United Arab Emirates

Capital               : Abu Dhabi

Currency            : Dirham (AED)

1 AED                : 18 INR (Approx)

GMT                  : +4

Time Difference  : India is 01 Hour 30 Minutes Ahead from UAE

SIM Card           : It is advisable to get International Roaming card since it get cheaper.

Dubai is a taxi-centric city, and you're likely to find yourself in need of a cab at some point. Government-licensed vehicles are cream-coloured and operated by Dubai Taxi Corporation. They are metered, air-conditioned, relatively inexpensive and the fastest and most comfortable way to get around, except during rush-hour traffic. Taxis can be hailed in the street, picked up at taxi ranks or booked by phone. You'll also see private taxis with different-coloured roofs (eg Arabia Taxi has a green roof). These are licensed and fine to use.

Dubai's public transport authority RTA has introduced a free Smart Taxi App from which you can book the nearest taxi based on your location. It's available on Google Play and Apple App Store

Seven Emirates of UAE

• Abu Dhabi
• Ajman
• Sharjah
• Dubai
• Fujairah
• Ras Al Khaimah
• Umm Al Quwain

Abu Dhabi

The City of Abu Dhabi is the capital of the UAE. Meaning 'Land of the Gazelle' in Arabic, Abu Dhabi was founded when a young antelope led a wandering tribe to fresh water, on an island with no more than 300 palm ('barasti') huts, a few coral buildings and the Ruler's fort. This simple island settlement has since been transformed into the modern, cosmopolitan city of Abu Dhabi and the high-rise capital of the United Arab Emirates.

While in Abu Dhabi, don’t forget to get on the water! From wake-boarding to surfing and parasailing, from cruising in a traditional pearling boat to kayaking through our natural mangrove forests, from zooming to the pace of a speedboat tour to diving, cruising, snorkelling or swimming, the emirate’s waters are yours to discover. Shopping is something of a national pastime in Abu Dhabi, perhaps because it’s so diverse and tax-free: everything from luxurious and ultra-modern malls with the latest brands, to small, souk-like shops where you can buy traditional perfumes, handicrafts, spices and carpets

Ajman

Ajman is the smallest of the seven emirates and is centrally located on the western coast of the United Arab Emirates. The Emirate lie on the Gulf coast where its beach extends for 16 Km. Visit Ajman Museum An old fort in the central square. Built in the late 18th century it has serve as the ruler's palace. In the 70’s it was put under usage as a police station. You can see different artifacts and reconstruction of traditional life.Ajman beach is always a nice place to spend the day in with the warm sun, white sands, and clear waters. Dolphin spotting is also a recreation activity enjoyed in the emirate.

Sharjah

Sharjah is the third largest of the seven emirates that make up the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and is the only one to have land on both the Persian Gulf Coast and the Gulf of Oman. Sharjah is also next to Dubai and is effectively its suburb, with commuter traffic creating rush hour traffic jams. Visit Heritage Area, Al Hisn Fort, Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilization, Sharjah Museum, Sharjah Archeology Museum, Blue Souq, Sharjah Desert Park etc.

Dubai

One of the seven emirates that make up the United Arab Emirates. It is rather like an independent city-state and is the most modern and progressive emirate in the UAE, developing at an unbelievable pace in the tourist and trade sectors especially.  Visit Dubai Museum, Jumeirah Mosque, Souks, Burj Khalifa, The Dubai Fountain, Burj-Al-Arab Hotel, Dubai Marina, Palm Island etc.

Dubai is divided into multiple districts:

Jumeirah — A diverse district whose residents are the Europeans to the Filipinos to the Pakistanis; a mixed Little Europe, Karachi and Manila. Jumeirah is much favoured by Europeans due to the ease of access of the beach, Beautiful villas are seen here. Jumeirah Beach, Jumeirah Beach Residence's the Walk and Jumeirah Mosque are the top attractions.

Downtown Dubai — While Bur Dubai and Deira are traditionally considered "Downtown", the Downtown Dubai development is smack in the center of the "New Dubai," between Dubai Marina on the south end and the border with the city of Sharjah to the north. It includes the Burj Khalifa (tallest building in the world), the Dubai Mall (world's biggest), Dubai Fountain, and lots of other skyscrapers and hotels

Dubai Marina — is a mega-development that borders Jebel Ali (the world's largest man-made port). It is full of skyscrapers and hosts the "Jumeirah Beach Walk" with a number of restaurants, hotels an open-air market when the weather permits, and frequent shows. Dubai Marina houses one of the highest concentrations of Westerns in Dubai. There are many hotels surrounding Dubai Marina.

Satwa — One of Dubai's Little India and Little Manila, due to the presence of Filipinos and Indians, a rise in Filipino and Indian restaurants, shops, supermarkets are seen here. Gold and textiles is what people come here for, Gold Souk might be your top destination but Satwa too has gold shops and is hassle free, not so crowded.

Karama — More of like a mixed commercial residential district, one of Dubai's Little Indias and Little Manilas, cheap eats and cheap buys are the top things here.

Bur Dubai — A historical district and Bur Dubai is usual term for the area from Jumeirah to the creek, the creek separates Bur Dubai from Deira. Tourist attractions from abras to souks to floating restaurants to the famous creek are found here.

Deira — Dubai's old Financial centre, today Deira is a bustling commercial-residential district with some old souks, including one specializing in spices.

Arabian Ranches and Emirates Hills — These are two separate places, residential rents here are expensive due to the land value, just like the whole of Dubai, these two are Man-made.

Mirdiff/Mirdif — A commercial-residential district which is somewhat newly built and lies directly under the flight path to Dubai International Airport. Mirdif City Center is one of the attractions. This is another residence for the well-to-do.

International City — Just a simple residential area in the middle of the desert, what's special about it is its architectural design, the residential rents here are cheap and is somewhat the next Chinatown as many Chinese businessmen and women reside here.

Jebel Ali — Once isolated from the main bulk of Dubai back in the 70's, Jebel Ali is now a major residential and industrial hub encompassing the southern portions of the city. The main attraction popular with locals and tourists alike is the easily recognizable Ibn Battuta Mall, styled on the countries visited by the famous explorer. The mall is built adjacent to the Ibn Battuta Gate Hotel that's large archway can be seen from afar. Surrounding the mall is the Gardens apartments, an ethnically diverse district with a strong Indian community. Jebel Ali village, a 35 year old community built on the side of Jebel Ali (Ali Mountain) for the European builders of Jebel Ali Port is still popular with western expats. The coastal side of the Sheihk Zayed Road in Jebel Ali consists of many unattractive power and desalination plants that somewhat ruin the view. The port was the 9th busiest in the world in 2011.

Fujairah

The easternmost of the United Arab Emirates, Fujairah is the only Emirate not to have a coastline along the Persian Gulf. It is also the youngest of the Emirates, only becoming independent from Sharjah in 1952. Despite its location, there is very little to see in Fujairah city. The city is a business centre first and foremost, with none of the enticing atmosphere of the other large cities of the UAE.

Fujairah City is the emirate's business and commercial hub. Office buildings line its main strip, Hamad bin Abdullah Rd, while its northern waterfront is hemmed in by vast fields of circular oil-storage containers. Still, the town is worth a stop, if only to get a sense of Fujairah’s past at the restored fort and the adjacent museum.

Ras-Al-Khaimah

With over 7,000 years of fascinating history and culture, Ras Al Khaimah is the perfect getaway from everyday life. Offering magnificent landscapes, breathtaking coastlines and rich, terracotta desert planes, the emirate has firmly established itself as the UAE’s most authentic destination in the Middle East. Authentic and generous hospitality is an essential component of Arabian culture. Ras Al Khaimah offers a diverse collection of hotels and resorts, ranging from boutique to luxurious five-star. The emirate is also home to the highest mountain peak in the UAE, Jebel Jais, which is one of its most unique features.

Umm Al Quwain

Umm Al Quwain is an emirate between Ajman and Ra's al Khaymah on the West coast of the United Arab Emirates.The name Umm Al Quwain is derived from Umm Al Quwatain, which means "Mother of two powers", a reference to the powerful seafaring tradition of this emirate. The modern history of Umm Al Quwain dates back some 200 years when the Al Ali tribe moved their capital from Al Sinniyah Island to its present location in the mid 18th century, when the sweet water supply dried up. Visit Dreamland, The Aquarium, Camel Racing etc.

Things to do in Dubai & Abu Dhabi:

Burj Khalifa

World's tallest building. A living wonder. Stunning work of art. Incomparable feat of engineering. Burj Khalifa is all that. In concept and execution, Burj Khalifa has no peer. More than just the world's tallest building, Burj Khalifa is an unprecedented example of international cooperation, symbolic beacon of progress, and an emblem of the new, dynamic and prosperous Middle Eas

The Dubai Fountain: At 270m (900ft) in length and sporting a jet that shoots water up to 150m (500 ft), the Dubai Fountain is indeed the world's largest dancing fountain and one with a very enticing display - a definite must see. The show starts every evening at the Burj Dubai Lake. Easy way to approach it is via the Dubai Mall.

Desert Safari:We have the best desert safari in Dubai .This is one experience you can't miss when in Dubai. Spend the night under the stars and enjoy our safari desert safari with BBQ Dinner. A must for everyone who is visiting UAE. A memory to share with your family and friends back home, This is one safari you can’t do back home. We recommend it highly and it will be worth every penny spend.

Marina Dhow Cruise: Hop aboard our Arabian Dhow for a one hour Cruise and view the panoramic skyline of 'New Dubai'. A perfect leisurely way to enjoy the magnificent skyline of the Dubai marina, Jumeirah Beach residence, The stunning architectural design of the International 5 star hotels with their private beaches, The famous 7star Burj Arab, and world renowned Palm Jumeirah with the mystical Atlantis Hotel are also dotted along our cruising route.

Ferrari World Abu Dhabi: Ferrari World Abu Dhabi is an amusement park on Yas Island in Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates. It is the first Ferrari-branded theme park and has the record for the largest space frame structure ever built. Keep your children captivated with our fun rides and experiences designed for young ones and families. Feel the thrill of what it’s like to be a Scuderia Ferrari driver with our fascinating rides and experiences designed for those with an appetite for G-force and velocity. 

Bollywood Parks: The first theme park in the world dedicated to all things Bollywood!

Action, adventure, romance, comedy, music, dance, flavour and emotion, Bollywood style.

A celebration of Mumbai’s legendary film industry in 5 zones inspired by Bollywood blockbusters, enjoy live entertainment, stage performances and flamboyant cinematic rides in an experience unlike any other.   and 

Desert Camps: Make like a Bedouin on this overnight experience from Dubai. Take a wildlife-spotting drive around the dunes of the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve by open-top vintage Land Rover to watch for animals such as oryx and gazelles. Then, head for a royal retreat and enjoy an evening of traditional Emirati activities, including falconry displays, camel rides, cooking demonstrations and a scrumptious 4-course dinner. After sleeping in a Bedouin-style tent, wake to a delicious outdoor breakfast.

The Dubai Mall A Shopper’s Paradise: Right next to the Burj Khalifa is The Dubai Mall. To call the sprawling development merely a shopping mall is doing it a disservice. Even an entire day spent here isn't enough to see it all. Along with its 1,200-plus shops and 150 restaurants, the venue is home to an indoor theme park, an ice rink, a huge indoor waterfall, a choreographed outdoor fountain and the giant Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo.

The Palm Jumeirah: A man-made island in the shape of a palm tree - there's a reason why locals say 'only in Dubai.' Palm Jumeirah is one of the largest artificial islands in the world and a triumph of human ingenuity. Locals and tourists alike enjoy the Palm's vast array of high-end hotels, including the Waldorf Astoria, Fairmont, One&Only, Jumeirah Zabeel Saray and, perhaps most notably, the iconic Atlantis, The Palm. And with a monorail running down the 'trunk' that connects to the mainland's tram system, getting there couldn't be easier.

The Walk & Beach at JBR: For those who like to shop, dine, see a movie and go to the beach all in one place, consider a trip to The Beach opposite JBR. With guest DJs pumping out the tunes on weekends, a regular open-air cinema and a popular water park to entertain the little ones for an hour or two, JBR is always buzzing with activity.

Dubai Marina: Look into the future at the world's largest man-made marina, Dubai Marina. Marvel at some of the world's tallest apartment buildings as you stroll along Dubai Marina Walk or see it from the water as you set sail from the Dubai Marina Yacht Club.

IMG Worlds Of Adventure: Fun, excitement, speed - and even 5D, you can expect all this in the enormous theme park, which is the size of 28 football pitches. With the most up-to-date and exciting rides, IMG Worlds of Adventure will bring your favourite characters to life. There are themed rides for younger visitors with Ben 10, Gumball, the Powerpuff Girls and LazyTown, while older visitors can delve into the world of Marvel heroes: Spider-Man, Hulk, Iron Man, Thor and The Avengers. You will also come across life-size animated dinosaurs in the Lost Valley. The range of entertainment promises round the clock fun for the whole family, and there are also plenty of restaurants and shops. Get your heart racing on Thor Thunder Spin, The Velociraptor or The Haunted Hotel (15+). Take the family for a ride on Avengers Battle of Ultron, LazyTown or Adventure Fortress. Catch a live show, grab a bite at the Marvel Dining Experience, or meet your favourite characters.

Dubai Parks & Resort:Dubai is in the process of becoming a real entertainment paradise − thanks to the forthcoming opening of the Dubai Parks and Resorts. Children will not be able to contain their excitement in the labyrinth of enormous th eme parks such as Motiongate, Bollywood Park, and Legoland theme and waterpark, while the adults can relax on Riverland Boulevard which is home to restaurants and exciting entertainment programmes. The luxury Polynesian-style hotel, The Lapita, is situated in the theme park offering guests easy access to the facilities on offer.

Yellow Boat: Stunning vista of Dubai Marina, head into the open water, cruise around the spectacular Palm Jumeirah; then it’s onto the iconic Burj Al Arab 7 Star hotel. There is plenty to see on this trip, so get your cameras ready!

Yachting: Take your close ones out for a beautiful, comfortable & luxury experience for 02 - 04 Hours or may be for full day. Incredible views of the coast all day,

Helicopter Tour: Taking a helicopter tour of a city is a privilege that few get to enjoy. Our selection of thoughtfully designed aerial tours has been created to ensure an unforgettable experience for the whole family. From the internationally renowned Burj Khalifa and world famous Burj Al Arab to the spectacular The World and The Palm Jumeirah our aerial tours ensure a unique unobstructed view of Dubai in well-appointed helicopters. Taking off from Dubai Marina Helipad you can choose from the 12-minute or the 22-minute tour. Our helicopter tours make excellent gifts, whether for birthdays, anniversaries or simply to say thank you.

Shopping

With world-class malls that elevate the shopping experience to a completely new height, Dubai is one place where you can shop till you drop and you’ll still want to return for more. From the palatial Dubai Mall, the largest mall in the world, to the eye-popping wonder of the internationally inspired Ibn Battuta Mall, these mega-complexes are filled with entertainment for all ages. Plus, when you tire of shopping you can hit the slopes on an indoor ski mountain or swim with sharks in a massive aquarium—it’s all possible at the mall. Shopping is almost a national past time here in Dubai for locals, visitors and residents alike. In the hot summer months, when temperatures can go above 50 degrees, shopping malls provide a refuge from the intense heat outside. Most malls offer a whole lot more than just shops; they have great dining options as well as plenty of entertainment for children including aquariums and themed parks inside the mall!! Below for few shopping malls:

• Dubai Shopping Mall. ...
• Deira Gold Souk. ...
• Global Village. ...
• Al Fahidi Street. ...
• Bur Dubai Souk. ...
• Karama Shopping Center. ...
• Wafi Mall.

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