General

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is a federation of seven sovereign 'emirates' or states. Established in 1971 the UAE has since experienced three decades of rapid economic growth and development following the discovery of oil in the late 60’s. UAE’s seven states are Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain, Ras Al Khaimah and Fujairah.

The UAE and Dubai in particular has quite literally made a statement on the world map with its ambitious development projects.

The Palm Island Trilogy which can bee seen from space. http://www.thepalm.ae/

The Burj Al Arab, the worlds first 7 star hotel and as much an icon for Dubai as the Opera House is for Sydney. http://www.burj-al-arab.com/

The Burj Dubai, the worlds tallest building. http://www.burjdubai.com/

Time

The UAE is six hours behind Australian Eastern Standard Time.

Dialling codes

The UAE's country code is 971.

Following that the area code for Dubai is 4, Abu Dhabi 2 and Sharjah 6.

For calls to the UAE from Australia dial: 0011 + 971 + area code + telephone number
For calls from the UAE to Australia dial: 00 + 61 + area code + telephone number

Weather

The climate in the UAE is generally hot and humid during the summer months. From May to October, temperatures are regularly above 40ºC and humidity levels are extremely high.

During winter, the evening temperature ranges between15ºC up to 20-25ºC.

Australian Embassy

Australian Embassy in Abu Dhabi
14th Floor, Al Muhairy Centre
Sheikh Zayed the First Street

Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
Tel: +971 2 634 6100
Fax: +971 2 639 3525
Web: www.uae.embassy.gov.au
Business hours:
8.00am to 4.30 pm, Sunday to Thursday