The United Arab Emirates (UAE), also referred to as the Emirates, is a confederation of seven emirates, including Dubai and Abu Dhabi, in Western Asia. After beginning as a little fishing community in the eighteenth century, Dubai, expanded quickly in the twenty-first century with a focus on luxurious tourism. The city's economy is built on commerce, tourism, aviation, real estate, and financial services as a hub for regional and global trade. Understanding the laws and regulations might seem a daunting task to travellers who visit for business in Dubai from all over the world, so read on to find out all you need to know before relocating to Dubai.
Key Information
Flight Time: Around 7 hours from the UK
Currency: The UAE Dirham
Language: Arabic
Time Difference: GMT +4
Visa: Those with a British passport can obtain a free 30 day visa for the UAE
Getting to Dubai
Dubai is the largest aviation hub in the Middle East, and the city's Emirates Airline as well as other international carriers offer good connectivity to destinations across the world. Numerous UK airports, including London Heathrow, Manchester Airport, Dublin Airport, and many more, provide direct and nonstop flights to Dubai International Airport (DXB). Flying time for the outgoing trip is around seven hours, although it might be a little bit longer on the return trip.
The majority of international flights land at Terminal 1, while all Emirates Airline flights land at Terminal 3, and smaller regional airlines utilise Terminal 2. Taking the metro, bus, or taxi is the fastest way to get to the city centre; if you wish to rent a car, go over to Terminal 1.
Dress Code in Dubai
While on business in Dubai, it is customary to wear attire that covers your shoulders and knees while you are out in public. For both men and women, it's advisable to avoid wearing clothing that is excessively tight or exposing and, when heading out in public, it's a good idea to have a lightweight sweater or shawl with you. Men visiting Dubai should wear attire that covers their knees and chest, and they should only wear swimwear at the beach or in swimming pools. As long as the clothing isn't too revealing, travellers can stick to loose-fitting, comfortable clothing throughout Dubai's hottest months.
Food in Dubai
Whether you are relocating to Dubai or travelling for business or leisure, you will need to refuel with some food. There are plenty of both plant- and meat-based meals to choose from in the Emeriti cuisine, which combines Lebanese, Iranian, and even Indian flavours. While in a city with a wide variety of flavours, ingredients, and spices, there are many places to dine.
Awar is the place to experience a true Arabian night. You can decide whether to eat on their terrace or in the elegant tent-like setting and you’re guaranteed to have a memorable meal with their Arabic singers' passionate voices and even a belly dance performance. White Orchid is the ideal exotic restaurant to experience the tastes of the Far East with stunning views of the beautiful gardens and sandy coastline.
Travelling around Dubai
The Dubai metro system consists of two lines, red and green, that operate from Dubai International Airport and through the city's major regions. Buses are a cheap way to get around the city as their routes pass through every significant neighbourhood. They operate around-the-clock, every 30 minutes, but keep in mind the bus and metro will not accept cash, so you need to get a top-up Nol card in advance of using them. Alternatives include a variety of Dubai taxis, which you can either order over the phone or hail almost anywhere in the city.
Accommodation in Dubai
Many people who are travelling for business or moving to the UAE opt to stay in a serviced apartment in Dubai. All the amenities and luxuries of a hotel stay are included in these apartments, along with the advantages of more space, privacy, and flexibility. In addition to having a cooking area, laundry facilities, a dining space, and a living room, many units in Dubai also offer access to a swimming pool. Researching the location you want to live in is important as Dubai is one of the most populous cities in the UAE. Our experienced and dedicated client team can provide advice on this and assist you in locating the serviced apartment that perfectly suits your needs.
Conference Venues
Finding a location for an event you're organising while on business in Dubai is simple thanks to the city's plethora of exhibition halls and conference centres. Modern exhibition venues like the Dubai Conference and Exhibition Centre offer endless possibilities for large corporate meetings, social events, and other events. The Sofitel Dubai is a sophisticated alternative that gracefully combines the essence and culture of the UAE with current French art de vivre and ancient Egyptian heritage.
Top Sights to see in Dubai
Planning some time to explore and take in the sights in the City of Gold is a smart idea whether you are relocating to Dubai or just visiting for a short business trip. Our favourites include:
Burj Khalifa – This tower, which is the tallest in the world, is referred to as a "Vertical City" and "A Living Wonder." When travelling for business or moving to the UAE, this famous landmark is only one of several that you really must see.
The Dubai Fountain – The Dubai Fountain, which can spray water up to 500 feet in the air, is a musically choreographed fountain in the heart of Dubai. Every day there are performances to enjoy on the 30-acre Burj Khalifa Lake.
The Dubai Mall – This mall, which is situated in downtown Dubai, boasts more than a 1,000 shops and eateries, including luxury shops like Cartier and Louis Vuitton. During a trip to Dubai, this is the ideal location for shopping, but the mall also features an opera house, trampoline park, ice rink, aquarium, and cinema.
Desert Safari Dubai – There are several all-inclusive packages available for various types of desert safari experiences, including the Evening Desert Safari, Morning Desert Safari, Overnight Desert Safari, and many more. Try a camel, quad bike, or dune buggy ride to truly make the most of this city’s unique surroundings.
Atlantis Aquaventure Waterpark – The largest waterpark in the world, with over 100 slides and a private beach, is located at Palm Jumeirah. At this waterpark, animal lovers may get up close and personal with dolphins, sea lions, stingrays, and sharks.
Top tips for visiting Dubai
- Like in any formal or professional context, business attire in Dubai is modest and tasteful. 'Wacky' ties won't make an impression on your hosts, so dress simply and elegantly. Both men and women should refrain from wearing clothing that is extremely tight, and women should also avoid low necklines and short skirts.
- There are strict restrictions on eating, drinking, and smoking in public throughout Ramadan. Muslims refrain from eating or drinking in the daylight during this religious holiday, so be mindful of what type of business meeting you arrange during Ramadan; perhaps opt for a team building activity instead of a work lunch.
- It's customary to shake hands when conducting business in Dubai, or to welcome ladies by placing your right hand over your heart if no hand is extended.
Since Dubai is a major commercial hub, thousands of business travellers visit or relocate there every year. The City of Gold has a lot to offer, including a thriving economy and roughly 340 days of annual sunshine. You may browse our whole selection of serviced apartments in Dubai, whether you're moving to the UAE or organising a business trip to Dubai.
