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The UAE is a federation that consists of seven emirates located on the Arabian Peninsula between the Arabian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman. The capital is Abu Dhabi. The federation consists of the Emirates of Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain, Ras Al Khaima and Al Fujairah. It is bordered from the North and North West by the Arabian Gulf, from the East and South by the Sultanate of Oman and the Gulf of Oman, and from the West by the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and Qatar occupying a total area of 83.600 m?. The population of the UAE has exceeded 4 million according to the 2005 census. This can be contributed to the UAE having an open economy with one of the highest annual individual incomes in the world; it also has a large trade exchange with various countries worldwide that contributes sufficiently to its national income. However, crude oil and natural gas are the main sources of the country's income, forming approximately 33% of the annual local production. In addition, the UAE has joined the World Trade Organization in 1996.

Climate: The UAE has a sub-tropical, arid climate with infrequent and irregular rainfall, amounting to less than 13 centimetres a year. Temperatures range from a low of 10 degrees (Celsius) to a high of 48 degrees. The average daily maximum is 24 degrees in January, rising to 42 degrees in July.

History: The seven independent emirates of Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, Ras Al Khaimah, Umm Al Quwain and Fujairah came together to form the United Arab Emirates (UAE) in the year 1971. While Abu Dhabi is the capital city of the UAE, Dubai remains its commercial centre.

Location: UAE is located on the Eastern coast of the Arabian Peninsula, in the South West corner of the Arabian Gulf. Weather: UAEi enjoys 365 days of warm sunshine, with cooler evenings and occasional showers in the months between November to March. 5

Transport: UAE offers a variety of inexpensive and efficient public transportation and you can choose between metered local taxis, intra-city and inter-city buses, private car hire services and abras (local boats).

Economy: The UAE is one of the world's wealthiest countries, with a GDP of US $54 billion (2000), and has the third-largest proven oil reserves in the world. While oil and gas production form its foundation, Dubai is increasingly broadening its economic activity to include: real estate, tourism, trading and manufacturing.

Cultural mix: Owing to the resources and foreign enterprises located in UAEi, more than 80% of the population are expatriates from across the globe and the city is home to almost 200 nationalities.

Alcohol: While alcohol is served at restaurants mostly located in hotels, it can also be purchased at the Arrival Duty Free store or with a special permit valid for non-Muslim residents only. UAE operates a zero tolerance policy to driving under the influence of alcohol.

Currency and credit cards: The official currency of the UAE is the Arab Emirates Dirham (AED or Dhs).  Each Dirham is divided into 100 fils and is held constant against the US Dollar at an average of 3.67. All banks operate from 8.00 am to 1.00 pm, Saturday through Wednesday and 8.00 am to 12.00 noon on Thursdays. Currency exchange houses are open until late in the evening. All international credit and debit cards are widely accepted.

Dress code: Visitors are free to dress according to their personal choice. Dress sensibly, without wearing too much revealing clothes in public places or places of worship. Shorts and skirts are acceptable for ladies. Most Emirati men and women still choose to wear the traditional national dress. Lightweight summer clothing can be worn for most of the year, but the temperature can drop quite sharply at night during the winter.

Shopping: UAE boasts many attractive shopping Malls which are located in each of the emirates.

Electricity: The standard electricity supply is 220/240 volts. American appliances may need a transformer.

Hospitality: UAE is extremely well known for its warm hospitality and rich cultural heritage, and the Emirati people are welcoming and generous in their approach to visitors.

Languages: While Arabic is the official language, English is very widely spoken, especially in business. Given the large size of the expatriate population, several other languages are also used in everyday life, headed by Hindi, Urdu and Farsi.

Photography: Photography of buildings and sights is widely acceptable. Local people, especially the women, do not take kindly to being photographed without their prior permission. In general, it is best to avoid taking photographs (or video footage) of any individual in a National Dress.

Safety and security: UAE is a very safe city for visitors and residents alike, with minimal chances of untoward events. However, locking your car and minding your personal belongings is always recommended.