Welcome to Dubai
Flourishing as the Middle East’s major commercial hub, vibrant Dubai—a mere fishing village 60 years ago—has blossomed over the past decade into the world’s hottest new tourist destination. A hot but dry desert climate tempered by cooling Arabian Gulf breezes, the allure of the mystical desert, great beaches and a chance to sample Arabic culture while enjoying thoroughly modern Western-style amenities are all part of the irresistible appeal.
Facts
| Population | 1,5 million |
| Currency | 1 Dirham (AED) = 100 fils |
| Opening hours | Thanks to split-shift staffing systems, many shops are open 24 hours a day while most others stay open until 21:00 or 22:00. On Fridays many shops close from 11.30-12.30 for Muslim holy day prayers. Times are revised during Ramadan. |
| Website | www.dubaitourism.ae |
| Newspapers | The Gulf Today, The Gulf News, Khaleej Times, 7 Days (free sheet) |
| Emergency numbers | 999 (Police) 997 (Fire) 999 (Ambulance) |
| Tourist information | Dubai Department of Tourism & Commerce Marketing Address: 13th floor, National Bank of Dubai Building, Deira Tel: +971 4 223 0000 www.dubaitourism.ae |
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