United Arab Emirates is a country with a large expatriate population. Having spend three fourth of my life here, I can say that you are very much safe and’at home’ here, provided you know the rules and ofcourse obey them. Even though its an Arab nation, you’ll find Indians anywhere and everywhere and language wont be much of a problem for those coming to the U.A.E. Other than the Arab speaking people, English is widely spoken as well as Hindi, Urdu, Malayalam and Tamil(*due to the huge no: of Indians *).
U.A.E is well-equipped with excellent Medical facilities. There are a large number of government hospitals(plz don’t even think to compare them with our Indian govt. hospitals. They are miles apart), private hospitals and numerous clinics which can be found in almost every street. If you are going to a government hospital, then you must not forget your health card(health cards are issued after the medical check up done for processing the residence visa) or else you’ll have to pay a lot more than if you are with a health card. If you are not on a residence visa( ie if you are on a visit or transit visa) or if you don’t have your health card with you, then you’ll have to carry the copies of your passport and visa with you while going to such hospitals for regular treatment or emergencies. The same is applicable for opening files for those on residence permits too.
U.A.E boasts of specialist Maternity Hospitals too and the rules are same as of the other govt. hospitals except for two…….
1) Men are not allowed inside the O/P clinic and Emergency sections.(except for the hospital workers, obviously)
2) A pregnant lady must furnish her duly attested marriage certificate as well as her husband’s passport/visa copies along with hers.
Such sophisticated procedures are not applicable to private hospitals. However, treatments can be quite expensive in such places which make people prefer govt hospitals for specialist treatments . In govt hospitals, you get quality treatment at very affordable rates. There are numerous clinics also with efficient Doctors providing very good treatment that is affordable too. For common ailments, private clinics are preferred. You’ll find many such hospitals and clinics in Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah and other Emirates….
U.A.E is very hot during summer(June-September) and is very humid too. Those going out during the day time should drink lots of water and protect themselves from dehydration. And for all those health conscious people, i’d like to add that the food available in supermarkets/restaurants are hygienically prepared and fit for consumption. As in all muslim countries, the food available is sticlty Halal
Regarding general conduct and dress code, U.A.E is not strict unlike its neighbor Saudi Arabia. You are free to be yourself and wear what you want except in Sharjah where Women are required to cover themselves properly with out exposing their body.(that doesn’t mean that one has to wear purdha.even our traditional Salwar Kameez would do).
You really feel at home in U.A.E and even women can hangout with in the City limits till late night without any fears. But its sad to say that now a days there are a few people who take advantage of tourism and promote all sort of obscene things( Some areas of Dubai are especially known for this even though I feel sorry to say that). I have never had any bad experiences myself but generally I’d say its always better to have someone around with you if going out late …….
Regarding traffic rules, its very strict and heavy fines await offenders. Its very difficult obtaining a driving license in Abu Dhabi but in other parts of Emirates, its not a tedious task. However those holding International driving license can hire vehicle from any of the Rent-a-Cars available and enjoy driving.
The cities are kept very clean and those found littering are fined a high amount. Also its important to carry your ID(work permit/passport& visa copies) while traveling. Those caught without the necessary documents are also strictly punished. Also punishment & deportation awaits those who offend the laws…….
For those who hear about the rules and regulations may think that this is a difficult place, but believe me, this is one of the best places you can ever live in. And I’m sure there’ll be many who’d agree with me.
p.s: plz let me know if any changes are to be made.your suggestions are most welcome