Dubai Fast Facts

Location: Second largest member state of the United Arab Emirates, located in the north east

How to go there: How to go there: Direct flights from London take seven hours, non-direct flight times can vary

Climate: Dubai has a sub tropical arid climate with infrequent rainfall

When to go: December to March when temperatures are around 22-30 degrees is the best time to go

Currency: United Arab Emirates Dirham (Dh) approximately 5.5Dh to £1

Population: 1.47 million

Dialling code: 971

Language: Arabic with English widely spoken

Time zone: GMT + 4

Visa: UK residents and passport holder may obtain a 60-day visa

Electricity: 220 or 240 volts AC, 50Hz, square three-pin sockets available throughout Dubai

Religion: Islam with other religions respected