United Arab Emirates Flights and Travel Guide

Language

Arabic is the official language of the Emirates, but English is widely used.

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Money

The currency of the United Arab Emirates is the Dirham (AED), which is divided into 100 fils. There are no currency regulations in the UAE and all major currencies are readily exchanged at banks and large hotels. The Dirham is fixed against the U.S. Dollar. The best exchange rates are found at private moneychangers who operate throughout the territory, particularly in the more popular souks (markets) and shopping centers. All major credit cards are accepted, as are travelers checks (best carried in U.S. Dollars or Pounds Sterling). ATMs are common throughout the UAE. Banking hours are generally Saturday to Thursday from 8am to 1pm, but some are also open between 4pm and 8.30pm.

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Communications

The International code for the United Arab Emirates is +971. The outgoing international code is 00. City/area codes are in use, e.g. (0)2 for Abu Dhabi and (0)4 for Dubai. Calls made within each state are free of charge. The Etisalat mobile phone network provides wide GSM900 coverage throughout the country and Internet cafes are widely available.

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Tipping

Tipping practices are similar to most parts of the world. Where no service charge is included, 10 percent is adequate and many hotels and restaurants add a service charge, so it is best to check the bill.

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Safety

Most visits to the UAE are trouble free.

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Health

No vaccinations are required for entry to the UAE, however, a certificate is required for cholera and yellow fever if arriving from an affected area. Tap water in the major cities is safe to drink, but elsewhere only bottled water should be drunk. Medical care is excellent in the main cities, but extremely expensive,while medicines and medical care are not always available in the outlying areas. Health insurance is essential.

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Electricity

220 and 240 volts, 50Hz. The most frequently used plugs are the square three-pin type.

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