The Land of Queen Sheba's Palace, The Hajar Mountains

& Camel Racing

Information on Relocating to United Arab Emirates

·       The capital city of the United Arab Emirates is Abu Dhabi with about 527 thousand people. The political centre is also in Abu Dhabi where the President resides. UAE is a Federation of seven autonomous Emirates.

·         Languages: The languages spoken are Arabic (official), Persian, English, Hindi and Urdu. English is widely spoken and used as a second language in commerce. The TV programs are in their original language. Cable & Satellite TV is available.

·         Population: The population is about 3.7 million people - 19% are Emirati, 23% other Arab and Iranian, 50% South Asian, 8% other expatriates (includes Westerners and East Asians).  

·         Expat areas: Popular areas for the Expat community are Abu Dhabi & Dubai.

·        Housing: The availability of apartments and houses in the country and particularly in these popular areas varies. Most Expats rent their apartment or house; some buy their homes. Both options are available but mainly depend on your company policy, income, and the length of your stay.

·        Cost of housing: Varies from area to area and the size of the house or apartment you'll pay anything from US$ 16500 to US$ 41000 annually, depending on your needs. The local currency is UAE Dirham (Dh).

·        Schools: We have the American, British, the International and the French school all available. Depending on the age we can tell you about a possible waiting lists, etc.

·      Transportation: Bus: Limited services link most towns. However, most hotels run their own scheduled bus services to the airport, city centre and beach resorts. Taxi: Available in all towns. In Abu Dhabi and Al-Ain, urban journey fares are metered, whilst fares for longer journeys should be agreed in advance.

·        Bank: The banks are open Saturday-Wednesday 7.30 am - 1.00 pm. Thursday 7.30 am - 12.00 noon. Some also open Saturday-Wednesday 4.30 pm - 6.00 pm.

·        Shopping: Is generally done daily from 9.00 am - 9.00 pm. Shops close for prayers Fridays 11.30 am - 1.30 pm.

·        Climate: Summers are very hot and humid. From May to September daytime temperatures rarely fall below 40°C (104°F). From October to April there is very good weather (sunny and warm) with temperatures ranging from 10°C (50°F) inland to 30°C (86°F), but strong winds sometimes bring sandstorms, and it occasionally rains very heavily. The winter months are generally more comfortable for travel and this is the best time of year to visit.

·        Culture: There are several nightclubs located in major centers and entertainment ranges from Arabic singers and dancers to international pop stars. Bars are found in all top hotels and range from sophisticated cocktail lounges to English-style pubs. Most of the hotels have discos. Traditional dances are performed on public holidays. Most large towns have cinemas showing English-language films.

·      Public holidays: January 1st-New Year’s Day; January (date varies)-Eid al-Adha (Feast of the Sacrifice); January/February (date varies)-Al-Hijra (Islamic New Year); April (date varies)-Mouloud (Birth of the Prophet); August 6th-Accession of HH Sheikh Zayed; October/November (dates vary)-Eid al-Fitr (End of Ramadan); December 2nd-National Day.