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. "Getting Away With Jim Bruner" - your first stop for travel information on United Arab Emirates!

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General Information About United Arab Emirates

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is a union of seven sovereign sheikhdoms. It was formed when the British withdrew from the Gulf in 1971. The area has mountains, beaches, and deserts, some with nice oases. One of the interesting activities is watching camel racing. Bedouin markets and the legendary duty-free shopping of Dubai, all packed into a relatively small area, made this a mecca for shoppers. The population of the country is over 2 million, about 500,000 of which live in the capital of Abu Dhabi.

The best time of the year to visit Dubai is between November and April as this is when you will find that the weather is coolest. The rest of the year you're more likely to be spending most of your time inside the air-conditioned environment of the city rather than getting out and exploring. Ramadan, which takes place at a different time each year on the Western calendar, is the Muslim month of fasting and is strictly adhered to throughout the UAE. As it is illegal, not to mention rude, to eat, drink or smoke in public from sunrise to sunset at this time, this might not be the best time to visit. However, it is one of the least expensive with many of the hotel rates being about 50% of their usual cost.

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Travel Etiquette
Behavior and customs vary greatly from country to country. We discuss the correct travel etiquette so that you won't be caught out. TravelEtiquette was formed to offer a unique reference point on essential etiquette advice and information for worldwide travel. Our features and articles are written by professional journalists and experts - who have a particular interest, or a background in this area. So – know before you go. Visit TravelEtiquette so you will know how to, as the old adage states, “When in Rome, do as the Romans do.”

Cities and Towns of United Arab Emirates
Abu Dhabi
This modern capital city is very up-to-date with everything seeming to be modern and sleek. Often accused of being a rather dull place to visit, there is a pretty bustling place with an interesting culture and people.

Flights to Abu Dhabi (These links are for our customers in the UK and Ireland,)

For information about low cost airport and hotel transfers in Abu Dhabi, click on The Transfer Store! The Transfer Store offers taxi, minibus, coach, and limousine transfers between airports and accommodation at low rates and our system is quick and easy to use- just click on the map to get started! You can book return trips or one way going in either direction, up until 3 days before you travel. For additional information and other world wide locations, CLICK HERE!

Al Ain

For information about low cost airport and hotel transfers in Al Ain, click on The Transfer Store! The Transfer Store offers taxi, minibus, coach, and limousine transfers between airports and accommodation at low rates and our system is quick and easy to use- just click on the map to get started! You can book return trips or one way going in either direction, up until 3 days before you travel. For additional information and other world wide locations, CLICK HERE!

Dubai
This is the place of sand, sun and shopping. Over a century ago, it was a simply a small, tranquil town whose coral-and-gypsum huts housed Bedouin traders and pearl divers. Today the stores and shops are very international. Alongside the traditional mosques and wind towers of Old Dabai, you will find skyscrapers towering above the city that have almost a science-fiction look. The audacity of the city's rulers is breathtaking and is exemplified by the architecture. Not only is the coastline filled with great hotels, but there are vast artificial islands with about 75 miles of additional beachfront.

Fly with KLM to Abu Dhabi from only $1116 return inclusive of taxes and charges.

(The above link is for our UK and Ireland customers)

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Getting To and Around United Arab Emirates

The main international airports are in Dubai and Abu Dhabi. There are also flights servicing Sharjah as well. Smaller international airports serve Ras al-Khaimah, Fujairah and Al-Ain. You will find daily services to most major European cities from Dubai and Abu Dhabi, and also to major Middle Eastern and Gulf cities. There are also connections to the USA, North Africa, the Indian Subcontinent and Australia.

Fly with KLM to Abu Dhabi from only $1116 return inclusive of taxes and charges.

There's a daily bus service between Dubai and Muscat in Oman, though the lack of a UAE border post on the road used by the bus can present visa problems for travelers so you will want to make sure you have proper credentials. Regular bus services operate between both Dubai and Abu Dhabi and Saudi Arabia's Eastern Province, though there are no bus or taxi services to Qatar. Boats ply between Sharjah and Bandar-é Abbas in Iran; the trip is about 12 hours each way.

Rent a GPS for travel within The Middle East. Elegant and simple! Touch the screen and receive turn-by-turn directions with street names as you enjoy your driving experience throughout much of the Middle East. Customize your navigation method or route to travel safely and stress-free. This GPS Unit provides detailed coverage of the following countries: Kuwait, Bahrain, United Arab Emirates, Qatar and Oman.

Additional coverage of major urban areas with intertown roads available in Saudi Arabia, Abha, Al Bahah, Al Jubayl, Al Khafji, Al Kharj, Al Khobar, Al Khurais, Al Qatif, Alat Al Dabbiyah, Dammam, Dhahban, Dhahran, Hofuf, Jeddah, Khamees Moshait, Madinah, Makkah, Riyadh, Salwa, Tabouk, Taif and Yanbu For additional information, click on International GPS Rental or on Navigate Like a Local - Anywhere in the World! Rent a GPS Today!

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Some Things to See and Do in United Arab Emirates
Sharjah Desert Park
The Sharjah Desert National Park is a wildlife centre with one of the main attractions being a remarkable indoor aviary, home to flamingos, Houbara bustards and Indian rollers. The outdoor enclosures feature baboons, striped hyenas, Arabian wolves, and the Arabian leopard. There's also a pretty good restaurant, a museum, botanical gardens and a children's zoo. The park is open Saturday through Wednesday from 9:00am-7:00pm, Thursday 11:00am-7:00pm and Friday 2:00pm-7:00pm

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Suggestions for Accommodations in United Arab Emirates

ابحث عن فنادق في أفضل مواقع السفر في آن واحد...هنا

Abu Dubai

Conrad

Scheduled to open in 2011, the Conrad Dubai will be located in the heart of Dubai's commercial, business and entertainment district - Sheikh Zayed Road. The Conrad Dubai will include 550 luxury guest and executive floor rooms and suites.

The Conrad Dubai will also offer 30 meeting rooms and a fully equipped business centre, two ballrooms, which will accommodate 1,100 and 500-800 guests, three innovative restaurants and bars, a spa and health club with an outdoor swimming pool.

The Conrad Dubai will be strategically located on Sheikh Zayed Road, just 20 minutes from the Dubai International Airport and close to the Dubai World Trade Centre, International Convention Centre, Dubai International Financial Centre and the Dubai Metro System Station.
Hotel Facts: 550 luxury guest and executive floor rooms and suites Business centre 30+ meeting rooms Main ballroom accommodating up to 1,100 guests Secondary ballroom for 500 - 800 guests 3 innovative restaurants and bars Spa and health club Outdoor swimming pool. For additional information, or to make reservations at a Conrad Hilton Hotel or Resort, click on Hilton Hotels and Get Our Best Rates. Guaranteed. Conrad Dubai

Gaze out over the Gulf from the stunning 350m private beach at the Hilton Abu Dhabi hotel. Just 10 minutes from the bustling city center, this Abu Dhabi hotel boasts a well-equipped beach club, 3 swimming pools and a kids' club. Be spoilt for choice and dine in one of 13 restaurants and bars at the Hilton Abu Dhabi hotel. Play a game of tennis on one of the 2 courts, work out in the fitness center or unwind in the tranquil spa at this Abu Dhabi hotel. Sample fine Italian cuisine at BiCE or enjoy live music in the Jazz Bar. Abu Dhabi attractions including Marina Mall are just 3km away, and Abu Dhabi racecourse and city gardens are a short drive. Just a 30 minute drive from the airport, the Hilton Abu Dhabi hotel offers 14 function rooms for 2-2000, a business center and an Executive Lounge. All Hilton Abu Dhabi hotel rooms offer high speed internet access. Choose an Executive Room for Executive Lounge access. For additional information, or to make reservations, click on Hilton Hotels, or click on Hilton Hotels Specials and Package Deals and Get Our Best Rates. Guaranteed.

Towering over Abu Dhabi, the 42-storey Hilton Baynunah hotel boasts stunning views and is only 10 minutes from the city center. Work out at the gym, swim laps in the city's biggest indoor pool or relax in the sauna. Do business in the Atrium Lounge before enjoying a mezze plate in flagship Level 2 Restaurant. The Atrium Lounge boasts wireless internet access and the hotel has a meeting room for 5-100. From Deluxe Rooms to Suites, all hotel rooms have kitchenettes and dining tables. Choose a Junior Suite for a sea view. All guest rooms offer high-speed internet access. Take time to explore nearby Abu Dhabi attractions like the Gold Souk and Emirates Palace. Shop at Marina Mall before returning to the hotel at night to savor international cuisine and local specialties in the contemporary Level 2 Restaurant. For additional information, or to make reservations, click on Hilton Hotels, or click on Hilton Hotels Specials and Package Deals and Get Our Best Rates. Guaranteed.

Overlooking the Arabian Gulf, the Hilton Corniche Hotel Apartments is within walking distance of the business district, just 0.5 miles from the center of Abu Dhabi and 21 miles from Abu Dhabi Airport. The hotel has a Guest Lounge with 4 PCs and wireless internet access. Enjoy international dishes and Gulf views at the Hamptons Restaurant or pop into Café Cappuccino for coffee in the Hilton Corniche Hotel Apartments Lobby. Keep fit in the Hilton Corniche Hotel Apartments rooftop pool and gym. Relax with a massage or a sauna. Let trained stylists change your hairstyle in the hair salon. Enjoy retail therapy in the shopping malls half an hour from the hotel. Relax at the Hilton Beach Club 3 miles away. Enjoy a Hilton Room with a city view or step up to a Suite with a sea view. The Hilton Corniche Hotel Apartments Junior Suites and Suites have kitchenettes. For additional information, or to make reservations, click on Hilton Hotels, or click on Hilton Hotels Specials and Package Deals and Get Our Best Rates. Guaranteed.

Dabai
Dubai

FAIRMONT DUBAI
A unique blend of contemporary design and urban chic, the Fairmont Dubai is an icon in the financial heart of the city. Designed with business in mind, this multi-use complex is just minutes from Dubai's key attractions, shopping facilities, golf clubs and beaches and is directly linked to the Dubai International Convention Centre by a dedicated covered walkway. Modeled after an Arabic wind tunnel (barajeel), this 34 storey property features 394 guestrooms (including 128 suites and penthouses), residential apartments and offices, as well as its premier Fairmont Gold ‘hotel within a hotel’ product.

The Exchange Floor houses three unique destinations, including the award winning Exchange Grill, noted for its tantalizing selection of grill specialties and extensive wine list; Cin Cin, the chic wine bar showcases over 300 global labels, while the modern day Cigar Bar features a range of world-class cigars in a hand crafted walk-in humidor.

The Willow Stream Spa is a unique destination created to inspire, nourish and guide guests on a journey to find their personal energy. Encompassing 40,000 square feet, the spa also offers a fully equipped health club, complete with two rooftop swimming pools, boasting unfettered views of both the sunrise and sunset over a dotted skyline.

Classical elegance and contemporary décor are reflected throughout the 394 guestrooms and suites, combining timeless style with generous comfort. Polished granite floors and soft luxurious fabrics are united to create a soothing atmosphere, complemented by stunning panoramic views of the city. All guest rooms feature well-appointed bathrooms, in-room business facilities, separate chaise lounge sitting area and high speed Internet service.

Fairmont Gold is a hotel-within-a hotel, designed to meet the needs of the most discerning corporate or leisure guest. Exclusive features include complimentary return airport transfers, discreet and attentive concierge service, a dedicated check in and check out area; a private lounge with drinks and canapés; complimentary breakfast; complimentary high-speed Internet in Fairmont Gold guest rooms, wireless Internet access in the Fairmont Gold lounge and access to executive boardroom facilities.

Ten contemporary dining and entertainment venues offer an array of gastronomic delights and culinary experiences at The Fairmont Dubai. Executive Chef David Hammonds and his award winning culinary brigade bring passion for excellence to each restaurant. Whether enjoying the understated elegance of the lobby lounge to the bustling ambience of Pronto, the gourmet café or dining in Spectrum on One with its eight interactive kitchens specializing in six influential international cuisines, guests will enjoy the creativity and distinction of each destination.

For additional information, or to make reservations, click on The Fairmont Dubai - Hotel Packages

United Arab Emirates City - 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!

CLUBHOTEL Travel Discount Card - Save up to 65% off hotel room rates at over 400 hotels.

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Suggestions for Dining in United Arab Emirates
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Some Favorites in United Arab Emirates
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Links for United Arab Emirates

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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