Communications
The country code for the UAE is +971, followed by Ajman’s dialling code, 06. There are three local telecoms providers: du, Etisalat and Virgin Mobile. Pay-as-you-go SIM cards for the three can be obtained at all ports of entry into the UAE and most shopping malls upon presentation of a valid passport.
Visa Requirements
GCC citizens do not require an entry visa to the UAE, but requirements for other nationalities vary. It is recommended to confer with your country’s embassy before travelling. Most East Asian, UK and US travellers can obtain a 30-day tourist visa on arrival, which can be extended at an immigration office. The EU has signed a short-stay visa waiver agreement with the UAE, allowing its citizens to stay for a period of 90 days within any 180-day period. Regulatory changes have been introduced to promote inbound tourism, allowing for Chinese and Russian tourists to obtain visa on arrival at any point of entry.
Language
Arabic is the official language of the emirate, but English is widely spoken, especially in business settings. Public signs are commonly in both Arabic and English. Other languages in public use include Hindi, Urdu, Tagalog, Farsi and Chinese.
Currency
The UAE dirham (Dh) is pegged to the US dollar at $1:Dh3.67. ATMs are widely available throughout AJ man and cash can be exchanged in most shopping malls. Credit cards are generally accepted at hotels and retail outlets in the emirate.
Etiquette & Dress
Hospitality plays a central role in Emirati culture and longer greetings are an important prelude before proceeding to other matters, be it in business or social interactions. Dressing modestly is advised in professional contexts.
Dining & Drinking
Reflecting its diverse population, Ajman offers a wide variety of international cuisines, with strong Middle Eastern and South Asian influences. Alcohol can be purchased from and consumed at licensed hotels, restaurants and bars within the emirate. Bringing along a valid photo ID is advised.
Transport
Taxis are generally the most reliable way to get around Ajman and can be flagged down or booked by phone (600 52 5252). Taxi prices in Ajman start at Dh12.5 ($3.40) and are charged at Dh1.9 ($0.52) per km thereafter. Tourists in possession of a driving licence from any of the 36 government-approved countries can drive without a local licence. Chauffeur-driven car services such as Careem and Uber can also be booked via smartphone apps. Ajman Transport Authority operates buses in the emirate between 5.45am-12.00am, with nine bus routes around Ajman City. Tickets can be purchased on board. Intercity buses operate from Ajman to all other emirates aside from Fujairah.
Tipping
There are no strict conventions concerning tipping, although restaurants often include a 10% service charge. In the absence of such a charge it would be advisable to tip 10-15%. Taxi drivers do not expect a tip, but it is often easier and more convenient to round up your fare. Hotel staff can be tipped between Dh5 ($1.36) and Dh10 ($2.72).
Health
Ajman’s health services are good, and UAE nationals have access to full medical coverage provided by the government. Tourists who do not possess travel health insurance can visit private hospitals, where English-speaking staff can commonly be found and payment is expected upon treatment.
Electricity
The UAE uses the same square, threepin sockets as the UK, although some outlets are compatible with europlugs. Adapters are widely available. The electricity supply is 220/240 V at 50Hz.
Time Management
The UAE is three or four hours ahead of GMT, depending on the season, since daylight saving time is not observed. Government offices are open from 7.30am to 3.30pm, Monday to Thursday with a shorter working day on Friday from 7.30am to 12.00pm. Most private businesses follow suit. During Ramadan businesses operate from 9.00am to 2.30pm. The UAE National Day is celebrated on December 2.
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