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Whether you need to know local public holidays or highlights through the seasons, we hope you will find the facts gathered below useful tools for your travel planning. Please feel free to contact us if we can assist you further.

General information

Dubai is one of the seven emirates that formed the United Arab Emirates in 1971, after Britain departed the region. Located on the southern shore of the Persian Gulf, it combines modern comforts with ancient customs.

Dubai is known for its international shopping, innovative real estate projects, sporting events and conferences. Called the shopping capital of the Middle East, Dubai offers traditional souk (market) districts, as well as contemporary shopping malls. Cultural attractions include several archaeological sites, mosques and a Bedouin village.

The three largest artificial islands in the world are being built in Dubai. Adding 520 kilometres (323 miles) of beachfront to the city's coastline, these islands are designed in the shape of palm trees. The third island, when complete, will be larger than Paris.

Time zone

GMT +4
Standard Time

Language(s) spoken

Arabic is the official language. English and Urdu are widely spoken.

Electrical system

Local voltage is 220 to 240 volts AC at 50Hz.

Shopping hours

Shopping malls are open Saturday to Thursday 10:00 am to 12:00 midnight. Friday opening times vary from 10:00 am, 2:00 pm or 4:00 pm, with closing at 12:00 midnight. Dubai's historical souks are open seven days a week from 10:00 am to 1:00 pm and 4:00 pm to 12:00 midnight.

Working hours

Government offices and banks are open Sunday to Thursday 8:00 am to 1:00 pm. Private companies' hours vary – the majority are open Sunday to Thursday 10:00 am to 5:30 pm, with select companies open Saturday through Thursday 10:00 am to 5:30 pm.

Time and distance to city centre

5 minutes/3 kilometres/1.8 miles

Time and distance to shopping

Dubai Festival City is home to the extensive Festival Centre shopping mall, which also offers waterfront dining and leisure facilities.

The Golf Club is a 5- to 30-minute drive from a number of high-end malls and souks, such as the gold and spice souk.

Time and distance to financial district

Dubai's new financial hub, The Gate, is 5 kilometres (3.1 miles) from the Golf Club, a 15-minute drive.

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