EMIRATES

UNITED ARAB EMIRATES
The country
One of the world's lowest crime rates is not the only thing that makes the United Arab Emirates one of the most attractive places to live in. It's an amazing amalgamation of the traditional values of the East and the modern technologies of the West. It is a melting pot of various nationalities and cultures living together and working in harmony. The country offers a standard of living that is comparable to the world's most advanced nations, making it one of 20th century's success stories.

The UAE - a constellation of 7 stars The United Arab Emirates is a federation of seven emirates - or states. Each has its own unique character and personality yet united in a common goal and destiny. The seven emirates are :

Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al-Qaiwain, Ras Al-Khaimah, Fujairah.
The United Arab Emirates was federated on December 2, 1971, celebrated as the annual National Day. This is when the major cities of the emirates are all brightly lit-up and decorated with lights. Celebrations take place with great joy and pride. Language The official language of the UAE is Arabic. Other languages spoken are English, Hindi, Farsi. A large number of the expatriate population are from the sub-continent, the Philippines, Iran, and just about any country. So you will find people here speaking Urdu, Tagalog, Malayalam, Russian, South African and many other languages.

Currency

The United Arab Emirates currency is called the Dirham. Arab Emirate Dirham (=Dhs or AED) 100 Fils = 1 Dirhams. ( 1 us dolar= 3.68 dirhams )

Climate

Moderate climate is found between October and March when days are sunny and pleasant (Average Temperature - 26¼ C). Nights are Cool (average temperature is 15¼ C) Summer is between April and September, when temperatures peak at 50¼ C with high humidity levels. In the summer, southerly and northerly winds blow over the UAE with occasional sandstorms.

Population

The Population of the United Arab Emirates at the end of 2002 is 3.75 million. Religion The official religion of the United Arab Emirates is Islam. But other faiths are accepted and freedom of worship privately is given. Churches are common in some emirates and in Dubai you will even find a Hindu Temple.

Geographical Location

The UAE has capitalized on its convenient location on the trade routes between Asia and Europe by building a fine tradition of being a good host and trade partner since time immemorial. The area of the United Arab Emirates is 83,600 sq.km (including 200 islands - approximately). The United Arab Emirates is situated in the eastern part of the Arab World. It straddles the Gulf of Oman to the East and the Arabian Gulf to the North. The Arabian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman are linked by the Hormuz Strait. The UAE is thus positioned at an important centre in the trading world. North: Arabian Gulf East: Gulf of Oman and Sultanate of Oman South: Sultanate of Oman and Saudia Arabia West: Qatar and Saudia Arabia.

UAE on the Globe

Latitudes: 22¼ - 26.5¼ North Longitudes: 51¼ - 56.5¼ East

Economy

The UAE is a major player in the global oil industry. The emirate of Abu Dhabi alone accounts for 10 per cent of the world's confirmed oil reserves (98 billiob barrels). Trade, too, is booming with each emirate establishing a free zone with no taxes to encourage companies to set up their manufacturing and export units here. The UAE's Gross Domestic Product in 2002 stood at Dh262.03 billion ($71.4 billion)The oil sector accounted for (2002) Dhs 62.8 billion while the non-oil sector accounted for Dh199.2 billion ($54.2 billion) Per capita income: Dh70,000 ($19,080)

Tourist Guide

Tourists are treated to a total experience of unlimited sun, sand, sports and shopping in the UAE with its friendly, helpful and generous people. Every year, tourist attractions are constantly being upgraded and added - from one of the world's largest aqua parks to cultural and wildlife museums. From wind towers to towering skyscrapers, the UAE has a unique blend of traditional Arab, Islamic values and culture standing alongside a modern a cosmopolitan environment. The UAE celebrated its 32nd year of formation in 2003. Its massive oil wealth is being wisely utilised to keep pace with technology and social changes the world is experiencing. As a result, tourists will find the UAE a modern country with thriving skyscrapers-filled cities no different from modern cities in Europe or Asia.

Visa and Immigration Information

Hotels usually look after the visa formalities but this will require you to be a guest in that particular hotel. The other method is to have a local sponsor. Visas are deposited by the sponsor at the airport and you can collect it from the counter there on your arrival. Visit visas are valid for 30 days but can be renewed for up to a total of 100 days. The fine for staying on a late visa is Dh 100 per day with no waiver. You do not need a visa if you are: - A citizen of other Gulf Co-operation Council states (Bahrain, Qatar, Kuwait, Oman and Saudi Arabia) or belong to a certain profession. - A transit passenger but you won't be allowed to leave the airport though you can apply for a transit visa. Transit visas are valid for 14 days - Visa laws and regulations are subject to change without notice. You are requested to contact the UAE embassy in your respective countries for complete details.