United Arab of Emirates
Emirates Stopover
When it comes to the big, bold and beautiful, Dubai is in a class of its own. It's one of the seven states comprising the United Arab of Emirates.
Sunshine all year around and a warm, cosmopolitan atmosphere is what characterises Dubai . From sports, fine dining and shopping to experiencing the magic and hospitality of Arabia, Dubai has it all.
Lying on the sparkling blue waters of the Arabian Gulf , it is a perfect place for sailing, windsurfing and jet-skiing.
The varied terrain also enables the thrilling experience of a desert safari.
And that's not all! Dubai is also without doubt a shopper's paradise offering the age-old experience of shopping in a local souk or the ultra modern experience of a multi-level shopping mall. The cosmopolitan flavour of Dubai is reflected in the multitude of restaurants and entertainment spots, each with its own ambience.
The nightlife is equally varied, with bars, pubs, discos and nightclubs open till late. Come and sample the unique flavour of one of the world's most popular destinations.
Dubai Stopover Accommodation
Burj Al Arab - The 7 star hotel in Dubai
Madinat Jumeirah,The Arabian Resort
Al Maha Desort Resort, Dubai UAE
Note: If you are flying with Emirates and stop over in Dubai, discounted hotel rates may apply. Please contact our consultants for details.
Dubai Airport Transfer
Complimentary chauffeur transfer for first and business class travellers
Things to Do in Dubai
Book online Dubai tours & sightseeing
Note: If you are flying with Emirates and stop over in Dubai, discounted hotel rates may apply. Please contact our consultants for details.
General Information about the UAE
Clothing and Climate
Summers in Dubai are hot and humid, however all shopping malls, taxis and indoor facilities are fully air conditioned.
Souks and other outdoor activities are best visited in the early morning or evenings, to avoid the midday sun.
The most comfortable garments are those made of cotton or light cotton mix. Dress is generally informal, but hotel restaurants prefer smart casuals and visitors are expected to dress respectably. Town-shorts and T-shirts are acceptable in most establishments. Swimwear can be worn on the beach or by the pool.
Language
Arabic is the national language of the UAE. English, however, is widely spoken and understood. The majority of information signs are in both languages.
Food and drink
There is an astonishing variety of cuisine in the UAE and most hotels offer a selection of local specialties. Although the UAE is a Muslim country whose religion forbids the consumption of alcohol, the rule does not apply to persons of other religions. Consequently hotels have bars, nightclubs, discotheques and restaurants, where alcoholic beverages may be consumed - generally at reasonable prices. Restaurants outside hotels do not serve alcohol.
UAE’s most important religious festival of the year is Ramadan, the holy month of fasting. The precise dates are determined by the lunar calendar and by religious experts in Saudi Arabia who view the moon several nights in advance to confirm the official start date.
This year Ramadan is predicted to start on 10th August and finish on 10th September.
During Ramadan, Muslims commemorate the revelation of the first verses of the Holy Quran, abstain from food, drinking and smoking between sunrise and sunset, and then break their fast with family, with a traditional feast called iftar.
Throughout Ramadan, hotels across Abu Dhabi host nightly, delicious iftar banquets for guests and non-guests. These highly social meals are the ideal opportunity for your clients to experience the tantalising array of exotic flavours that Abu Dhabi has on offer.
Visitors to Abu Dhabi during Ramadan are expected to refrain from eating, drinking and smoking in public places during daylight hours.
It is also worth noting that shops close from 1.00pm until after iftar, and then stay open until the early hours.
2010 Events in Abu Dhabi
10 August – 10 September – Ramadan & Eid
10 – 19 October – Middle East International Film Festival
28 October – Ferrari World Abu Dhabi opens
14 November – Formula 1 Grand Prix
The best months to visit Abu Dhabi are between October and April when temperatures reach between 24 and 28 degrees centigrade (lower in December and January), and the nights are cool and fresh. Summer begins early May and the hottest months are June, July, August and September where temperatures can reach into the 40s and humidity can be high.
