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Society and Business

People

Indian 42.3%; Emirate 17%; Pakistani 13.3%; Arab 9.1%; Bangladeshi 7.5%; Other 10.8%,the UAE has attracted a number of expatriates (American, British, Canadian, Japanese, Chinese and Australian)

Languages

The official language is Arabic, although English is the common working language. Some other languages used are Hindi, Malayalam, Persian, Urdu, Tagalog.

Religion

Islam, Hindu, Christian, Buddhist, Sikh and others

People with Special Needs

An increasing number of public areas now have access and facilities for people with physical challenges. Several of the city's leading hotels also have specially adapted rooms and facilities for people with special needs.

Liquor Laws

Most 4 and 5 star hotels in the UAE serve alcohol in their restaurants and lounges. Some sporting clubs are also known to serve liquor but you must be at least 21 year-old to be served. If you are an expat resident of the UAE a “liquor license” may be required before being served or making a purchase in a liquor store. A licence and can be obtained by your employer or on your own by filling out an application at a liquor shop for a nominal fee. Tourists are not required to have a liquor license.

Legal and illegal drugs

If you must bring prescription drugs into the UAE with you, have your doctor provide you with a description of the drug you are taking and the medical condition surrounding it. You are likely able to purchase the necessary drug in the UAE after visiting a physician to renew your previous prescription. Recreational drugs are illegal and are not tolerated. If you have had exposure to them shortly before coming to the UAE you still run the risk of being detected as having them and the consequences are severe regardless of what citizenship you carry.