Passenger traffic up in Dubai

12 May 2009
Throughput for the month exceeds 3.2 million
Dubai: Following on the heels of a good first quarter, Dubai InternationalDubai International, the world's sixth busiest airport for international passengers, has announced a growth of 6.5 per cent in passenger traffic in April. The airport recorded a throughput of 3,271,435 in April 2009 compared to 3,073,479 in the same period last year.


In March, Dubai InternationalDubai International was ranked fourth worldwide in terms of passenger traffic. According to Airports Council International's (ACI) figures, Dubai InternationalDubai International was the only airport among the top ten airports in terms of international passengers to register positive growth for the last two consecutive quarters. The airport recorded a growth of 7.1 per cent in the last quarter of 2008, and just over two per cent in the first quarter this year.


Commenting on Dubai InternationalDubai International's continuing growth, Dubai Airport CEO, Paul Griffiths said he was pleased that the airport has begun the second quarter on a positive note. "The results for April are ahead of our expectations and this bodes well for the rest of the year. The latest figures are very encouraging, and considering that the travel season is yet to peak, we are very positive that the second quarter will show better results," he said.


Griffiths added that as many as five new international carriers have been added to Dubai InternationalDubai International's ever-expanding list of airlines in the first five months this year. "There are indications that we will continue to welcome new airlines at more or less the same rate over the coming months, and this will add to our current growth, much of which is a direct result of the rebound in traffic from Western Europe, the US and Russia," he said. He added that the launch of Dubai's own budget airline flydubai from Terminal 2 in June will also play an important role in pushing Dubai InternationalDubai International's growth.


Dubai InternationalDubai International currently caters to over 125 airlines flying to over 210 destinations. The story of Dubai InternationalDubai International's growth in 2009 amidst the global economic situation and its impact on tourism and travel industry worldwide continues from 2008, a year in which the airport handled 37.44 million passengers, registering a growth of 9 per cent over 2007.

Jet Airways Flights To Dubai

Starting April 23, private airline Jet Airways will launch two new services to Dubai from Mumbai and Chennai in an effort to tap one of the few remaining profitable international sectors for Indian air carriers.
The airline’s introduction of a new mid-day service from Chennai as well as a second flight from Mumbai departing in the morning comes at a time when the air carrier has been rationalising its other international routes because of the global downturn.
The airline in January discontinued its recently launched flight from Mumbai to Shanghai and San Francisco. International traffic to the United States, Europe and Southeast Asia has been badly hit by the recession, with several airlines cancelling flights and rationalising routes. Traffic to West Asia has also been affected, analysts say, but remains one of the few sectors where air carriers might find some relief.
“It seems that this region has in some sense withstood the crisis, at least relatively,” said D. Sudhakara Reddy, president of the Air Passengers’ Association of India.
Mr. Reddy said while airlines had been pulling out flights from Singapore and Kuala Lumpur, cancellations on West Asian routes had been rare.
“Emirates even increased flights last year, and no airline has significantly reduced its frequency. It’s good for passengers, as fares are coming down,” he said.
The new services were introduced to match the high passenger demand in this sector, Jet Airways CEO Wolfgang Prock-Schauer said in a statement. Jet Airways already operates two daily flights to Dubai, from Mumbai and New Delhi.

Earth Hour In Dubai

Dubai residents helped save at least 200,000 kilowatts of electricity, equivalent to 120,000 kilos of carbon dioxide (CO2), by switching off lights and appliances for the Earth Hour last night, according to Dubai Electricity and Water Authority.

Amal Koshak, Senior Manager for Demand and Tariff Management at Dewa, said that this figure was double the amount saved last year.

“We’re glad that more people joined the Earth Hour this year. Fifty-seven schools, numerous hotels and government institutions joined us. We think that we’ll achieve at least double this year's energy savings compared to last year’s Earth Hour,” said Koshak.
Last year, Dubai ranked 13th among the global cities in terms of participation in the event - where about 100,000 kw of energy were saved, curbing emissions of about 60,000 kg of CO2.

Dubai joined 80 major cities across the world from Sydney and Shanghai to Santiago and San Francisco in a symbolic solidarity with the planet threatened by global warming.
At exactly 8.30pm, street and retail shop lights were switched off at The Walk, a beach-front strip at Jumeirah Beach Residence, as Dubai joined cities around the world in the Earth Hour 2009, a global climate event organised by the World Wildlife Fund (WWF).
Soon after, traditional music and dances started in a makeshift arena where an art workshop for children was also organised.

Khalaf Bin Saeed Al Otaiba, 28, a businessman from Abu Dhabi, joined the Dubai Earth Hour celebration with his family.

“My wife and I like the idea of helping the planet get some relief,” said Al Otaiba. “And I don’t like bright lights too much, because I have astigmatism. It would be better to use LED Cat eye lights to indicate lines on the highway instead of bright lights and paint.”
Lebanese Farah K., 28, said: “This is a more civilized way of expressive unity with the Earth. We should try to have more Earth Hours more frequently, rather than just once a year.”

Hundreds of people lit up candles and lanterns. Children and adults gathered around Dewa-provided 5,000 battery powered lanterns that was formed into “Earth Hour” in Arabic and English.

Young and old folks strolled as a slight drizzle came, putting on blinkers made of light-emitting diodes.

Arabic songs played in the background.

Mark Lynch, a British tourist from Poole who came with his wife Lynda to The Walk, said: “We didn’t expect as much fun as this. It’s a feel-good party in the dark. If it’s good for the earth, it’s good for us.”

Dubai’s Roads and Transportation Authority (RTA) has started the trial run of 10 eco-friendly taxis fitted with hybrid engines powered by fuel and electricity, Abdullah Al Madani, CEO of RTA Corporate Support Services Sector, who confirmed RTA’s participation in the Earth Hour.

It has also replaced Abra (water taxi) engines with others powered by compressed natural gas (CNG) and rolled out a fleet of new public buses with environment friendly engines compatible with the highest environmental specifications applicable in Europe (Euro IV).
The buses are also fitted with selective catalytic reduction (SCR) technology as well as Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) technology; both aimed to curb bus exhaust emissions.

Dubai Entertainment,Amusement and Leisure Show 26-28 April 2009

Dubai Entertainment, Amusement & Leisure Show (DEAL) will celebrate its 15th anniversary when it takes place at Dubai World Trade Centre April 26-28, 2009, making it the longest running business gathering for the Middle East’s amusement industry.
This year’s show looks set to be the most diverse in the event’s 15 year history.

DEAL 2008 welcomed some 200 exhibitors from around the world, showcasing the very latest in rides, games and play equipment; water facilities; audiovisual and theatre equipment; and decorations. Show organisers, International Expo-Consults (IEC), expect even better results for 2009.

DEAL 2009 will also incorporate a four-day bonanza of expert presentations, including the 2nd WWA Middle East Symposium and specialist seminars dedicated to those involved in the management of attractions and leisure facilities.

Substantial industry support for DEAL is given by the Amusement Industry Council of Europe, including Association Fabricantes Y Exp. Maquinas de la Foia de Bunyol (Spain) Associazone Nazionale Costruttori Attrezzature, Spettcoli Viaggianti (Italy); Amusement & Leisure Equipment Suppliers of the UK; American Amusement Manufacturers Association); International Association for the Leisure & Entertainment Industries; India Association of Amusement Parks & Industries; and the World Water Park Association.

Excellent Foreign Exchange Rates at National Bank Of Dubai

Just 40 years ago, Dubai was simply a trading post at the mouth of the creek, without electricity, piped water or paved roads. As the finest natural creek in the Gulf, its trading history could be traced back almost 600 years.

Fleets of merchant dhows lined its banks and sailed far and wide to earn rich rewards from their dealings in silk, spices, pearls and gold. But the discovery of oil, or black gold, was to launch Dubai to the future.

As the first oil platform was towed out to sea from the creek, the waters began to reflect more than ancient wind towers. The business that would create a city within a few years had begun to gather pace.

At this time of growing prosperity, a leading group of merchants including Ali Bin Abdullah Al Owais, the father of the late Chairman of the Bank, Sultan Ali Al Owais approached the Ruler of Dubai, His Highness Sheikh Rashid Bin Saeed Al Maktoum, to discuss forming the first national bank. This played a vital role in developing Dubai into a leading business centre.

The National Bank of Dubai was established in 1963 with one branch on the other side of the creek, which was usually reached by abra. And this was how the paperwork and the money reached head office every day!

The Bank was an immediate success, and before long, in 1970, a new Headquarters inaugurated by H. H. Sheikh Rashid, opened beside the creek.

The Bank has kept pace with every stage of Dubai's development, from its foundation as a simple trading harbour in the Middle East, through its years of expansion as an importer and exporter, to its position today as one of the premier cities between Europe and Asia.

In this enterprise oriented business environment,National Bank of Dubai established a very conservative image with total dedication to sound banking practices, efficient service and a protective attitude towards depositors.

Over the years, this prudent approach has proved to be successful for both shareholders and customers alike.

Soon after the Headquarters opened, Dubai joined forces with the other emirates and was on its way to becoming one of the world's most vibrant cities.

Today, the association between the oil business, the port, the merchants and the Bank is as strong as ever. The Bank's involvement now stretches to virtually every sector of the business community.

The ancient creek-based industry of trading silk, spices and gold has now been enhanced by textiles, electronics, furniture and machinery as Dubai expands its trading links. Due to its pivotal role in the past and present prosperity of Dubai, the creek, exemplifies in microcosm the whole of Dubai as an industrious, multi-cultural society.

The sleek, futuristic architecture that lines its banks is in sharp contrast to the traditional shipping reflected in its mirrored frontage. But the two work hand-in-hand to mutual benefit. Long may they coexist.

The philosophy of the Bank has always been to protect valuable traditions whilst embracing the best contemporary business practices. This spirit has been the inspiration behind the design and layout of the new creek side Headquarters building. We hope this building reflects the good fortune of Dubai, as we continue to provide banking for this ever-changing world.

For really good exchange rate for the Dubai traveller check out the
National bank of Dubai counter at the Dubai International Airport.

New Vivienne Westwood Shop in Dubai

British fashion designer Vivienne Westwood has opened her first shop in the Middle East at the Gate Village, Dubai International Financial Centre.

The shop offers her womenswear lines (Anglomania, Gold Label, Red Label) and ladies fashion accessories.

For more information on other shops and businesses at the Dubai International Financial Center access Dubai Online

Relocate to Dubai-info on moving companies

If you have made the decision to move to Dubai I would not suggest trying to do everything yourself.The first step would be to get the best price for the most services rendered.You can contact at least 5 moving companies and request a price.Be sure to find out all the services offered for this price.As much as possible ask them to give you a price for each service.This makes it easier to choose which company is offering the best package.After you have received all the quotes you can then decide which company to use.The good thing is that as you go along you will be able to decide which of the services you can do yourself thereby reducing the cost of the relocation.
Another tip is to try and use a moving company based in the country you are moving to.They will have all the knowledge of the requirements of the destination country.

If you are considering re locating please consult with this local Dubai moving company or if you prefer an international moving company.You will be able to make the decision which is best for your personal requirements and needs.

Ramadan in Dubai September-October 2009

The busy trading metropolis that is Dubai still takes time out to observe the fasting month of Ramadan, an important religious observance in Muslim countries.

For one entire lunar month (30 days) all consumption for pleasure, whether of food, drink, sex or cigarettes, is prohibited between the hours of dawn and dusk. Faithful followers of Islam are obliged to adhere to these strictures, eating only during the hours of darkness: the breakfast at dusk can be quite a feast!
At the end of the month, when the new moon is sighted in the sky, the city sheds its sombre cape and celebrates madly for three days.Gifts are exchanged between friends and relatives, and there is dancing and merriment. Women decorate their hands with beautiful henna patterns. The festival brings together the entire community, often with the excuse of luscious banquets and late-night celebrations.
Visitors are advised to observe the restrictions obeyed by locals, as it is considered highly disrespectful and offensive to break them in public. Also, the end of Ramadan is dependent not on the astronomical beginning of the new month but on the sighting of the moon, so the dates may vary slightly from our estimates. Islamic holidays may be announced with less than 24 hours' notice.

Dubai Summer Surprises 23 June-21 August 2009

Second only to the frenzied bargain-hunting of the Dubai Shopping Festival in spring, Dubai Summer Surprises is an event which encourages visitors to shop, save and celebrate during ten weeks of entertainment.
During the festival, also known as DSS, Dubai's vast malls get together to offer major reductions across a wide range of goods. The pull is irresistible; over seven million shoppers flex their credit cards at this event.
Live shows, activities, competitions and courses keep the whole family happy while the shopaholics shop.
Another popular event is the Kids Olympic Games.
Hotels and hotel apartments offer a variety of discounted packages for those who want to make a holiday out of it.
.
Address Dubai
Opening Hours Various
Phone +971 600 545555
Internet Dubai Summer Surprises Website

Musandam Boat Trip

Hop across the border to the breathtaking Oman and cruise along the fjords of Musandam in a traditional Dhow. Friendly, hospitable people combined with fascinating sightseeing, scenery and great beaches make Oman a joy to visit.

Drive to Dibba, (town of Musandam). Dibba consists of seaside villages that are owned partly by the Sultanate of Oman (Dibba Bayah), Fujairah (Dibba Muhallab) & Sharjah (Hisn Dibba).Once arrived, you will notice the clean air, peaceful surroundings & friendly people.

Take a boat trip into the fjords & beaches with either a "Dhow" (traditional) or modern boat.Depart by traditional Omani Dhow for a full-day cruise to the spectacular “Fjords of Musandam”.

The journey starts from Dibba, Oman (no visas needed). You will be greeted with a warm welcome and board our traditional dhow, which is decked out with cushions and chairs for a comfortable ride to the dive sites. The journey will take us past some breathe taking scenery, while seeing a wide variety of bird life and a good chance of seeing dolphins.During the cruise, you will see:Small villages on the side of a rocky hillside.Beautiful, hidden beaches to which you can swim. Fjords teeming with colorful corals, fish and turtles; great for snorkeling. If you are lucky, you will have some WILD DOLPHINS bow riding alongside your dhow! There you can swim and snorkel in the pleasant clear waters.
Fishing on the Indian Ocean.
Lunch, refreshments and fruit are served on-board.** UAE exit & Oman visa fees included, as well as assistance at both border
Promoter Details
North Tours LLC
Telephone: 04 222 2808
Entry Charges: Adult - Dhs625, Child (4-10yrs) - Dhs375
Opening hours: 8am-5pm

Overnight Desert Safari

A fun-filled overnight desert experience. Go dune bashing in a four-wheel-drive, across sand dunes… shrieking with delight against the golden sunset. On reaching our Bedouin campsite, enjoy a thumping camel ride. Then relax on cozy carpets and cushions, savoring Arabian coffee and a fresh barbecue dinner of Continental and Oriental dishes. A live Oud player and bewitching belly dance complement an authentic Arabian extravaganza. Click pictures of the falcon on your shoulder…experience a henna tattoo and relish the lingering taste of Shisha.Feel the happy togetherness of family and friends, relaxing under the stars…doze off or dream on… before the morning sun heralds a hearty breakfast. Freshen up with a splash into the natural rock pools.

Promoter Details
Net Tours & Travels
Telephone: 04 266 6655
Entry Charges: Adult - Dhs425, Child (3 to 12 years) - Dhs320.
Price includes pick up and drop off from key landmarks within the city limits of Dubai and Sharjah.
Minimum booking: 4 pax
Opening hours: 4pm-1pm the following day (during summer) and 3pm to 12noon the following day (during winter).

East Coast Mountain Tour

If variety is the spice of life, drive on… drive past the Emirates of Sharjah and Um Al Quwain to the rugged mountains of Ras Al Khaimah. Off you go, through the meandering mountain paths, narrow wadis… admiring cliffs and valleys… capturing the picturesque beauty on your candid camera. Halt, take a break, go on a short trek… enjoy a picnic-style lunch. Next, drive past Masafi to the Friday market. On your way back to Dubai, pass by the Sharjah Desert Park.Original passport is required, as you cross the Oman border during the tour.

Promoter Details
Net Tours & Travels
Telephone: 04 266 6655
Entry Charges: Adult - Dhs320, Child (3 to 12 years) - Dhs220.
Price includes pick up and drop off from key landmarks within the city limits of Dubai and Sharjah.
Minimum booking: 4 pax
Opening hours: 8am-5pm

Abu Dhabi City Tour

Abu Dhabi is the home of the ruling family and the center of the booming oil business. Here you visit the yards of the grand Al Husn Palace and click pictures. Later on, shop for carpets from around the gobe, at affordable prices.
Enjoy a buffet lunch of Arabic favourites.At the Abu Dhabi Corniche, admire the placid waters kissing the horizon. Enjoy breathtaking views of the city skyline.
Move on and take a look at traditional ‘tali’ handwork at the local Craft Center.
Finally, visit the dhow yard, where traditional boats are built using a method that is centuries old.The duration of the tours is approximately 7 hours. Lunch is included in the package. Mineral Water will be provided in the cars.

Promoter Details
Net Tours & Travels
Telephone: 04 266 6655
Entry Charges: Adult - Dhs250, Child (3 to 12 years) - Dhs180.
Price includes pick up and drop off from key landmarks within the city limits of Dubai and Sharjah.
Minimum booking: 4 pax
Opening hours: 9am-4pm

Hatta Mountain Safari

On the road to Hatta, an oasis a little more than 100 kilometres from Dubai, you'll pass majestic dunes of red sand before encountering the start but photogenic landscape of Hajar mountains. You may also experience the famous Portuguese fort from the 16 th century.
We visit the heritage village featuring traditional houses depicting typical village life in the mountains.
The real adventure begins as we follow the trails of the Wadis, the dried riverbed in the Hajjar Mountains to reach fresh water pools.You can take a dip or dive into the blue waters of the pools and enjoy refreshments.
We also visit the famous 5 star Hatta fort hotel for lunch and return to Dubai via a break at the traditional street market where locally manufactured pottery and carpets are sold.

Promoter Details
Oasis Palm Tourism
Telephone: 04 262 8889
Entry Charges: Adult - Dhs300, Child(3 to 8 years) - Dhs240.
Price includes lunch and free pick up from anywhere in Dubai
Opening hours: 8am-2.30pm

Desert Safari

Your holiday is not complete if you miss the unique opportunity of experiencing the fascinating desert safari on the sand dunes.
Our 4WD (4 wheel drive) speed through the desert over the sand dunes. The thrill of going up and down the dunes provoke many a shriek and laughter full of excitement. Remember to keep your camera and films in your bags, as you may not get another opportunity to capture the sun setting among the sand dunes.
After enjoying the fascinating ride through the desert you will reach at the desert camp where you can relax under the starlit sky accompanied by traditional music and enjoy a cup of traditional Arabic Coffee/Soft drinks.
Camels are also available for those who want to experience a ride on the “Ship of the Desert”. Henna lady waits for the ladies to carve awesome design on their hands.
A delicious Barbecue Dinner will be served which includes both continental, Arabic dishes and vegetarian dishes.
Entertainment is guaranteed by the superb belly dancing show, it is truly a memorable evening in the desert packed with fun and excitement.

Oasis Palm Tourism
Telephone: 04 262 8889
Entry Charges: Adult - Dhs200, Child (3 to 8 years) - Dhs160.
Price includes free pick up from anywhere in Dubai
Opening hours: 3.30pm-9.30pm

Bob Geldof 13 March 2009

Bob Geldof has been a punk, a tireless campaigner for good causes and, in his personal life, the unfortunate centre of both salacious scandal and tragedy. Music, however, remains his first love, and he proves this at the Irish Village in Dubai.
Geldof was originally lead singer with punk/New Wave band The Boomtown Rats, whose most famous single remains I Don't Like Mondays, the story of an American schoolgirl who gunned down her classmates. However, he is best known for being the man who organised first the Band Aid single, Do They Know It's Christmas? in 1984 and the subsequent Live Aid and Live 8 concerts.
Venue:Irish Village
Price Dh100
Opening Hours 7pm-12am
Phone +971 4 210 8567
To buy tickets

Noor Dubai

Noor Dubai is an international charitable initiative for the prevention and treatment of blindness and low vision.
Noor Dubai was launched on 3 September 2008 by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Prime Minister of the United Arab Emirates and Ruler of Dubai, at the Madinat Jumeirah Arena.
Noor Dubai is an ambitious initiative which aims to deliver preventive eye care to over 1 million people as part of its drive to realize its vision of a world free from curable forms of blindness.

This is yet another example of Dubai’s continued commitment to being a responsible global citizen and to helping the less fortunate.

Volunteer Program
Noor Dubai needs volunteers for future educational and awareness events. Noor Dubai also needs volunteers to facilitate the organization and implementation of their various initiatives.

Noor Dubai needs medical volunteers for its prevention, education, and treatment programs. Experts in the field of ophthalmology, ophthalmic nursing, optometry, anesthesiology, and other fields involved in the provision of eye care are needed. Medical volunteers may participate individually or as a team.

To apply to become a volunteer at Noor Dubai

Au Pair in Dubai

Opportunities exist to work as an au pair in Dubai, often for an expatriate European family.
An au pair is in charge of taking care of the children. You will get food and accommodation provided by the family free of charge, and a small allowance in addition (sort of pocket money). You will also be allowed time off. During time off, you are free to pursue your own interests, for example learning a foreign language.
Au pairs are not professional child minders and will not have professional childcare qualifications. As such, they should not be responsible for children under 2 years of age. There are no set conditions, although candidates are likely to be EU citizens between the age of 18 and 27 and are more commonly female than male.

What the au pair must know
She will have to take care of the children, i.e.:
speak the same language, at least well enough to understand and communicate with them
be sure they get up on time; dress the children/ensure the children dress themselves
take them to school/nursery/activity classes
play with them
be in charge of their meals
tidy up their rooms
be free to baby-sit them if needed, some evenings

What the family has to do
The family should be prepared to welcome the au pair into the family, remembering that she is not an employee but a home help for the children. Therefore they will make sure that:
the au pair has her own bedroom
that the au pair works a maximum of 25-35 hours per week She should have at least 2 days (2 x 24 hours) off during the week
they understand that having an au pair is not the same as employing a full time maid. She can be asked to do some housework, particularly in relation to the children, but should not be expected to do all of the washing up, cleaning and laundry for the family
medical insurance should be provided to cover the au pair in case of sickness or accident
the family pays an allowance (pocket money) each week
It may be wise to register the au pair with the family GP upon her arrival. Her possessions should also be added to the family's the house insurance policy.

Some addresses...
If you want to register as an au pair or as a family, you can contact:
IAPA (International Au Pair Association): http://www.iapa.org
IAPO (International Au Pair Organisation): http://www.au-pair.org

You can also consult:
AuPair Search - http://www.aupairsearch.com
GreatAuPair - http://www.greataupair.com
Au Pair Box - http://www.au-pair-box.com
S-Au Pair - http://www.saupair.com
Au Pair Connect - http://www.aupairconnect.com
New Au Pair - http://www.newsupair.com
Agencies will usually charge a registration fee to the family, the au pair, or to both parties.

International Schools in Dubai

There are private schools in Dubai catering to all of the key groups within the expatriate community. Demand for the best schools is high and enrolment should take place as soon as possible to guarantee attendance at the school of your choice. You may be asked to provide school reports from your child's last school and you will often be expected to attend an interview, with your child, at the school. Your child may also be asked to sit an entry examination.

The majority of private schools, including the international schools, teach in English. There is a wide selection of schools following both the British and the American curricula and it is also possible to sit the International Baccalaureate.

Al Mawakeb - US Curriculum, Primary / Secondary
American School of Dubai - US Curriculum, Primary / Secondary
The Cambridge International School - UK Curriculum, Primary / Secondary
Deira International School - UK Curriculum
Jumeirah English Speaking School (JESS) - UK Curriculum
Lycee Libanais Francophone Privee - French Lycee
Dubai College - UK Curriculum
English College Dubai - UK Curriculum

For those wishing to pursue further education in Dubai, there are a number of universities and business schools offering American or British university education.

Getting Around in Dubai

Bus/Coach

The Dubai Municipality (04 2859401) operates a public bus service, running from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. Three types of bus pass are available, offering travel up to a fixed cost, monthly travel on one side of the creek, or monthly travel throughout the city. Both the routes and the bus numbers are displayed in Arabic and English. Passes, timetables and bus maps are available from the main bus stations at Bur Dubai on Al Ghubaiba Rd and in Deira near the Gold Souq. Bus maps and timetables can be viewed on line on the Dubai Municipality website, www.dubai.ae.
Intercity buses operate within Dubai and depart every hour for Hatta and twice a day for Muscat, Oman (5-6 hours). Inter-emirate travel is run by Dubai Transport minibuses, however you can only pick these up in Dubai. Telephone 04 2273840, for services to the Northern Emirates, or 04 3937014, for Abu Dhabi and Al Ain.

Boat
The fast and simple way to cross the creek is by using an abra, or water taxi. You can board at the intersection of Al Sabkha and Bani Yas Roads on the Deira side of the creek. Bur Dubai dock is located at the end of the souq.

Train
A project is underway to construct a fully automated metro system for Dubai (2 lines: green and red). It is expected to be partially operational in 2009 and fully operational by 2012. Trains will run every 90 seconds, over 70km of track. Several monorails are also planned to connect outlying areas to the main metro system.
Public Transport/Rail/Metro: http://www.rta.ae/

Airports
Dubai is served by Dubai International Airport (DXB), the hub of UAE's international airline, Emirates (www.emirates.com). A capacity of 70 million passengers is planned for 2007 and the airport will be among those able to accommodate the new Airbus A380 super-airliner. Flights are available to the other emirates, as well as to a large number of international destinations. Flight time from London to Dubai is approximately 7 hours; Los Angeles to Dubai approximately 20 hours. There is no departure tax at any UAE airport.
Many of the world's major airlines operate scheduled services to Dubai, including British Airways, Air France, Cathay Pacific, Cyprus Airways, Kenya Airways, Lufthansa, Northwest Airlines and United Airlines. The airport has excellent facilities, including restaurants, lounges, left luggage and internet access points
Dubai airport is located 5km / 3 miles south east of Dubai city. Prepaid taxis can be booked in the arrivals hall. Airport buses depart for the city centre every ten minutes between 6 a.m. and 10 p.m.
Further information is available on the Dubai International Airport website www.dubaiairport.com

Useful contacts - airlines:
Emirates Airlines (04 2144444) Airline Centre, Al Maktoum Rd., Deira
Gulf Air (04 2713111) Salah Al Din Rd., Rigga
British Airways (04 3075555) Airline Centre, Al Maktoum Rd., Deira
Air India (04 2276787) Al Maktoum Rd., Deira
Cathay Pacific (8004343) Pearl Building, 11th Floor, 18 St., Deira
KLM (04 3355777) Dubai airport.
Qatar Airways (04 922290) Doha Centre, Al Maktoum Rd., Deira.

Taxis
Taxis are plentiful and relatively inexpensive. You can flag a taxi down on the street, or book by telephone. The official, cream coloured taxis are metered and therefore usually cheaper, but the majority of other taxis in Dubai do not have meters and you must expect to haggle for a good price before beginning your trip.

Taxi contacts:
Dubai Transport 04 2080808
Cars Taxi 04 2693344
Golden Taxi 04 3365444
Gulf Radio Taxi 04 2236666
National Taxi 04 3366611

Cars
There is a high quality road network throughout the United Arab Emirates and petrol prices are low in comparison to European prices. Driving is on the right. However, there is a high incidence of road traffic accidents and congestion is a serious problem during the rush hour. If you wish to hire a car in Dubai, you will need to present a valid international driving license, your national driving license, two photographs and your passport at the car hire company, enabling them to issue you with a temporary UAE driving license. Most foreign drivers licenses will be accepted, provided you are a resident of the country that issued the license. If this is not the case, you will need to obtain an international driving license.

Car Hire Contacts:
Avis Dubai International Airport (04 2245219, fax 2244150) 24-hour service; main office (04 2957121) Clock Tower Roundabout, Al Maktoum Rd., Deira.
Europcar (04 3394433) Inter-Continental, Hilton, Hyatt Regency and Al Bustan Rotana hotels
Hertz (04 2824422) Al Maktoum Rd.
Patriot - http://www.patriotuae.com

You will be able to purchase a car in Dubai, provided that you have a residency visa. Many cars are resold after as little as six months of use, by owners keen to trade up to the very latest model. Second hand cars are therefore very good value for money and certainly worth considering, as the prices are often a good deal lower than the new price.

If you wish to drive your own car, you will need to apply for a UAE driving license. To obtain a driver's license in Dubai, you must have a residency visa issued in Dubai. The minimum age for obtaining a drivers license is 18 years. Nationals of the majority of European countries, the USA, Canada, Australia and New Zealand will be able to obtain a UAE driving license in Dubai without taking a driving test if they are already a license-holder in their home country. To apply for a UAE driving license, you must complete a driver's license application form and present it with one passport size photograph, your original passport and one photocopy, your original driver's license and one photocopy, an eye test report, and a payment of AED 100. If your license was not issued in the GCC, you should also obtain a letter from your embassy or consulate confirming that the license is valid. If your license is issued in any language other than English or Arabic, a translation from your Embassy or Consulate is also required.

Driving under the influence of alcohol it not tolerated and the penalties are severe.
You may also like to consider a car-sharing arrangement. Due to the volume of traffic in Dubai, this is an increasing popular option. Many advertisements for car sharing partners are featured in the Gulf News each week.