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United Arab Emirates


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Travel information and tips on United Arab Emirates including passport information, accommodations, transportation to and in United Arab Emirates, attractions and things to see and do, restaurant suggestions, tours, and much more.

Click on any of the following below for information about United Arab Emirates
General Information on United Arab Emirates
Getting To United Arab Emirates
Getting Around In United Arab Emirates
Cities And Towns In United Arab Emirates
Things To See And Do In United Arab Emirates
Accommodations In United Arab Emirates
For Dining In United Arab Emirates
Some Favorites In United Arab Emirates
Interesting Links For United Arab Emirates
Books, Maps and Other Resources
Discounts and Deals!


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The Burj Al Arab or the Arabian Tower of the Jumeirah Beach Resort, Dubai, United Arab Emirates
The Burj Al Arab or the Arabian Tower of the Jumeirah Beach Resort, Dubai, United Arab Emirates Photographic Print
Buy at AllPosters.com

Here is a quick overview on United Arab Emirates
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is a union of seven sovereign sheikhdoms. The country is known for it's mountains, beaches, deserts, oases, camel racing, Bedouin markets and the legendary  shopping of Dubai.

Capital City: Abu Dhabi (pop 500,000 est.)
Language: Arabic, English, Persian, Urdu, Hindi
Religion: Muslim (96%) Hindu, Christian and other (4%)
Government: A federation with specified powers delegated to the UAE federal government and other powers reserved to member emirates states

Visas: British citizens and nationals of most Gulf countries do not require visas; Gulf citizens can stay as long as they want, Britons for up to three months. Americans and all other visitors are required to have visas. Your hotel can sponsor you for a 15-day, nonrenewable transit visa or a one-month renewable visit visa. Note that if your passport shows evidence of travel to Israel you will be denied entry to the UAE.

For U.S. Citizens
Embassy Address:
1255  22nd Street, NW, Suite 700
Washington, D.C. 20037
Phone: 202-243-2400
Fax: 202-243-2432
UAE Embassy in Washington, D.C.

Passports and Visas
Currency Information and Money Matters
Electricity
Language
Travel Insurance
Travel Warning

The following information was taken from the CIA World Fact Book
The Trucial States of the Persian Gulf coast granted the UK control of their defense and foreign affairs in 19th century treaties. In 1971, six of these states - Abu Zaby, 'Ajman, Al Fujayrah, Ash Shariqah, Dubayy, and Umm al Qaywayn - merged to form the United Arab Emirates (UAE). They were joined in 1972 by Ra's al Khaymah. The UAE's per capita GDP is on par with those of leading West European nations. Its generosity with oil revenues and its moderate foreign policy stance have allowed the UAE to play a vital role in the affairs of the region.

Tourism, the mainstay of Andorra's tiny, well-to-do economy, accounts for more than 80% of GDP. An estimated 11.6 million tourists visit annually, attracted by Andorra's duty-free status and by its summer and winter resorts. Andorra's comparative advantage has recently eroded as the economies of neighboring France and Spain have been opened up, providing broader availability of goods and lower tariffs. The banking sector, with its partial "tax haven" status, also contributes substantially to the economy. Agricultural production is limited - only 2% of the land is arable - and most food has to be imported. The principal livestock activity is sheep raising. Manufacturing output consists mainly of cigarettes, cigars, and furniture. Andorra is a member of the EU Customs Union and is treated as an EU member for trade in manufactured goods (no tariffs) and as a non-EU member for agricultural products. For additional information, visit https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/geos/an.html

When to Go

The ski season, December through March, is one of the most popular times to visit. In fact, skiing is so popular here that many resorts add to what nature contributes with manmade snow that prolongs the season well into springtime. Hiking season begins when the snowfall lets up and continues through until October. Andorra's village festivals take place between July and September. The most busy time, and therefore when the hotels are at their fullest and their prices are at their highest, is in July and August and from December to March.

Passports and Visas

You will need a passport to visit Andorra. You have to travel to Andorra through either France or Spain. Andorra accepts any passport or passport replacing document that is valid for either France or Spain.
 

Passport Visa Express specializes in obtaining Passports for United States Citizens who wish to travel internationally within the next 30 days. We work directly with the U.S. Passport Agency assisting you in expediting your passport application in as fast as the same day! Our passport consultants have many years of direct experience working with the Passport Agency.

Currency Information and Money Matters
Andorra has no currency of its own, but trading is done in euros. It is best to arrive with euros if you are coming from somewhere than the 12 European countries that use euros. Exchange rates can be high, especially if done through local shopkeepers. Service charges are usually included in most bills, but porters and waiters expect a further tip of 10%. Current Exchange Rate: Check Today's Exchange Rate

Andorra's very low tax regime has made it famous as a duty-free bazaar for electronic goods, cameras and alcohol. You can often find prices as much as 30% below those in Spain and France - if you shop around.

Here are some examples on what to expect to pay for meals and lodging:
Meals - Budget: €2-4, Moderate: €4-10,  High: €10-20, Deluxe: €20+
Lodging -  Budget: €8-15, Moderate: €15-40, High: €40-60, Deluxe: €60+

Currency Exchange - Get your currency needs managed in advance! Many airports, railroad stations, bus depots, and other points of entry have no currency exchange. When currency exchange is available in airports, lines can be long and rates can be "sky high". These long waits and usurious fees can be a nightmare.  Order in advance from All Foreign Currency right online. It's fast, easy, and you save time and money! The can also provide you with Travelers' checks, bank drafts, and transfers. U.S. dollars are not accepted everywhere and rates can be atrocious! Current Exchange Rate: Check Today's Exchange Rate

Language

The official language is Arabic. Other languages spoken include Persian, English, Hindi and Urdu. I have found that it helps to know at least a little bit of the language as I travel in other countries. You do not have to be able to be a fluent speaker, but knowing a few key words and phrases will really help. I have found that, although almost everywhere I go I can find someone who speaks English, knowing just a few words of the local language can really be a help. And, it lets others know I am at least interested in their language. Visit the Getting Away Language Learning Center where you can find out how to learn another language, or where to purchase books, dictionaries, electronic translators, software and more

Click here for language helps, dictionaries, electronic translators, language software and other helps for learning a foreign language. Being able to speak at least some of the language in the country you are visiting will help you have a better time and enjoy your trip more. Jim.

Electricity
Be sure to take your adaptor and converter kit. Find the converter you will need in the Getting Away Travel Store. Additionally, you will find just about anything and everything you will need when you travel. Across the state, country, or to a destination on the other side of the world, you'll find what you need in the Getting Away Travel Store!

Travel Insurance
If you need medical care while you are away, it is best to be aware that medical providers may not accept payment through your insurance company and that you will therefore to pay in full for your treatment and file a claim with your insurance company for reimbursement. Therefore you should have access to cash, either from a credit card or by wire transfer. If you need assistance contact the country's local embassy or representative. For compensation, you must be treated by licensed medical personnel and provide your insurance company with proper documentation and receipts. It is advisable to always ensure you have a comprehensive travel insurance policy which covers you for repatriation to your home country. Visit the Getting Away
Health and Safety Tips for Travelers page for additional information about insurance.

Travel Warning
Travel Warnings are issued to describe long-term, protracted conditions that make a country dangerous or unstable.  A Travel Warning is also issued when the U.S. Government's ability to assist American citizens is constrained due to the closure of an embassy or consulate or because of a drawdown of its staff.  The countries listed below meet those criteria.  Additionally, the State Department issues Country Specific Information  for every country of the world with information on such matters as the health conditions, crime, unusual currency or entry requirements, any areas of instability, and the location of the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate in the subject country. Check with the U.S. State Department for Travel Warnings, Consular Information Sheets & Public Announcements.

Books, Maps and Other Resources

My favorite guidebooks when I am traveling is Fodor's. I find them to be quite complete, easy to use, and almost always on the money with helps and tips for traveling in the country I am visiting. Click on Fodor's Travel Guides to find the perfect guidebook for your travels.
 

I always research the destinations to which I intend to travel with books and maps. I normally use Fodor's as I find their guidebooks very informative and easy to read and understand. Click on the Amazon logo to search for travel books and maps. If you don't find what you are looking for, click on the Getting Away Travel Bookshelf to find some of my favorites! Still can't find what you need? Contact me. mailto:jimbruner@gettingaway.com


Shop Amazon for Travel Books and Maps!

If you have information you believe I should add to this section, please contact me. mailto:jimbruner@gettingaway.com

Getting To United Arab Emirates
Coming Soon. In the mean time, if you have information you believe I should add to this section, please contact me. mailto:jimbruner@gettingaway.com

 

Airline tickets, hotel and car rental reservations

At Travelocity, not only can you find the lowest fare or best schedule on over 400 airlines, but you can also find Great Car Rental Deals, Low hotel rates when you click on Hotel Deals, hundreds of Cruise Deals, some of the Top Vacation Deals on the Internet and much more. You can click on the Weather Center to see what the weather will be like at your destination, and even use their Currency Converter So you will be ready to go as soon as your arrive. At Travelocity, you can find it all.

For Flights, Hotels, Cars, Cruises, Vacations, Tours and Travel Deals, Click on Global Travel International. If the link does not work properly, type www.gettingaway.globaltravel.com in the address line of your browser.

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Getting Around In United Arab Emirates
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Cities, Towns and Areas of United Arab Emirates

Dubai Marriott - My preferred hotel chain is Marriott. I have stayed Residence Inns, which are prefect for longer stays with all the comforts of home; Spring Hill Suites, which I have found nice for longer stays as the have up to 25% more room than comparably priced rooms; Towne Place Suites, again when I want more room or am on a longer stay; Courtyard by Marriott, which has everything the business traveler needs, as well as families; Courtyard, Fairfield Inn, which I find spacious, comfortable and affordable. Another great idea is to stay at one of the JW Marriott Hotels & Resorts where you can enjoy a new dimension for your vacation or holiday. and Marriott Hotels and Resorts and have found them all to be of consistent quality and service. I have also stayed at some of their Vacation Club properties and have enjoyed each visit. AAA members can get discount rates at Marriott, as can Seniors. Click on Great Getaways for less at Marriott for special officers and great deals at Marriott hotels worldwide!

Map of United Arab Emirates

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Some Things To See And Do In United Arab Emirates
Coming Soon. In the mean time, if you have information you believe I should add to this section, please contact me. mailto:jimbruner@gettingaway.com

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Some Suggestions For Accommodations In United Arab Emirates

For accommodations in the United Arab Emirates, click on Hotels in the United Arab Emirates

My preferred hotel chain is Marriott. I have stayed Residence Inns, which are prefect for longer stays with all the comforts of home; Spring Hill Suites, which I have found nice for longer stays as the have up to 25% more room than comparably priced rooms; Towne Place Suites, again when I want more room or am on a longer stay; Courtyard by Marriott, which has everything the business traveler needs, as well as families; Courtyard, Fairfield Inn, which I find spacious, comfortable and affordable. Another great idea is to stay at one of the JW Marriott Hotels & Resorts where you can enjoy a new dimension for your vacation or holiday. and Marriott Hotels and Resorts and have found them all to be of consistent quality and service. I have also stayed at some of their Vacation Club properties and have enjoyed each visit. AAA members can get discount rates at Marriott, as can Seniors. Click on Great Getaways for less at Marriott for special officers and great deals at Marriott hotels worldwide!

  Getaway Specials from Marriott.
Reservations for Marriott hotels, resorts, & inns
 

 

Click on The Hilton Family of Hotels to search for Hilton Hotels along with Conrad Hotels, Doubletree Hotels, Embassy Suites Hotels, Hampton Hotels, Hilton Garden Inn and Homewood Suites by Hilton. Looking for a better hotel rate? They're at Hilton.com

 

Click on United Arab Emirates for suggestions for accommodations in the  United Arab Emirates prepared for Getting Away by the Hotel Club Hotel Club Discount Hotel Reservation System.

 Discount Hotel Reservation

 

Asiarooms.com, Asia's leading hotel information and reservation service on Internet, can offer discounts of up to 75 % from hotels published rates. Getting Away and Asiarooms.com have teamed to give you the most powerful search tool for accommodations and is the leading travel reservation system in Asia, the Pacific, and Oceania to include Australia, Brunei, Cambodia, China, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Japan, Korea, Laos, Macau, Malaysia, Myanmar, New Zealand, United Arab Emirates, Taiwan, Thailand, and Vietnam. For accommodations, tours, and cruises, check Asiarooms.com first!

 

Book Hostels in United Arab Emirates Online  You can also find a hostel almost anywhere in the world through Experience Paradise, a partner of Getting Away.

If you have information you believe I should add to this section, please contact me. mailto:jimbruner@gettingaway.com

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Some Suggestions For Dining In United Arab Emirates
Coming Soon. In the mean time, if you have information you believe I should add to this section, please contact me. mailto:jimbruner@gettingaway.com

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Some Favorites In United Arab Emirates
Coming Soon. In the mean time, if you have information you believe I should add to this section, please contact me. mailto:jimbruner@gettingaway.com

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Some Interesting Links For United Arab Emirates

Book Hostels in United Arab Emirates Online  You can also find a hostel almost anywhere in the world through Experience Paradise, a partner of Getting Away.

Click here for language helps, dictionaries, electronic translators, language software and other helps for learning a foreign language. Being able to speak at least some of the language in the country you are visiting will help you have a better time and enjoy your trip more. Jim.

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United Arab Emirates Business Etiquette and Culture - An excellent guide to business culture and etiquette in United Arab Emirates.
Executive Planet™ provides valuable tips on business etiquette, customs and protocol for doing business worldwide. Our guides are co-authored by experts in international business etiquette, who are available to answer your questions on the discussion board.

This guide to United Arab Emirates business etiquette and culture covers many aspects of doing business in United Arab Emirates. It is our goal to provide practical, accurate, and up-to-date tips on United Arab Emirates business culture and etiquette, written by experts in business consulting in United Arab Emirates. We encourage visitors to leave questions or comments on our discussion boards, moderated by experts in intercultural training and business. Click On: Executive Planet - United_Arab_Emirates

This guide contains the following articles:
Let's Make a Deal - negotiating tactics, the value of connections, recommended business card style and content, business card protocol, sitting and presenting yourself in meetings, language for brochures and promotional material, pace of business, preferred presentation styles, final agreements, thinking styles, adherence to company policy, and more on United Arab Emirates business culture . . . Prosperous Entertaining - typical mealtimes throughout the day, best venues for business entertaining, punctuality for social events, dinner table seating etiquette, mealtime etiquette, importance of alcohol, toasting, guidelines for hosting a banquet/social event, what foods should be served/avoided, accepting and declining invitations, and more on United Arab Emirates business etiquette. . . Appointment Alert! - typical vacation times, recommended appointment times, length of the lunch hour, signals that indicate beginning or end of an appointment, best arrival time (early, late, right on time), and more on United Arab Emirates business culture. . . Gift Giving - recommended gifts, gifts to avoid, good and bad colors for wrapping paper, how to present a gift to individuals and groups, guidelines for receiving gifts, and more on United Arab Emirates business culture. . . First Name or Title? - using titles such as 'Doctor', naming conventions to avoid, when to use first names, and more. . . Public Behavior - how to greet strangers and introduce yourself, the rules for men shaking hands with women, acceptable demeanor, rules for eye contact, gestures/sayings to avoid, and more on United Arab Emirates business culture. . . Business Dress - is dress modest, conservative, etc., specific dress requirements for men and women, what visitors should wear to social functions, and more on United Arab Emirates business culture. . Conversation - welcome and unwelcome topics of conversation, the role of compliments, the tone of voice to be used, whether your hosts are physical or more reserved, and more on United Arab Emirates business etiquette. For additional information, click on http://www.executiveplanet.com/index.php?title=United_Arab_Emirates

 

If you have information you believe should be added to this page of Getting Away, please contact Jim at Getting Away. mailto:jimbruner@gettingaway.com

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Date this page was last edited: Saturday, August 02, 2008 17:10:43

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