N E W F A C U LT Y A N D S T A F F

S U R V I V A L G U I D E

Our vision is to become one of the leading knowledge-based professional

educational institutions within the region, dedicated to knowledge- production and sharing for the betterment of all.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Welcome to American University of Ras Al Khaimah 7

Introduction 8

The United Arab Emirates 11

History 13

Archeology 14

United Arab Emirates Culture 20

Religion 21

Arab Hospitality and Customs 24

Education 27

Driver’s License 28

Traffic Rules of the United Arab Emirates 32

Currency 34

Banks and Money Exchanges 35

Accommodations in Ras Al Khaimah 36

Car Rental and / or Car Purchase 38

Visa Process and Emirate ID 40

Marriage and Birth Certificates 41

Home Delivery Services 43

Hotels 51

Household Goods and Electronics 52

Market and Souqs 53

Postal Services 55

Ras AL Khaimah Airport 60

Sports and Recreation 64

Dubai area 70

Sharjah area 74

4 NEW FACULTY AND STAFF S URVIVAL GUIDE NEW FACULTY AND STAFF SURVIVAL GUIDE 5

WE LCOME TO THE AMERICAN

UNIVERSITY OF RAS AL KHAIMAH

American University of Ras Al

Khaimah (AURAK) is an institution

dedicated to providing students with

a challenging and dynamic academic

experience through its numerous

Bachelor’s and Master’s degree

programs taught by its accomplished

and renowned faculty. At AURAK

students are offered multiple

opportunities to grow as leaders as

well as participate in competitive

sports with local and international

student clubs. AURAK is a diverse

campus with students from over 30

different countries.

Similarly, AURAK hopes to cultivate an

environment where diverse faculty members and

administrators can grow, develop and flourish

individually, as well as collectively. At AURAK we

understand that dedication to our discipline and

students, as well as our willingness to embrace

our differences, is what will help us to grow into a

truly dynamic, renowned, educational institution.

This may be your first time visiting and/or living in

the Middles East, or you may be a native to Ras Al

Khaimah. We would like you to know that the

doors of the Human Resource office are always

open to you! We want you to know that we are

always available to you and will do everything

within our power to support you as you transition

into your new roles here at AURAK. For your

convenience we have created this information

booklet to answer some of the questions which

may arise during your transition into your new

life here at AURAK. We also understand that some

people moving to the U.A.E. may experience

a certain level of culture shock as they are

confronted with various language, religious, and

cultural differences. Yet, in spite of this extreme

diversity the United Arab Emirates (U.A.E.)

continues to receive more and more people from

various global communities annually. AURAK’s

faculty members come from a plethora of different

countries and are welcomed here in the U.A.E.

Hence, the aim of this guide is to help you make

your transition from your country to the Ras Al

Khaimah as easy and painless as we can.

NEW FACULTY AND STAFF SURVIVAL GUIDE 7

INTRODUCTION

The goal of this guide is to provide

you with assistance during your

transition to Ras Al Khaimah (RAK).

We hope that the information

provided here within these pages will

be of help to you, as you coordinate

your housing needs, find a school for

your children, rent or buy a car, etc.

This guide will also try to provide

you with details specific to the

cultural differences and practices of

the U.A.E. Regardless of whether you

are moving from another emirate

to Ras Al Khaimah or from half way

around the world—moving to a new

environment can often be a stressful,

confusing and difficult life event. By

developing this booklet our goal is to

provide you with as much information

and support as possible to assist with

this life changing event.

The information contained within

this booklet is not only practical,

but also tries to provide insight into

the historical and cultural actions

which have helped to shape current

traditional practices and customs. We

hope that this introduction will assist

you on your new journey in this new

place.

NEW FACULTY AND STAFF SURVIVAL GUIDE 9

THE UNITED ARAD EMIRATES

The United Arab Emirates (U.A.E.) is

situated in the southeast part of the

Arabian Peninsula. It is a federation

of seven Emirates, comprised of the

Emirates of Abu Dhabi (the Capital,

which represent roughly 80% of the

country’s territory), Dubai, Ajman,

Fujairah, Ras Al Khaimah (RAK),

Sharjah, and Um Al Quwain. The

U.A.E. Federation was established

on December 2, 1971, after the

termination of Great Britain’s

protectorate of these former Trucial

States.

• The current President of the U.A.E. is Sheikh

Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahayan, who succeeded

his father; the late Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al

Nahyan, since 2004.

• Islam is the official religion and Arabic is

the official language. However, English is the

second language.

• The U.A.E. population is estimated at 9.2

million which includes around 15% U.A.E.

nationals (Emiratis) while the majority of the

population is composed of expatriates.

• The UAE is located in the southeast end of

the Arabian Peninsula, on the Arabian Gulf,

bordering Oman to the east, and Saudi Arabia

to the south. The UAE has a total area of

82,800 km. • Ras Al Khaimah, (often referred to as RAK)

which translated to “head of the tent,” is the

northernmost and the fourth largest of the

seven Emirates, with a population of roughly

500,000. • Sometimes referred to as the ‘Wild West’ of

the U.A.E., it is framed by the Hajjar

Mountains on the east and the Arabian Gulf

on the west. It is bordered on the north by

Oman’s Musandam peninsula and on the

south by the Emirate of Um Al Quwain. • Ras Al Khaimah Government’s Department

of Tourism’s website, is rapidly reinventing

itself as the Middle East’s business hub. This

is not surprising considering the majestic

Hajjar Mountains scraping the clouds at 1900

meters, coupled with the lovely Musandam

peninsula’s calm blue seas and clean white

beaches stretching over 27.7 km. All framed

by dramatic desert dunes. All of these elements fuse seamlessly into the

beautiful quiet, yet metropolitan emirate known

simply as RAK.

NEW FACULTY AND STAFF SURVIVAL GUIDE 11

HIS TO RY

Archeological excavations reveal that Ras Al

Khaimah’s history extends into antiquity.

Archeologists have discovered historical evidence

of advanced civilizations who traded with the

Indian sub-continent from this region thousands

of years ago. Later historical records have shown

that the town of Ras Al Khaimah, then known as

Julfar, belonged to early Muslim Caliphs. In the

18th century, after the invasions of the Persians,

Portuguese, and the Dutch; RAK eventually became

part of the Al Qawasim State. It was also once the

center of the naval strength of the southern Gulf

States. The traditional occupations of this emirate

are mainly fishing, trading, agriculture and industry

which accounts for 33 percent of RAK’s GDP.

RAK CITY

His Highness Sheikh Saud bin Saqr bin

Mohammed Al Qasimi, has been ruler since

2010. His son, H.H. Sheikh Mohammed b in

Saud bin Saqr Al Qasimi, was appointed the

Crown Prince and Deputy Ruler in 2010. RAK

is divided into two parts by a creek called

Khor Ras Al Khaimah. The Old RAK town

is in the western part bordering the coast

and has some government departments,

markets, residential areas and schools. The

newer Al Nakheel area is in the eastern part

of RAK and contains the Emiri Court, other

government departments, the Ruler’s Office,

shopping malls, hotels, businesses, hospitals,

and is where most of the population resides.

A bridge connects the two parts and roads

encircle the creek. RAK is a safe, laid-back

city with a friendly population, which offers

a peaceful and relaxed natural environment,

virtually free of pollution. In addition to the local Emiratis, RAK has a

diverse expatriate community with people who

are representative of every continent. RAK also

includes a small, but growing number of people

who have relocated from Dubai. Recently, there

has been a trend of both expats and U.A.E.

nationals, who are “Dubai’d out,” to relocate

to RAK. Most likely they seek the serenity of

its natural surroundings and the lower cost of

living, especially the lower property and rental prices. While some make the fifty-minute to one

hour commute to jobs in Dubai via the recently

completed RAK link of the Mohammad Bin Zayed

and Emirates highways.

12 NEW FACULTY AND STAFF S URVIVAL GUIDE NEW FACULTY AND STAFF SURVIVAL GUIDE 13

A RCHEO LOGY TOWNS IN RAK EMIRATE

The Emirate of Ras Al Khaimah (RAK) has an impressive archeological

heritage, of historical importance. Archeological data suggest the

presences of settlements throughout antiquity. The Emirate contains

each of the four relief features found in the U.A.E.: fertile plains,

mountainous areas, coastal areas, and desert. The interaction of these

features with the local lifestyle has resulted in the development of

a unique cultural heritage. Archeology buffs should pay a visit to the

RAK National Museum, which has antiquities dating back to the 5th

millennium BC.

• Al Jazeerah Al Hamra – 20 kms south of RAK City. Location of Al Jazeerah Port, also Mina Al Arab, Al

Hamra village, and Al Murjan Island.

• Khor Khuwayr - Industrial area with many cement, gravel and marble companies. Located about

25 kilometers north of RAK city also in the same location there are Port Saqr, and the northern

industrial zone, home for the cement factories, also RAK crusher, and RAK Maritime city.

• Digdagah – A few minutes east of RAK City in an important agricultural area, where ARK Airport is

also located there.

• Masafi -Well known for its natural springs, Masafi mineral water. Near Fujairah.

• Rams – North of RAK City along the coast is a traditional fishing area.

• Shamal – North of RAK, one of the emirate’s most fertile areas; Sheba’s Palace.

• Sha’am, north of RAK city, mountains area on the border with Oman.

14 NEW FACULTY AND STAFF SURVIVAL GUIDE 15

W A D I N A Q A B

Al Etihad Rd

MINA

eikh M m

1021

02

1021

02

A B C D E F

1

AL MARJAN ISLAND

1

A r a b i a n G u l f AL HAMRA

G H J

K H OR KH W A I R

G H A L I L A H

K

To Khasab

E18

S H A M

UAE Border Check Point

A L J E E R

1

To Sharjah, Dubai & Abu Dhabi

JAZEE RAH N A D A L S I L I

Al Hamra

Mall

AL JAZIRAT AL HAMRA

J A Z E E R A H E11

AL ARAB RAK MARITIME

E18 ZAYED HERITAGE VILLAGE

W ADI S H A M

WADI SHAAM STONE VILLAGE

Acacia Hotel

J A Z E E R A H

ICELAND WATER PARK

AL R I F F A

MAZAHMI WETLAND

Bin Majid

PUBLIC BEACH

RAS AL KHAIMAH

Hilton Ras Al Khaimah

Resort & Spa

S A R A Y A I S L A N D

PEARL FARM

H U L A Y L A CITY K H OR KH W A I R

The Cove Rotana Resort

Beach Hotel AL DHAITH

A R Q O U B E11

OLD CITY

R A K D E H A N

M A AR ID TRADITIONAL DHOW BUILDING STATION J U L F A R

RAMS OLD CITY R A M S

K A B D A H

2 Sharjah International Airport 30 Minutes Drive Dubai International Airport 45 Minutes Drive Abu Dhabi International Airport 90 Minutes Drive

Bus/Taxi Station

KFC

Burger King

Emirates Cultural Sports Club

PEARL

MUSEUM

Mangrove Hotel

Al Khor

M A M O U R A H

JULFAR TOWERS

DoubleTree by Hilton

J U L F A R

Shamal Folk Arts & Theatre Society

E18

DHAYAH FORT

W A D I G H A L I L A H 2

To Sharjah, Dubai & Abu Dhabi D H A I T S O U T H

Safeer Mall Carrefour

D H A I T

TOWER LINKS

Manar Mall

Hilton Ras Al Khaimah

Hotel

AL G H O O B

HUDAYBAH TOWER

TELL OF KUSH S H A M A L

JULFAR N OR TH

D H A Y A H

UMM AL QUWAIN EMIRATE

119 122

S O U T H D A I T H 2 N OR TH GOLF CLUB

RAK Shooting

RAK NATIONAL THEATRE Al Nakheel Society For Art

& Popular Heritage

SHAMAL

UMM AN-NAR TOMB

PREHISTORIC CEMETRY SHAMAL E311 Club RAK Cultural STONE HOUSES

Bedouin Oasis

MIZRA'A TOWER

Q U S S A I D A T S E I H

Sports Club

SEIH AL SHEEBA’S

A L A R A I B I

SEIH AL Q U SAI D A T

G H O O B PALACE W A D I S H A H A H

Banyan Tree Al Wadi

3

K H U R A I J A H Camel Race Track K H A R A N

F E L E Y Y A H FALAYAH FORT

Livestock Market

B U R A I R A T

SHAMAL SOUTH

3

Bassata Village

M U Z I R A

A S H I S

D IG D A G A

E18

Saqr Public Park

S AL HI Y A H Vegetable & Fish Market

RAK Racing Club

S E I H A L S A LH IY A H

R E I B I Y A

WADI BIH

W A D I B IH

0 km 5km

1: 135,000

Data and design copyright © Ras Al Khaimah Tourism

Development Authority 2012

Map copyright © Ras Al Khaimah Municipality 2012

This map is not an authority on international and

administrative boundaries

RAS AL KHAIMAH COUNTRY CLUB

4

H A MR ANI A H

M U W W A L A H

/ A I R P O R T

RAK International Airport

Department Of Civil Aviation

H A Y L / S H A A G I

2

K U L A Y Y A H

A r a b i a n G u l f

NATIONAL MUSEUM

OF RAS AL KHAIMAH

Hilton Ras Al Khaimah

Resort & Spa 4

To Dibba

S E I H A L B A N A H

E18

To Masafi

GOLDEN TULIP KHATT

SPRINGS RESORT & SPA

K H A T T

Bin Majid

PUBLIC BEACH

AL DHAITH

Kuwaiti Souk

RAS AL KHAIMAH OLD CITY

MAARID PUBLIC BEACH

AL MAARID

M A A R ID Al Maarid Fish & Vegetable Market

A B C D

Beach Hotel uham

Burger King Pizza Inn

Mangrove Hotel

Fish

Market

MUSEUM OF AHMED BIN MAJID

OLD CITY

Archery Bowling Akoya Costa M A M O U R A H

Banyan Tree Al Wadi 1-A3

cAmel riDing

Super Bowling 2-J5

Desert cAmps

KFC Sheikh Zayed

Mosque

Restaurant Coffee RAK Folk

Arts Society

Social Guidance

Centre Banyan Tree Al Wadi 1-A3

Bassata Village 1-A3

Bedouin Oasis 1-A3

Bassata Village 1-A3

Bedouin Oasis 1-A3 5

Pesto Italian Restaurant

PEARL MUSEUM

AL QAWASIM CORNICHE

JULFAR

5

DoubleTree

Desert sAfAris

Bassata Village 1-A3

Bedouin Oasis 1-A3

fAlcon show

Banyan Tree Al Wadi 1-A3

Bassata Village 1-A3

Emirates Centre For Diving

& Marine Sports

Nad Abu Tabl

Al Khor

TOWER LINKS

TOWERS by Hilton

Hilton Ras Al Khaimah

E18

AL S E L L

SHAMAL fishing

Hilton Al Hamra Golf & Beach Resort 3-D3

historicAl sites

Al Jazirat Al Hamra 3-F2

Al Araibi Fort 2-J6

Dhayah Fort 1-H2

golf courses

Al Hamra Golf Club 3-D3

Tower Links Golf Club 2-G5

horseBAcK riDing

Banyan Tree Al Wadi 1-A3

Ras Al Khaimah Country Club 1-A4

Safeer Mall Carrefour

K H U Z A M

GOLF CLUB SUPER BOWLING

Al Manar Mall, Carrefour

City Hotel

RAK Mall

Lulu Centre

NAK HE E L

(AL HUDEEBA)

HUDAYBAH TOWER

TELL OF KUSH

JULFAR

Jet sKi RAK Exhibition

AL HABOOS ARTS &

Al Hamra Palace Beach Resort 3-C3

Banyan Tree Ras Al Khaimah Beach 3-D2

Bin Majid Beach Hotel 3-K3

Bin Majid Beach Resort 3-B3

Hilton Al Hamra Golf & Beach Resort 3-D3

Hilton Ras Al Khaimah Resort & Spa 2-K4

The Cove Rotana Resort 3-K2

KAyAKing

Banyan Tree Ras Al Khaimah Beach 3-D2

Bin Majid Beach Resort 3-B3

Hilton Al Hamra Golf & Beach Resort 3-D3

Hilton Ras Al Khaimah Resort & Spa 2-K4

The Cove Rotana Resort 3-K2

6

0 km 1km

1: 35,000

Data and design copyright © Ras Al Khaimah

Tourism Development Authority 2012

Map copyright © Ras Al Khaimah Municipality 2012

E F

QUSSA ID A T

G

E18

H A L J U W A I S E

AL ARAIBI Centre

FORT

J

FOLKS SOCIETY

K

6

Al Nakheel Society For

Art &

Popular

Heritage

0 Hoto ..... I GuStatJon

(j) Sh"""og .fJ, Bu•dings -Higl'wr.ayRolld

Q P•

f) ,.,, m R& Ut'llft

Q sanl:

-PmmryRolld

-- OtherRo11d

Fu).allah "' lcQ!QildW<1ar Park. 3 H2

2

Ba nyan Tree Ra• AI Kha1rreh &ach 3-02

H11b:>n RasAI Kt.uT'eh -JS RAJ<Niunqulty 07 2l3 2422 AI Julttlll AI HatnCI 3 F2 R.AKNo Niuseum 2H4 H•lton AIHa1T1111 Golf & S.Ch Fe.:>rt 3-03

t.IAf: Countl)'C::dQ .,, AIMaardOOCr.y

H•lb:>n R11AI KtwuiT8h Ru>rt & St=e 2-K4 -·...,.. 07207 5000 AIWamraGofctub 303 Pubic a-::h AIOhaith 2 E4

'"'

...... """"''""

"'

•

.......1

Attr.u;tJon

Jazmi1

£

&

i!ijMI§Mft·@ PRINCE OF SEA (CRUSI E S) ()i"QCt:)ry Eroqui"iQs

--181 RasA! Khelmih 07 Ju fllr 2 JS

ShQ.Qba'a Palace 1 G3 B.a nya nT-AJ W.adi 1 A3 l-ih):!'I Ras AI Khaimai1Ra9ort &:Spa

SuperBow'lng 2 JS e.a nyanTIQQ Ma IOWI HOI:QI

'2 "H"S

F lday c:nJ:M, din t'liil r cruiM, Q\I!Q rngt"t Ope< 100 Sha-. 06 M.a.arid P!J bli:: BQOICh 2 J4

• lllrs axperklrr:a lrr:h.cling d1nl'll),r 3-E3 TQIICX Kut hJulfjr 1" Ras AJ Kh.ai"ruu h Baach 3 D2 Mar)iln lsl.;;md R_,n & $pi 3A3

Poli::Q

Arnbulanoa

U'nmAJOuwaln 06 Mizr;';"'li::lr.wr 1 B2

UW·"'.!Ih 'W Mus.QJ m ct Ahll'loQrd Bi n Mijld 2 JS

"'bNQ,r UnbGof 2G5 Bin Ma jid Baa::h 1-tJ W.I 3 "'

Ri::cs B.a bAI B;hr((JI'q 3M

ltad1tion.al Dhow Buldlng SU110 n 1 F2 BlnMa jdBaa::h 3 B3 11wi, CcM1: Rocllll.a R_,n 3K2

SAILING ,... ..., AI.AtabiM:In 2.J6 P.-1Farm 1 G2

A AI Harm MariNI&: Yacht Oub 3-E2

RAKintiA.rport 072446111 AIH.abooe:IW&:F"olb 21(6 PIIOihiStOficCamQtty mal 1 G2

lknmAA-Njrbnb 1 G2 CityHo\QI 2 H6 GJJW.i£f!N:if64 '-*¥> W l81h 11'3 CIOWll P\az.aRasAJ Khllm.ah(u,.'d .3 A3 AI H.;;mrt Mall 304

Wl Shaam Sl:one Viloge 1 K1 OoltieT-by Hlb!Ras AI t:hall"':lh 2 JS AJMa rMil 2H6

,...

Za}'QdHera;ga Vii 1 J1 OoubkkltQQby-Hil\:)n Cllllllli:Jur 2 ES

21<4 R.AKNatollaln-t R

M:>bde hooas AIOawainComiehe 21<5 RAK P8arl MU»um 2GS

SEAWINGS Abu Dhabi (]l Ohayilh 1H2 sFishn:g Fbn 1 G2 AJ Harrn Mar'rla 3-03

06 F"oalayah 1£3 sOld City 1 G2

AlAin 03 G:lklen lbhp Kbatt Spriro 1 04 Ra AIIChamah OldCit)' 2J4

iiMfi -&::J Mil)llnblllnd( 3A3 Kuw;uuSoiJk

304 Gokiin Tulp <batt Sptitlg$ Lulu Hypann.;;rirQ( 2JS

AJI-larnrtPaae.ach Won 3C! A4160tt&: $pi 1 04 RAK0U1}FrQQ 303

All-larnrt VJ!age 3C! H1kon AIH.amraGolf RAKMlll 2H6

All-larnrt V.IageOolf a: Ba;ch Al;ro()n 303 sa-Mal

TENNIS Oubai Hldaybah "'bow 21<b Shamal Saona Housas 1F2

AJ Harm PataceS.C.h ReJOrt 3-C3 H•lt.on RasAJ Kte11T8h Ru>rt &Spa 2-K4

H11ton RasAJ Kht11T8h 2-JS Tha Cove Rotare ReJOrt 3-K2

YACH TI NG AI Hamra M arm 8c Yacht Club 3-E 2

&: QQadl Aeson 3C! H1kon Ra AIKhllinah 2JS .,.,..., '30"4

WATER PARK

kMnd tetPartc 3-H2

Arabian Gulf Arabian G u If

llmtonlsbrd Rem&SpJ

llJ;mlU

ALMARJAN

ISLAND

AIHarrraMonna lochtCi ub R<l)'l l ll'eeze

Resoleme

AI.HAMRA

JAZEERAH

MINA AI. ARAB

I

CJownPio1o RosAI K

•mnoh(ul<)

Legend O on

os..,..,.......,

Ill ExnNo

0 HIStoricaV

""""" [ill] Aed No

0 ::a;Q "fuciSblnd y Golf

t>>1o>nd6ooi<op)I\1>1CIRiofKiw;MIItl

"""'"" t>..olopo'I W/1 11)1 21)12

0

Ari ation Ci ub JAZE ERA H

UNITED ARAB

EMIRATES

CU LTURE The U.A.E.’s culture combines a multiplicity of international influences.

These international influences have traditionally peacefully co-existed

and even supported the local heritage of the U.A.E. This intriguing mix

of the old and the new has resulted in the development of

exponential economic growth and technological advances throughout

the U.A.E. The U.A.E cultural heritage is firmly rooted within an

Islamic tradition. Thus, Islam is more than a religion for many citizens

in the U.A.E, it is a way of life. Islam governs everyday events and

interactions as well as what one wears in public, to what one eats and

drinks.

Alcohol is not forbidden in the U.A.E., however in some emirates its

consumption is confined within certain areas such as one’s home, a

hotel, bar or nightclub. Residents are free to drink in their own homes;

some emirates even require an alcohol license which is issued by the

municipality. Fortunately, this is not required of you at this time in

RAK. It is, however, illegal to drink in the street or in public places.

LANGUAGE Although English is widely spoken throughout the U.A.E. Arabic is

the official language of the U.A.E. However, most road signs, shop

signs and restaurant menus are often available in both Arabic and

English. Even though Arabic is not the easiest language to learn or

to pronounce, most people will appreciate your effort to learn the

traditional language of the Quran spoken by most people throughout

the Arabian Peninsula. If you are interested in further developing

your Arabic language skills AURAK provides Arabic courses opened to

the community. Classes are also available elsewhere throughout the

emirate.

It is important to remember that people of many different

nationalities are also working within the U.A. E. So please do not

be surprised if you encounter other languages as well as Arabic and

English.

RELIGION Islam is the official religion of the UAE, and is widely practiced. The

Islamic holy day is Friday which is an off day and there are five pillars

of Islam, which include also fasting, alms giving (zakat), and the

Pilgrimage all Muslims must follow. Freedom of worship is allowed

to all religions, and Christian churches have existed for many years in

the U.A.E.

Please see the following link for the location of churches. For more

information, please see:

http://www.indexuae.com/Top/Religion/Christianity

20 NEW FACULTY AND STAFF SURVIVAL GUIDE 21

RAMADAN Is a holy month and it is a time of fasting when Muslims

are expected to abstain from all food, drink, smoking

and even chewing gum during daylight hours. At this

time, it is imperative that all U.A.E. residents remember

the importance of adhering to the relevant laws. During

Ramadan it is a good idea to be particularly vigilant

regarding public displays of affection, modest dressing

and drinking.

Working conditions during Ramadan may vary, with some

workplaces adopting a traditional approach, forbidding

any eating, drinking or smoking, to other more relaxed

environments where designated rooms are allocated for

non-Muslims to eat and drink. Muslims break their daily

fast at sundown with water and dates often followed by

the Iftar feast.

The U.A.E. Constitution provides for freedom of religion

in accordance with established customs. RAK is tolerant

of other religions with people being free to practice their

religious beliefs, so long as they do not interfere with

Islam. Non-Muslims can get an insight into Islam through

websites or public library books.

HAJJ- THE PI LGRIMAGE

TO MAKKAH (OR

MECCA)

The annual pilgrimage to Makkah (which is also often speel Mecca) is

often referred to as the Hajj. Traditionally, this trip is completed during

the 12th month of the annual lunar Islamic calendar. Classes continue

as usual during this period; however, some Faculty, Staff or /students

may leave for the Pilgrimage (Hajj) at this time. The Eid period (Eid

Al Adha) consists of four days at the end of Hajj. Traditionally, schools

and colleges are closed for at least a portion of the Eid.

23

ARAB HOSPI TALITY

AND CUS TOMS

The traditional hospitality of the desert Arabs to visitors

and guests is well-known. It is a Bedouin (Desert Arab)

custom to bestow generosity, food, and shelter to

strangers as if they were your friends. It is also custom

for the hosts to put them under their protection. If

you want to learn more about local customs, heritage,

folklore, dance, popular arts, national food and dress,

click on the customs link at www.raktourism.com or read

about them in the RAK Tourism Guide booklet. Hopefully,

you will also make friends easily and be invited to

weddings and other special occasions during your

stay in the U.A.E. and have the opportunity to actually

experience Bedouin hospitality first hand.

TIME ZONE - CLIM ATE

WORKING HOURS

GMT + 4 hours.

Climate:

Desert—hot and humid in summer (40-50 C ) and mild

during winter (15-25 C). Working hours in the UAE tend to follow those in the

west, the only exception being the working week which

runs from Sunday through to Thursday. Government

institutions are open from 7:30 am until 2:30 pm.

Many business, shops and outside malls open on

weekdays between the hours of 10:00 am and 1:00

pm. and are then re-opened from 4:30 pm.-10:00 pm.

During the holy month of Ramadan working hours are

often 2 hours less than other times during the year.

24 NEW FACULTY AND STAFF S URVIVAL GUIDE

EDUCATION Although, schooling is free for children of U.A.E citizens, there are many

schools in RAK which cater to various expat communities. Many follow

the English school system and offer KS, GCSE and A Level curriculums.

Others follow the US, Indian or U.A.E. public school curriculums. At

present, the Higher Colleges of Technology are only open to Emirati

students.

K-12

Ras Al Khaimah English Speaking School (RAKESS)

Tel: 07-2362441

Web: htpps//www.rakess.net

The International School of Choueifat

Tel: 07-2353446

Alpha School (Primary Level)

TEL: 07-22255151

GEMS Westminster School

(+971) 7-2035999 or email to info_wsr@gemsedu.com /

registrar_wsr@gemsedu.com

Indian School Ras Al Khaimah

The New Indian Higher Secondary School

TEL: 07-2288348

TEL: 07-2281886

Pakistani Higher Secondary School

TEL: 07-2281146

Indian Public High School

TEL: 07-2223124

Higher Education

Higher Colleges of Technology - RAK Men’s

Tel: 07-2462999

Higher College’s - RAK Women’s

Tel: 07-2210550

Ras AL Khaimah Academy

P O Box 975 RAK / Tel: +971 7 236 2441.

RAK Medical & Health Sciences University

Tel: 07-2210700

DRIVE R’S

LICENSE

Those from United States, Canada, United Kingdom, Australia, New

Zealand, Spain, Italy, France, Belgium, Brazil, Dominican Republic,

Austria, Japan, and China do not have to take a driving test (if they

have driving license with at least 6 months validity before the date of

expiration). However, to receive a U.A.E. license it is necessary to go to

the Traffic Dept. with the following documents:

(Please note that these prices are subject to change at any time)

• A completed copy of a U.A.E. driving license application form (fee

of 10 AED).

• A No Objection letter from sponsor (employer/university), which

should be requested from the human resources office.

• Eye examination (fee of 50 AED).

• A copy of original passport and valid residence visa (be prepared

to show your original passport and residence visa).

• A copy of a driver’s license from your country

of residence and an original copy of the

Arabic translation (HR can assist with a legal

translation for a fee of 100 AED).

• Driver’s license fee of 500 AED.

• Emirates ID card or copy of application with a

stamp from ID Authority

For spouse and dependents, please provide a copy of

their sponsor’s passport and residency.

Prior to receiving your residence permit you may

drive a rental vehicle using your license from

your home country. A comprehensive list of who is

exempt from retaking the test is available from:

www.rakpolice.gov.ae

Residents from all other countries that are

applying for a U.A.E. Driver’s License must have

a residence visa, and will have to undergo the

following procedure:

(a) Open file with the U.A.E. traffic department:

• Application fee of 100 AED

• A No Objection Letter from sponsor

(AURAK)

• Eye examination (fee of 20 AED)

• A copy of the original passport and a valid

residency visa (be prepared to show your

original passport and your residence visa)

• An employment letter (i.e. ‘To Whom It May

Concern’) from your sponsor or your spouse’s

sponsor

• A copy of the Driving License that an

applicant possesses. In return, you will receive

a driving learning card

(b) Attend a driving school for 40 classes - Contact

Emirates Driving Institute - Al Loaloah Motor

Driving +971 7 2224663 or Al Neel Motor Driving

Training School Tel: +971 7 2221119 to obtain the

theoretical training certificate.

(c) Upon passing theoretical training test, you may

obtain a date from the traffic department to take a

physical driving test, which can take up to a month

to confirm.

(d) There will be a cost to apply for a driving test.

Failure to pass the driving test after 6 attempts

will cause your file to be transferred back to the

Emirates Driving Company, and you will have to

undergo the theoretical and practical training

again.

(e) Upon passing the driving test, you can obtain a

U.A.E. Driver’s License (fee of AED 200).

If you plan to leave the U.A.E. and return to your

country, remember to cancel your U.A.E. driving

license. Otherwise, if your U.A.E. license is expired

without a renewal, future application for a license

renewal will incur a fine.

For more details on obtaining and renewing a U.A.E.

driving license, please refer to: RAK Police site.

http://www.rakpolice.gov.ae/index212.php

28 NEW FACULTY AND STAFF S URVIVAL GUIDE

Student Conduct Violations Possible Disciplinary Action to be taken by the Disciplinary Committee

Red Lights No Right Turn.

Accidents Do not leave the accident site. Contact the police. Be ready to show

the police your car registration card and driver’s license. The police

will take a record of your view of the accident and make decision

as to which motorist was at fault. The motorist at fault will receive

a pink form, while the motorist determined by the police to be not

at fault will receive a green form. No garages will be able to make

repairs to your car without any of these forms.

Driving Lanes Driving on the paved shoulder is illegal.

Pedestrians Always have the right of way, especially at crosswalks.

Seat Belts Mandatory in cars and buses. Children 10 years old and under are

not allowed to sit in the front seat of the car.

Speed Bumps Found marked and unmarked inside and outside the cities.

Speeding Speeding is monitored by hidden radar cameras. Speeding fines are

due prior to renewing your car registration or driver’s license. The

speed traffic violations start with a minimum of AED600 –

AED1200. To check your traffic violation record in Abu Dhabi, visit

Abu Dhabi Police website, or for fines incurred in Dubai, visit Dubai

Police website.

Mobile Phones Speaking on a mobile phone while driving in the U.A.E. is a traffic

violation. The driver however, is permitted to use headsets for

speaking on mobile phone while driving.

TRAFFIC

RULES IN THE

UNITED ARAB

EMIRATES

In the U.A.E., vehicles are driven on the right-hand side of the road

(similar to the United States of America and Canada). Ras Al Khaimah

is a city with many roundabouts. The “Safety Seat Belt Law” applies in

the U.A.E. Children aged 10 years and under, are required to ride in the

back seat. The U.A.E. Traffic Dept. has zero tolerance for driving under

consumption of alcohol or drugs. The blood alcohol/drugs limit in the

U.A.E. is 0.0 and the penalty is jail for four years for drugs consumptions

and a 30,000 AED fine along with 3 months car impoundment as well as

Driving License confiscation for alcohol consumption.

Under U.A.E. law, if a driver causes the death or injury of another person

accidentally in a car accident, he or she will have to pay diya or blood

money (compensation to the family of the dead person). The objective of

the blood money is to compensate the victim’s family regardless of his or

her religion or nationality. This liability feature is included in most vehicle

insurance policies. Additionally, should the driver cause the death or

injury of another person in a vehicle intentionally or accidently; they will

also face criminal proceedings which can result in imprisonment.

General driving tips and techniques:

The police emergency phone number is 999; the ambulance number is 998.

30 NEW FACULTY AND STAFF S URVIVAL GUIDE

TRAFFIC VIO LATIONS,

FINES, AND SPEEDING

CAMERAS

Traffic speeding cameras are located all over Ras Al Khaimah, Abu

Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain, and Fujairah. Drivers

are advised to conform to U.A.E. traffic rules and regulations, and

refrain from any traffic offences. Traffic violations can result not only

in fines, but also in “Black Points” which, if accumulated, can result in

the suspension of your driving license and/or harsher penalties.

Communications:

The International code for the United Arab Emirates is +971. The

outgoing international code is 00.City/area codes are in use, e.g. (0)2

for Abu Dhabi, (0)4 for Dubai, and (0) 7 for Ras Al Khaimah. There are

2 service providers Etisalat and Du which provide a wide range of

telecommunication coverage.

Electricity:

The electric current is 220 and 240 volts, 50Hz. The square three-pin

type plugs are the most frequently used.

Official Holidays

As the Islamic calendar is determined with various moon phase

sightings, holiday dates marked * change every year. These actual

dates will be announced.

The official holidays observed by the university are:

• Hijra New Year (1st Muharam)*

• New Year’s Day (January 1)

• Eid Al Fitr (Shawwal)*

• Eid Al Adha (Al Hijjah)*

• Prophet’s Birthday (12th Rabi Al Awal)*

• Ascension Day (27th Rajab)*

• U.A.E. National Day (December 2)

HOSPI TALS

PHARMACIES

Should you require any level of medical assistance there are a number of

hospitals located within the Ras Al Khaimah. Since one of the most

common was to select a physical or medical facility is from a personal

recommendation, you may want to ask your colleagues which facility they

prefer.

Obaidullah Hospital Tel: 07-222-3555

Sham Hospital Tel: 07-266-6465

RAK Hospital Tel: 07-207-4444 Al Zahrawi Hospital Tel: 07-228-8544 Saif Bin Ghobash Hospital Tel: 07-222-3555 Saqr Hospital: Tel: 07 222 3666 Sheikh Khalifa Specialist Hospital Tel: 07-244-4444 Europeean Med. Center Tel: 07-233-8832 Many pharmacies here in RAK provide medications over the counter which

might have required a prescription in your home country. For this reason

we also recommended that you visit your local pharmacies to see which

products are readily available.

32 NEW FACULTY AND STAFF S URVIVAL GUIDE AURAK STUDENT HANDBOOK 33

CURRENCY The local currency in Dubai and the entirety of the UAE is

the dirham (AED), divided into 100 fils. The notes in use

are:

One thousand,

Five hundred

Two hundred

One hundred

Fifty

Twenty

Ten

Five

The coins or cents are called fils, and come in a:

One dirham,

Fifty

Quarter

Currency is exchangeable at banks and large hotels, and no

currency regulations exist in the emirate. Still, the best rates of

exchange can be found at private money changers — usually

located in shopping centers or well-known markets (souks).

BANKS AND MONEY

EXCHANGES

Al Ansari Exchange

Al Manar Mall Office- Western Union available. Tel: 07-

2277332 Hours: Sat–Thurs from 10:00 am -10:00 pm;

Fridays from 4:30 – 10:00 pm.

Nakheel Office is on Sheik Saqr Al Qasimi Road near the

Emirates Airlines office, diagonally across from the main

office of RAK Bank.

Tel: 07-2229799 Hours: Sat –Thurs from 8:30-1 pm and

4:30-8:30 pm; Fri 4-9 pm. U.A.E Money Exchange

Tel: 07-2271066 Hours: Sat – Thurs from 8:00 am -9:00

pm; Fridays from 8:30am – 11:30 am and 3:30pm – 9:00

pm. Location: Nakheel, across the street from Choithram

on Sheik. Saqr Al Qasimi Road.

Open Bank Account

• Passport copy with valid resident Visa

• Job certifying letter with Salary amount

Emirates ID HSBC Middle E a s t Bank Tel: 07-2333544 Hours: Saturday – Thursday from 8:00 am – 3:00 pm.

Location: In Old RAK facing the Creek on the Corniche Road, near the

bridge. RAK Bank – The National Bank of Ras Al Khaimah- Nakheel Branch Tel: +971 4 2130000 or the international number +971 7 2064444 NEW

Hours! 24/7. Location: On Sheik Saqr Al Qasim Road, near intersection of the

Bridge Road. This bank does not open accounts for United States citizens.

United Arab Bank - Corniche Branch

Tel: +971 6 519 5111 Location: Al Mohannad Tower, Buhaira, Corniche

ADCB – Abu Dhabi Commercial Bank

Tel: +971 07 205 1704. Al Nayeem Mall. Al Hilal Bank

Tel: +971 02 499 44 44 Hours: Sat-Thurs from 8:00am -3:00pm. Location

Bin Saifan Building, AL Muntasir Rd Opposite to LuLu Hyper Market Dubai Islamic Bank Tel: +971 (4) 6092222 Hours: Sat- Thurs from 8:00am -3:00pm. Location AL

Nakheel near AL Sana fashion

ADIB (Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank)

+971(7) 243 4255 - (Toll Free 800-2288) CBI - Commercial Bank International +971(7) 228-4448 - (Toll Free 800-224)

Sh. Khalifa Bin Zayed Street- RAK

Mashreq Bank – Ras Al Khaimah

Tel: 07-203-7216 Location: Al Nakheel

Road

34 NEW FACULTY AND STAFF S URVIVAL GUIDE

Agency Phone Number Mobile – Website

YAS Properties 07 233 6350 056 442 9366 Sheridan Hollands

Hunt & Harris Real Estate 07 243 4005 http://www.huntandharris.com/

Eastern Real Estate 07 226 4224 050 4877 231 Mr. Annan

Al Abraj Real Estate 07 233 7787

Al Hamra Real Estate 07 243 4477 http://alhamravillage.com/contact-us

Amlak real Estate 07 233 5885 http://www.amlakinvest.com/en/contact-us

Golden Real Estate 07 233 3636 055 3421 777 Mr. Mahmoud

RAK Properties 07 227 4333 055 5104 999 Mr. Majed

Ras Al Khaima Real Estate 07 228 3644

Premium Real Estate 050 627 0499 Ms. Patricia 050 377 0600 Mr. Mark

Mustafa 050 709 4040 Mr. Moustafa

Real Estate Agencies:

ACCOMMODATIONS

IN RAS AL KHIAMAH

Finding a house or an apartment to rent in RAK is quite

easy. The best approach is to visit a serious real estate

agency.

• Check classified ads in the papers or

• Below are some real estate agency numbers

Home Rentals:

Most of the times, apartments are not furnished. Air

conditioning systems are highly recommended due to

high temperatures in the area. Most leases and rental

agreements are generally one year in length and

renewable; you can opt for a shorter lease resulting in a

more expensive monthly rent.

Required documents:

• Passport copy with valid visa; Emirates ID

• A guaranty deposit of AED 2,000/ 3,000

• Agency fee of 5% of the rent

• First 3 months’ rent and 3 post-dated checks for the

rest of the annual rent, each check with 3 months

payment

http://rak.dubizzle.com/property-for-rent/home/

Electric

Water and electricity are usually to be paid separately from the rent.

• Apartment Rental agreement contract; Emirates ID

• Deposit of AED 1500 Internet/ Telephone/ TV

• Valid passport copy with valid visa; Emirates ID

• Application

• Location with building number of your apartment/flat/villa

CAR RENTAL AND/OR CAR PURCHASE

To rent or buy a car you will need the following documents:

• Passport + valid resident Visa; Emirates ID

• Salary direct deposit for 1 – 3 months if financing is needed from a

bank

• Emirates driving license.

36 NEW FACULTY AND STAFF S URVIVAL GUIDE

CAR REN TAL

AGENCIES:

Al Yamama Rent a Car

RAK Office

Tel: 07-2333211; Mobile: 050-4900710

Hours: Sat –Thurs from 8:00 am–1:30 pm and 4:30- 10:30 pm; Fridays-4:30

–10:30 pm.

Location: Old RAK on the Sheik Sultan Bin Salem Street, just before the turnoff

to the Bin Majid Beach Hotel)

HERTZ (Hilton Hotel Lobby has an office.)

Tel: 07-2288888 (Toll Free 800-HERTZ or

800-43789)

Website: www.hertz.ae

THRIFTY RENT A CAR Sharjah Main Office

Tel: 06-57 40499 (Toll Free- 8004473)

Website: www.thriftyuae.com

AL SAFA RENT-A-CAR CONTACT: HAMED AL SHAMRI

Mob. 050 959 4466/ Tel: 07 2288052- AL MAMORAH AL MONTASER ST

AVIS +971 (04) 2995465

Terminal 2, Dubai, UAE

Al Ahlam Rent a Car Al Muntasir Road, Al Nakheel, RAK

Tel: 07 228 7774

Al Oraibi Rent a Car Opposite Municipality Office, Dubai-RAK Road

Tel: 07-233-03327

Al Fahad Rent a Car Ras Al Khaimah Tel: 07 236 1127

38 NEW FACULTY AND STAFF S URVIVAL GUIDE NEW FACULTY AND STAFF SURVIVAL GUIDE 39

VISA P ROCESS

AND EMIRATES ID

Faculty members must have a valid Entry Visa to enter the U.A.E. Depending

on their nationality; faculty dependents may also require a valid Entry

Permit to enter the U.A.E. This permit will be issued and sent to you before

you leave home. The validity of the visa depends on rules at the current

time; they may be valid for 30 or 60 days from the date of issue. Therefore,

you must enter the U.A.E. within this period.

It should be noted that there should be at least six months’ validity on

passports for entry into the UAE and application for the Residence Visa.

When all of the relevant documents have been received, Human Resources

will process and email or fax you a copy of the Entry Permit(s).

You will need to show the copy of the Entry Permit to the airline at your point of departure and also to the immigration officer upon arrival at the

airport in the U.A.E. the AURAK driver will be waiting outside for you. You

will be given the original Entry Permit so please be sure to keep it safely. It

will be required to further process your Residence Visa.

Once you have arrived in the U.A.E., HR will handle your Residence Visa

procedures. The Residence Visa will be stamped inside your passport.

To start these procedures, please report to the HR Department, as soon as

possible after your arrival, with the following documents:

• original Entry Permit

• your passport

• original and authenticated copy of marriage certificate (for your

spouse’s residence visa)

• original and authenticated copies of dependent children’s birth

certificate

• 6 personal photos white background

Only when you receive your Residence Visa can the application be made for

the Residence Visa of your dependent(s).

In order to apply for the U.A.E. resident visa: below documents are required

• Original passport valid for 6 months or more

• Attested Education certificate.

• Have blood test done (can be arranged by the university). The purpose

for the blood test is to check for HIV/Aids and Tuberculosis (TB).

Persons found to be exposed to these

The University, AURAK, will assist in most of this process but some will

require you to be present at the site

MARRIAGE AND BI RTH

CE RTIFICATES

If you are married and your spouse

and children will reside with

you at AURAK, you must have your marriage certificate and children’s

birth certificates ATTESTED

before your departure for the

U.A.E. Please contact your nearest

U.A.E Embassy or the Ministry of

Foreign Affairs in your own

country for further information on

authentication of documents. The

marriage certificate and children’s

birth certificates must be certified

before your departure from your

home country. Only upon receipt

of the requested documents can

the process for your dependents’

residence visa begin.

Emirates Identity Card

For U.A.E. Nationals, the card is

valid for 5 years. For U.A.E. children

the card must be renewed once

the child reaches 15 years old.

For residents from the GCC, the

card may be valid for a maximum

of 5 years. For expatriates f rom

other countries, the validity of

the card depends on the validity

of his or her residency permit in

the U.A.E. Thus, if the expatriate’s

residence visa is cancelled, the

card will expire automatically.

If the expatriate’s residence

visa is renewed, the card will

also be renewed or reactivated

automatically.

Cost of the Card

The cost of the card varies and

may be subject to changes.

Therefore, please refer to the EIDA

website for the latest information.

The employee is responsible for

all costs.

Usage of the Card

U.A.E. Nationals can use the ID card

instead of passport for travel

between countries in the Gulf. The

ID card is required for all residents,

expatriates and nationals, who

obtain governmental and non-

governmental services. For expats,

you cannot obtain or renew

residency without this card.

Further usage of the card is listed

in the EIDA website.

Obtaining the Card

Enrollment of the ID card is done

at authorized typing centers in

RAK (and other cities in the U.A.E.).

For a list of the centers go to the

Emirates Identity Authority (EIDA)

web site noted below. The typing

center will require your passport

and take payment. They will

complete an on-line application

for you and issue you with a receipt

stating that you have started the

registration process. You will then

go to the EIDA office (07-2662338)

to complete the process (once

there you will have your picture

taken and fingerprints

documented).

You will be required to obtain an

Emirates ID card for yourself and

each of your dependents. For

further information, please see:

www.emiratesid.ae

Food and Cuisine

RAK has numerous dining options

and visitors are often bewildered

by the sheer volume and diversity

of choice across the emirate.

Cuisine from around the world

mingles in RAK with restaurants

offering a vibrant and varied

mix of international flavors and

impressive culinary standards.

40 NEW FACULTY AND STAFF S URVIVAL GUIDE

RES TAURANTS • Al Sahari Restaurant—Lebanese; Old RAK, Bin Salem

St.Caesars--Indian, Arabic, Asian, Continental, Sizzlers

Corniche Road

• Chiles--Manar Mall-Grand Restaurant; Indian, Nakheel

• Hilton Hotel

• Nafourah Café--All day

• Al Khor--Buffet

• Hoof’n Fin--Evenings

• Hilton RAK Resort & Spa

• Al Mairid Lighthouse Bar--Light meals; rooftop with

stunning seaview of setting sun

• Waterbreaker Restaurant--International buffet and a la

carte menu; below Lighthouse Bar

• KFC--Sharjah Road, near Bin Majid Hotel

• Lebanese House Restaurant--Muntasir Rd. beside Nakheel

Hotel

• Manar Mall Food Court--Fast food: Arab, Chinese, Indian,

and International.

• OK Pizzaria Italiana--Pizza and main dishes; opposite

Etisalat and near Splash

• Omar Khayyam—Lebanese; Old RAK

• Pesto- Italian restaurant; Ras Al Khaimah Hotel

• Pizza Inn--Near main post office, Old RAK, and at Manar

• Moroccan Restaurant- Nakheel Area and Al Murjan Island

• Food Courts-- all the large shopping malls.

HOME

DELIVE RY

SE RVICE

Al Sahari Restaurant

Lebanese Tel: 07-2333966

Chiles

Tel: 07-2288838 Free delivery

Golden Crown Restaurant

Indian/ Asian Near Nakheel Hotel

Tel: 07-2284471

Pizza Inn

Tel: 07-2334040 Free delivery

Taj Mahal

Indian/Asian Tel: 07-2283336

Nakheel, across from Modern Bookshop.

Indian Food

Caesar restaurant - +971 7 2336033

Al Jazeera Supermarket

Home deliveries to Al Hamra Village 07 244 7233 or 050 371 1533

Burger King

Delivery: 600 5 22224

McDonalds

Manar Mall 07 228 9995 Pizza Hut

Ras Al Khaimah Delivery: 600 569999

42 NEW FACULTY AND STAFF S URVIVAL GUIDE NEW FACULTY AND STAFF SURVIVAL GUIDE 43

DRY CLEA

LA

BOOKS

CLUBS AND

ORGANIZATIONS

• Berlitz Arabic Phrase Book - available at bookshops in

major cities.

• Learn Arabic in 30 Days – National Integration Language

Series. Available at Modern Bookshop (18 Dhs.) 8:30-

1:30 pm and 4:30-10 pm; Fri 5:30-10 pm.

Location: Nakheel – opposite UAE Exchange (Also has

large supply of stationery - school and office supplies)

• Largest Selection of Books in English in RAK -Dubai

Library Distributors.

Location: On the boat roundabout on Ahmed bin Majed Road. Tel 07-2333320

• MODERN BOOKSHOP

P.O Box 5430, Ras Al Khaimah, United Arab Emirates

Telephone: +971(7) 2286162 / Facsimile: +971(7) 2286474 Cultural and Social

• RAKATS - Ras Al Khaimah Amateur Theatrical Society Tel: Paul or

Darcy— 07-236 1623 Work— 07-202 5264

• RAKSA - RAK Sailing Club – By membership; social and sailing

activities Tel: (07) 2237376 (clubhouse) Mobile - (050) 371

7539

Commodore- Reg Furlong Related

Websites:

http://www.expatriates.com/classifieds/rak/

A community site for expats living in Ras Al Khaimah provides basic

information and support for both new arrivals and long term residents.

Includes links to: Basics, Maps, What’s On, RAK Social, Goods/Services, the

Newsletter, Charities, and Learning Materials. The What’s On link has info on

activities such as yoga, salsa lessons, Pilates, etc.

The RAKPAT Newsletter can be downloaded and printed out from the website.

COURIER SERVICES

NERS AND

UNDRIES

• Aramex -Tel: 07-2282044

• DHL - Tel: 07-2277580

Hours: Sat – Thurs. from 8 – 1 pm and 3 -6 pm; Closed Fridays.

Location: Ground floor, right of main entrance in RAK Free Trade

Zone Building.

• Empost – U.A.E. National Courier Company Offers much lower rates

than brand names such as DHL for local and international delivery

service.

Tel: 07-2335190, Hours: Sat – Thurs from 8 am – 8 pm; Closed

Fridays. Location: Behind RAK Central Post Office

• UPS Tel: 8004774 (Toll Free UAE number). Hours: Sat – Thurs from

7:00 am - 10:00 pm.

The Modern Laundry (8 branches in RAK) – Has dry cleaning and laundry

services. Tel: 07 236 1468 - Hours: Sat – Thurs from 9:00 am – 12:30 pm;

Fridays from 4-10 pm.

Location: Next to Nesnas Supermarket in Khuzam area.

Omani Laundry - Offers dry cleaning and laundry services.

Tel: 07-236 4889 Hours: Sat - Thurs from 8:00 am – 12:30 pm and 4:00

-10:30 pm. Fridays from 8:00 am -11:00 am and 4:00 pm -10:30 pm.

Location: Next to Nesnas Supermarket in Khuzam area.

There are many other dry cleaners

44 NEW FACULTY AND STAFF S URVIVAL GUIDE NEW FACULTY AND STAFF SURVIVAL GUIDE 45

EMBASSIES AND

CONSU LATES

Most embassies and consulates are open from

8:45 am -1:30 pm. All are closed on Fridays and Saturdays. Abu Dhabi - Foreign Embassies and Consulates in Abu Dhabi

http://www.uaeinteract.com/travel/embassies.asp

Comprehensive list with telephone/fax numbers and website/

Email addresses.

Dubai - Foreign Consulates in Dubai

http://www.uaeinteract.com/travel/con_dubai.asp

Telephone List

ENTE RTAINMENT

Cinemas

• Novo Cinema at Al Manar Mall has seven movie screens. It

showcases all the latest film releases, usually in English.

Tel: 07-2278888

Tickets cost: 45-65 Dhs. for 3D movie, slightly more.

Website: http://movies.theemiratesnetwork.com/showtimes.

php

• VOX Cinemas – Al Hamra Mall (Ras Al Khaimah)

Phone: 600 599905E-Mail: ahmfeedback@voxcinemas.com

• Gulf Cinema, Nakheel- Shows Bollywood movies.

Opp. Al Nakheel Hotel, Saqr Bin Mohammad Road

Tel - 971 7 222 3313 - Tickets: 15 - 20 Dhs.

FESTIVALS RAK Awafi Festival

Website: www.awafifestival.com. This recently established annual event is held in January. It celebrates RAK’s cultural heritage and also includes

sports activities. The last Awafi Festival was held in December and

January of 2012-2013.

Dubai Shopping Festival

Website: www.mydsf.com

This annual event, which began in 1996, has become a major tourist

attraction for the UAE. It is not only a retail event, but a mega event for

shopping, culture, and entertainment. The DSF takes place for one month

during the winter season, usually in January and February. Several other

U.A, E, cities and other Gulf States now host similar festivals.

Dubai Summer Surprises

Website: www.mydsf.com/dss/eng/dss_home.aspx

Sharjah Ramadan Festival

Website: www.srf.ae

Started in 1991, this annual festival offers family entertainment, cultural,

sports activities, and bargain shopping. It begins a few days before the

start of the Holy Month of Ramadan and continues for 6 - 7 weeks.

46 NEW FACULTY AND STAFF S URVIVAL GUIDE NEW FACULTY AND STAFF SURVIVAL GUIDE 47

Home Centre Ras Al Khaimah

Tel: 07-2271555 Hours: Sat- Wed 10 am-1:30 pm,

Thursday 10 am-11 pm, Friday 5 pm-11 pm

Location: Near Maaor Mall on Muntasir Road.

Chez Maison Ras Al Khaimah

Tel: 01551406151 or 01 555514972

Imported Indonesian teakwood furniture

Sat - Thu: 10 am - 10 pm

Fri: 10 AM - 11 PM

Homes r Us

Ras Al Khaimah

RAK Mall

Find Directions. Tel 07 2339695

Sat - Thu: 10 am - 10 pm

Fri: 10 a.m. - 11 pm

PAN Emirates Furniture Ras Al Khaimah

El Hamra Mall

Tel: 07 243 4444

Mon - Wed: 10:00 am - 10:00 pm

Thu - Fri: 10:00 am - 12:00 am

Sat - Sun: 10:00 am - 10:00 pm

FRIDAY BRUNCH

FURNITURE STORES

One enjoyable and favorite Friday pastime for expats

throughout the Gulf Region, and one that should not be

missed is the Friday Brunch. This “all you can eat” buffet

includes breakfast dishes in addition to lunch entrees. The

brunch, served from around 11:30 am – 4:00 pm, offers a

gastronomic feast of Arabic, oriental, and continental cuisines,

and it provides an opportunity to socialize. Unfortunately,

the only Friday Brunch in RAK at the Hilton Hotel has been

discontinued. However, all the RAK hotels still offer their daily

lunch buffets on Fridays. Dubai has dozens of Friday Brunch

venues and two popular ones are (1) The Alamo Restaurant,

Dubai Marine Beach Resort, Tel: 04-3461111, and (2) Carter’s

Pyramids, Al Wafi Mall

RAK has several furniture stores in all areas of town, a branch

of the international furniture store Home Centre has recently

opened in RAK and has furniture for bedrooms, living rooms,

and dining rooms, along with garden furniture, kitchenware

and household accessories. If the furniture selection in RAK

is not to your satisfaction, then you may want to purchase

your furniture from the numerous furniture stores in Sharjah

or Dubai and have it delivered to RAK. There are also much

larger Home Centre stores in Sharjah and Dubai and there are

two IKEA stores in Dubai. Some furniture stores also provide

installment payment plans to newly arrived expatriates.

NOTE: If you are looking for used furniture, you may check the RAKPAT Newsletter

or visit the used furniture souq in RAK.

48 NEW FACULTY AND STAFF S URVIVAL GUIDE

HEA LTH AND SPO RTS CLUBS

Several RAK hotels have health and fitness clubs which range in

price depending on the benefits package, membership types,

and periods for singles, couples, and families with children.

There is something to satisfy all health enthusiasts. You can

call or go by to select the package that best meets your needs.

For contact information see HOTELS.

Health Club membership is also available at:

Hilton Beach Club

Tel: 07-2271468 (2288844)

Location: Mairid area in Old RAK

Tower Links Golf Club

A monthly gym membership is available for 250dhs.

Tel: 07-2279939

Location: Khuzam Road across from the Ruler’s Palace

Website: www.towerlinks.com

Fitness First

Julfar Towers, Ras Al Khaimah

Tel: 07 226 3020

Gold’s Gym

Building 7, Mina Al Arab, Lagoon Walk, Ras Al Khaimah

HOTELS

Cove Rotan:

Category:

Telephone: 07-206 6000/ 8007744

Website: http://www.rotana.com/rotanahotelandresorts/

unitedarabemirates/rasalkhaimah/thecoverotanaresort

Waldrof Astoria

Category:

Telephone: 07- 2035555 Vienna St. RAK

Website: http://waldorfastoria3.hilton.com

Rixos Bab A Bahr

Category:

Telephone: 07- 2020 0000- Al Marjan Island. RAK

Website: www.rixos.com

Al-Hamra Fort Hotel & Beach Resort

Category:

Telephone: 07-2446666

Website: www.alhamrafort.com (Jazeerah Al Hamra)

Hilton Hotel

Category:

Telephone: 07-2288888

Website: www.hilton.com

NEW! Hilton Ras Al Khaimah Resort & Spa

Category:

Telephone: 07-228888

Website: www.hiltonworldresorts.com

Ras Al Khaimah Hotel

Category:

Telephone: 07-2362999

Website: www.rak-hotel.co.ae

Bin Majid Beach Hotel

Category:

Telephone: 07-2352233

Website: www.binmajid.com

Bin Majid Beach Resort

Category:

Telephone: 07-2446644

Website: www.binmajid.com

Al Nakheel Hotel

Category:

Telephone: 07-2282822

50 NEW FACULTY AND STAFF S URVIVAL GUIDE NEW FACULTY AND STAFF SURVIVAL GUIDE 51

HOUSEHOLD GOODS

AND ELECTRONICS

MARKETS AND SOUQS Housing

RAK PROPERTIES 07-2283644

ALHAMRA PROPERTIES

07-2434477

Electronics

Most of the electronics stores,

which seem to specialize in

selling televisions, are

congregated in the Nakheel

area around the Gulf Cinema

on Sheik Saqr Bin Qasimi

Road. Carrefour

at Al Manar Mall and LuLu Center

also carry electronics products.

Jumbo Electronics

Tel: 07-2271991 Hours: Sat–

Thurs from 9:30 am– 1 pm and

4:30-9:30 pm; Fridays, 4:30

Pm-9:30 pm. Location: Nakheel

area - Across the parking lot from

Nakheel Post Office.

LuLu Center (Hypermarket)

Tel: 07-2282000 Hours: Sat-Thurs

from 9 am-1:00 pm and 4:30 pm-

11:30 pm; Fridays 4:30 pm-11:30

pm. Location: Nakheel on Muntasir

Road

Household

Major appliance stores such as

Carrefour and LuLu have a fairly

good supply of brand name

household appliances. In addition,

numerous small shops in the

Nakheel area around the Gulf

Cinema carry major and minor

household appliances, such as

stoves, refrigerators, washing

machines, microwave ovens,

blenders, etc.

Al Ghandi Electronics

- for Phillips and Whirlpool

Appliances

Tel: 07-2286936 Hours: Sat –Thurs

from 8:30 am-1:00 pm and 4:30

Pm-8:30 pm; Closed Fridays.

Location: Nakheel- Sheik Saqr bin

Qasimi Road near Rafa Vide.

Maps

Maps of the U.A.E. and RAK are

available at the RAK Tourism

Office, Carrefour, Books Plus,

and at the Sevilla Bookshop in

Al Manar Mall. Beware, however,

for maps can become quickly

outdated in the fast developing

Emirates. Furthermore, more

than one name for the same

street, different names for the

same street on either side of an

intersection, differences between

the spelling of street names

on maps and street signs, and the

lack of easily visible posted

names on the actual streets can

also make using a map quite

challenging. NOTE: The latest

official City Tourist Map from the

RAK Tourism Office is included in

your “Welcome Pack.” In addition,

Appendix E has a map of RAK

showing its district areas.

Giving Directions

Again, cultural differences play a

big part here. As a rule, when

people give you directions, street

names (even if they exist) are

rarely used. People will usually

give you directions to places

by using reference points, such

as store or building names and

assume that you know their

locations. If you do not know

where these reference points

are, then it will be very difficult

to follow the directions to your

destination.

Mairid Fish and Vegetable Market – It’s located by the sea in the Al

Mairid area in the vicinity of the Hilton Beach Club. Many locally

caught varieties of fresh seafood are available daily. Get there early.

Open daily, afternoon only on Fridays.

RAK Fruit and Vegetable Market – This market has been temporarily

relocated under the Bridge Road, just past the Abu Tayouf Floating

Fish Restaurant, while a new market is being built in the old location.

The new market will be housed in modern, covered buildings in Old

RAK, near the HSBC Bank, just off the Bridge Road. As of this writing,

the new building has not been completed.

The Old Souq – In Old RAK across the bridge, take the Bridge Road

and head straight for the sea near the fishing port. Take a leisurely

walk around the many little shops and soak up the atmosphere of

a traditional market. Here, unlike shops with fixed prices, you can

usually bargain for your price in the traditional custom. You will find

an eclectic mixture of food shops with aromatic spices, local herbs,

and nuts, along with fabric and tailor shops tucked in between

souvenir, household, small appliance, and knickknack shops.

52 NEW FACULTY AND STAFF S URVIVAL GUIDE NEW FACULTY AND STAFF SURVIVAL GUIDE 53

NEWS PAPERS AND MAGAZINES

NEWS PAPERS The major English-language

dailies in the U.A.E. are the Gulf

News, Khaleej Times, and The

National. They are delivered daily

to Saqr Library at AURAK and are

available for in-library reading.

You can buy them at Carrefour in

Al Manar Mall, and they are also

available in grocery stores. The

cost is 3 Dhs.

MAGAZINES The Saqr Library at AURAK currently

subscribes to magazines such as

Time, National Geographic, and

Readers Digest. These magazines are

not usually available for purchase in

RAK: however, they and a cornucopia

of international magazines are sold

in most bookstores in the Dubai

Shopping Malls.

NEWS PAPER

WEBSITES The Gulf News www.gulfnews.com

The Khaleej Times www.

khaleejtimes.com

The Gulf Today www.godubai.com/

gulftoday

Emirates Today www.

emiratestodayonline.com

OSTRICH FARM Close by Saqr Park in Digdagah, you may be surprised to find a large

number of ostriches strutting around

their compound. So drive by if you

are in the area.

PARKS AND

GARDENS Family-oriented Saqr Public Park

is located in the village of

Kharran, about 10 km east of RAK

city. Khuzam Park, in Khuzam, has

electronic games for children.

POS TAL SERVICES RAK Central Post Office

Tel: 2333517 -07

Hours: Saturday to Thursday from

8:00 am – 9:00 pm; Fridays, 9- 5 pm.

Location: Old RAK on Sheik Sultan

Bin Salem Street- Has a Western Union office.

Nakheel Branch Post Office

Tel: 2281734-07

Hours: Sat – Thurs from 8:00 am –

8:00 pm; Closed Fridays. Location:

Directly opposite and across the

parking lot from Jumbo Electronics.

PUBLIC

TRANSPO RTATION

BUSES Al Hamra buses run from the RAK Public Taxi and Bus Station, on Al

Faisal Road. Buses from this station

travels to UAQ, Ajman, Sharjah, and

Dubai. The buses leave daily, from

around 7 am, then run every hour

until 8 pm.

TAXIS IN RAK Since there are no city buses or

trains in Ras Al Khaimah, taxis are

the main and very popular form

of transportation. Luckily, taxis

are very convenient, ubiquitous,

and inexpensive. There are three

companies: Al Hamra Taxi, Al Arabia

Taxi, and Cars Taxi. All taxis in Ras

Al Khaimah operate by meter and

their starting fare is 2.50 dhs and

3 dhs after 10 pm. The running

charge is 1 dhs per kilometre for the

first 10 km, and 1.25 dhs for each

kilometer after that. Other emirates

have higher rates. Pink Taxis driven

by female drivers accommodate the

transportation needs of women.

Taxis can be pre-booked by phone,

although some taxi call centers

might just give you the phone

numbers of a few taxi drivers. Taxis

can be found outside main hotels or

shopping centers.

TAXIS OPERATOR: 700 1 800

NEW FACULTY AND STAFF SURVIVAL GUIDE 55

Pets are uncommon among Arabic people. Dogs are especially thought to be unclean. Therefore, be sensitive to the reactions from

your Arabic neighbors and coworkers. InoculationsNo immunizations are required for travel to the U.A.E For information regarding

kennels in the U.A.E., please re fe r to the following site http://www.zu.ac.ae/employment/html/pets.htm

BRINGING PETS The cost of bringing pets to the U.A.E. is the responsibility of the individual. Pets may only be imported to the U.A.E. as cargo

and this can be very expensive. If you choose to travel without your pet, two organizations in the Emirates can coordinate the

importation of your pet once it reaches the U.A.E. - the British Veterinary Center of Abu Dhabi and Dubai Kennels and Cattery.

These facilities also offer export services, but please be aware they only handle importing inside the U.A.E. If you hire a

professional pet shipper from your home country, that organization will easily be able to

TRAVELLING WITH PETS If you choose to bring your pet you may ship it separately or have it travel with you; please follow the guidelines outlined below:

Import Permit and Vaccination Card:

1. The import permit validity will be only for one month.

2. It is not allowed to import the animal with an expired import permit.

3. Log on to the website and register UAE Ministry of Environment and Water

4. You will be given a Reference Number.

5. Send by email or fax to the Ministry a copy to the pets’ vaccination and rabies naturalization details as outlined below.

6. Vaccination cards must show that the pet has a microchip or tattoo number (mandatory) and that the pet has been

vaccinated.

Dogs Rabies* Canine Distemper Virus (CDV) Canine Parvo Virus Infectious Canine Hepatitis Leptospirosis

Cats Rabies* Feline Pan Leukcopenia (FPV) Feline Rhinotrachitics (FHV1-) Feline Calicivirus

* not required if animal under age of 3 months and the vaccination must have been within the last year and at least 21 days

should be elapsed after the vaccination date.

a) Certificate for Rabies Serum Neutralization Antibody test:

Unless the animal is coming from one of the countries listed below, the certificate should be from a governmental

laboratory or an accredited laboratory. If the animal is coming from one of the countries listed below, no certificate is

required.

Australia Austria Andorra Ascension island Antigua & Barbuda

Aruba Barbados Bahrain Bermuda Belgium

Canada Chile Cyprus Cayman Islands Croatia

Denmark Finland Fiji France French Polynesia

Falkland Islands Germany Gibraltar Greece Hong Kong

Iceland Ireland Italy Japan Jamaica

KSA Kuwait Luxembourg Liechtenstein Monaco

Malta Montserrat Mauritius Mayotte Norway

Netherlands New Caledonia New Zealand Oman Portugal

Qatar Sweden Spain Switzerland San Marino

Saint Vincent and the Grenadines Saint Kitts and Nevis Singapore United Kingdom U.S.A

Vatican City Vanuatu Wallis & Futuna b) It is not allowed to import dogs or cats under 4 months of Age into U.A.E. Dogs or Cats less than 4 months of age will be kept in the quarantine station until it is 4 months of age. All costs of

housing, care, feeding, medical services and others has to be paid by the Importer

c) The pet will be shipped in Cargo not with the owner. Check the IATA conditions for carrying pets (http:www.iata.org) d) Each person is allowed to import only 2 pets. e) The Following documents must be submitted on arrival of the animal:

• Original Health Certificate.

NEW FACULTY AND STAFF SURVIVAL GUIDE 57

• Original Vaccination Card

• Original Certificate for Rabies Serum Neutralization

f) The importer will pay the fees (currently 200 Dirham (E-Dirhams) per pet) at the entry point on arrival of the pet.

It is preferable that the importer buy an E-dirham card from any bank or post office before reaching the entry point.

g) The following breeds or types of dogs are prohibited to be imported into U.A.E.:

• Pit Bull Terrier or American Pit Bull Terrier.

• Japanese Tosa (Tosa Inu: Tosa Fighting Dog).

• Argentinian Fighting Dog (Dogo Argentino: Argentinian Mastiff).

• Brazilian Fighting Dog (Fila Brasileino: Brazilian Mastiff).

• Cross Breeds with extract of the above listed breeds.

• Wolf Dog Hybrid (Any dog breed crossed with a wolf).

h) When traveling with pet(s), do take into account the following:

(i) Air travel routing - Airlines routing through the UK generally do not permit pets. But some travelers have found

KLM and Lufthansa to be very helpful in shipping their pets because these airlines have good connecting flights

and/or availability of facilities at the European airport for handling their pet(s). Therefore, you should request from

your Human Resources representative the option to make your own travel arrangements based on the university’s

fare allowance, and you will be reimbursed by AURAK at a later date. AURAK reimbursement of air ticket purchases

may take more than a month.

(ii) Hotel accommodation upon arrival – Hotels will not allow pet(s). Ras Al Khaimah does not have kennels for pets.

58 NEW FACULTY AND STAFF S URVIVAL GUIDE NEW FACULTY AND STAFF SURVIVAL GUIDE 59

RAS AL KKHAIMAH

AIRPO RT

The Ras Al Khaimah International Airport, which was

inaugurated in 1976, is located 18 Km (12 miles) from

RAK past Digdigah. Although most major international

airlines do not operate at RAK Airport, those that do

include Egypt Air, Gulf Air, Indian Airlines, and Pakistan

International Airlines. Main destinations are Muscat,

Bahrain, Doha, Cairo, and Ras Al Khaimah.

Tel: 07-2448111

Website: www.rakairport.com

RAK EXHIBITION

CENTER

RAK FREE TRADE

ZONE

This spacious facility, which promotes business and

economic development in RAK, hosts exhibitions and

fairs. It includes a large auditorium for staging

entertainment events and celebrations. Contact them for

their schedule of events. Tel: 07-2272999

Location: Mamourah area, near the Hilton Hotel. Office Complex: In Mamourah area, near the Exhibition

Center. Its various departments administer applications,

licenses, etc. for clients who want to set up businesses.

Also has an Emaarak property office onsite. See location

map on page 37.

Website: www.rakftz.com/en/

60 NEW FACULTY AND STAFF S URVIVAL GUIDE NEW FACULTY AND STAFF SURVIVAL GUIDE 61

SHOPPING AND

MALLS Shopping facilities in RAK are extensive; there are

three large shopping malls, Al Manar Mall, RAK Mall,

and Al Safeer Mall. Smaller and independent shops are

located in the Nakheel area. Shops that sell similar

products, goods, and services are often located next to

each other on certain streets.

Center Point Center Point – include Lifestyle, Babyshop, Splash, Shoemart.

Tel: 07-2280111

Hours: Sat-Wed - 10am-1:30pm and 5pm-10:30pm/

11pmThursdays; Fridays 5-11pm.

Location: Nakheel, opposite Etisalat

Al Hamra Mall Al Hamra Mall- include Banks, Body care / Cosmetics /Perfumes,

CHILDREN’S FASHION / MATERNITY, ELECTRONICS / MOBILES /

APPLIANCES , FINANCIAL SERVICES/ATM, FOOT WEAR / LEATHER

GOODS /BAGS/ LUGGAGE, SPORTS WEAR & GOODS

Hours: Sat-Wed - 10am to 10 pm

Thursday and Friday from 10 AM to 11 PM

Location: Al Hamra

For more information: www.alhamramall.com

Tel: +971 07 207 0300

Al Manar Mall Al Manar Mall is easy to spot for it has an orange, saucer-like roof

and green glass walls. Alongside the creek, the one-story mall has a

Carrefour Hypermarket, several of the usual mall shops, a food court,

and the Grand Manar Cinema.

Mall Shop Hours: Sat – Thurs from 10:00 am – 10:00 pm; Fridays from

4 – 10 pm.

Carrefour Hours: Open every day from 9:00 am - 12:00 am

Location: Nakheel, on Muntasir Road, near the Bridge Road

Website: www.manarmall.com (Has complete list of all shops and

restaurants.)

Safeer Mall +971 (7) 235-6569 - P.O.Box: 33039 - Ras al Khaimah, UAE

Rak Mall Khuzam Road

P.O.Box:2633 - Ras Al Khaimah, UAE

Tel. No: +971 - 7 - 207 0300 - Fax. No: +971 - 7 - 233 9099

Email: reception@rak-mall.com

MAJOR U.A.E. MALLS

Dubai Dubai Mall--one of the biggest malls in the world),

Burjman Centre

Diera City Centre-- Diyafa Street

Dune Centre,

Al Ghurair Centre

Ibn Batuta Mall

Jumeirah Beach Road Malls

Lamcy Plaza

Mall of the Emirates

Mercato Mall

Wafi Mall

Abu-Dhabi Abu-Dhabi Mall

Marina Mall

Ajman City Center Mall

Safeer Mall

Sharjah

Sahara Mall

Mega Mall

Sharjah City Centre Dubai Malls Guides

http://guide.theemiratesnetwork.com/living/dubai/shopping_malls.

php

62 NEW FACULTY AND STAFF S URVIVAL GUIDE NEW FACULTY AND STAFF SURVIVAL GUIDE 63

SPO RTS AND

RECRE ATION

AVIATION

LEARN TO FLY!

Al Jazira Aviation Club

Tel: 07-2446416

Location: Jazeerah Al Hamra

BASKETBALL

The AURAK campus has an

indoor court and an outdoor

court.

BILLIARDS

Champion Billiards Cafe

Hours: Sat – Thurs from 10 am-8

pm and Fridays from 2 pm-2 am

Location: Khuzam, near Nesnas

Supermarket.

BIRD WATCHING UMM

AL QUWAIN

Birdwatchers can enjoy

wonderful wildlife at Khor Al

Beidah and sites east and south

of town. Al Sinniyah Island is

visible from the corniche. The

area is the perfect feeding,

nesting and resting habitat for

several species of Heron and

Plover, greater Flamingo, Gulls

and Yerns. Many birds can also

be seen in Burairat where AURAK

is located; and the seashores and

khors of Ras Al Khaimah have an

abundance of water birds.

BOWLING Super Bowling Center [Also has

billiards]

Tel: 07-2289595

Hours: Daily from 10:00 am

-2:00am. Location: Nakheel,

adjacent to Splash

CAMEL RACING –

CAMEL FARM

This is a seasonal activity that

takes place in the winter only

from approximately October-

April, and the track is located

in Digdagah, between RAK City

and the RAK airport. In addition

to the 10 km racetrack, there

is a camel farm where camels

are bred and cared for by local

Bedouin tribes.

GOLF

Al Hamra Golf Club and Resorts

Tel: 07-2447474

Website: www.alhamragolf.com

This private members club is

built around a large, open lagoon

along the shores of the Arabian

Gulf in the environs of Al Hamra

Village and the Al Hamra Fort

Hotel. It’s a 20-minute drive

south of RAK city on the Sharjah

Road. The Club offers an 18-hole

par 72 championship golf course,

a Golf Academy, golf lessons with

PGA professionals, a Clubhouse, a

Proshop, a gym, practice facilities,

and several restaurants also

open to non-members.

Tower Links Golf Club

Tel: 07-2279939

Hours: First tee time at 7:30 am with

closedown at 8:00 pm every day.

Location: On Khuzam Road near the

roundabout in front of the Ruler’s Palace.

Website: www.towerlinks.com (Website

recently upgraded and is more

interactive.)

The Tower Links Golf Club is situated

around a Mangrove Resort. It offers an

18 hole bar, 72 course with 4 tees, a Golf

Academy, a flood-lit driving range, and

short game facilities. Amenities also

include the Awtar Restaurant and Bar

and a Clubhouse deck with wonderful

views of the greens, the RAK skyline,

and the Hajjar Mountains. Golf club

membership (with free access to the

Club Gym) and individual and group

lessons, taught by PGA professionals, is

also available.

HORSEBACK RIDING

Al Awadi Stables

The stable offers both horses and ponies,

basic to advance riding lessons for

children and adults, and an on-site coffee

bar and restaurant on premises.

Tel: Mobile 050-9656870 Contact

Phillipa for prices, and details.

Location: 25-minute drive outside RAK

to the southeast off E 18 heading to

Manama.

POWERED PARACHUTE

CLUB

Tel: Ken Bricker Mobile- 050-2778464

Website: www.uaeppc.com

SHOOTING

Ras Al Khaimah Shooting Club

This club offers clients shooting ranges

with a large selection of guns and an

On-site cafeteria. .

Tel: 07-2363622

Hours: Tuesday to Sunday from 3:00 pm

- 9:00 pm.

Location: Turnoff is on Khuzam Road

directly opposite the Tower Links Golf

Club.

SNOOKER

RAK Snooker Club (Snooker and Billiards)

Tel: 07-2361171. Hours: Daily from 2:00

Pm-2:00 am.

Location: Cornice Road

SOCCER

AURAK has a football field, and the main

RAK football stadium is nearby.

SQUASH

RAK Hotel

Health Club members may use the

squash court here free of charge; non-

members are charged 15 Dhs per hour.

Tel: 07-2362999 Hours: 8:00am –

10:00pm

SWIMMING AND WATER

SPORTS

Diving

NOTE: Seasoned expats often go to the

Sandy Beach

Resort (See page 22) [There is no

mention of Sandy Beach on page 22. A

link would be better anyway if this is to

be on the website.}

Centre for Diving and Water Sports

Tel: 07-2333166/ 2330422

Hours: Mon-Wed and Sat from 8:00 am-

12:30 pm and

4-9:00 pm; Fridays 8 - 11:30 am and 4 -

9:00 pm; closed Thursdays.

Private Beaches

Hotels with private beaches include, Al

Hamra Fort Hotel, Bin Majid Beach Hotel,

and Bin Majid Beach Resort. The Hilton

Beach Club features a private beach club.

Public Beaches

Next to Bin Majid Beach Hotel, in RAK

Old Town, near Al Hamra Ft Hotel, and

in Rams.

Sailing

Ras Al Khaimah Sailing Association

Tel :( 07) 2237376 (clubhouse) or Mobile

- (050) 371

7539 Commodore-Reg Furlong

Location: Old RAK, Mairid, on beach near

the radio mast; sailboats and sailing

lessons; very reasonably priced single

and family memberships.

NOTE: Family-oriented with private

beach.

Website: www.jos-esl.com/raksa/

64 NEW FACULTY AND STAFF S URVIVAL GUIDE

NEW FACULTY AND STAFF SURVIVAL GUIDE 65

WATER SKIING

RAK Water Ski Club

Tel: 07-2364444

Location: Corniche Road.

Website: www.waterskiing.org/

TENNIS

Hilton Hotel

2 outdoor flood-lit hard courts available

free to Health Club members. Members’

guests are charged 50 dhs per hour. No

tennis coach is available.

Tel: 07-2288888 Hours: Daily from 9:00

am-8:00 pm.

RAK Hotel

2 outdoor flood-lit hard courts available

free to Health Club members. Non-

members pay 40 dhs per hour during the

day and 60 dhs per hour at night.

Resident tennis coach and lessons are

available.

Tel: 07-2362999 Hours: 8:00 am – 10 pm

daily.

VOLLEYBALL

RAK Hotel has a volleyball court.

Wadi Bashing

Look for books on backcountry U.A.E.

adventures.

You will need a 4-wheel drive.

66 NEW FACULTY AND STAFF S URVIVAL GUIDE

BOOKS

Off-Road in the Emirates by Dariush

Zandi

Off-Road Explorer (U.A.E.) by Explorer

Publishing

WALKING

RAK HHH –Hash House Harriers (Family)

This RAK branch of the worldwide group

meets every Sunday. In winter, the walks

begin at 5:00 pm and in summer; they

begin around at 6:15 pm.

Contact: Tahir Mansoor Khawaja

Tel: Mobile – 050-5900086

Email: tmkhawaja@hotmail.com

SUPERMARKETS

TELEPHONE CARDS

Major RAK supermarkets are Carrefour, Choithram, Nesnas, and Safeer

Market.

Carrefour-Manar Mall

Choithram-Nakheel, on Sheik Saqr Bin Qasim Road near the UAE

Exchange.

Nesnas-Khuzam, down from RAK Hotel, near Champion Billiards Café.

Safeer Market – Corniche Road, Nakheel, and the Zayed Shopping

Center.

Spinneys- Al Hamra Mall

Prepaid mobile phone cards are available in 25, 50, 75, and 100

AED denominations. Plastic cards have been replaced by a paper

receipt. Mobile phone cards are sold by Etisalat, Carrefour, Nesnas

Supermarket in Khuzam, and in all grocery stores. In addition, these

cards are usually available at petrol stations.

NEW FACULTY AND STAFF SURVIVAL GUIDE 67

Where your language is a foreign language, and there are cultural TAXIS See Public Transportation

ETIQUET TE

68 NEW FACULTY AND STAFF S URVIVAL GUIDE

differences in telephone etiquette. Without the benefit of face

to face contact, there is definitely more room for confusion and

misunderstanding. The following tips may be helpful:

Remember you are in a foreign country and Arabic is the official

language.

Try to learn some basic Arabic phrases as soon as possible.

Respect that telephone etiquette may be different from your cultures

etiquette.

Always confirm that the person you are talking to can really speak

and understand English and is not just trying to please.

You may be passed around to two or three people before you find

someone who can actually speak English and understand you over the

telephone.

Never expect to reach the person you are calling on the first try.

Always expect to be told to call back in 5 minutes or 10 minutes.

Always expect that the higher the title of the person you want to

speak with is, the longer it will take (sometimes days) to reach him or

her.

Even if the person on the phone does not have the information you

want, they will still try to help you.

As with any task, politeness, courtesy, and patience are the keys to

success.

TELEVISION

USEFUL WEBSITES

Cable

At present, cable television is available through Etisalat in RAK.

Satellite

Satellite TV is readily available. Be sure to check with your landlord to

see which, if any, satellite dishes and systems are already installed in

your building.

For additional information on working and living in the United Arab

Emirates, the following websites will prove useful.

www.emirates.org www.abudhabi.com www.dubai.com www.sharjah.com

www.sharjah-welcome.com

www.everyculture.com/To-Z/United-Arab-Emirates.

http://wikitravel.org/en/sharjah

www.expatwoman.com

www.justlanded.com/english/Dubai/

http://gulfnews.com/uaessentials/residents-guide

NEW FACULTY AND STAFF SURVIVAL GUIDE 69

DUBAI AREA

Parks and Beaches

Parks & Beaches contact number

Dubai Creek Golf & Yacht Club 04-380 1919

Al Hamriya Park 07 243 4005

04-2692954 07 226 4224

Al Rashidiyah Park 04-2851208

Wonderland Amusement Park 04-3241222

AQUAVENTURE 04-426 2000

Arabian Ranches Golf Club 04-366 4700

Mushrif Park 04-2883624

Safa Park 04-3492111

Jumeirah Beach Park 04-3492555

Creek Park 04-3367633

Wild Wadi Water Park 04-3484444

Al Wasl Park

Al Towar Park

Al Khazzan Park

Satwa Park 050 420 2892

Emirates Golf Club 04-3802222

Dubai Miracle Garden 04-4228902

Za’abeel Park 04-398 6888

Mamzar Beach Park

70 NEW FACULTY AND STAFF S URVIVAL GUIDE NEW FACULTY AND STAFF SURVIVAL GUIDE 71

Mall

Location

contact

Dubai Mall Downtown Burj Dubai 800 38224 6255

Mall of the Emirates Al Barsha +971 4 409 9000

Deira City Centre Deira +971 4 295 1010

Mirdif City Centre Mirdif 800-6422

Mercato Shopping Mall Jumeirah +971 04 344 4161

BurJuman Bur Dubai +971-4-3520222

Safeer Mall Al Mamzar Dubai Lamcy Plaza Dubai, UAE Dragon Mart Dubai-Hatta road +971 4 390 3333

Ibn Battuta Mall Sheikh Zayed Road +971 4 362 1900

Times Square Center Sheikh Zayed Road Town centre Jumeirah Beach Road Bin Sougat shopping center Rashidiya Wafi Mall Sheikh Rashid Road +971 (4) 324-4555

Jumeira Beach Center Jumeirah Palm Strip shopping mall Jumeirah Beach Road Dubai Marina Mall Dubai Marina Souk Al Bahar Downtown Downtown Burj Dubai Al Ghurair Deira Khan Murjan Wafi City Oasis Center Sheikh Zayed Road Al Mamzar shopping center Al Mamzar Arabian center Al Khawaneej road The village Jumeirah Beach Road Grand Shopping Mall Al Quoz Industrial Area 1 Sunset Mall Jumeirah Beach Road Twin towers shopping centres Deira, Dubai Dubai Outlet Mall Dubai Outlet City +97144234666

Hamarain Shopping Centre Deira, Dubai The Galleria Hyatt Regency Hotel Reef Mall Deira, Dubai Al Manal centre Deira, Dubai Al Maydan shopping center Deira, Dubai Century Mall Al Mamzar Grand City Mall Al Quoz Industrial Area 4 Magrudys Center Jumeirah Beach Road Al Ittihad Mall Muhaisnah Al Dhiyafah center AlDhiyafah

Hospital in Dubai Shopping malls

Hospital Name Contact them

Dr Kamkar Medical 04-2697171

Gulf Plastic Surgery Hospital 04-2699717

Dr. Mahaveer Mehta Skin Medical Centre 04-2222663

Bin Arab Dental Center - Deira 04-2278827

International Private Hospital Dubai 04-2212484

Ghodousi Medical Center 04-2211191

NMC Speciality Hospital 04-2679999

Welcare Hospital 04-2827788

Beijing TongRenTang Gulf FZ-LLC 04-4356905

Zulekha hospital 04-2678866

Al Rafa Hospital 04-3938777

The American Hospital 04-3367777

Dr. Mahaveer Mehta Skin Medical Centre 04-2222663

Welcare Eye Center 04-3624862

Iranian Hospital Satwa 04-3440250

Al Zahra Private Medical Centre 04-3315000

Emirates Hospital 04-3496666

Drs. Nicolas & Asp 04-3947777

Medcare Hospital 04-4079100

72 NEW FACULTY AND STAFF S URVIVAL GUIDE NEW FACULTY AND STAFF SURVIVAL GUIDE 73

SHARJAH AREA

Resturant

Resturant Name Location Contact number

Sindh Shahbaz

(Pakistani,Indian food) Alkhan(opposite Etisalat Business Center 04-4409300

Panial level 3, Cystal plaza, king faisal road, almajaz 1 06-5744668

Papa John's level 2, food court Area, sahara center 06-5319053

Mezbaan Hyderabad Abu Talha street, Al Nud 04-4409302

Rainbow Steak house opposite giant supermarket, Alyarmook 06-5723505

Aroos Damascus Beside AlMasraf Bank, immigration road, AlNud 06-5739900

Burger King Enoc petrol station, Altaawan road 600522224

Delhi Nihari near alzahra hospital, Rolla 04-44-9300

salkara level 6, Ansar mall, Alnahda 06-5300988

TGI Friday's Majaz waterfront, Buhairah Cornich,Al Majaz 3 600523334

Najmat Lahore Near sharjah Bird Market, AlMina Road 06-5682202

Saravanaa Bhavan Al Nahda residential complex behind sahara centre 06-65255411

Hot burger Near Abu Shagara Park 06-5557800

Student Biryani Next to gold centre, beside giant supermarket 06-5670998

Hardees Corniche street opposite park 600569000

Chieken Tikka Inn Jamal Abdul Nasir street 06-5539390

Indian Palace Ground level, Safeer Mall 04-4409300

Tarboush Near Al Qasba 06-5547555

74 NEW FACULTY AND STAFF S URVIVAL GUIDE NEW FACULTY AND STAFF SURVIVAL GUIDE 75

Shopping malls

Sharjah City Centre

Sahara Shopping Mall- 06-531-6611

http://www.saharacentre.com/location-map.php

Sharjah Mega Mall- 06-5742574

http://yp.theemiratesnetwork.com/map/United_Arab_Emirates/Sharjah/Emax_100960.html

Ansar Mall- 06-531-3339

http://www.ansarmall.ae/location-map.php

© 2014 AURAK All Rights Reserved

licensed educational institution by the Ministry of Higher Education

and Scientific Research, UAE

&

Member of the Association of Arab Universities