Expo Dubai 2020, essential information and useful links
Expo 2020 Dubai is the Universal Exposition to be held in the United Arab Emirates from 1 October 2021 to 31 March 2022 and is the first Universal Exposition to be held in an Arab country.
Expo Dubai is based on three fundamental themes: OPPORTUNITIES – optimizing the potential of individuals and communities to create a better future; MOBILITY – innovative systems of logistics, transport and communication of people, goods and ideas; SUSTAINABILITY – accessibility and maintenance of environmental, energy and water resources.
200 will be the participating countries.
Expo Dubai will be a global showcase in which participating countries will present to the world the best of their ideas, projects and innovation.
Official website of Expo Dubai 2020: https://www.expo2020dubai.com
Reaching Dubai
Most people can simply obtain a visa on arrival at the airport but visitors should check their visa requirements before arriving. Both Dubai International Airport (DXB) and Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC) have a full range of useful facilities and public transport options.
Money changing and taxis are readily available, as well as car rental services, convenience stores and information desks for general inquiries.
Currency
The currency in Dubai is the dirham, which is shortened to AED (United Arab Emirates Dirham). One dirham is divided into 100 fils. The dirham has been pegged to the US dollar for since 1997, meaning the exchange rate never changes. One US dollar is worth approximately AED3.67.
Small bottle of water: AED1.5 (50 cents)
Big Mac: AED16.75 (USD4.5)
Biryani: AED13 (USD3.5)
Shawarma wrap: AED5 (USD1.4)
Short taxi ride: AED12 (USD3.3)
Dubai Metro (3 zones): AED5.8 (USD1.6)
Cinema ticket (standard): AED35 (USD9.6)
Abra ride across Dubai Creek: AED1 (USD27 cents)
Weather
With a coastal location on the Arabian Peninsula, Dubai enjoys a warm climate all year. The ‘winter’ months last from October to May with warm temperatures ranging from 20–35°C (68–95°F). The summer season lasts from June to September with hotter temperatures reaching the mid-40s (~110° F) – and the city’s wide range of indoor and outdoor facilities and attractions ensure Dubai is a year-round destination.
Embassies & Consulates
Nearly 100 foreign embassies are located in Abu Dhabi, the UAE’s capital city, and Dubai is home to around 80 consulates. Embassies and consulates are typically open Sunday to Thursday (the UAE working week) and are closed on Fridays, as well as all public holidays of both the UAE and the embassy’s home country. Opening times may vary so please check official websites, make appointments where possible and arrive early with all relevant paperwork.
Emergency numbers
In case of emergencies while on holiday in the UAE, call:
Visitors may also find these numbers helpful:
- +971 800 4438 for tourist security issues
- +971 800 342 for the Dubai Health Authority
- +971 600 545 555 for consumer-related concerns
Dress code
Dubai is a cosmopolitan city and a diverse melting pot where almost all attires and cultural expressions are accepted. Swimwear is permissible at beaches, waterparks, public pools and spa areas but is not considered appropriate in areas such as business districts and shopping malls.
Dressing conservatively is appreciated in Dubai’s historic neighbourhoods and places of worship. There are specific requirements for entering a mosque, like wearing clothing that covers shoulders, arms and legs – and headscarves for women.
Etiquette
Marhaba! Dubai is a warm and friendly city and you will come across many people who will greet you with a smile and wish you well. A handshake is customary, but do note it is typically accepted that this should be initiated by women.
Public displays of affection are best kept to a minimum. Holding hands is acceptable, but kissing and hugging in public areas is not permitted.
Alcohol is served in licensed establishments such as hotels, bars and specialised shops to those over 21 years of age. However, drunk and disorderly conduct and drunk driving are not acceptable. Use or possession of illegal drugs is also strictly prohibited.
To tip or not to tip? The short answer is, there are no rules when it comes to tipping in Dubai. How much you tip varies from profession to profession and is also largely down to personal preference. It is customary to tip in most cases, but it certainly isn’t compulsory. Everyone arrives in Dubai with their own customs and expectations but one thing that’s really consistent is the high level of service.
Medicines
Many medicines used worldwide are readily available in pharmacies and hospitals across Dubai. If you are travelling with prescribed medication, remember to bring your doctor’s note with you. The prescription should also detail the quantity of medication you intend to carry.
It’s important to check if the medicines are classified as controlled or not in the United Arab Emirates, which your doctor should be able to help you with. To carry controlled medication, you’ll need to apply for approval from the Ministry of Health (MoH) before your trip. For more information, read the traveller’s guidelines or get in touch with the Ministry of Health.
Photo by Aleksandar Pasaric da Pexels
