Dubai

Burj Khalifa

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Tue, 05 Jan 2010 09:49:00 +0000

Senior Dubai officials have said the changing of the name of the world's tallest tower to Burj Khalifa reflected the unity of the UAE federation.

Dubai renamed the 200-storey building, previous known as the Burj Dubai, in honour of the ruler of Abu Dhabi - an announcement made at a spectacular opening ceremony on Monday night.

“Sheikh Khalifa is one of the UAE’s symbols,” said Sheikh Ahmed bin Saeed al-Maktoum, chairman of Dubai’s Supreme Fiscal Committee and an uncle of Dubai’s ruler, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum.

The world's tallest building

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Tue, 05 Jan 2010 08:52:00 +0000

Dubai renames world's tallest tower Burj Khalifa

Dubai has unveiled the world's tallest skyscraper in an extravagant multimedia and fireworks display. The 828-meter tall building was renamed Burj Khalifa on Monday, after the UAE president. (04 January 2010) (The Associated Press)

Burj Dubai

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Mon, 04 Jan 2010 04:29:00 +0000

His Highness Shaikh Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice- President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, will inaugurate Burj Dubai on Monday.

The opening of the world's tallest tower — more than 800 metres high — is timed to coincide with the celebrations of the fourth anniversary of Shaikh Mohammad's accession as Ruler of Dubai in 2006.

The completion of the newest landmark in the emirate is aimed at further promoting Dubai as an Emirati and Arab city as a global brand. It is a true reflection of Shaikh Mohammad's words: "Many talk, we achieve."

Two billion viewers

An estimated two billion people around the world are expected to watch live on television the inauguration of the tallest man-made structure.

All preparations for the television coverage are in place using the latest digital High Definition (HD) technology, said Ahmad Al Shaikh, board member and managing director of Dubai Media Incorporated (DMI) and Media Escort to Shaikh Mohammad.

Metro Dubai

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Wed, 09 Sep 2009 21:35:00 +0000

Below are some key facts about the Dubai Metro:

Completion: The Metro is scheduled to partially open by September 2009 and be fully completed by 2012.

Stations along the route:
There will be a total of 47 stations (in addition to station on the extension lines).

The Red Line will have 29 stations, including 24 elevated, four underground and one at ground-level. This line is 52.1 km long, including 4.7 km underground.

The Green Line will have 18 stations, including 12 elevated and 6 underground. The Green Line is 22.5 km long, including 7.9 km underground.

There will be two transfer stations — Union Square and the BurJuman Centre. At the transfer stations, Green and Red Lines will cross each other and passengers will be able to change between lines.

Work on metro stations will continue into 2008. All elevated stations on the Red Line will be completed by the beginning of 2008, while the underground stations will be complete by early 2009.

Car parkings for rail users
Car parking facility will be provided to metro users on the concept of "park and ride". There will be two major parking lots on Red Line — one at Rashidiya Station for 3,000 cars and at Jumeirah Islands Station for another 3,000 cars. The biggest parking lot will be built at Al Qusais Station with a capacity of 6,000 cars. It will cater to users coming from Sharjah.

There will be small parking spaces at each station while each station will be linked to other mode of transportation, including taxis, buses and at some stations water transport.

Depot for maintence
There will be three main train depot to park and do maintenance work on trains. The Red Line will have a main depot in Rashidiya and one auxiliary depot at Jebel Ali Free Zone.

On the Green Line, the main depot for train parking and maintenance will be in Al Qusais area.

Extension of lines
Extension of Dubai Metro's Red Line is currently under design. It will be extended from Jebel Ali Free Zone to Dubai-Abu Dhabi border an additional 12 km. The RTA is reviewing a plan to extend the Red Line from Jebel Ali to the under construction Jebel Ali Airport, but is still not finalised.

Extension plans on the Green Line have already been approved and it has already been extended by about 4.9 km from Healthcare City to Al Jaddaf. The Green Line was initially designed for 17.6 km, but now it is 22.5-km long.

Adjacent bus and taxi stations
All main metro stations will have adjacent bus stations as part of the integrated transport system which will include buses, taxis as well as water transport links at stations near the creek. The RTA is planning to introduce an integrated card system, the Smart Card, that will enable passengers to travel on trains, buses and water transport, as well as use the parking areas.

Construction of viaducts for elevated tracks
A viaduct is a bridge, which is placed over piers to make a track for the train. The construction of viaduct spans for the Dubai Metro has started on Shaikh Zayed Road near Interchange 5.5 near Ibn Battuta Mall.

Each of these viaduct spans is being made up with a minimum of eight pre-cast viaduct deck segments, which are manufactured and transported from Jebel Ali casting yard.

Each segment of viaduct, 10 metres wide and four metres in length, is being assembled with other similar sized segments individually to form a complete viaduct span bridging across two supporting piers.

Different spans together when assembled will form the bridge deck upon which the trains will travel. There will be 11,400 pre-cast concrete viaduct deck segments to be used for the Red Line. Each viaduct weighs about 50 tonnes.

Luxurious interior
The interior of the trains is based on a water and air theme and every train will have five compartments. Every train will have three classes – The Golden Class (VIP), the Women and Children's Class and the Silver Class (economy).

The Golden Class will have a luxurious interior with leather seating. The Women and Children's compartments will have plenty of space for strollers and bags to ensure a safe and comfortable journey.

The Silver Class has been finished in a combination of blues and greens. Seating is arranged in a variety of ways giving passengers the choice between admiring views through windows or chatting with friends.

All compartments will have reserved wheelchair spaces for special needs people. There will be a policy of priority seating for elderly, injured, special needs people and pregnant women.

The compartments will be equipped with audio visual devices. Visual and audio announcement facilities will be available to serve people, especially those with special needs.

Clear signage will show the route map of the metro and other directions for passengers. A variety of safety devices, including closed circuit television in all trains will ensure a safe and comfortable journey for all

Newspapers and Magazines Online in Dubai, UAE

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sun, 15 Feb 2009 16:02:00 +0000

http://www.khaleejtimes.com/
http://www.gulfnews.com/
http://www.7days.ae/
http://www.alarabiya.net/english/
http://www.godubai.com/gulftoday/
http://www.xpress4me.com/home/
http://www.thenational.ae/
http://www.albayan.ae/
http://www.ameinfo.com/
http://www.pipelinedubai.com/
http://www.dubaichronicle.com/
http://www.emiratestodayonline.com/
http://www.alaintimesuae.com/
http://www.dubaienquirer.com/

Thousands turn to Islam in Dubai - official figures

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Thu, 05 Feb 2009 04:33:00 +0000

MUSLIM CALL: Dubai saw a 71 percent increase in people becoming Muslims last year. (Getty Images)
Almost 3,000 people, the majority of them women, from dozens of nationalities became Muslims in Dubai last year, it was announced on Wednesday.A total of 2,763 individuals - 1,869 of them women - from 72 countries embraced Islam in 2008, an increase of 71 percent over 2007, according to figures released by the Islamic affairs and charitable activities department.Announcing the data Dr Hamad bin Al Sheikh Al Shaibani, director general of the department, said: ''We are delivering our message properly by spreading Islamic culture and instilling national identity through giving greater attention to mosques, holy Quran sciences, Islamic heritage, research fatwa and charity works.”
The Islamic message was being delivered through a moderate school of Islam by highly qualified and conversant individuals using the most advanced methodologies, he added.''We are lending special care to new Muslims, providing them with all they need from audio-visual materials, books, lectures and training programmes in all languages so as to become true Muslims,” Al Shaibani said.

Is Dubai Property Market Collapse?

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Thu, 05 Feb 2009 04:29:00 +0000

Dubai Police: Accident’s statistics in Dubai

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Mon, 26 Jan 2009 06:14:00 +0000

Dubai Police: Accident’s statistics in Dubai
By Ashfaq Ahmed, Chief Reporter, and Alia Al Theeb, Deputy UAE Editor
Published: January 25, 2009, 23:25 (Gulf News)

Meanwhile, Dubai Police statistics revealed that speeding remained the second biggest reason of road deaths in Dubai last year with 45 deaths out of the 294 from road accidents. Lack of consideration for road users was the top cause of road deaths.
According to police figures, Pakistani drivers caused the maximum number of accidents for the second consecutive year in Dubai. They were accused of causing 95 fatal accidents in 2008 compared to 83 in 2007. This was followed by Indians who caused 63 fatal accidents last year compared to 81 in 2007. Emiratis committed 42 accidents last year compared to 57 in 2007.
The number of people killed in road accidents reduced to 294 last year compared to 332 in 2007.
Indian expatriates topped the list of people killed in road accidents for the second consecutive year. Some 107 Indians were killed last year compared to 128 in 2007 followed by 56 Pakistanis killed last year compared to 57 the previous year. However, the number of Bangladeshis killed last year increased to 23 as compared to 16 in 2007.
There are more than 900,000 registered vehicles in Dubai while more than 1.3 million vehicles use the Dubai roads every day. Indians topped the list of population in Dubai followed by Pakistanis. Dubai has a population of 1.7 million.
Emirates Road remained the most dangerous road as 46 people were killed in accidents on this road compared to 67 the year before.
On the Shaikh Zayed Road, the number of road accidents fell by almost 50 per cent and some 24 people were killed last year compared to 54 in 2007.
Commenting on the reduced number of accidents in 2008, an official at the Dubai Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) said that improved road network, more cameras and strict policing have paid off. "Strict measures, increased fines for traffic violation" and awareness drives in coordination with the police have helped reduce accidents, he said.

UAE mountain covered in rare snow (Jan-2009)

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Mon, 26 Jan 2009 04:20:00 +0000

DUBAI (AFP) — A blanket of snow has covered a mountain in a part of the United Arab Emirates, a rare phenomenon for the desert Gulf country, according to local media report.

Al-Jees mountain, 5,700 feet (1,737 metres) above sea level and 25 kilometres (15 miles) northeast of Ras al-Khaimah city, was covered in 20 centimetres (eight inches) of snow, the state news agency WAM said.

"Although limited snowfall was recorded on the mountain some years back, for the first time the peak of the mountain was fully covered in snow," it said.

Local authorities said temperatures plunged to minus 3 degrees Celsius (26.6 Fahrenheit) on Friday and again to below zero on Saturday, The National newspaper reported.

Major Said al-Yamahi of Ras al-Khaimah police told the newspaper that an area of five square kilometres (almost two square miles) was covered in snow.

The emirates of Abu Dhabi and Dubai also had heavy rains on Friday and Saturday, in a spell of rare chilly weather in a desert state where summer temperatures can reach 50 Celcius (122 Fahrenheit).

Know Dubai’s most important numbers

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sun, 18 Jan 2009 19:00:00 +0000

Dubai Essential Contact Numbers

To ensure your consumer rights, safety, and protection in Dubai, here are the most important Dubai numbers:

Vital Emergency Numbers in Dubai:

Police: 999
Fire Department: 997
Ambulance: 999
Electricity: 991
Water: 991

Other Important Numbers:

7000 40000 (Ask Dubai from Dubai eGovernment): For most government department's eServices.
181 (Directory Enquiry & Yellow Pages): Etisalat's Yellow Pages in English & Arabic.
Telecommunications:
Contact Etisalat.
Contact Du.
800 1111050: To complain about Etisalat's mobile coverage or quality of service.
800 1122333: To complain about Du's mobile coverage or quality of service.

Shaikh Mohammad donates 600 houses to Palestinians in Gaza

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Sun, 11 Jan 2009 06:36:00 +0000

Dubai: His Highness Shaikh Mohammad Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice-President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, has pledged to build 600 houses for Palestinians who lost their dwellings during the attack on Gaza.

News: All 2009 New Year’s Eve parties in Dubai are cancelled

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Wed, 31 Dec 2008 06:38:00 +0000

All 2009 New Year’s Eve parties in Dubai are cancelled

All parties across Dubai to celebrate New Year’s Eve and the end of 2008 were ordered to be cancelled last night.
HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai made the announcement through the official WAM news agency late last night.
The order stated that Dubai will “mark the new year with a sombre tone as a token of solidarity with the Palestinian people and Gaza Strip which is currently under the barrage of Israeli military fire.”

Weather in Dubai

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Mon, 22 Dec 2008 06:28:00 +0000

It was before 8 years when I arrived to Dubai it was 01:30AM after midnight (just to make it clear its a night time :)

It was before 8 years when I arrived in Dubai at 01:30 AM. Once the airplane’s door opened, I felt a huge temperature difference between inside and outside. The night temperature in April was around 31°C with 90% humidity. August, the peak of the heat, easily reaches 48°C during the day and 34°C at night.

Every place in Dubai has air conditioning (A/C) – in the airport, cars, shopping malls, and almost everywhere indoors. During my first week, I spent all daytime at home under the A/C, discovering that people rarely went outside, mostly staying in shopping malls, coffee shops, or restaurants.

The high humidity, sometimes reaching 100% in summer, is the worst part of Dubai weather. Adjusting took time; eventually, I learned to explore at night. The beach, bustling with people and families during the weekend nights, amazed me.

For those unaccustomed to hot weather, visiting between October and March is ideal for enjoying Dubai as a tourist. If seeking a job and planning to stay, experiencing cooler weather first helps acclimatize to the rising temperatures gradually.

Cloud seeding, a technique used to enhance rainfall, is a common practice in Dubai. It's employed to mitigate the arid climate, bringing relief from the intense heat and contributing to water resources in the region.

If you’re someone seeking adventure in high temperatures, visiting Dubai in August can be an experience, but remember not to confine yourself to A/C rooms once you’re here.

Once you're in Dubai, the weather becomes part of your daily experience.

g="EN-GB">) and once the aeroplane’s door opened I went out and it was a huge temperature difference between inside and out side I thought its only some heat coming from the reactor or the plane engine but once I stepped away from the plane I realise the reality that this is the Dubai weather it was in April night temperature was like (31^oC ) and humidity like 90% once I met my relatives I was surprised about the weather and they was laughing and they told me this is nothing and we are only in April so be ready for August . August is the summit of the heat it may reach easily 48^oC day time and 34^oC night time In our way to home I recognized that every place there is an air conditioner (A/C) in the airport in the car after at home the shopping malls, in general there is no place without A/C except outside

During my first week I spent all the days time at home under the A/C and only I went outside at night but it was still hot and humid for me so I came to know why there is no body out side all people are in shopping malls or inside a coffee or restaurant but always I had one question how the people live before in this city without A/C I can not imaging that..

The worst thing in the Dubai weather is actually the humidity sometimes reach 100% in the summer.

Any how after a while I get a bit used to the weather and one time a friend asked me to go with him to the beach then I told him no way its so hot and he said of course we are not going day time we will go night time J ohhh really!! I said ok and it was my first time ill see the beach full of people and families night time during the weekend you may not find a place on it

So for people who want to come to Dubai and they are not used to the hot weather so its better to come in the duration between October and March because if you are only a tourist you will enjoy your time in Dubai walking around, going to the beach, going to the desert ...

And if you are someone who is looking for a job and wants to stay here so you will see the good weather first and once the heat will go up you will get to use to it step by step it’s not like when you come first time and be choked with the high temperature and even if you are looking for a job that will be helpful

And why not! You may be someone who wants to experience the hot weather so please come on August you will really have an adventure in our planet but don’t hide your self in A/C room

Once you are in Dubai.

Recruitment Agencies in Dubai

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Wed, 17 Dec 2008 12:54:00 +0000

Recruitment Agencies in the UAE

Please refer to Dubai Careers for valuable insights into job opportunities in the UAE.

Additional Recruitment Agencies in the UAE:

Bayt: A renowned job site connecting employers and job seekers across the Middle East.
GulfTalent: Offers opportunities across various sectors in the Gulf region.
Monster Gulf: Provides a wide range of job listings in the Gulf countries.
Naukrigulf: Offers diverse job opportunities in the Gulf region.

Explore these recruitment agencies to discover more job prospects in the UAE.

Future employees in Dubai

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Wed, 17 Dec 2008 09:17:00 +0000

Things to Know Before Coming to Dubai

Welcome to Dubai! Here, I'll talk about what you need to know before arriving in Dubai.

Two Categories:

1. For individuals sent by their companies to work in their Dubai branch, most arrangements are typically taken care of. Yet, there are still some things to consider:

Consider the distance between your home and the office due to traffic congestion.
Have essential documents in English for easier residency processing.
Understand the value of your salary in Dubai, considering the cost of living.
Review the "Tourist in Dubai post" for more insights.

2. For those coming to Dubai independently to seek employment:

Visa processes might differ by nationality; consider tourist agencies for visa assistance.
English is crucial even for Arabic speakers; focus on job opportunities with renowned companies.
Consider accommodation costs, transportation, and job-hunting challenges.
Avoid coming during Ramadan or summer months due to weather conditions.
Read contracts thoroughly and understand company policies before signing.

These tips aim to help newcomers navigate smoothly through their Dubai experience. If you have any questions, feel free to ask!

For job opportunities in Dubai, visit Dubai Careers.

Tourist in Dubai

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Tue, 16 Dec 2008 18:37:00 +0000

Tourism Tips for Dubai

While numerous websites extensively cover tourism in Dubai, I'd like to offer insights from my personal experiences.

For individuals visiting Dubai, especially for the first time, it might be akin to being a tourist on their initial day in the city.

Guidelines for Tourists:

Here are some things tourists should avoid:

- Respectful Dressing: It's crucial, especially for women, to dress modestly. While some may observe others wearing revealing clothing, it's important to respect local customs and traditions, especially concerning the locals and Muslim residents.

- Beach Etiquette: Topless sunbathing is not acceptable. Stick to regular swimwear, as such behavior might attract unnecessary attention or even disapproval from some individuals. The authorities strive to maintain beach safety and hygiene.

- Alcohol Consumption: Public consumption of alcohol, such as walking on the street with an open container, is prohibited. Alcohol is available in designated areas like bars, clubs, hotels, or specific shops for home consumption. Moreover, it's imperative not to drive under the influence, as Dubai has a zero-tolerance policy.

Driving even after minimal alcohol consumption can result in severe penalties, including hefty fines, potential jail time, and confiscation of the vehicle. Opt for a taxi instead of risking the consequences.

Being aware of and respecting these guidelines ensures a more enjoyable and trouble-free experience while exploring Dubai.

Free Services

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Tue, 16 Dec 2008 18:36:00 +0000

Dubai's Unique Services

One of the standout aspects of Dubai that I genuinely admire and miss wherever I go is its exceptional services. Let me elaborate on a few:

- One of the most convenient services is the ability to have necessities delivered swiftly to your doorstep. Be it groceries or other essentials, a simple phone call to a nearby store ensures delivery within minutes, often at no extra cost. The delivery personnel are accommodating, even when no tips are offered.

- Shopping experiences here are relaxed. If I try on clothes but decide against a purchase, the sales staff never pressurizes or fusses over my decision. They courteously manage everything after my departure—a level of service seldom seen elsewhere.

- Dubai's public restrooms deserve accolades for their immaculate cleanliness. It's a stark contrast to facilities in many other countries where hygiene is a concern. Here, cleanliness is diligently maintained, and even conversations in these spaces are undisturbed.

- At fuel stations, it's not self-service; attendants fill your tank and even clean your car's windows without any additional charges. Tips are appreciated but not obligatory.

- In supermarkets, assistance extends to packing your purchased items into separate bags without any extra charge. This attention to service simplifies the checkout process, and it's a courtesy extended across various services like laundry, restaurants, taxis, and more.

These services contribute significantly to Dubai's unique charm and ease of living, setting it apart in terms of hospitality and convenience.

There are many more such remarkable services in Dubai; the city’s dedication to customer service often exceeds expectations, making everyday experiences a delight.

Feel free to inquire about specific services, or I'm here to discuss any queries you might have!

Safety in Dubai

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Tue, 16 Dec 2008 18:35:00 +0000

Dubai Safety and Security

Dubai's Safety and Security

Firstly, I extend my gratitude to all visitors of DubaiRoom.

Allow me to share insights from my 8-year experience in Dubai. Safety stands as one of the most prominent and compelling aspects of this city.

Dubai remains one of the safest places I've experienced, fostering a sense of security where encountering good-hearted individuals is commonplace. It's a place where I confidently traverse alone, anytime, anywhere, without apprehension of interference.

Women, too, freely walk the streets without encountering issues. While Dubai, like any city, isn't devoid of exceptions, such occurrences are rare.

In Dubai, I've shed the habit of worrying about personal belongings. Misplacing items like phones or wallets often results in their swift return, even if lost in restaurants, shops, or malls.

Personal anecdotes reinforce this sense of security. I once lost a wallet on the beach, containing significant cash and cards. Within an hour of realizing my loss, a kind stranger approached, inquired about the wallet's appearance, and returned it, declining any reward.

Instances of lost mobile phones being found and returned are frequent. Media often reports substantial amounts of money being returned to rightful owners by honest finders.

While Dubai continues to witness an influx of diverse workers and residents seeking opportunities, I hope this growth doesn't compromise the city's safety standards.

The Dubai Police have instituted the Al Ameen confidential helpline (800-4-888) available 24/7 for residents. Additionally, their website Dubai Police offers essential information on safety and security measures.

Dubai's police force, while diligently executing their duties, exudes an attitude distinct from what I've encountered elsewhere, characterized by helpfulness and friendliness.

In case of emergencies or queries, Dubai Police can be reached at 999.

While Dubai ensures safety, it's always wise to remain vigilant. Dubai continues to strive for maintaining its reputation as a safe haven amidst its rapid growth and diverse population.

About Dubai

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Tue, 16 Dec 2008 18:33:00 +0000

Dubai: History and Information

History

Dubai, one of the seven emirates of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), has a rich history:

Early Settlement: Historically, Dubai was a small fishing village and a trading hub due to its strategic location along trade routes between Europe, Asia, and the Middle East.
Pearl Diving Era: In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Dubai experienced prosperity through pearl diving, which was a major source of income for its residents.
Discovery of Oil: The discovery of oil in the 1960s transformed the economy, leading to rapid development and urbanization.
Diversification: In recent decades, Dubai has diversified its economy, focusing on tourism, real estate, finance, and trade, becoming a global business and leisure destination.

Key Information

Dubai is known for several iconic landmarks and characteristics:

Burj Khalifa: The world's tallest building, standing at over 828 meters, is a symbol of Dubai's modern architecture.
Palm Jumeirah: A man-made island in the shape of a palm tree, featuring luxury resorts and residences.
Dubai Mall: One of the largest shopping malls globally, offering a vast range of retail, entertainment, and dining options.
Economic Hub: Dubai is a global business and financial center known for its free trade zones, attracting multinational companies and entrepreneurs.
Cultural Diversity: The city embraces cultural diversity, with residents from various nationalities and backgrounds living harmoniously.

Dubai's transformation from a trading outpost to a global metropolis in a relatively short period reflects its ambition, innovation, and strategic vision.

Introduction

noreply@blogger.com (Unknown) — Tue, 16 Dec 2008 18:28:00 +0000

Welcome to DubaiRoom

Thank you for visiting DubaiRoom. Allow me to express my gratitude for your presence.

Within this blog and its posts about Dubai, I share insights gained from my extensive 8-year experience residing in this vibrant city. It's important to note that every opinion expressed here is solely my own, aiming to provide perspective without dismissing other viewpoints.

I firmly believe that every location worldwide possesses its unique advantages and drawbacks, just as there are good and not-so-good individuals – a balance that characterizes life on Earth. Perhaps in heaven, only positives exist, while in hell, only negatives prevail.

Feel free to pose any questions; all opinions differing from mine are wholeheartedly welcomed. And please accept my apologies for any shortcomings in my use of the English language.