Navigating the postal system in Abu Dhabi, though distinct from many Western countries, can be straightforward once you understand the unique nuances. This comprehensive guide covers everything about post offices in Abu Dhabi, from PO Box management to navigating local mail services and international postal practices relevant to Abu Dhabi.
All About Post Offices in Abu Dhabi You Need to Know
1. Understanding the Postal System in Abu Dhabi
Unlike Ras Al Khaimah post offices, Abu Dhabi, part of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), uses a unique postal system that relies heavily on post office boxes (PO Box), rather than traditional home mail delivery. Here’s what you need to know:
1. PO Boxes: Most residents and businesses use a PO Box for their mail. Both personal PO boxes and business PO boxes can be rented from Emirates Post, the official postal operator. There are multiple post offices located across the city, ensuring easy access for all.
2. Makani and Onwani Systems: Instead of the typical street addresses, Abu Dhabi utilizes the Makani and Onwani systems for geographical identification. Makani provides a unique 10-digit code for every building, enhancing location accuracy for services including emergencies and deliveries.
3. No Postal Codes: Unlike many places worldwide, Abu Dhabi does not use postal codes. Should a form demand one, entering ‘00000’ usually suffices.
2. Key Services Provided by Abu Dhabi Post Offices
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jtgUpk9-Sww
Post offices in Abu Dhabi are not only used for sending and receiving mail. They offer a variety of services that cater to diverse needs:
1. Bill Payments and Government Services: You can pay utility bills, fines, and access a variety of governmental paperwork and services.
2. Money Transfers: Money can be sent and received domestically and internationally through Western Union services available at most post offices.
3. Courier Services: For packages that need to be delivered directly to a home or business within the UAE or overseas, Emirates Post offers courier services.
4. MyHome Service: A subscription-based service where mail and packages are delivered directly to your house or apartment, rather than a PO Box.
3. Tips for Using Post Offices in Abu Dhabi
1. Renting a PO Box: Consider renting your own PO Box if you expect to receive mail regularly. You can do this online or by visiting a local post office.
2. Collecting Mail: Regularly check your PO Box. Though not common, delays can occur, so it’s beneficial to collect your mail frequently to avoid any backlogs or potential returns.
3. Sending Mail and Parcels: When sending mail or parcels, ensure you have the correct packing materials, which can be purchased at most post offices. Fill out all forms clearly to avoid delays.
4. Operating Hours: Post offices in Abu Dhabi generally operate from 7:30 AM to 9 PM, though hours can vary by location. Some branches are also open on Saturdays, making them accessible for those who work during the week.
4. Locations of Major Post Offices in Abu Dhabi
– Central Post Office: Located near Madinat Zayed Shopping Centre, this is one of the largest and most visited post offices in Abu Dhabi.
– Khalidiyah Post Office: Situated in the densely populated Al Khalidiyah district, offering full postal and governmental services.
– Mussafah Post Office: Located in the industrial area of Mussafah, catering mainly to businesses.
Conclusion
The postal system in Abu Dhabi is robust, accommodating the needs of residents through a well-structured network of services and facilities. While mail delivery directly to homes is less common, the efficient PO Box system ensures safe and secure mail collection. With the ongoing developments and enhancements in services like MyHome, the system is adapting to provide more convenience to the residents. Whether you are new to the city or have been a long-time resident, understanding and utilizing these services can make managing your mail and packages significantly easier.
