Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar and Saudi Arabia;

(e) Transit passengers, provided holding valid onward or return documentation and not leaving the airport for up to 12 hours.

Money:
The currency of UAE is Arab Emirates Dirhams (AED).

Local Time:
The UAE is 4 hours ahead of GMT.

Electrical Current:
220 / 240 volts (50 cycles) is the standard electrical current and a 3 square pinned adapter may be required.

Telephones:
Mobile telephones can be brought into Dubai. There are also plenty of public telephones dotted throughout the city. Call cards can be purchased in many locations around the city.

Country Dialing Code: +971

To make an international call:
Direct dialling
00 + Country Code + Area Code + Local Number