Middle East Travel Facts
UAE
Time Difference – GMT + 4hrs
Currency – UAE Dirham
Flight Times – 7hrs non-stop
Visas – Not required for UK passport holders
Airlines – Emirates and British Airways direct services
Climate - Dubai sunshine is guaranteed nearly all year round and rainfall is
an absolute rarity. Temperatures between October and April are pleasant, whilst the
remainder of the year can see temperatures and humidity soar.
Building Works - Dubai continues to be an up and coming destination and new
hotels/residential properties will be in development for the foreseeable future. The
main project 'The Palm' involves the creation of the world's largest 2 man-made islands.
Also construction of Jumeirah Residence, one of Dubai’s fastest changing vicinities, is
taking place inland. Most construction work in Dubai takes place 7 days a week and
around the clock. Due to the scale of this work, most hotels may experience occasional
disturbance. The developments are not under Malachite Travel control nor are Malachite
Travel or the hotels always made aware of the building works in advance. It is with
regret we cannot accept liability for any inconvenience or lack of enjoyment caused by
the construction work.
Ramadan - Ramadan is celebrated annually in UAE and is approximately from 13th September
for one month. Ramadan dates cannot be guaranteed as it commences with the sighting of the
New Moon. During Ramadan all Muslims fast from sunrise to sunset. Eating, drinking and smoking
in public areas as well as live entertainment during this time is generally prohibited. Hotels
make special arrangements for their guests including certain restaurants that open all day.
Alcohol is not served in any restaurants or bars throughout the whole of Ramadan in UAE. Some
hotels allow you to order alcoholic drinks to your room, but not all.
Oman
Time Difference – GMT + 4hrs
Currency – Oman Rial
Flight Times – 8hrs
Visas – Required for UK passport holders, available before departure or on arrival
Airlines – Gulf Air, Emirates, British Airways direct services
Climate - Dubai sunshine is guaranteed nearly all year round and rainfall is an absolute
rarity. Temperatures between October and April are pleasant, whilst the remainder of the year
can see temperatures and humidity soar.
Ramadan - Ramadan is celebrated annually in Oman and is approximately from 13th September
for one month. Ramadan dates cannot be guaranteed as it commences with the sighting of the
New Moon. During Ramadan all Muslims fast from sunrise to sunset. Eating, drinking and smoking
in public areas as well as live entertainment during this time is generally prohibited. Hotels
make special arrangements for their guests including certain restaurants that open all day.
Alcohol is not served in any restaurants or bars throughout the whole of Ramadan in Oman. Some
hotels allow you to order alcoholic drinks to your room, but not all.