The United Arab Emirates is a federation of the formerly independent seven sheikhdoms of Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, Fujairah, Ras Al Khaimah and Umm Al Quwain. It has a total population of 3.2 million and has an area of about 84,000 square kilometers - three quarters of the population are "foreigners". The country is known for its openness, tolerance and hospitality which attract visitors from all over the world.

Another important factor is security - the UAE is amongst the countries with a very low crime rate which is nearly zero. The UAE offers a unique tourist infrastructure which meets even the highest requirements:
 

 
The economy plays a vital role to the UAE, which is why it is constantly growing. More and more international companies are attracted by the excellent business conditions, which make them, set up branches here. As a proof, Dubai Internet City was established in the last 2 years. In the area of conferences and conventions as well as for individual events, the hotels and suppliers provide the best location, perfect service and the most modern technology. So whatever your ideas are, there is nothing you won't find in the UAE.

LANGUAGE
Arabic is the official language of the UAE while English is the language of business, though it competes with Urdu as the lingua franca. You will have little trouble making yourself understood, though when you venture out to the rural areas you will find that English is not as widespread. Knowing the Iranian language, Farsi, will help you get by. Urdu and Malayalam (the language of Kerala in India) can both be reasonably useful because of the large number of Pakistani and Indian expats.  

CURRENCY
The UAE Dirham (Dhs) is divided into 100 Fils. Notes come in denominations of Dhs 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200, 500, 1000. There are 1 Dhs, 50 Fils, 25 the conversion to Dollar 3.65 Fils per Dollar.

VISA
Over 33 nationalities can get their visa directly at the Dubai International Airport   free of charge.

CLIMATE
Dry and hot humid summer with comfortably soft winter.

TIME
Plus four (4) hours GMT.

SHOPPING TIMINGS
  Open daily from 10:00 a.m. till 10:00 p.m., Lunch break from 1:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m.

RAMADAN
This is the month during which Muslims fast from dawn until dusk. Bars and Pubs are closed for serving the alcohol in a day time throughout the month. Those with a liquor license can still buy alcohol for consumption at home. Everyone, regardless of their religion, is required to observe the fast in public. That only means not eating and drinking but no smoking as well.

ALCHOL
In Sharjah, alcohol is strictly prohibited

PHOTOGRAPHY
In taking photographs of places or people, ask for permission from the concerned people in a very polite manner before taking the shot. Military facilities must not be photographed at all.