Traditions and customs
Although there are no dress restrictions, it is advisable to find out what is appropriate to wear and adapt your clothing accordingly.
During Ramadan, it is customary to refrain from eating, drinking or smoking in public during the day. However, large hotels often have a room or secluded area reserved for eating at these times. Most nightclubs are closed throughout the month.
Time difference
United Arab Emirates time is 3:00 hours ahead of London, United Kingdom
Electricity and internet access
Electrical voltage is 220-240 V, 50 Hz. The plugs, with three square pins, are the same as in England. Adapters are available in most hotels.
Fixed internet access is widespread in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, but less so elsewhere. Wi-Fi is widely available in hotels, airports, cafés and shopping centres.
Safety
The security situation in the United Arab Emirates is very good. However, the embassy warns of possible risks linked to the territorial dispute between the UAE and Iran over the Tomb and Abu Moussa islands. We therefore advise against approaching these three islands.
Currency
Dubai's official currency is the United Arab Emirates dirham (DH or AED). Each UAE dirham is divided into 100 fils, and the approximate exchange rate is 4.10 dirhams to 1 euro.
Weather
The summer season in the United Arab Emirates runs from May to September and is extremely hot and sunny.
Languages
The official language is Arabic, but English is widely used in tourism and business.
Accommodation quality
Most of the accommodation in the Emirates is recent and of a very high standard. It consists mainly of hotels, aparthotels and rentals, which are cheaper.
Food quality
Today, the major cities of the Emirates are brimming with countless restaurants serving all the cuisines of the world.