Dubai Rugby Sevens 2010
Discover Dubai
- Visit the Burj Khalifa, the world's tallest building.
- Jump on an open top bus that takes in the major places of interest and is a great way to orientate yourself.
- Take a leisurely cruise along Dubai Creek onboard a traditional wooden Arabic Dhow, where you can soak up the superb city skyline and get a feel for Dubai’s trading heritage.
- Relax at a beach club on the golden sands of the Arabian Gulf.
- Indulge in shopping at one of the many bustling souks - there are plenty of bargains to be had or at a trendy shopping centre. Dubai isn’t known as the 'shopping capital of the Middle East' for nothing!
- Explore the stunning mountain and desert scenery on a 4x4 tour – for the complete thrill, sand board down the dunes and go camel riding, followed by a traditional Arab barbecue under the stars.
- Take off in a hot air balloon and discover how Dubai’s tropical landscapes soon disappear into the surrounding sand dunes.
- Visit the famous gold market which houses more than 800 shops but be prepared to be dazzled – you may even succumb to temptation. More than 150 tons of gold are sold each year in Dubai.
Dubai Fact File
Time Zone The UAE (United Arab Emirates) is four hours ahead of GMT (+4 GMT).
Climate and Clothing
Dubai has a subtropical, arid climate. Sunny blue skies can be expected most of the year. Rain is infrequent and irregular, falling mainly in winter. During the Sevens you can expect the daytime temperature to be a maximum of 31°C and a minimum of 19°C in the evenings. Dubai has a relaxed dress code, however, care should be taken not to give offence by wearing clothing which may be considered revealing. Swimming trunks, bikinis and swimsuits are acceptable on the beaches or at the pool.
Language
Arabic is the national language of the UAE but English is widely spoken and understood.
Currency
The monetary unit is the Dirham (AED). Most major credit cards are generally accepted in the main hotels and larger shops, but some retailers offer better bargains for cash.
Passports and Visas
A full British passport is required and we recommend it is valid for a minimum of six months from your return date to the UK. Visas are not required for British passport holders for a stay of up to 30 days. Nationals of other countries should check passports and visa requirements with their relevant embassies.
Health Requirements
There are no compulsory vaccinations for residents of the UK and Ireland but advice on recommended vaccinations can be obtained from your doctor. Other useful information is available at www.dh.gov.uk.
Photography
Normal tourist photography is acceptable but it is considered offensive to photograph Muslim women. It is also courteous to ask permission before photographing men. In general, photographs of government buildings or military installations should not be taken.
Food and Drink
There is an astonishing variety of cuisine in the UAE and most hotels offer a selection of local specialities. Although the UAE is a Muslim country whose religion forbids the consumption of alcohol, the rule does not apply to persons of other religions. Consequently hotels have bars, nightclubs and restaurants where alcoholic beverages may be consumed. Restaurants outside hotels do not serve alcohol.
Useful Websites
www.dubaitourism.ae
www.habtoorhotels.com
www.dubairugby7s.com
www.uaeembassyuk.net
