Bespoke Property Search Service for People Buying Homes Abroad

Recent Testimonials

I have had dealings with CBI for some time and have been impressed with the quality of services offered. Of note is the professionalism and attention to detail yet with a personal touch. All in all giving one confidence to build an on-going relationship based on a thorough understanding of customer requirements.

Dr A R Grinham
Director
AFF LTD

A world of opportunity

Country Information > Dubai

Quick country selector

About Dubai

  • Dubai is the second largest of the seven domains which form the United Arab Emirates
  • Ruler = Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum (succeeded his older brother Sheikh Maktoum who died on 4th January 2006)
  • Estimated 85% of the population is expatriates
  • 96% Muslim
  • Official language Arabic but English widely spoken and commonly used in business
  • Currency = Dirham (1 UAE Dirham = 100 fils)
  • Dubai was originally a small Bedouin fishing village
  • Oil was discovered in 1966 and this transformed Dubai
  • Today, oil only accounts for about 20% of Dubai’s economy
  • Tourism now forms a major part of the economy with luxury hotels, first class shopping and major international sports on offer as well as the sunny climate and sandy beaches
  • Time = GMT + 4

Climate

Dubai has a typical arid desert climate (sub-tropical) and averages only about 5 days of rainfall a year. The summer is from May to October where temperatures are high and there is high humidity near the coast.  Therefore, October to May is the best time to visit.

Healthcare

Healthcare is of a high standard in Dubai but is also very expensive.  It is therefore important to have private insurance.  Some UK prescription/over the counter medicines are illegal in Dubai so it is worth checking these before you travel.

Visas/Travel Documentation

UK citizens (with right of abode in the UK) will be granted a free visit visa on arrival in the UAE. It entitles the holder to stay in the country for 60 days and may be renewed once for an additional period of 30 days for a fee of Dh500.

You will need an International License if you wish to drive in Dubai.  If you have an accident, it is an offence to leave the scene.  Road rage and rude gestures are not tolerated and attract significant penalties.  Drink driving is not tolerated at all.

Address:

British Embassy
PO Box 248, Abu Dhabi

Telephone:

  • (00) (971) (2) 6101100
  • (00) (971) (2) 6101111 Commercial

Facsimile:

  • (00) (971) (2) 6101585 Commercial
  • (00) (971) (2) 6101586 Consular/Management
  • (00) (971) (2) 6101587 Visa Section

Email:

Office Hours:

GMT: Mon-Wed: 0330-1030 Local Time: Mon-Fri: 0730-1430

Website

http://www.britishembassy.gov.uk/uae