About Abu Dhabi
Abu Dhabi is the Capital of he United Arab Emirates, one of the fastest growing cities in the world, with every modern facility to maintain its' visitors' amusement and satisfaction, and is recognized as a gateway between the East and the West.
The city of Abu Dhabi now stands as one of the worlds major cities, with a wide range of exhibitions and events, highlighting business opportunities and providing an excellent motivation for new contacts, sales and market launches. Developments in the past decades have seen Abu Dhabi transform itself into a truly international business center of global significance.
While oil has been crucial to Abu Dhabi's development since the late 1960's, manufacturing, tourism and services are all growing strongly, helping to create a well-balanced and diversified economy.
Aside from the economic advantages of using Abu Dhabi as a business base, international businessmen can be assured that the city offers a superb quality of life for themselves and their families.
With Dubai just 150 kilometers east, Abu Dhabi offers you center stage for all your business and leisure needs. Home to many of the worlds major corporations, Abu Dhabi is tolerant, welcoming and virtually crime-free.
The lifestyle is international, with luxury residential and office accommodation, good educational and health facilities. Abu Dhabi's shopping malls carry all major International brand names, along with some of the finest jewellery in the world. Sporting and leisure interests are well-catered for and Abu Dhabi's top class international hotels offer a wide range of dining, entertainment and nightlife.
CULTURE AND CUSTOMS
Culture in Abu Dhabi is rooted in Islamic traditions that form an integral part of the UAE National’s lifestyles. However, the UAE is tolerant and welcoming to foreigners who do not practice the religion of Islam. Expatriates are free to practice their own religion and the dress code is liberal. Women do not face discrimination. Courtesy and hospitality are one of the many virtues of Abu Dhabi.
Rulers are keen to maintain their culture and do so through a number of practices. One is promoting sporting events that are representative of their past. Falconry, camel racing and dhow sailing are still popular in Abu Dhabi.
In 1971 Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain, Fujairah and (in 1972) Ras AL Khaimah, joined to create the United Arab Emirates.
In the 1980’s and early 1990’s Abu Dhabi emerged as a global tourism destination. Investments in infrastructure have, over the years, strengthened Abu Dhabi’s position as a leader of the world tourism market.
The UAE now boasts first class hotels, remarkable architecture and world=class entertainment and sporting events.
The official language of the country is Arabic, however most people in and out of the workplace communicate in English. There are so many different nationalities in Abu Dhabi; English finds common ground with most people. The majority or road and shop signs, restaurant menus etc are in both English and Arabic.
Abu Dhabi is a cosmopolitan city and visitors can dress however they like. Still, a good amount of respect for local customs is appreciated. UAE nationals usually wear their traditional dress.
Normally tourist photography is acceptable and expected with all the beautiful surroundings to photograph in Abu Dhabi. In general, photographs of government buildings, military installations, ports and airports should not be taken.
Arabic cuisine comprises many types of cooking from countries like Morocco, Egypt, Afghanistan, Lebanon, Tunisia and more. International cuisine to suit every palate is offered at Abu Dhabi’s numerous restaurants.
RELEVANT INFORMATION FOR VISITORS
Money Exchange
Most currencies can be freely converted in Abu Dhabi and you will find money exchange companies all over the city. Exchange houses are open from 8.30 to 13.00 and 16.30 to 20.30.
Credit Cards
All major credit cards are accepted in Abu Dhabi. Most establishments accept credit cards, though at some of the smaller ones you will get slightly better prices if you pay in cash.
Climate
Abu Dhabi has a sub-tropical, arid climate, with perfect weather for at least six months out of the year. Rainfall is infrequent and happens mainly in winter.
Temperatures range from a low of about 10 degrees Celsius on winter nights, to a high of 48 degrees Celsius in the midday summer heat.
Business
Abu Dhabi has always been a major trading and re-export hub, serving as a gateway to markets in the East and the West.
Business Days
All Government offices are closed on Friday and Saturday along with many private sector companies. Shops and supermarkets are open seven days a week, though on Fridays they start business after the afternoon prayers.
Banks
Most international banks have branches in Abu Dhabi, servicing the usual retail and corporate segments. Transfers can be made easily as exchange controls are virtually non-existent, and the Dirham is freely convertible. Banking hours from 08.00-13.00 Saturday to Wednesday. On Thursdays banks operate from .8.00 to 12.00
Where to stay
Visitors to Abu Dhabi have an extensive choice of places to stay, which offer superb service and facilities.
There are a number of deluxe hotels on the beach, though all are close to major tourist attractions and shopping in the city.
VISA
Visa requirements for entering Abu Dhabi differ for each Nationality. Considering regulations change frequently, it is very important for travelers to check requirements before booking a ticket.
Passport holders who will be issued entry permits upon arrival at UAE entry ports:
Western Europe:a
Andorra, Austria, Belgium, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Holland, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Liechtenstein, Luxembourg, Monaco, Norway, Portugal, San Marino, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, United Kingdom and Vatican City.
Other Countries:
USA, Australia, Brunei, Canada, Hong Kong, Japan, Malaysia, New Zealand, Singapore, South Korea.
According to the following regulations:
This permit is a visit visa and entitles its holder to stay for 60 days from the date of entry. This visa can be renewed. It is issued without any charges when entering the UAE, but there will be charges for the renewal. Visit visas are valid for 30 or 60 days, not one or two calendar months. If the number of visiting days is exceeded, a find of US$27 for every extra day spent in the UAE must be paid at the airport before leaving.