TABLE OF CONTENTS
1.
Executive Summary
2.
Dubai: A World Class
Conference Destination
2.1 World Class Venues
2.2 World Class Events
2.3 World Class Support
3.
Dubai: Where East Meets West
3.1 A Brief History of Dubai
3.2 UAE Facts and Figures
3.3 A Cosmopolitan Hub for
Business and Tourism
3.4 The City of Tomorrow
4.
Dubai: Built for Business
4.1 Connected to the World
4.2 Accommodation for
all Tastes and Budgets
4.3 An Advanced Traffic
Infrastructure
5.
Dubai: A Rewarding Destination
5.1 Things to Do
5.2 A Lifestyle of Luxury
5.3 Exploring the UAE
5.4 Extending your Stay
5.5 Social Events
6.
Dubai: Visitor Essentials
6.1 Visitor Advice
6.2 Visa Information
1.0
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
1.1
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
The IEEE Section in the United Arab Emirates and the city of
Dubai welcome the opportunity to bid for IEEE GLOBECOM
2011. The opportunity to host this Conference has generated
enthusiasm and interest and has strong local support amongst
the IEEE members in the United Arab Emirates and the region.
The bid has the full support of:
•The IEEE Section in the United Arab Emirates
•IEEE Communications Society Chapter in the UAE
•WIE Affinity Group in UAE
•GOLD Affinity Group in UAE
•9 universities in UAE and 4 other major universities from the
region
•Dubai Silicon Oasis Authority
•Etisalat (Telecom Operator)
•Dubai Internet City
•The Telecommunication Regulatory Authority (TRA)
•The Dubai Convention Bureau
•The Dubai Convention and Exhibition Centre
•The Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing
1.1
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Should the IEEE decide to hold their event in the region, we
believe there will be tremendous scope for an excellent
programme and exhibition. We also feel there will be great
regional and, indeed, wider international interest.
High
attendance figures are anticipated as IEEE GLOBECOM has
never been held in this part of the world in the past.
For IEEE GLOBECOM, we are able to offer a choice of two
venues, the existing Dubai International Convention and
Exhibition Centre or the new Dubai Exhibition World.
The Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre is an
outstanding facility which has successfully accommodated
numerous conferences, involving specialist interests as well as
more general activities.
In 2007 they hosted the FDI World Dental Congress which
attracted over 14,000 participants and recently won the bid for
the World Diabetes Congress in 2011 which will attract 12,000
delegates. Thus, the Convention Centre has a strong track
record already of hosting major congresses.
1.1
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
The new venue Dubai Exhibition World will open in 2010 and
this will offer 85,000 square metres of exhibition space, an
auditorium accommodating from 1,500 to 11,000 people and a
hall of 14,500 square metres with fully flexible acoustic
partitioning, allowing organisers to create a series of varying
sized meeting rooms.
Our own local IEEE Section experience has involved the
organisation of a number of national and regional meetings
including:
•The 4th ACS/IEE International Conference on Computer
Systems and Applications (AICCSA-06), March 2006, Sharjah,
UAE
•The 3rd IEEE-GCC Conference, March 2006, Kingdom of
Bahrain
•The 3rd AUS International Symposium on Mechatronics
(AUS-ISM06) April 2006, Sharjah, UAE
•The 4th International Forum on Engineering Education (IFEE)
April 2006, Sharjah, UAE
•The International Conference on Ubiquitous Information
Technologies and Applications (ICUT’ 2007) February 2007,
Dubai, UAE
•ISSPA 2007, International Symposium on Signal Processing
and its Applications in conjunction with the International
Conference on Information Sciences, Signal Processing and
their Applications, February 2007, Sharjah, UAE
•The 2nd International Conference on Modeling, Simulation and
Applied Optimisation (ICMSAO’ 2007) March 2007, Abu Dhabi,
UAE
•The 4th International Symposium on Mechatronics and its
Applications (ISMA07) March 2007, Sharjah, UAE
•The 4th IEEE-GCC Conference, November 2007, Kingdom of
Bahrain
•2007 IEEE International Conference on Signal Processing and
Communications, November 2007, Dubai, UAE
1.1
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
The IEEE GLOBECOM has ever taken place in our region and
we feel the opportunity to host the Congress will serve as a
catalyst to promote membership not only nationally, but
throughout the region.
Educational activities are flourishing and are well supported
nationally. Hosting the Congress will help strengthen the
National Society with the prospect of similar developments in
neighbouring countries.
A large number of participants for a Congress is to be expected
and would enhance the standing of the IEEE in the region as a
whole amongst participants from the Arab Countries, Indian
Subcontinent, the Far East, Africa and Europe and the
Americas.
The United Arab Emirates is a safe and secure place with
virtually no crime. Freedom of worship and equal opportunities in
education are enshrined in the law and nationality, without
exception, is no barrier to entry to Dubai. There is no
discrimination regarding religious persuasion or beliefs and all
are made welcome in a country where hospitality for guests and
visitors is a way of life.
There should be no reservations, whatsoever, regarding the
choice of Dubai as a venue to host the IEEE GLOBECOM 2011.
Infrastructure already in place or under development, such as
the Metro underground rail line, will facilitate arrangements for
the meeting and will help to ensure success.
1.1
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Thus, there is already a good deal of local experience in
organising major meetings and this has involved concerted
efforts for sponsorship from a variety of sources, which have
been successful. None of the meetings organised by our Group
has ever run at a loss and all have proved memorable and
enjoyable.
Finance and Sponsorship
If Dubai is chosen to host the IEEE GLOBECOM financial
support will be raised from the private and government sectors
in Dubai. Support has already been promised by Dubai Silicon
Oasis, Etisalat and the Telecommunication Regulatory Aurthority
(TRA).
Core involvement in the Organising Committee for the IEEE
GLOBECOM will involve IEEE members country wide and
students will be enlisted to help during the conference. For
more information, please see our organisation chart at the end
of this section.
The Organising Committee will appoint a Treasurer with the
approval of the IEEE. The Treasurer and Committee will be
responsible for the collection of all fees and payment of bills
incurred. For the IEEE Regional Conference there was a
surplus of $150,000, so the IEEE Section in the UAE expects to
have a surplus of $500,000 for IEEE GLOBECOM 2011.
1.1
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Some of the previous Congresses held at the Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre in the last three years are:
Total No. of
Delegates
National
Regional
International
8,000
800
2,400
4,800
Pan Arab Ophthalmology Congress
2,700
1,215
1,215
270
The International Advertisers
Congress
2,500
750
500
1,250
International Road Transport
Union Congress
1,250
160
100
990
UN Environment Programme
1,500
200
500
800
World Dental Congress
9,302
3,073
850
5,445
Congress
Annual Meeting of the Board of
Governors of the World Bank Group
and the International Monetary Fund
1.1
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Future Congresses to be held in Dubai are:
Congress
Total No. of
Delegates
Year
16th International Conference on Medical Physics
600
2008
15th IUSTI Asia Pacific Congress
800
2008
Congress Of The International Hospital Federation
2,000
2011
World Congress of the International Association of Public
Transport
3,000
2011
21st World Diabetes Congress
12,000
2011
1.1
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Accommodation
With over 40,00 hotel rooms currently on offer and another
40,000 or more due on line by 2010, Dubai offers a wide choice
of accommodation from deluxe five star hotels to serviced
apartments and comfortable two and one star.
Presently Dubai has over 8,000 rooms in the two and one star
category, so we will be able to offer low-cost housing for
students and travellers on tight budgets.
All the five, four and three star hotels have several high quality
restaurants within their complexes and as Dubai is home to so
many different nationalities, delegates will be able to find cuisine
to suit all tastes and budgets. Restaurants and bars within
hotels and clubs all serve alcohol.
Access and Transportation
As you will see from this document one of Dubai’s unique selling
points is the accessibility.
Dubai is a meeting point for destinations around the world with
an average flying time of six hours or less from Europe, Asia,
India and many parts of Africa.
Direct flights are now available to and from all of the continents
of the world.
The Dubai International Airport is just 10 minutes drive from the
Dubai International Convention Centre and within 25 minutes
drive from most of the hotels.
1.1
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Visas
For the IEEE GLOBECOM 2011, the IEEE Section in the United
Arab Emirates will undertake to facilitate visas for all conference
delegates. For more information on visas please see section 6.2
in the document.
Social Events
In Dubai and the United Arab Emirates delegates and
accompanying persons will find a wide range of activities to
pursue.
There would be a desk set up in the arrivals hall before
immigration during the congress to assist all delegates attending
the IEEE GLOBECOM.
Whether it be visits to neighbouring Emirates, shopping in
modern malls or traditional souks (markets), dune drives in the
desert, mountain safaris or playing golf on one of the eight
courses, there will be something for everyone.
Proposed Dates
For the IEEE GLOBECOM, we would propose the month of
October or November as the weather would be more agreeable.
Exact dates can be fixed around the requirements of the IEEE.
There are also many options for VIP Dinners, Welcome
Receptions and Gala Dinners. These can be informal in the
desert or the beach or formal affairs in the most elegant of
venues.
1.1
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Climate
The UAE has a sub-tropical, arid climate with daytime
temperatures ranging from a low of about 10 degrees Celsius in
January to a high of 48 degrees Celsius in August.
Whatever the month it is always pleasant as all the venues,
shops and restaurants are air-conditioned year round.
Taxation
In the United Arab Emirates there is zero tax on personal and
corporate income. Hotels charge a 10% service charge and
10% municipality fee.
As you will see from our introduction and this document Dubai
and the United Arab Emirates would be an ideal destination for
the IEEE GLOBECOM and we look forward to welcoming you in
2011.
Conference ORG Chart
Honour Chair
Sheikh Ahmed Bin Saeed AL Maktoum
Chair
Eesa Bastaki
Organising Committee
Mohd Al Mualla
IEEE UAE
Section
DWTC
Marketing & PR
Committee
Essa Al Suwaidi
DWTC
IEEE WIE
UAE
Program Committee
IEEE UAE
Mohd Abdelhafez
Mohd Tarhuni
International
UAE
Section
Hasan
Nashash
Technical Committee
Chair, Al-Ahmad
Co-Chair, T. Durani
Co-Chair, H Aghvamii
International
Regional
Local Arrangement
Committee
Khalid Al Fahim
Essa Al Suwaidi
DWTC
IEEE UAE
A’latif Glass
IEEE UAE Section
ORG Chart
1
Chapters
A
C
Joint
SP/ Com
Society
B
Computer
Society
2
IEEE UAE Section Chair
Dr. Eesa Bastaki
Affinity Groups
D
PES
E
WIE
GOLD
3
Student Branches
4
IEEE UAE Section
ExeCom
5
Student Chapters
& Affinity Groups
F
G
H
I
1- UAE University
2- American University of
Sharjah
3- University of Sharjah
4- Etisalat University College
5- Ajman University of S&T
6- American University in
Dubai
7- BITS Pilani, Dubai
8- Higher Colleges of Tech,
Abu Dhabi
9- Petroleum Institute
18
members
from
Academia
& Industry
in ExeCom
WIE in UAE
University
WIE in
University
of Sharjah
Organizing Committee
Finance Chair
TBD (Bruce Worthman)
Treasurer Co-Chair
Mr. Taj
IEEE UAE Treasurer
Chair
Dr. Mohamed Al Mualla
Meetings Manager
Mr. Hareendralal
IEEE UAE Secretary
Main Committee
Buthaina Tlili
Abdullatif Glass
Hussain Al Ahmad
Mahmoud Qutairi
Abdulrahman Alali
Nasser Qaddoumi
Abdulqader Suhair
A. Hareendralal
Taj Korala
Mohamed Abdelhafez
Muammar Bettayeb
Fauzan Qazi
G. Vijaya
Mousa Hussein
Members from GCC
Committees Liaison
Dr. Buthaina Tlili
Dubai looks forward to
welcoming you in 2011.
2.0
DUBAI: A WORLD CLASS
CONFERENCE DESTINATION
2.1
WORLD CLASS VENUES
Two State-Of-The-Art Venues
Dubai can offer the choice of two state-of-the-art conference and
exhibition venues for the hosting of the IEEE GLOBECOM 2011.
These are the centrally located Dubai International Convention
and Exhibition Centre and Dubai Exhibition World, due to open
in 2010 at the new Dubai World Central Airport.
2.1
WORLD CLASS VENUES
Option One:
Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre
In September 2003, the Dubai International Convention and
Exhibition Centre (DICEC) hosted the Annual Congress of the
International Monetary Fund and the Annual Meeting of the
Governors of the World Bank.
The event was highly successful and concluded two years of
detailed and careful planning which included liaison and
coordination with most of the government departments of Dubai
and the federal authorities of the UAE.
The venue is large enough to accommodate events of up to
15,000 delegates. Its main hall named after the late His
Highness Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum, has the
capacity to hold 600 to 6,000 delegates. When set as an
auditorium it can comfortably accommodate 4,500 delegates.
Next to the Sheikh Rashid Hall is the Sheikh Maktoum Hall,
which offers a 3,835 square metre area of space. This area can
be partitioned into four rooms, each accommodating between
600 and 750 delegates, theatre style.
In addition to the two primary conference halls, there are a
further 20 breakout rooms.
2.1
WORLD CLASS VENUES
In total the DICEC is able to offer over 46,000 square metres of
pillar-free space over nine exhibition halls.
The DICEC currently has two hotels on site – the ibis and the
Novotel – offering 622 three and four star rooms.
The exhibition halls have varying ceiling heights between seven
and ten metres.
Three additional hotels are planned and will open in 2010. There
are over 3,000 rooms within a two kilometre radius, with even
more planned for the future.
The DICEC will have its own dedicated metro station from 2009,
providing easy, swift access for all delegates. For more details
on Dubai’s Metro, go to Section 5.3.
Further information regarding recommended hotel
accommodation can be viewed in Section 4.2.
DICEC currently has two
hotels on-site and three more
will be operational by 2010.
2.1
WORLD CLASS VENUES
Facilities for Delegates
Catering Outlets: Six restaurants, two coffee shops and four
snack bars are spread over the complex.
Telecommunications: Local, national and international telephone
and facsimile connections are provided through a highly
sophisticated PABX system.
Car Parking: Space for more than 3,000 vehicles.
Special requirements such as DEL, point of sale, internet
access, leased lines and ISDN can also be met.
Conveniences: 3 ATMs, post office, car hire, travel agent and
shops are located on site for delegate use.
Business Centre: Located in the main concourse. Open daily
offering private meeting room facilities, secretarial services,
photocopying, printing, faxing, laminating, binding, stationery,
electrical accessories, courier services and mobile phone rental.
General Services
24 Hour Services: Housekeeping, engineering for technical
requirements and security services are available round-theclock.
Exhibition Stand Fitting: An on-site stand fitting company
provides electrical services, display material, carpets, furniture
and stand building services.
2.1
WORLD CLASS VENUES
Conference Production: A selection of production houses,
familiar with our working practices and capable of producing
tailored events are also on call.
In addition to managing three food and beverage outlets housed
at the DWTC complex, the Food and Beverage Department
provide external catering for a variety of functions.
Al Wasl Press Conference Centre:
A fully equipped, 50-seat high specification centre with state-ofthe-art conferencing equipment to ensure your seminar or press
conference is a success.
The facility is one of only three venues in Dubai who are Triple A
Rated by the Municipality of Dubai for kitchen excellence.
Food and Beverage Services
With a cutting edge kitchen capable of meeting the demands of
major conventions, the Food and Beverage Department at
DWTC offers a wide range of options for discerning clients.
The staff of the Food and Beverage Department have served
members of Royalty, international dignitaries and members of
the public from around the world for many years.
Specialising in International Cuisine, this professional team will
ensure your requirements are met and exceeded.
Dubai International
Conference and
Exhibition Centre
(DICEC)
DICEC
Sheikh Rashid Hall
Option One
DICEC
Sheikh Rashid Hall
Option Two
DICEC
Sheikh Maktoum Hall
DICEC
Exhibition Halls
DICEC
Levels One and Two
Dubai Exhibition City
2.1
WORLD CLASS VENUES
Option 2:
Dubai Exhibition World
Dubai Exhibition World (DEW) will form the heart of the
Dubai Exhibition City development, alongside the new Dubai
World Central International Airport. It will be well connected to
both of Dubai’s airports and many hotels via the light rail and
metro systems and will have a dedicated station at the
main entrance.
DEW will be a US$2.17 billion facility capable of hosting the
world’s largest and most prestigious exhibitions and events.
It will comprise of 19 fully-flexible exhibition halls. With the
dividing partitions open, 17 of the halls can be combined to
create a single exhibition area of more than 85,000 square
metres, which at over 1 kilometre long will be the largest single
hall in the world.
Dubai
Exhibition
World
2.1
WORLD CLASS VENUES
Adjacent to the main concourse will be two multipurpose halls of
15,000 square metres. One will have a clear height of 19 metres
and will seat over 12,000 people in an auditorium configuration.
Designed to accommodate the most complex light and sound
rigs, the hall will serve as a spectacular setting for world-class
concerts and events.
The second hall will have divisible soundproof walls to provide
multiple rooms capable of accommodating 400 plus delegates.
In addition there will be 40 meeting rooms on the first floor of
the concourse.
As well as world class exhibition space, DEW will provide a
range of unrivalled services to organisers, exhibitors and
visitors.
Dubai
Exhibition
World
2.1
WORLD CLASS VENUES
About Dubai Exhibition City
In addition to Dubai Exhibition World, Dubai Exhibition City
will offer:
A low rise office park
A range of exciting retail options
8,000 international standard hotel rooms in 3 Star, 4 Star and
5 Star categories
Alight industrial zone housing all event-related service suppliers
The entire area will be landscaped to include lakes, waterways,
green areas and parkland and will be linked by air-conditioned
walkways.
Dubai
Exhibition
World
Dubai Exhibition City
Dubai successfully hosted the
2003 Annual Meeting of the
Board of Governors of the
World Bank Group and the
International Monetary Fund.
2.3
WORLD CLASS SUPPORT
Protocol
Dubai and the UAE have hosted many high profile events with
dignitaries attending from all over the world.
One of the most significant was the Annual Meeting of the
Boards of Governors of the World Bank Group and the
International Monetary Fund which attracted over 15,000
participants and was a huge success.
The delegates included Prime Ministers, Ministers of Finance
and Governors of Central Banks from 184 member countries of
the Bank and the Fund, all of whom were afforded the
appropriate protocol courtesies and security.
The meetings were also attended by members of the private
sector, representatives of inter-governmental organisations,
individuals from non-governmental organisations and
international media.
2.3
WORLD CLASS SUPPORT
Marketing and Promotion
The emirate of Dubai agrees to undertake a national promotional
campaign in consultation with the International Federation of
Oto-Rhino-Laryngological Societies.
Statements of support from prominent Ministers and Regulatory
Authorities will be made subject to your approval, for use in
promotional literature. Supporting photographs, official logos and
histories will also be on-hand should they be required.
The campaign will use a wide variety of on and off-line media
including (but not limited to) local press, national press, trade
magazines/journals, industry associations, websites, enewsletters, radio, television and e-invitations. A Public
Relations and Design agency will also be on hand to advise and
deliver professional and timely collateral.
To complement this, the United Arab Emirates Organising
Committee will carry out direct marketing, sending direct mail to
relevant databases, issue press releases and promote the event
with regional societies. The Committee will also provide advice
on local protocol and the handling of official invitees such as the
Rulers, Ministers, VIPS and healthcare policy makers.
3.0
DUBAI:
WHERE EAST MEETS WEST
3.1
A BRIEF HISTORY OF DUBAI
Little is known about the first settlers in Dubai. However,
archaeological discoveries prove that as long as 4,000 years
ago, small fishing communities lived along the coast of the
Arabian Gulf.
Records dating back to the 18th century show that Dubai was a
small fishing and trading village inhabited by members of the
Bani Yas tribe, one of the most renowned tribes of Southern
Arabia.
In 1833, some 800 members of the Bani Yas tribe, led by the
Maktoum family, settled at the mouth of the creek. The creek
was a natural harbour and Dubai soon became a centre for the
fishing, pearl diving and sea trade.
Commercial success allied to the liberal attitudes of Dubai's
rulers, made the emirate attractive to traders from India, Iran
and around the Gulf who began to settle in the growing town.
By the late 1870s, Dubai became the principal port of the Gulf
Coast, and by the turn of the century, it was reputed to have had
the largest souqs in Arabia. Pearls continued to be a mainstay of
the emirate's prosperity until the 1940s, when the development
of Japanese cultured pearls led to a collapse in demand for the
natural product.
However by that time, trade in other products including gold had
grown steadily and Dubai continued to thrive as 'the city of
merchants'.
3.1
A BRIEF HISTORY OF DUBAI
The British regarded the Gulf region as an important
communication link with its empire in India and, in the late
1800s, with the agreement of the rulers, the Trucial Coast (as
the area was known to Europeans) became a British
Protectorate.
In 1966 Dubai's oil reserves were discovered and it was during
this time Britain announced its withdrawal from the region,
a move which was to have a significant impact on the political
geography of the area. Under the wise and progressive
leadership of Dubai's Ruler, there was considerable government
spending on infrastructure, education and healthcare, all part of
a long-term plan to turn Dubai into a thriving cosmopolitan
centre for business and tourism.
The UAE was formed in 1971, as a federation of the seven
emirates (or sheikdoms) of Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman,
Ras Al Kaimah, Umm Al Quwain and Fujairah.
Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the Ruler of Abu Dhabi
was elected as the first President of UAE and Sheikh Rashid Bin
Saeed Al Maktoum as Vice- President, Prime Minister and Ruler
of Dubai.
Today the UAE President is Sheikh Zayed’s eldest son His
Highness Sheikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nayhan and the Vice
President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai is His Highness
Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum.
3.2
UAE FACTS AND FIGURES
Geography
The UAE is situated on the Arabian Gulf between Qatar on the
west and Oman on the east. It is bordered by Saudi Arabia in
the south on the fringes of the Empty Quarter.
Considered the commercial capital of the UAE, Dubai is the
second largest of the seven emirates. The emirate of Dubai and
the constantly expanding city is roughly 35 square kilometres.
Dubai’s coastline features many miles of beautiful fine, white
sandy beaches. The desert extends from the southern fringes of
the city to the border with Saudi Arabia.
The eastern emirate of Fujairah, situated on the Gulf of Oman, is
accessible via the spectacular Hajar mountains.
Climate
The UAE has a sub-tropical, arid climate with daytime
temperatures ranging from a low of about 10 degrees Celsius
in January to a high of 48 degrees Celsius in August.
Whatever the month it is always pleasant as all the venues,
shops and restaurants are air-conditioned year round.
The destination between
east and west.
3.2
UAE FACTS AND FIGURES
The Economy
The UAE's economy is extremely buoyant and the country
enjoys a sizeable trade surplus. Gross Domestic Product (official
exchange rate) was estimated to be $109.3 billion in 2006 and
the real growth rate in GDP is estimated at an impressive 8.9%
pa, while the GDP per capita was a healthy $49,700.
Although the UAE controls about 9% of the world's oil reserves,
it is seeking to reduce its dependence on the hydrocarbons
sector.
Dubai has led the way in investing revenue from oil reserves into
infrastructure to support the services sector, particularly financial
services and tourism.
Attraction of foreign business to free-trade areas such as the
Jebel Ali Free Zone, Media City, Internet City, Dubai Silicon
Oasis and Dubai Healthcare City has also been one of Dubai’s
greatest economic achievements.
Trade, manufacturing and construction also play a major role in
the economy.
3.2
UAE FACTS AND FIGURES
The UAE’s major exports include crude petroleum and reexports. Major imports include machinery and electrical
equipment, precious stones and metals, vehicles and
transportation and base metals.
The population of Dubai was estimated to be 1.42 million in
2006 and it has one of the world’s fastest growing populations.
Between 2005 and 2006, around 25,000 people a month were
moving to Dubai.
Population
The population of the UAE was estimated to be around 4.9
million in 2006.
As you would expect from such a cosmopolitan city, the
population of Dubai consists of a melting pot of nationalities that
includes expatriates from all over the world.
Dubai has one of the world’s
fastest growing populations.
Between 2005 and 2006 around
25,000 people a month were
moving to Dubai.
3.2
UAE FACTS AND FIGURES
International Relations
The UAE is committed to the support of Arab unity but also
remains open in its foreign relations.
It played a leading role in the formation of the Arab Gulf Cooperation Council (AGCC) and continues to be influential in the
politics of the region.
It has been a member of the Arab League and the United
Nations since its formation in 1971 and is a member of the IMF,
OPEC, WTO and many other respected organisations.
All major embassies and consulates are represented in Dubai
and/or Abu Dhabi.
Government
The Supreme Council of Rulers is the highest authority in the
UAE and comprises of the hereditary rulers of the seven
emirates.
3.2
UAE FACTS AND FIGURES
The Supreme Council is responsible for policy matters involving
education, defence, foreign affairs, communication and
development and federal laws. It is also responsible for electing
the President from among its members.
It has achieved this success in a relatively short period of time
due largely to the following factors; a visionary leadership, a high
quality infrastructure, an expatriate-friendly environment, low
import duties and zero tax on personal and corporate income.
The City Today
Dubai has become a principal business and tourism hub for the
region stretching from Egypt to the Indian sub-continent and
from South Africa to the CIS countries.
Lifestyle
Dubai has an excellent infrastructure and offers everything you
would expect of a modern international city. Citizens, expatriates
and visitors alike, enjoy a relaxed and pleasant lifestyle. There is
virtually no crime, the city is clean and there is a wide choice of
modern and spacious accommodation. In addition, Dubai has a
choice of cuisine to suit any palate and all pockets.
Dubai has become a
principal business hub
for the region.
3.3
A COSMOPOLITAN HUB FOR
BUSINESS AND TOURISM
Language
The UAE’s national language is Arabic. However, English is
widely spoken throughout Dubai, and appears on all street
signs, so delegates should have no problems travelling around
the city.
The UAE is very tolerant and welcoming; foreigners are free to
practice their own religion – indeed Christian churches have
existed in Dubai for many years. Alcohol may be consumed at
home, in hotels and on licensed club premises. The dress code
is liberal. Women face no discrimination and are free to drive
and walk around unescorted.
Culture and Heritage
Dubai’s culture is rooted in the Islamic traditions of Arabia. The
UAE’s Rulers are committed to safeguarding their heritage
against erosion caused by the speed of change.
They are keen to promote cultural and sporting events that are
representative of their traditions such as falconry, camel racing
and dhow sailing. Arabic culture in poetry, dancing, songs and
traditional art are encouraged.
Weddings and religious celebrations are still colourful occasions
of feasting and music.
3.3
A COSMOPOLITAN HUB FOR
BUSINESS AND TOURISM
The Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding,
located on Dubai Creek, is a great place for visitors to gain a
better understanding of UAE heritage and traditions. Likewise
the Dubai Museum and Sheikh Saeed Al Maktoum’s House at
Shindaga.
Events
Dubai hosts many world renowned sporting and entertainment
events, particularly during the cooler months from November to
March.
These include three high profile events: the Dubai Desert
Classic (a stop on the Professional Golf Association tour), the
Dubai Tennis Open (an ATP event) and the Dubai World Cup
(the richest horse race in the world).
There are many new developments currently in construction
including the Dubai Festival City and Dubai Sports City which
will further enhance Dubai’s attraction to world-class event
organisers.
3.4
THE CITY OF TOMORROW
Against the backdrop of a carefully preserved heritage, Dubai's
building a visionary future. In the coming few years work will
approach completion on several mega projects that will continue
to transform the face of Dubai, such as the Metro Transit
System, Dubai World Central, Dubailand, Bawadi, The Palm
Jumeirah, Dubai Maritime City and the Burj Dubai.
The Dubai Metro will open on 09.09.2009 and will be an
advanced urban rail system. It will include 55 stations, 18
kilometres of tunnel, 51 kilometres of viaduct, one major train
depot and maintenance facilities site and several auxiliary
stabling facilities.
The total fleet size will exceed 100 trains. The Metro network will
be fully integrated within the overall Public Transit network
operated
by
the
Dubai
Roads
and
Transport Authority.
Dubai World Central International Airport is a 140 square
kilometre urban aviation community centred around the world's
largest international airport. Currently being built 40 kilometres
from the existing Dubai International Airport, the project is almost
twice the size of Hong Kong Island. DWC comprises of a series
of specialised clustered zones: Dubai World Central
International Airport, Dubai Logistics City, which also includes a
dedicated aviation area, Commercial City, Residential City,
Enterprise Park, Dubai Exhibition City and a 36-hole golf resort.
3.4
THE CITY OF TOMORROW
Dubailand will possibly be the biggest tourism, leisure and
entertainment attraction on the planet. The mega development
will have leisure options to suit every taste and including Tiger
Woods Dubai, Ernie Els’ The Dunes, Manchester United Soccer
School, The ICC Global Cricket Academy, Dubai Motor City, The
City of Arabia, Falcon City of Wonders, a giant water park and
Universal Studios
The Bawadi project forms part of Dubailand and will add 31
more hotels to the Dubai skyline, nearly doubling the current
number of hotel rooms in the city. The centrepiece will be the
world's largest hotel, Asia-Asia, which alone will provide 6,500
rooms. When completed in 2016, the ten kilometre thematic
hotel strip will be able to accommodate over three million
visitors.
3.4
THE CITY OF TOMORROW
The Palm Jumeriah is the first of three man-made, palm
shaped islands off the coast of Dubai. The islands will offer
over40 hotels, 5,000 villas and apartments each, plus a wide
choice of amenities.
The Future Maritime City is the world's most comprehensive
maritime complex providing a unique world class environment
for the global maritime community.
It will create a specialised environment that will promote the
networking and integration of leading maritime companies in one
destination.
Burj Dubai will create a new architectural landmark in Dubai.
Set amidst open green landscape and flowing water, it will
combine residential and commercial accommodation together
with a hotel, an entertainment and leisure complex, pedestrian
boulevards and one of the world’s largest shopping malls.
4.0
DUBAI:
BUILT FOR BUSINESS
4.1
CONNECTED TO THE WORLD
Travelling to Dubai
As you will see from this document, one of Dubai’s unique
selling points is its accessibility.
Dubai is a meeting point for destinations around the world with
an average flying time of six hours or less from Europe, East
and Southeast Asia, India and many parts of Africa.
Direct flights are available to and from all of the continents of the
world.
Emirates Airline
Dubai based Emirates Airline is one of the fastest growing
airlines in the world and has received more than 300
international awards for excellence since its launch in 1985.
Emirates now flies to over 90 destinations throughout five
continents. This year alone four new routes have been added;
Houston, Venice, Newcastle and Sao Paulo.
The fleet currently consists of 103 aircraft. Emirates’ order book
stands at 107 aircraft, with a total value of approximately US$30
billion. This includes 47 of the gigantic A380 double-decker
super-jumbos – the largest order from any worldwide airline.
4.1
CONNECTED TO THE WORLD
Currently, more than 50% of all flight movements in and out of
Dubai International Airport are Emirates aircraft. By 2010, that
figure is expected to rise to 70%.
Emirates SkyCargo
Leads the way in logistics. This award winning division of
Emirates Airline was established in 1985 and has rapidly built an
image of reliability, innovation and flexibility – all key qualities
required by the industry flying to over 70 countries around the
world.
Other Major Airlines
Competition has been made all the more fierce by Dubai's
continuing Open Skies policy which allows over 110 airlines to
pass through the city’s busy international airport.
These airlines include; British Airways, Continental Airlines, Aer
Lingus, Air France, Lufthansa, KLM and Cathay Pacific.
4.1
CONNECTED TO THE WORLD
Dubai International Airport
Dubai International Airport is one of the fastest growing airports
in the world and the aviation hub of the Middle East.
A total of 28 million passengers passed through the Dubai
International Airport in 2006, up 16.2% over 2005. The annual
figure for 2007 is estimated to be more than 33 million.
The Dubai International Airport Expansion Programme, which
includes the construction of Terminal 3, will enable the airport to
handle up to 60 million passengers per year by 2010, as well as
facilitating the new A380 super-jumbo with 24 dedicated gates.
Terminal 3 is expected to be operational in the third quarter of
2007.
Dubai World Central International Airport
Dubai World Central International Airport will be bigger than the
combined size of London’s Heathrow and Chicago’s O’Hare
Airports when it fully opens. It will be fully operational before
2012.
Airport Transfers
Most hotels offer a complimentary shuttle service, but clean,
inexpensive metered taxis are easily obtainable from just outside
the terminal building. Alternately, it is possible to hire a car from
one of the many car rental agencies located at the airport. It will
also be possible to transfer via the Dubai Metro, which will have
stations near most international hotels.
4.1
CONNECTED TO THE WORLD
Dubai International Airport is located near the city centre and
transfer time to the Dubai International Convention and
Exhibition Centre is typically ten minutes by car.
Transfer times to the main hotels around town vary from
between five to twenty five minutes depending on the chosen
location.
Dubai World Central International Airport will be located directly
next to Dubai Exhibition World.
Alternative Airports
Neighbouring Sharjah Airport is a base for regional and
international budget airlines and is 40 minutes away from the
city of Dubai. In addition, Abu Dhabi International Airport is only
90 minutes away by road.
4.2
ACCOMMODATION FOR
ALL TASTES AND BUDGETS
Dubai’s status as a key business hub between Africa and Asia,
and a leading international leisure destination, mean that it is
extremely well catered for when it comes to accommodation.
Dubai can offer delegates a wide range of accommodation,
including hotels and serviced apartments, ranging from
functional 1 Star city hotels to luxurious 5 Star beach hotels.
This section highlights a very small sample of Dubai’s available
accommodation.
Selected Budget Business Hotels:
ibis, Regal Plaza Hotel, Seashell Inn, Highland Hotel, Arabian
Park Hotel, Holiday Inn Express.
Selected Premium Hotels:
Novotel, Towers Rotana, Millennium Airport Hotel, Radisson
SAS, Metropolitan Hotel, Al Manzil Hotel, Qamardeen Hotel,
Jumeriah Emirates Towers Hotel, Dusit Dubai, The Fairmont,
Crowne Plaza, Grand Hyatt, Shangri La, Jumeriah Beach Hotel,
Grosvenor House, Ritz Carlton, One & Only Royal Mirage, Mina
Salam.
Hotel Apartments:
Golden Sands Hotel Apartments, Dar Al Sondos Hotel
Apartments by Le Meridien.
4.2
ACCOMMODATION FOR
ALL TASTES AND BUDGETS
ibis (3 Star)
The ibis World Trade Centre Dubai hotel is directly linked to
DICEC, making it an extremely convenient option. It has 210
rooms, as well as restaurants and bars.
Seashell Inn (3 Star)
This hotel has 103 rooms. It is situated close to the creek and is
approximately a ten minute drive away from DICEC. It has a
selection of bars and restaurants as well as a business centre.
Regal Plaza Hotel (3 Star)
This hotel is centrally located, within walking distance of the
Creek and the Burjuman shopping mall. It has 87 rooms and
offers a range of bars and restaurants. It is approximately ten
minutes drive from DICEC.
Highland Hotel (3 Star)
This hotel is very close to the Creek. It has a selection of bars
and restaurants as well as a swimming pool, gym and business
centre. It has 126 rooms and is approximately ten minutes drive
from DICEC.
4.2
ACCOMMODATION FOR
ALL TASTES AND BUDGETS
Arabian Park Hotel (3 Star)
This recently opened hotel is situated between the airport and
DICEC and is no more than a five minute drive away. It has
318 rooms and prides itself on offering first-class service and
accommodation at an affordable price. The hotel has full
business facilities and a fully equipped health club with
swimming pool. A shuttle bus takes guests to the nearby
Wafi City Mall & Restaurants complex, home to many
fashionable bars and restaurants such as Ginseng, Vintage
and Medzo. In all, this hotel offers excellent value for money.
Holiday Inn Express (3 Star)
Located at Internet City, this recently opened hotel is another
low-cost, good value option. It is about 30 minutes drive away
from DICEC but has the added benefit of being close to the
beach. There are 244 rooms in all.
4.2
ACCOMMODATION FOR
ALL TASTES AND BUDGETS
Novotel (4 Star)
This hotel is directly linked to DICEC. It has 412 rooms as well
as restaurants and bars.
Towers Rotana (4 Star)
This hotel is just five minutes drive from DICEC and has 360
rooms. Again, the hotel is tailored to the needs of the business
traveller and has the added bonus of offering Teatro, one of the
best restaurants in the city.
Millennium Airport Hotel (4 Star)
Located around the corner from Dubai International Airport this
hotel has 115 rooms and is at the crossroads of the key routes
to the city centre, the banking and business districts and Dubai's
numerous parks and beaches.
Radisson SAS (4 Star)
Strategically located in the heart of Dubai Media City and only
15 minutes from DICEC with 246 rooms. Its close proximity to
the beach and the city's vibrant shopping areas make it the
perfect destination to mix business with pleasure.
4.2
ACCOMMODATION FOR
ALL TASTES AND BUDGETS
Metropolitan Hotel (4 Star)
Located on Sheikh Zayed Road, this property is five minutes
from the DICEC. Comprising of 192 rooms, inclusive of 13
majestic suites, it is surrounded by tranquil and beautifully
landscaped gardens creating an oasis of its own.
Golden Sands Hotel Apartments
These well-known hotel apartments are just five minutes drive
away from DICEC. They are close to the Burjuman Shopping
Mall and a good supermarket. Guests have use of a swimming
pool, gym and business centre. It has 419 rooms.
Al Manzil Hotel and Qamardeen Hotel (4 Star)
Part of the Burj Dubai District, which will house the world’s tallest
tower, the world's largest shopping mall, and The Old Town
Souk, complete with a myriad of shops and boutiques. Al Manzil
has 197 rooms and Qamardeen has 186 rooms.
Dar Al Sondos Hotel Apartments by Le Meridien
These hotel apartments are ten minutes drive from DICEC. It
has 144 rooms. Facilities include a 24-hour coffee shop, a
swimming pool and gym.
4.2
ACCOMMODATION FOR
ALL TASTES AND BUDGETS
Jumeirah Emirates Towers Hotel (5 Star)
Soaring high above the central business and commercial district,
this hotel is a dramatic backdrop to Dubai's skyline.
It incorporates an up-market shopping mall and range
of excellent bars and restaurants such as The Agency,
The Noodle House and Vu’s. In all, the hotel has 400 rooms.
It is ideally suited for business-travellers and within walking
distance of DICEC.
Dusit Dubai (5 Star)
The Dusit is situated in another striking skyscraper on Sheikh
Zayed Road – its shape has been likened to that of a tuning fork.
The Dusit offers 174 rooms and serviced apartments. The
emphasis is on luxury combined with Thai hospitality to meet the
needs of business travellers. It is about five minutes drive
from DICEC.
4.2
ACCOMMODATION FOR
ALL TASTES AND BUDGETS
The Fairmont (5 Star)
This hotel, part of the highly regarded Canadian chain, has 394
rooms and serviced apartments. It also has some of the most
fashionable restaurants in town including Spectrum on One and
The Exchange Grill. The hotel is situated directly opposite
DICEC and is less than a five minute walk away.
Grand Hyatt (5 Star)
This hotel is located between the airport and DICEC.
It is a ten minute drive away from DICEC but has the advantage
of being able to offer 674 rooms in a resort-style atmosphere.
Again, this hotel also offers some excellent dining options such
as The Manhattan Grill and Adiamo.
Crowne Plaza (5 Star)
Another very convenient location, almost directly opposite
DICEC. This hotel has 560 rooms and a good range of bars and
restaurants. DICEC is a five minute walk away.
4.2
ACCOMMODATION FOR
ALL TASTES AND BUDGETS
Shangri La (5 Star)
The Shangri La’s 301 rooms and 126 serviced apartments
offer panoramic views of the coast and city. The hotel also has
the highly rated Shang Palace and Amwaj restaurants. DICEC is
just five minutes drive away.
Jumeirah Beach Hotel (5 Star)
Built in the shape of an ocean wave, overlooking the Burj Al
Arab, this is another piece of iconic Dubai architecture.
The hotel has 618 sea view rooms and 25 restaurants. This
hotel is particularly ideal for watersports enthusiasts.
Grosvenor House (5 Star)
A truly landmark building situated on the edge of the Marina,
close to the beach. Grosvenor House offers 217 sea-facing
rooms and 205 fully-furnished serviced apartments. It also
offers some of the best restaurants and bars in Dubai such as
Mezzanine, Indego and Buddha Bar – one of only two outside
Paris.
5.2
ACCOMMODATION FOR
ALL TASTES AND BUDGETS
Ritz Carlton (5 Star)
The hotel features stunning Mediterranean-style architecture
and beautiful lawns extending out to the beach. It has 138
rooms, all with a sea-view and private balcony or patio. As you
would expect from the Ritz-Carlton, the level of service is
unsurpassed.
One & Only Royal Mirage (5 Star)
Designed in traditional Arabian architecture and set amongst
stunning grounds, the One & Only Royal Mirage has 204 rooms
and is one of the most tranquil hotels in Dubai.
It has some of Dubai’s best restaurants and bars such as
Tagine, The Rooftop and Kasbar.
Mina Salam (5 Star)
Part of the luxurious Arabian-style Madinat Jumeirah resort, this
hotel is slightly closer to DICEC than the other beach hotels. The
hotel has 940 rooms and is linked to the Souk Madinat which
features the largest selection of bars and restaurants in the city.
Guests have the fun of travelling around the resort’s waterways
on abras.
4.2
ACCOMMODATION FOR
ALL TASTES AND BUDGETS
Price of single room inclusive of tax,
service and breakfast
Price of double room inclusive of tax,
service and breakfast
AED
US$
AED
US$
5 Star
From 980
From 267
From 1,250
From 340
4 Star
From 550
From 150
From 850
From 231
3 Star
From 350
From 95
From 395
From 107
From 750
From 204
From 1,050
From 285
Hotel Apartments
One Bedroom
Two Bedroom
2008 Room rates quoted.
Exchange rate: US$1=3.675 Dhs.
Selected Dubai hotels and
proximity to venues and airports.
4.3
AN ADVANCED TRAFFIC INFRASTRUCTURE
Getting Around
Dubai is first emirate to abandon the car-only transport policy in
favour of an integrated transportation policy. Public transport is
considered vital to the daily life of commuters in Dubai and the
Roads and Transport Authority has worked out an ambitious
plan to increase the uplift share of mass transit in the number of
trips to 30%. The plan includes the implementation of an
extensive Dubai Metro System. This will open in 2009.
There is also a modern public bus service operated by the
Roads and Transport Authority, which presently carries 72
million passengers annually.
The Authority will increase the number of buses, trips, routes
and services with a goal of 1,200 buses in the fleet by 2008.
Marine transport projects are also underway at a cost of over
AED 1 billion. In addition to the traditional abras crossing the
Creek, water buses each with a capacity of 35 passengers per
bus have been introduced.
There will also be six ferries each capable of accommodating
120 commuters, that will be launched in 2008.
Taxis are also a popular mode of transport. The well maintained
metered taxis are efficient with well trained, courteous drivers
and are an inexpensive way of getting around.
The Dubai Metro will open in 2009
and will be an advanced urban
rail system with 55 stations.
5.0
DUBAI:
A REWARDING DESTINATION
5.1
THINGS TO DO
Beaches
With year-round sunshine, beautiful white sandy beaches and
clear blue water, Dubai is perfect for a sun-worshipper. Visitors
can choose from luxurious beach clubs situated in the hotels or
public beaches which run the full-length of Jumeirah Beach
Road. Jumeirah Beach Park is a great choice for visitors as it is
easy to find and is equipped with changing facilities.
Golf
Dubai is the golfing capital of the region. The city currently has
eight distinctive golf courses, including those designed by
Nicholson Design, Ernie Els and Colin Montgomerie - each with
world standard clubhouses and coaching facilities with PGA
qualified professionals. Several of the courses host international
events and attract the world’s top golfers.
Water Sports
Most of the beach hotels offer guests a variety of water sports
such as scuba diving, snorkeling, sailing, surfing and waterskiing.
Ski Dubai
Ski Dubai opened in the Mall of the Emirates in late 2005 and is
the world’s largest indoor ski slope. An amazing 22,500 square
metres covered with real snow all year round, Ski Dubai has five
runs with the longest run being 400 metres as well as a 90 metre
long quarter pipe for snowboarders. Test your skills onthe
world’s first indoor black run or practice your turns on the
beginner slopes.
Desert Activities
A multitude of companies now offer activities such as Off-Road
Desert Safaris, Quad Biking and Falconry.
5.1
THINGS TO DO
Dubai Autodrome
The Dubai Autodrome is the region's first fully integrated motor
sports facility. The complex, a part of the Union Properties Motor
City development, not only includes an FIA sanctioned 5.39
kilometre circuit, which offers six different configurations, but
also incorporates a race and driving school and a CIK approved
karting track.
Officially inaugurated in October 2004 when it hosted the final
round of the FIA GT Championship, the Dubai Autodrome is
designed to accommodate all types of motor sports events from
world class to local.
This multi-purpose complex also serves as an ideal setting for
concerts and corporate events, whether conferences, seminars,
or motoring exhibitions.
Wild Wadi Water Park
When it comes to excitement, you just can't get enough at Wild
Wadi! For one adrenalin rush after another, try the 80 kilometres
per hour downhill hurtle on the Jumeirah Sceirah; the 1.5 metre
high waves at Breakers Bay or the white-knuckle ride at
Rushdown Ravine. For the not so brave and the laid back, Wild
Wadi offers hours of relaxation. It's the perfect place to unwind,
sit back and have a great time.
5.2
A LIFESTYLE OF LUXURY
Spa Treatments
With an exotic menu of mystical Arabian treatments and
therapies, this experience will truly be an unforgettable one.
After a busy day visiting Dubai's outstanding shopping malls,
beautiful beaches and luxurious hotels escape to a haven of
bliss, relaxation and serenity in one of the city's world class
spas.
Shopping
Dubai is world renowned for its shopping and its annual
Shopping Festival, usually held in February, attracts visitors from
all over the world.
Many of the world’s most prominent designers and brands now
have shops in Dubai.
Dubai’s tax-free status, combined with excellent shopping malls
draws back shoppers time and time again.
The best shopping is contained within the many shopping malls.
The largest malls are; Mall of the Emirates, Burjuman, Wafi City,
Ibn Battuta, Deira City Centre and Festival City.
With many more due to be added over the next few years
including the gargantuan Dubai Mall and Mall of Arabia.
5.2
A LIFESTYLE OF LUXURY
Eating Out
Cosmopolitan and vibrant, Dubai has an huge choice of
excellent restaurants. From Arabic to Vietnamese there is
something to suit every taste and budget and eating out is
extremely popular in Dubai. Many of the most popular
restaurants are in hotels and these are the only outlets that will
serve alcohol with your meal. Many restaurants have buffet
nights when you can eat, and sometimes drink, as much as you
like for an all-inclusive price.
Bars and Night Clubs
There are many stunning bars to choose from. Those with
particularly spectacular settings include; The Terrace at the Park
Hyatt, Bahri Bar at Mina Salam, Vu Bar at Emirates Towers,
The Rooftop at the Royal Mirage and Sho Cho at Dubai Marine
Club. Trilogy at the Souk Madinat and The Apartment at
Jumeirah Beach Hotel are currently the night clubs of choice.
5.3
EXPLORING THE UAE
Discover Dubai – City Tour (Half day)
Experience this fascinating historical excursion past ancient and
modern Dubai. Visit such historical sites as the Jumeirah
Mosque, Dubai Museum, Spice and Gold Souqs.
Dubai by Night – Dhow cruise with Dinner (Two hour cruise)
Experience the romance and the thrill of travelling in a dhow, the
magnificent vessel that is a symbol of the UAE’s sea-faring
history.
Cultural Sharjah – City Tour (Half day)
Visit Dubai's neighbouring emirate, Sharjah, for a half day tour of
the 'Cultural Centre of the Gulf'. The tour takes visitors to many
of the city's souqs as well as historical landmarks.
This cruise is scintillating as you traverse along the city’s skyline,
witnessing the grandeur of the past and the modern architecture,
all while enjoying a delicious and romantic dinner.
City of Traders – Dubai Shopping Tour (Half day)
See why Dubai is known as a shopper's paradise. Shopping
tours can include visiting 21st century malls offering everything
from chic designer clothing to electronic gadgets, to visiting
traditional souqs which are a haven for bargain hunters
interested in traditional handicrafts, antiques, carpets and gold!
Jewel of the Gulf – Abu Dhabi Tour (Full day)
A day trip to the U.A.E capital, Abu Dhabi is an exciting package,
revealing a blend of modernity and tradition.
Abu Dhabi is a city of shimmering skyscrapers, exciting
monuments, verdant greenery and a long corniche.
5.3
EXPLORING THE UAE
City of Oases – Al Ain City Tour (Full day)
Known as a Garden City, Al Ain is a desert oasis, where
caravans stopped over since time immemorial.
The city boasts some intriguing tourist spots, including a fort built
by the ruling Al Nahyan family over 175 years ago, Al Ain Zoo
and Aquarium, with the region’s largest collection of animals and
Jebel Hafeet, the UAE's highest mountain peak.
Along the East Coast – East Coast Tour (Full day)
The trip to the exotic landscape on the East Coast starts by
driving through both red desert dunes and rigid mountains to two
main centres – Khorfakkan and Fujairah, where you can take a
refreshing swim in crystal blue waters of the Gulf.
An Ocean of Sand – Desert Safari (Half day)
Departing in the early afternoon, this exotic tour takes you on a
rollercoaster ride over majestic sand dunes. After watching the
sun setting behind the dunes the journey continues to a Bedouin
campsite. At the campsite a sumptuous barbecue dinner is
relished as you settle in the warmth of a crackling bonfire. This is
a fun-packed evening with Arabic music, belly dancing and
hubbly bubbly water pipes (the typical Arabic ending for a
sumptuous meal).
Mountain Safari – Hajar Mountain Tour (Full day)
For a visitor with a flair for adventure, this tour offers a
fascinating mountain safari through the steep passes of the
breathtaking landscape of the Hajar range. Take a dip into the
cool pools of the serene rocky mountains or enjoy lunch by the
poolside of the tranquil surroundings of Hatta Fort Hotel.
5.4
EXTENDING YOUR STAY
Pre and Post Conference Holidays
With year-round sunshine and proximity to beaches, desert and
mountains, many business-travellers coming to Dubai choose to
extend their stay.
As has already been covered, Dubai hosts many worldrenowned sporting and entertainment events, particularly during
the winter months including the Dubai Desert Classic, the
Dubai Open Tennis Championships and the Dubai World Cup;
the richest horse race in the world.
Alternatively, delegates may choose simply to relax in the
surroundings of one of the many luxurious beach hotels or
the desert at Al Maha Resort, Bab Al Shams Resort and Spa or
The Hatta Fort Hotel. Dive-enthusiasts may enjoy exploring
the marine life of the Indian Ocean in the emirate of Fujairah.
Many business travellers
coming to Dubai choose to
extend their stay.
5.5
SOCIAL EVENTS
1001 Arabian Nights
Take four wheel-drive vehicles deep in the gold mine (the golden
desert), to an exclusive camp site and experience first hand the
richness of ancient Arab culture and heritage whilst enjoying a
special barbecue meal under the stars.
Beach Barbecue
A relaxed and casual evening, on the shores of the Arabian Gulf
with the magnificent Dubai skyline in the background. Guests
will enjoy a sumptuous international buffet before a fireworks
finale.
Heritage and Culture Night
Experience a traditional evening at the mouth of the Creek
where the buildings of Al Shindagha provide the background for
an alluring glimpse into old Dubai.
Formal Evening
An evening at the Madinat Jumeirah, the Arabian resort styled to
resemble an ancient citadel. Luxurious and ornate, combining
opulence with an overwhelming sense of tradition.
Guests can immerse themselves in the traditional Bedouin and
coastal village life, which has been recreated in several of the
historical buildings.
The Magic of the Future
Enjoy a fun filled evening at Dubailand the biggest and the most
ambitious project Dubai has ever undertaken. Dubailand will
incorporate a critical mass of attractions and an endless mix of
night activities.
Experience first hand the
richness of ancient Arab
culture and heritage.
6.0
DUBAI:
VISITOR ESSENTIALS
6.1
VISITOR ESSENTIALS
Banks
Many international banks are represented by branches in Dubai.
Bank hours are 0800 – 1300, Saturday to Wednesday and
0800 – 1200, Thursday.
Business Hours
Business: 0800 – 1300 and 1600 – 1930, Saturday to Thursday.
Most of the multinational companies work from 0900 – 1800 with
a one hour lunch break. Government offices: 0730 – 1430,
Saturday to Wednesday. Exchange houses: 0830 – 1300 and
1630 – 2030, Saturday to Thursday. Shopping malls: 1000 –
2200, Saturday to Wednesday and 1000 – 2400, Thursday and
Fridays.
Climate
The UAE has a sub-tropical, arid climate. May to September is
summer, when temperatures range between 40C and 48C.
However, during the winter months, temperatures range from
10C to 30C. Rainfall is predominantly in winter and amounts to
some 13 centimetres annually.
Clothing
Summer clothing may be worn for most of the year but the
temperature can drop during the winter. At the pool or on the
private beaches, swimwear is quite acceptable, but when in the
city and public areas, care should be taken not to give offence
by wearing clothing that may be considered revealing.
6.1
VISITOR ESSENTIALS
Credit Cards
American Express, Diners Club, Visa, MasterCard, etc. are
generally accepted in the main hotels and shops.
Language
The official language is Arabic but English is widely spoken and
understood throughout the country.
Currency
The monetary unit is the Dirham (AED), which is divided into 100
fils. It is fixed to the US dollar at a current rate of
US$1 = Dhs 3.675.
Local Time
Gulf Standard Time: + 4 hours GMT (winter), + 3 hours
(summer).
6.1
VISITOR ESSENTIALS
Liquor
Alcohol is freely available in hotels, clubs, restaurants and bars.
However, many restaurants outside hotels are not permitted to
serve alcoholic beverages.
Media
There are three English language newspapers published in
Dubai. International newspapers, magazines and journals can
be bought at bookshops and supermarkets.
Dubai has both Arabic and English commercial radio and
television stations, as well as access to international satellite
television programming.
Photography
Normal tourist photography is acceptable but like anywhere in
the world, it is courteous to ask permission before photographing
people, especially local women.
6.1
VISITOR ESSENTIALS
Communications
The international dialling code for incoming calls is +9714. Calls
to and from land-lines within Dubai are free of charge and direct
dialling is possible to over 170 countries.
GPRS and WAP services are also available. A GSM
international roaming service for mobile phones is available for
over 60 countries. If your country isn’t one of them then a
service known as “Wasel” is available.
Bring your phone or buy it here and purchase a SIM card
(available at most supermarkets, petrol stations and hotels)
which enables you to make and receive calls from the UAE.
Internet services are also available for non-subscribers from
regular phone lines.
Medical
Medical services in Dubai are of an international standard.
Water
The tap water in Dubai is safe to drink. But locally bottled
mineral water is generally served in hotels and restaurants.
Public Holidays
Islamic holidays are based on the Hijri calendar which is
controlled by the sighting of the moon. As a result the dates of
holidays are often confirmed less than 24 hours in advance.
Some of these are Eid Al Fitr (three days), Eid Al Adha (four
days), Al Hejra (one day), Mawlid Al Nabi (one day) and Al Isra
Wal Miraj (one day). Fixed dates on the calendar are New Year’s
Day (Jan 1) and UAE National Day (Dec 2).
6.1
VISITOR ESSENTIALS
Bargaining
Bargaining is expected in the souq and is quite usual elsewhere.
Vendors will usually drop the price and often quite substantially,
particularly for a cash sale.
Tipping and Gratuities
Tipping practices are similar to most other parts of the world.
Most restaurants include a 10% service charge, but tipping in
general is at the customer’s discretion.
Electricity
The electricity supply in Dubai is 220/240 volts at 50 cycles.
Standard, British square three-pin plugs are the norm in most
hotels. US-made appliances may need a transformer.
6.1
VISITOR ESSENTIALS
Transportation
Taxis are easily obtainable in Dubai. Metered taxis are run by
Cars Taxis, Metro Taxis, National Taxis and government-owned
Dubai Transport Corporation.
Dubai Municipality operates numerous bus routes throughout
the emirate, serving the main residential and commercial areas,
as well as some destinations outside the city. Many hotels
provide regular shuttle buses that follow set routes around
Dubai.
Car rental companies will arrange temporary local driving
licences for visitors.
Renters from the following countries must produce their
passport, two photographs and either a valid international or
national licence: Austria, Belgium, Canada, Denmark, Finland,
France, Germany, Greece, Holland, Ireland, Italy, Japan,
Norway, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Turkey, UK and USA.
Driving is on the right hand side of the road.
6.2
VISA INFORMATION
Visas
The IEEE UAE Section will undertake to facilitate visas for all
IEEE GLOBECOM 2011 delegates. For more information,
please refer to the following, which is for guidance and is
subject to change.
AGCC Citizens – Citizens of the Arab Gulf Co-operation Council
member states (Bahrain, Kuwait, Qatar, Oman, Saudi Arabia)
do not need a visa.
AGCC Residents – AGCC expatriate residents may obtain a
non-renewable 30-day visa upon arrival at the approved ports
of entry.
Visitors who are businessmen, company managers or
representatives, auditors, accountants, doctors, engineers,
public sector employees, their family members and drivers and
servants sponsored by them are eligible for this visa.
Citizens of Western Europe, North America and Asia Pacific
– Citizens of UK (with the right of abode in the UK), France,
Italy, Germany, Holland, Belgium, Luxembourg, Switzerland,
Austria, Sweden, Norway, Denmark, Portugal, Ireland, Greece,
Finland, Spain, Monaco, Vatican City, Iceland, Andorra, San
Marino, Liechtenstein, USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand,
Japan, Brunei, Singapore, Malaysia, South Korea and holders of
Hong Kong SAR passports will be granted One Entry Visit Visa
free of charge on arrival in the UAE.
6.2
VISA INFORMATION
The visa enables them to stay for 60 days. The visa is
renewable for a total stay of 90 days for a fee of Dhs 500.
Visit Visas
Applies to tourists who wish to spend more than 14 days in
Dubai, those coming for family visits as well as those on
long-term business visits.
Requires sponsorship of any UAE resident or any company or
hotel licensed to operate within the UAE. A refundable Dhs
2,000 guarantee from expatriates who wish to sponsor distant
relatives is imposed.
Valid for entry within two months from date of issue. Valid for 60
days and is renewable for a total stay of up to 90 days.
A fee of Dhs 500 is charged for this renewal.
To complete the application, sponsor will require the visitor’s
date of arrival and arrival details and a photocopy of the first few
pages of the visitor’s passport, which must be valid for at least
three months.
Fee of Dhs 100 for obtaining a visit visa. Fee of Dhs 10 for visa
delivery service by DNATA. Hotels, hotel apartments, tour
operators, travel agents and airlines may not levy supplementary
charges or processing fees in excess of 50 Dhs. Holder may
enter and leave the country through any port of entry in the
UAE.
6.2
VISA INFORMATION
Tourist Visas
A special category of visas under the Visit Visa type is a Tourist
Visa, which can be obtained for individual tourists from:
East and West Europe, Turkey, Bulgaria, Poland, Ukraine,
Albania, Russia, the Hellenic Republic, St Kitts-Nevis, St Lucia,
Mexico, Cuba, Bermuda, Belize, Guyana, French Guiana,
Martinique, Antigua and Barbuda, St Vincent, Kingston, Palao
other non-defined American nationalities, Thailand, South Africa,
Singapore, China, Malta, Cyprus.
Entitles its holder to a 30 day stay and is non-renewable.
Requires sponsorship of hotels and tour operators who bring in
visitors from the above listed countries. The fee is Dhs 100.
Fee of Dhs 10 for visa delivery service by DNATA. Hotels, hotel
apartments, tour operators, travel agents and airlines may not
levy supplementary charges or processing fees in excessof Dhs
50.