ORIGINALLY a fishing development, Dubai was taken over in 1830 by a branch of the Bani Yas Tribe, the Maktoum family, who still rule the Emirate today. In the early days, traditional activities included goat herding, cultivating dates, fishing and pearl diving. Oil has been a crucial factor in Dubai's development since the late 1960's.

TODAY, Dubai is a class destination with all the modcons of the western world. Dubai is a fascinating Emirate with beautiful buildings, excellent restaurants and nightlife as well as white sandy beaches, culture and history that you can feel as you visit the souks, shopping malls, museums and historic buildings and sites. There is something for everyone in Dubai.

LOCAL TIME: Dubai is four hours ahead of GMT, during BST, three hours ahead.

RELIGION: Islam.

LANGUAGES: Arabic, English, Urdu and Hindi are widely spoken.

PHOTOGRAPHY
It is strictly forbidden to take pictures of Government Buildings, Army areas, Refineries, Airports and Sheikh Palaces.Tourist photography is allowed but it is considered offensive to photograph Muslim women. It is always courteous to ask permission before taking pictures.

ALCOHOL
Alcohol is sold only in hotels and clubs. Street restaurants do not serve alcohol. During Ramadan alcohol is not served anywhere from Sunrise to Sunset.

RELIGION
Official Religion is Islam. During the Holy Month of Ramadan Muslims do not eat, drink or smoke from sunrise to sunset. Non-Muslim visitors to the country are politely asked not to eat, drink or smoke in public. Restaurants in hotels are open during the day.