Visiting Student Pre-Arrival Handbook

2016

Table of ContentsAbout Dubai............................................................................................................................................................... 3The Weather & Time Zone........................................................................................................................3Language Spoken..................................................................................................................................... 3Financial Info............................................................................................................................................ 3Good to Know............................................................................................................................................................ 4The Dubai Code of Conduct, Decency Rules and Laws.............................................................................4What to wear: around town*....................................................................................................................4

AUD’s Dress Code Policy.......................................................................................................................4Pork.......................................................................................................................................................... 4Alcohol..................................................................................................................................................... 4

Drug-Free and Alcohol-Free Environment at AUD.................................................................................5Embassies................................................................................................................................................ 5Health Insurance...................................................................................................................................... 5Mobile phones.......................................................................................................................................... 5Getting my Affairs in Order................................................................................................................................... 5Visa Requirements................................................................................................................................... 5

Procedure for Extending Visas for Visiting Students.............................................................................5Forms Requirements................................................................................................................................6

Forms from the Admissions Kit.............................................................................................................6Health Forms........................................................................................................................................6Housing Forms......................................................................................................................................6

What to Pack.............................................................................................................................................................. 6Clothes..................................................................................................................................................... 6

It’s cold inside!.....................................................................................................................................6It’s the desert!......................................................................................................................................6

Residence Hall items................................................................................................................................6Cash......................................................................................................................................................... 7From the Airport to AUD....................................................................................................................................... 7Dubai Taxi................................................................................................................................................ 7Dubai Metro.............................................................................................................................................. 7Arriving at AUD......................................................................................................................................... 7At AUD.......................................................................................................................................................................... 7Campus Facilities..................................................................................................................................... 7

UniMart................................................................................................................................................. 7Bank/ATMs............................................................................................................................................7Cafeteria/Food Court.............................................................................................................................7Health Care at AUD...............................................................................................................................7Beauty Salon/Barber.............................................................................................................................8Printing Shop........................................................................................................................................ 8Internet................................................................................................................................................. 8Counseling............................................................................................................................................ 8

Housing Facilities & Services....................................................................................................................8Your room............................................................................................................................................. 8Internet................................................................................................................................................. 8Gym...................................................................................................................................................... 8Kitchen................................................................................................................................................. 8Cleaning Services.................................................................................................................................8Good to know.......................................................................................................................................8

Your Student ID........................................................................................................................................ 9Getting Around......................................................................................................................................................... 9Taxis......................................................................................................................................................... 9Dubai Metro and TRAM.............................................................................................................................9Contact List................................................................................................................................................................ 9

AUD Website and Social Media............................................................................................................................ 9

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About DubaiThe second largest of the seven emirates, which make up the United Arab Emirates, Dubai is located on the southern shore of the Arabian Gulf. Dubai is popular with tourists and business people alike. As a thriving business hub, the government has set up industry-specific free zones (Media City, Internet City, Academic City, etc.) that continue to

attract business people from all over the world.

Dubai is also one of the world's most vibrant tourist destinations. Attracted to its year-round sunshine and luxurious lifestyle. With its lavish reputation, Dubai continues to impress with world-class events such as the annual Dubai Shopping Festival, Dubai International Film Festival, Dubai World Cup, and Dubai Desert Classic golf tournament.

Learn more about Dubai here.

The Weather & Time Zone GMT + 4 hours

Language SpokenArabic is the official language of the UAE; however, English and Urdu are widely spoken and understood.

Public Holidays Fixed: National Day (December 2); New Year's Day (January 1)Varies*: Eid Al Fitr; Eid Al Adha; Hijra New Year's Day, Prophet's Birthday; Accession Day, Essra Wal Me'raj*All Islamic Lunar Holidays for the private sector are fixed per announcement by the relevant Ministry

Hours of Work Government offices - 7:30 am - 14:30 pm. Closed Thursdays and Fridays.AUD – 9:00 am – 18:00 pm Sunday thru Thursday. Closed Fridays.

Financial InfoBanks Both local and international banks in Dubai provide the usual commercial banking services. Transfers can be made without difficulty as there is no exchange control and the dirham is freely convertible.

Visiting students are not eligible to open local bank accounts without residency in the UAE. Therefore, it is most suitable for visiting students to receive cash transfers through Western Union, or use their debit/credit cards from their country of origin.

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Currency The local currency is the UAE Dirham (AED), split into fils (1AED=100 fils). Notes: AED 1000, 500, 200, 100, 50, 20, 10 & 5Coins: AED 1, fils 50, 25, 10US$1= Dh3.67

Credit Cards MasterCard and Visa are widely accepted at hotels, and other retailers throughout the UAE. However, Diners Club, American Express, and Discover are generally accepted only in the main hotels and larger merchants, although the accessibility is expanding.

Good to KnowThe Dubai Code of Conduct, Decency Rules and LawsThis guide aims at setting the standards for social ethics and mutual respect to be followed by all of Dubai's citizens, residents and visitors in respect of the Emirate's culture, religion and habits. Please read through the rules and laws here.

What to Wear Around Town*Dubai is progressive and relatively liberal, but it is still an Islamic city, which requires respect and adherence to certain laws and cultural practices. As a general guide, you may wear everything you usually wear back home, with consideration for excessive skin or cleavage.

Respectfully, you should avoid very short skirts, short dresses, short shorts, revealing tops, and shirts with offensive logos or language. Bikinis and other forms of swimwear are acceptable only at the beach, but proper, opaque cover-ups should be worn at all times when wearing swimwear outside the beach area (i.e. malls, souks).

If you plan to visit any of the souks or mosques, it is most appropriate to wear long skirts or trousers, and loose tops that extend to the elbows. This ensures that you do not offend anyone or attract unwanted attention.

*Please note: that many of above-mentioned suggestions regarding clothing are applicable to the emirate of Dubai only. For instance, Abu Dhabi and Sharjah are more conservative in terms of dress codes, which is strictly enforced.

AUD’s Dress Code PolicyAUD, in accordance with the laws of the UAE, adheres to specific guidelines regarding appropriate attire. As a result, students are expected to respect themselves and others by dressing properly while on campus. Inappropriate attire will not be tolerated and violations are subject to disciplinary action.

Inappropriate attire is defined as, but not limited to: Tight or revealing clothing; Short shorts and micro-skirts; Cleavage-baring tops or dresses; Sagging jeans or jeans with suggestive holes or markings; T-shirts with inappropriate logos or language; Midriff-baring, open-back or halter tops.

PorkMuslims are prohibited from eating pork so it is not included in Arabic menus. Hotels and restaurants frequently have substitutes such as beef and veal on their menus. If pork is available, it is clearly labeled as such. Pork products can be purchased in several local grocery stores.

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AlcoholAlcohol is generally only served in hotel restaurants and bars. Restaurants that are not associated with hotels are not permitted to serve alcohol.

Do not check in alcoholic beverages with you. Alcohol is not permitted on campus and its possession leads to immediate dismissal from student housing and/or from AUD.

Drug-Free and Alcohol-Free Environment at AUDAs a matter of rigorous policy, AUD prohibits the manufacture and unlawful possession, use, sale or distribution of illicit drugs and alcohol by students on its property and at any university activity. Violation of this policy results in dismissal from the university in the case of students, even for a first offense. Violations of the law will also be referred to the appropriate law enforcement authorities.

Embassies Most embassies are located in Abu Dhabi, the capital of the UAE. However, Dubai has several consulates that may be accessible, if needed, during your stay. We recommend that you “register” with your local embassy/consulate shortly after your arrival, in order to receive important emails and information related to your stay in the region.

For a full listing of embassies and consulates, please click here

Health InsurancePrivate health insurance covering care in the U.A.E. is mandatory for all AUD students. If your insurance provider does not cover this region, you have to obtain a health insurance card from AUD, which you can apply for through our Finance Office.

For more details about the AUD Health Insurance Plan, or questions about insurance coverage, please visit the AUD Health Center webpage.

Mobile PhonesThere are two telecom providers in the UAE: Etisalat and du. You might be required to buy a mobile phone device along with the SIM card (rechargeable phone line) during your stay. You can purchase the phone and SIM card from the airport upon arrival, or from convenient stores or any Etisalat/du stand in the malls.

Getting my Affairs in OrderVisa RequirementsProcedure for Extending Visas for Visiting StudentsOption 1: Students who wish to apply for a Visit Visa through the university can do so after they are granted admissions. Students should submit the following documents to the Admissions Office at least one month prior to the start of the summer:

- Colored copy of their passport- 1 passport picture- AED1,000 visa charges

Conditions:- Students who are issued a Visit Visa cannot exit the UAE.- Students must leave the UAE within a maximum of 10 days after the semester ends or

will be reported to the immigration as per their rules and regulations.

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Option 2: Students who can obtain a visit visa upon arrival to Dubai International Airport (i.e.; US citizens, EU citizens) should exit the UAE every 30 days and re-enter again on another visit visa. If you wish to enter the UAE with this option, no need to apply for a visit visa through AUD and you will be held fully responsible for your visa and stay in the UAE as per Dubai Immigration and Authority rules.

The AUD Student Government Association (SGA) welcomes the visiting students to AUD by covering the cost of one visa run (170.00AED) for each visiting student. Visiting students who wish to renew their visa can present their receipt of payment to the SGA officers or Student Activities Coordinators for reimbursement.  If multiple visa renewals are required, students must facilitate additional visa renewals at their own expense. This is a great excuse to travel! For example, students can take longer excursions to Oman that include a visa renewal. The Student Activities Coordinators can share a list of companies who offer excursions at affordable prices upon request.

Please note that AUD does not assume responsibility for the granting of the visa as denials and delays may occur from the Department of Naturalization and Residency Dubai (DNRD). If the visa is denied, the refund policy of the tuition fees will apply as per our rules and regulations. In addition, AUD will not be held responsible for any violations.

If you require further information, please contact our Visa Officer, Mr. Bahaa at belsheikh@aud.edu.

Forms RequirementsMake sure that the following forms have been filled and signed as per instructions.Forms from the Admissions Kit

Waiver and Release Consent to Release Education Records Declaration Acknowledgement

Health Forms Health History Form Authorization for Disclosure of Health history Information Health Insurance Waiver (if applicable)

Housing Forms Housing Questionnaire Form Housing Agreement Form Curfew Form Student Housing Network Use Agreement

What to Pack Adaptors The local electricity is 220/230 volts. You will need rectangular 3-pin adaptors. Adaptors can be purchased at the UniMart on campus.

ClothesIt’s Cold Inside! It is advisable to pack a shawl or a light jacket to wear over summer clothes, since it is cold indoors due to air conditioning during the hot period (April-September).

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Lightweight summer clothing is suitable for most of the year, but sweaters or jackets may be needed for the winter months, especially in the evening. It’s the Desert!Good quality sunglasses are recommended, and photo-chromatic lenses for those who wear glasses. Sunblock, hats, and other protective gear is strongly encouraged if you plan to spend time outside.

Residence Hall Room ItemsStudents are expected to bring their own pillow, bed linen, duvet and toiletries. Sheet size in dorm room: 1meter x 2 meters (single size bed).

CashForeign exchange services are available at the Dubai International Airport arrivals, however we recommend that you plan to have with you around AED350 in cash.

From the Airport to AUD

Dubai TaxiLook for the taxi line upon your arrival to Dubai International Airport. Inform the driver to take you to the AUD campus using the following address: Dubai Media City, exit 32 on Sheikh Zayed Road, then ask to be dropped off at the Housing entrance gate (which is across from HSBC). Fare from Dubai Airport to AUD is around AED100.

Dubai taxis do not accept credit cards for payment.

Dubai MetroYou can also use the Dubai Metro. The Nakheel Metro Station (#38) puts you on campus. Your journey starts in either Terminal 3 Station (#13, only Emirates Airlines) or Terminal 1 Station (#14: all other airlines).

Arriving at AUDGive your name to the security guard who is available 24/7. The guard will call the Housing Controller who will escort you to your room and give you the keys.

There are Resident Assistants (RAs) on duty in both the men’s and women’s housing. Their contact details are available at the security gate of each housing building. Please feel free to contact them at any time upon arrival should you require assistance of any sort.

At AUD

Campus FacilitiesUniMartThere is an on-campus mini convenience store, which also has laundry and dry-cleaning services. The store also sells mobile phone recharge cards.

Bank/ATMsThe Commercial Bank of Dubai has a branch on campus and there are 2 ATM machines available 24 hours.

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Cafeteria/Food CourtThe AUD Cafeteria serves daily menus from 8:00am-8:00pm. A la Carte menus are available for housing students till 11:00pm. The cafeteria can be reached on +971 4 399 3535.

There are two coffee shops, and several food outlets to choose from as well.

There are many restaurants around the AUD campus that are within walking distance. Please check with your RA upon arrival.

Health Care at AUDThe campus Health Center is staffed by three nurses from the American Hospital in Dubai, for health and wellness programming, minor illnesses or injuries, and medical referrals.

The clinic is open during normal university business hours. After hours, the nurses are on-call and available for medical assistance. To dispatch the nurses, students must call the security hotline via +971 4 318 3555 (ext. 555 from a campus telephone).

Beauty Salon/BarberAUD has its own beauty salon and barbershop, with hair, nails, and waxing services.

Printing ShopThere is a printing shop available on campus.

InternetFree wireless Internet access is available on campus.

Counseling AUD provides a licensed Personal Counselor and services are available for all AUD students.

DisclaimerThe American University in Dubai offers short-term counseling services but does not provide psychiatric services. Students experiencing severe psychological problems or mental disorders are referred to qualified mental health professionals in the area. The Counselor is available for emergencies only during office hours. After hours, AUD does not provide any kind of emergency psychological assistance.

Housing Facilities & ServicesYour RoomAUD’s non-smoking housing consists of four residential buildings that accommodate 520 students in total. All rooms are double occupancy and the bathroom is inside the room. Each room has two beds, two mattresses, 2 wardrobes and two desks.

InternetThere is complimentary Wi-Fi in all residence hall rooms.GymThere is a fully equipped gym in each residence hall.

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KitchenCooking is restricted to the kitchens available in each residence hall. Bringing/buying your own kitchen utensils is recommended.

Cleaning ServicesRooms are cleaned on a weekly basis according to a floor schedule. Room cleaning is mandatory and free of charge.

Good to Know The men and women’s student housing are separated. Only visitors of the same gender are allowed in and visiting hours are from 8:00am to

11:00pm No pets allowed

Check-out ProceduresBefore you leave, please return your keys. In case keys are not returned, new keys will be issued and the charge will be debited from your security deposit. After checking-out, please stop by the Housing office to obtain the Security Deposit Release Form. Alternatively, send an email to the Housing Manager, Rayya Al Barazi at ralbarazi@aud.edu.

In addition, please ensure to remove all your belongings from the housing halls. Any belongings left in the room or in the common areas will be discarded.

Your Student IDYour AUD Student ID will be available for pick up from the Registrar’s Office about two weeks after your arrival. You will need to keep it on you coming in and out of campus. You may also use it to check out books in the Library and to get discount from different outlets in Dubai (The AUD Discount List cab be found at https://sscalendar.wordpress.com/).

Getting AroundStreets in Dubai are safe, however, it is preferred that visiting students refrain from walking alone.

Taxis Taxis are readily available at the airport, and throughout the city, and they offer efficient, relatively inexpensive service. Due to time and convenience, taxis are likely the best way for visiting students to get around the city and surrounding areas. Taxis can be flagged down on the street, or pre-booked by telephone for pick-up. Taxi drivers are usually familiar with the main souks, shopping malls, hotels, and major landmarks.

To make a reservation or to learn more about Dubai taxis, please call +971 4 208 0808 or visit the Dubai Taxi website. Dubai Metro and TRAMThe Dubai Metro and the TRAM system provide rail transportation throughout Dubai. AUD is fortunate to have a metro station right on campus (Nakheel Station).

To learn more about the routes, stations, and timings, please visit: Dubai Metro and Dubai Tram

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Contact ListOffice Name Tel. Email

Admissions Ms. Carol Maalouf +971 4 318 3170

cmaalouf@aud.edu

External Relations Ms. Peggy Awad +971 4 318 3138 pawad@aud.edu

Health Center Ms. Nelly Halabi +971 4 318 3200 nhalabi@aud.edu

Visa Ms. Bahaa El Sheikh +971 4 318 3128

belsheikh@aud.edu

Housing Ms. Raya Al Barazi +971 4 318 3133 ralbarazi@aud.edu

Registrar Ms. Matilda Jabbour +971 4 318 3190

mjabbour@aud.edu

Student ActivitiesMs. Kelly Gosa +971 4 318

3136 kgosa@aud.edu

Ms. Kateryna Kurdyuk +971 4 318 3135

kkurdyuk@aud.edu

AUD Website and Social MediaThe AUD website is very informative and extremely detailed. Please browse www.aud.edu to find out about activities, news, and read policies and procedures.

AUD is also very active on social media and we encourage you to like and follow us @AUDubai

Many student clubs have their own social media handles, please ask Student Activities for details.

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