Travelling in Dubai
Getting around
Buses run between Dubai International Airport and Deira bus station every 15 to 20 minutes, and there are metered, beige-colored Dubai Transport taxis. Although they can't serve the airport, there are scores of private taxis in all shapes and colours. As these aren't metered, you may need to haggle a bit about fares.Local buses run from the Deira bus station, near the Gold Souq, and the Bur Dubai station on Al-Ghubaiba Rd. Monthly bus passes, known as taufeer , get you unlimited travel on one or the other side of Dubai Creek or, more expensively, throughout the city.
Driving in the city of Dubai is considered an extreme sport, but masochists love it. If you must hire a car, bring your credit card and a copy of your passport. Drinking and driving will get you jail time on top of a stiff fine. Note that all accidents, no matter how small, must be reported to the police.
The older parts of Dubai , with their souks, fascinating architecture and museums, are best seen on foot. Abras (small motorboats) crisscross Dubai Creek from early morning until around midnight, and are a great way to see the waterfront.
Visa Information
Around 18 months ago the property ownership agreement was altered, 'allowing' foreigners to own property outright for the very first time which also entitles you to a full residency visa. UK Citizens with the right of abode in the UK do not need to obtain a visa to visit Dubai in advance of travel. On entry they will be given a special, free of charge, tourist visa valid for 60 days. The visa may be extended once for 30 days for a small fee.Visit visas are issued at Dubai airport and are valid for 60 days . Those requiring residence visas should either make an application to an Embassy in your home country before arriving in Dubai , or arrange the residence visa with the property agent/employer assisting you. This does not apply to members of GCC Countries. Entry is forbidden to travellers whose passports bear Israeli stamps.
Visas
Required by all except the following:(a) 1. UK Nationals with the endorsement 'British Citizen' for a maximum of 30 days;
(b) 2. EU Nationals for a maximum of 30 days;
(c) 3. Citizens of Andorra, Australia, Brunei, Canada, Cyprus, Hong Kong, Iceland, Japan, Korea (Rep), Liechtenstein, Malaysia, Malta, Monaco, New Zealand, Norway, San Marino, Singapore, Switzerland, USA and Vatican City for a maximum of 30 days;
(d) Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar and Saudi Arabia Nationals;
(e) transit passengers, provided in possession of valid onward or return documentation and not leaving the airport for up to 12 hours.
