Holidays in the United Arab Emirates: useful information and features of the holiday. Mentality of local residents

For tourists who want to appreciate at a glance all the beauty of the United Arab Emirates and see their greatness, there is a large number of entertainments in the sky:

• Skydiving, organized in the most popular area in the world - over Dubai's artificial island "Palm Jumeirah". This entertainment is recognized as one of the most expensive not only at the resort in the Emirates, but also among others. Getting to the height of a bird's eye parachute with an instructor will cost 2,000 dirhams (32,000 rubles). This price includes the jump, its photo and video recording of the flight.
• Flight to hot-air balloon. At the request of tourists, the trip can be of varying duration, ranging from several hours and ending with a meeting of sunrise and sunset. The flight covers the air territory of several Emirates.
• For those tourists for whom traveling in a hot air balloon is not enough, there are flights over Dubai in a pleasure helicopter.

Desert Safari

A safari in the UAE is a desert excursion accompanied by professional guides. Local travel companies organize three types of trips: jeep, buggy or camel. They include traveling through the hills and sand dunes, watching the sunset with a special observation deck. The trip ends in artificial oases, stylized as Bedouin villages. Here you can taste Arabic dishes, smoke hookah, and also become part of music and dance performances. At the request of vacationers, travel companies organize overnight stays in the open air.

Two water parks have been built in Dubai, recognized as one of the best in the world:

1. Wild Wadi Waterpark. On its territory there are both breathtaking slides for adults and safe water activities, and playgrounds. The main advantage of the park is: a device for creating 3-meter waves and a slide 32 meters high. An entrance ticket for an adult will cost 280 dirhams (4,500 rubles), for children – approximately 215 dirhams (3,400 rubles).
2. Aquaventure water park. Located on the territory of the Atlantis Hotel. The main attraction of the park is a slide called “Neptune Tower”, which is as tall as a 9-story building. Part of the attraction goes through a pool where sharks swim. The cost of an adult ticket is approximately 250 dirhams (4000 rubles), a child ticket is 205 dirhams (3300 rubles). For tourists staying on site, as well as for visitors to the dolphinarium, admission is free.

There are three diving areas in the United Arab Emirates:

1. On west coast In Dubai. This place is not popular among tourists, since during the construction of artificial islands the few coral reefs were destroyed.
2. On east coast. The eastern zone is also not particularly popular among divers. This is due to the poor development of infrastructure.
3. In the north near the border with Oman. Experts recommend diving in the north of the UAE in the area of ​​the Musandam Peninsula. The water area of ​​this zone is characterized by good visibility, as well as a huge variety of animal and plant life. underwater world. You can see whale sharks, coral reefs, and ships that sank during the Middle Ages.

In the center of Dubai is the Creek Strait, on the banks of which there was originally a pier for berthing Indian, African and other ships with various goods. The traditions of the past have been preserved to this day. The best way see the original architectural structures, built as customs and defense structures, - go for a walk around the bay on a comfortable boat or yacht. You can also sail on a classic dhow schooner or abre boat on Dubai Creek. In the Emirates there are abra minibuses, on which the cost of one short trip it will cost only 1 dirham. Renting a boat for 1 hour will cost 100 dirhams (approximately 1,600 rubles).

In Dubai, UAE, many clubs are open to tourists at night, but the most popular among vacationers are the following:

• Club Nasimi. Situated on artificial island next to the Atlantis Hotel. Opening hours: 24 hours a day. During the daytime, Nasimi is an ordinary restaurant, but at night it transforms into a club where world-famous DJs play. Entrance to the club is free for girls; for guys, ticket prices start from 50 dirhams and above, depending on the event.
• Bar 360o. The main feature of the bar is a huge selection of cocktails, which you can drink mainly while listening to relaxing music. The bar offers views of the yachts moored in the roadstead and the silhouettes of the Parus Hotel.
• Al-Fanar Restaurant. One of the few restaurants offering tourists a large selection of dishes local cuisine. It is located in the center of Dubai, but its façade and interior space decorated in the style of past times, when there was no talk of oil revenues that changed the face of the UAE.

If you choose a season to visit the Emirates, find out about the climate in the UAE.

Playing golf

In the United Arab Emirates, golf is favored not only by good windless weather, but also by a large number of golf clubs and specialized courses. Golf tournaments of world significance are periodically held in Dubai, which any tourist can attend. You can try your own strength on one of the most difficult courses at the Emirates Golf Club. For exotic lovers, there is the Majlis Championship field, located in the desert. Faldo field illuminated large quantity spotlights, so it is suitable for playing not only during the day, but also at night.

Club Nasimi, Dubai, video:

Horse racing in the Emirates

From November to the end of March, racing on the famous Arabian horses takes place in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. Approximately from October 25 to April 15, interested tourists can become spectators of camel racing, which also takes place in Dubai. Animals participating in racing are raised specifically for the event, since not every breed is suitable for this type of activity. The races are organized in stadiums covered with sand and their entire appearance imitating the desert landscape familiar to camels.

The UAE is one of the most visited and open countries in the Arab East. Sandy beaches, slender skyscrapers, hot men and their wives, delicious Arabic cuisine, rich sheikhs and golden cars - all this and more can be found in the seven emirates.

Go to a hockey match

It is quite difficult to believe that you can play hockey in the desert. It turns out that the country even has its own national ice hockey team, which plays in the third division of the World Championship. You can see performances or watch the team practice at the mall.

Take a look from above

Everyone knows that it is a city of bulk islands. From the ground, it is difficult to imagine the scale of this ambitious project. But if you look at it from above, you will be delighted with the imagination of architects, engineers and all those who worked to create the islands.

Price: helicopter tour (15 min) - $250

Ride the subway

You can hide from the scorching sun and sweltering heat in an ultra-modern one. There is no driver on the train, because its control is fully automated. It’s better to choose a seat near the front window, which offers a wonderful view, because the train does not go underground, but through a picturesque area.

Price: depends on the distance of the trip and starts from 1.8 dirhams ($0.30)

Get behind the wheel of a car

The UAE is home to one of the most popular and modern Formula 1 racing tracks. After playing with the dates, you can attend the race in, ordering your tickets in advance. After the race, you have the opportunity to ride a car with an instructor. And if your trip to Abu Dhabi does not coincide with the dates of Formula 1, it is worth taking a tour that will tell you how Yas Marina, one of the best racing tracks in the world, works.

Price: excursion - $33

Visit Ferrari World in Abu Dhabi

Under the huge red roof of the theme park, dedicated to, there are more than 20 attractions, as well as shops and restaurants. Feel free to ride the world's fastest pneumatic roller coaster, which reach speeds of up to 240 km/h.

Price: ticket price for adults - 68 $, children - 54 $

Swim at Dubai Aquarium

One of the largest in the world is located in the Dubai Mall. Getting to know the inhabitants of the aquarium will be a fun and educational experience for adults and children. Here you can walk through the tunnel with a huge amount marine inhabitants, of which 44 are sharks. If extreme sports are in your blood, you can dive into the water and personally greet the predator (Shark Diving).

Price: from 25 $

Play KidZania

While adults go shopping and choose gifts for themselves, children frolic in KidZania - a large children's complex inside, where kids can try on various professions. Minimal knowledge of English is preferred, but not required.

Price: about 50 $

Visit Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque

During the day, with 82 domes decorated with marble, it shimmers with white and golden light. Come here during sunset ( best time for photographs): in the evening, artificial lighting gives the building a mysterious feel. The mosque is open to the public every day except Friday mornings.

Take a ride at Yas Waterworld

A unique water park where you can spend the whole day. More than 40 attractions, five of which you will not find anywhere except in the UAE. Three-meter artificial waves of the Bubble’s Barrel attraction, a huge water roller coaster, a 238-meter-high Tornado slide and much more.

Price: day ticket for an adult - about 60 $, for a child - 54 $

Visit Dubai World Cup

Arabian horses, Emirati sheikhs, excitement in the air. Every year on the last Saturday of March, the famous horse races are held at the Meydan Hippodrome, in which representatives of more than 10 countries take part. Girls, stock up on beautiful hats to surprise other ladies, and also win the audience award for the most original headdress.

Price: ticket prices range from $6 to $1000

Photo: thinkstockphotos.com, flickr.com

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is a young state in southwest asia, located in the eastern part of the Arabian Peninsula. The founding date of the state is considered to be December 2, 1971: it was on this day that six emirates declared the creation of a federation; in 1972, the emirate of Ras al-Khaimah joined the federation.

The UAE includes: Abu Dhabi, Ajman, Dubai, Ras Al Khaimah, Umm Al Quwain, Fujairah and Sharjah. The capital of the emirates is Abu Dhabi.

The country's territory is washed by the waters of the Persian and Oman Gulfs. The state borders on Saudi Arabia in the west and south, and Oman in the southeast and northeast.

The vast majority of the UAE population are migrant workers from the South and South-East Asia. Representatives of the indigenous population are Sunni Muslims. The basis of the political structure of the UAE is a federation uniting absolute monarchies. The head of state is the Emir of Abu Dhabi, the head of government is the Emir of Dubai.

Current time in Abu Dhabi:
(UTC +4)

The basis of the emirates' economy is oil exports and tourism, for the development of which significant funds are allocated. Time in the UAE coincides with Moscow time. There is no daylight saving time. Coordinated Universal Time UTC +4.

How to get there

Planes from Russia fly mainly to Dubai, but some flights operate to Sharjah. Regular flights from St. Petersburg and Moscow to Dubai are operated by Emirates airlines and some Russian carriers. Fly Dubai airline flies from Yekaterinburg, Samara, Kazan and Ufa. Air Arabia flies from Yekaterinburg to Sharjah. Read more about how to get from various Russian cities to Dubai.

Visa

G Since February 2017, citizens of the Russian Federation can receive free visas for a period of 30 days at points of entry into the UAE. This visa can be extended once for another 30 days. HoweverThere are restrictions - they apply to children “inscribed” in the parents’ foreign passport. In addition, to obtain a UAE visa, it is recommended to have a health insurance policy, hotel reservation and insurance against visa risks.

You can read more about the entry document to the country in our special material “Applying for a visa to the UAE”.

Customs regulations

To country import allowed the following goods: two thousand cigarettes, or 400 cigars, or 2 kilograms of tobacco; two liters of wine and two liters of strong alcoholic drinks.

Import prohibited pornographic publications and materials (video tapes and disks may be subject to inspection), as well as firearms and drugs.

Ban on import of medicines into the UAE

Many tourists do not know that codeine is prohibited throughout the country. Accordingly, the importation of medicines containing codeine may result in a serious fine or even imprisonment. The list of prohibited drugs includes not only codeine-containing drugs, but also a number of narcotic and sedatives. Before traveling to the UAE, a tourist should carefully check his first aid kit, and if there are prescription medications there, then to enter the Emirates with them it is better to have a translated prescription from a doctor. The import of prescribed narcotic drugs is possible only with a special permit, which must be obtained in advance. Codeine is found in many cough suppressants, antipyretics and pain relievers. Thus, it is an integral part of the tablets “Pentalgin” and “Sedalgin”, which are quite often used by Russians. Checks at the border are carried out randomly, but according to tourists, recently they are being done more and more often.

Money and currency exchange in the UAE

Cities and regions

Emirate of Abu Dhabi

Al-Husn Palace is a fort built in XIX century for guard fresh water, found on the island by the Beni Yaz tribe of Liwa. Enclosed within the outer walls, built by Sheikh Shabut, who made Al-Husn his palace, is an old square fort.

Another important attraction of Abu Dhabi, serving as a gateway to the past, is the cultural and ethnographic village, recreating life from different historical eras. Attractions in Abu Dhabi include wonderful parks, gardens and delightful fountains.

There are also the oases of Liwa, Qattara and Al Ain, Futaisi Island - a water sports center and the Hili amusement park, as well as a zoo. In addition, the interesting Shopping Festival can be a reason to visit, and there are also shopping centers in Abu Dhabi with a large selection of good goods (Abu Dhabi Mall, Marina Mall and Madinat Zayed).

Emirate of Dubai

The central area of ​​modern Dubai is divided into two parts: Bur Dubai (southern) and Deira (northern). Bur Dubai's old Bastakiya neighborhood is home to many traditional Arabic houses with courtyards. There are also wind towers here, which once replaced air conditioners. When you arrive in Dubai, you should definitely visit the Dubai History Museum at Al Fahidi Fort. It was built in the late 80s of the 18th century, and managed to be a palace, a garrison, and even a prison. Now located here historical Museum, the exhibition of which includes a collection of applied art, household items of ancient Bedouins and residents of Dubai. There is also naval part exposition. With the help of audiovisual technology, surround sound and skillfully crafted figures dressed in traditional clothes, the museum creates a stunning impression of being in the past.

Emirate of Sharjah

An amusement park with rides and souvenirs is located in Khalid Lagoon. The third highest fountain in the world (after Geneva and Jeddah) shoots directly from the bay. Coral reefs The famous diving center located in Korfakan is famous for the richness of flora and fauna of the underwater world.

Emirate of Fujairah

The highlight of Fujairah is its delightful nature, replete with lush greenery, which other emirates cannot boast of. Add to this beautiful mountains Khojar, waterfalls, hot springs and the clearest sea - this will be Fujairah. Three protected areas are open to the public in the emirate: Al Wurrayah Waterfalls, Ain Al Madhab Gardens and Ain Al Ghamour Hot Springs.

Connoisseurs of beautiful hand-made works of art will also find a lot of interesting things here. Among the attractions of the emirate is one of the oldest mosques in the emirates Al-Bidiya Mosque, located near the village of the same name about 30 km north of the city of Fujairah. Al-Bidiya was built about five centuries ago.

One of the most picturesque stana forts stands among palm trees in the village of Bithna. In 1745, a battle took place here between warring Omani factions, one of which enlisted the support of local tribes. There is another very famous fort in the city of Fujairah, which was bombed by the British in 1925. The modern landmark of the city is the Trade Center tower, located among new modern residential areas. A little further there is a bay, which, together with the port of Khorfakkan, provides the country with direct access to the Indian Ocean. Tourists from different parts of the world come to Fujairah specifically to see the famous bullfights, which are very different from Spanish bullfighting.

For shopping, Fujairah has both traditional markets (such as Souq Al Jumaa) and modern shopping centers such as Safeer Mall.

Emirate of Ajaman

Since ancient times, Ajman has preserved a square watchtower on the shore of the bay, guarding the entrance to the city, and huge fort in the city center. The fort was built and rebuilt many times; the last addition was a wind tower to supply the premises with cold air. Distinctive features of ancient buildings are narrow staircases and passages, decorated with carved wooden doors. The main attraction of Ajman is the historical fort museum, which displays objects that are more than 4,000 years old. In the southern part of the city stands a mosque built by the ruling Sheikh in memory of his father, the late Sheikh Rashid bin Humaid Al Nuami. With simple, clean lines and a cream-carved stone façade, the building sits beautifully in the stone-paved square. A stepped minaret rises above the mosque.

Construction in the early 60s. The cinema marked the beginning of the development of the film industry in the city. The United Color Film company is located here, where all films shot in the Emirates arrive. The complex includes a laboratory and a film studio that makes television films for the whole country. An equally interesting spectacle for tourists and local residents are the famous camel racing taking place in the deserts of the emirate. Shopping lovers can recommend the most famous and largest shopping center in the emirate - Ajman City Center.

Emirate of Umm Al Quwain

At the entrance to the city there are three ancient watchtowers, once connected by a wall. Around the old fort, buildings of houses have been preserved, on some of which you can find traces of the once luxurious decoration with pink stone and stucco. To the north of these buildings is the old market area with wind towers and old stone houses. Siniya Island, where remains of early Islamic structures have been discovered, is located across the strait from the old city. In order to get into nature reserve created on the island, you must obtain special permission. Not far from Umm Al-Quwain, during international archaeological excavations, two trading cities of 2 and 4 thousand years ago were discovered: Ad Dur and Tel Abrak.

Emirate of Ras Al Khaimah

The ancient city of Yulfar, a thriving pearl trading center in the past, is famous for its Hatta hot springs, which have attracted visitors for centuries. Digdagha is the largest old town in Ras Al Khaimah. Here is the museum of the emirate in a huge military fort, which contains traditional household items, jewelry, archaeological finds, the oldest of which dates back to the first millennium BC. The architecture of the fort itself is of particular interest: its curved staircases, watchtowers and wind towers, terraces, battlements and a wide courtyard. Twenty years ago, the fort served as the home of the ruling family of Ras Al Khaimah. Also worthy of attention is Fort Falaya, where the signing of a treaty between the British and local sheikhs took place in 1820. It stands east of the inland road running from Al Nakheel to Haran.

What to see

Dubai

The largest city in the emirates, Dubai, the home of the head of the UAE government, invites tourists to visit a lot of attractions. Tour operators offer sightseeing tours of the city, which cost approximately $20-30. During these excursions, tourists will get acquainted with the following interesting places. You can also visit all these attractions on your own, using the metro or a fairly inexpensive taxi.

Abu Dhabi

The center of the capital of the United Arab Emirates is deservedly called the Arab Manhattan: the business part of the emirate of Abu Dhabi is densely built up with huge skyscrapers, when looking at which a comparison involuntarily comes to mind with the most popular high-rise area in the world - New York Manhattan. It is in Abu Dhabi - a young but fabulously rich capital - that you will enjoy the luxury of colored fountains, magical gardens, the majestic and light architecture of white stone mosques, and also admire and envy the grandiose villas Arab sheikhs. Here you will see many more interesting attractions listed below.

• A masterpiece of world architecture - the residence of the ruling sheikh
• The Clock Fountain, symbolizing the friendship between Abu Dhabi and Geneva
• The central square of the capital, on which five Arabic symbols are collected from white stone
• Observation deck of the tallest skyscraper in Abu Dhabi - the Hilton Bainua Hotel
• District of the rulers' palaces
• Night fountains
• Unique “Transparent Mosque”
• Grand Mosque
• Grand stands and officers' club
• Museum-park “Ethnographic Village”

Al Ain

The fourth most populous city in the UAE, Al Ain, is located 148 km east of the country's capital on the border with Oman. This amazing city will immerse you in the atmosphere of camel caravans, Arab princesses and noble emirs.

• The largest zoo in the Middle East
• Ancient forts of Al Hilla and Al Khandaq
• Camel market
• Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan Palace
• Residence of the Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi
• Sheikh Khalifa's residence
• Viewpoint of Mount Hafit

Sharjah

• Museums (Historical, National Heritage, Art, Archaeological and Scientific)
• Markets (Gold, Vegetable and Fish)
• King Faisal Grand Mosque
• Memorial "Unification"
• Monument dedicated to the Holy Quran
• Monument to Progress
• Khalid Amusement Park

Fujairah

• Al Wurrayah Waterfalls
• Ain Al Madhab Gardens
• Ain Al Ghamour Hot Springs
• Al-Bidiya Mosque, the oldest mosque in the emirates

Ajman

• Sheikh Rashid bin Humaid Mosque

Umm Al Quwain

• Trading cities of 2 and 4 thousand years ago Ad Dur and Tel Abrak
• Ancient watchtowers
• Old market area

Ras Al Khaimah

• Ancient city of Yulfar
• Hutt Hot Springs

Where to go in the UAE

Attractions

Museums and galleries

Entertainment

Parks and Recreation

Transport

Shops and markets

Private guides in the UAE

Russian private guides will help you get acquainted with the UAE in more detail.
Registered on the Experts.Tourister.Ru project.

Things to do

On a speedboat you will travel around Indian Ocean and Oman. The excursion program includes a visit to date plantations, the American University (one of the most expensive educational institutions in the country), the Masafi artesian well, the Koran government square, the Sharjah cultural stele, local villages, the oriental carpet market, where carpet products from different countries peace, mountain pass Hajar, which offers an amazing panorama of the canyon, a camel farm where racing camels are raised, a fruit market, orange and tangerine groves.

Thrill-seekers can enjoy racing through wild sand dunes in a modern Toyota Land Cruiser 100 jeep equipped with air conditioning. You will admire the sunset in the desert from the height of a huge dune, visit a camel farm, where you will taste camel milk, and ride a sand board along the sand dunes. The program continues in the Bedouin camp: camel riding, hookah smoking, photography in national clothes and hand painting with henna. The end of the holiday will be a hearty dinner of national cuisine: shish kebab, barbecue, exotic fruits, sauces and seasonings.

Especially for the fair sex, the royal salon “Imar Spa”, owned by Princess Ohood Bint Rashid Al Mualla, invites you to take a real Moroccan bath. This amazing procedure, consisting of several stages, will be carried out by an experienced master - a purebred Moroccan. The set of procedures includes: gentle peeling and facial massage, hair mask and hair styling by a professional hairdresser.

Many tour operators also offer an original cruise on a wooden ship built using oriental technology. The ship launches from a pier located on the shores of Dubai Creek. During the trip, you will enjoy a romantic dinner, included in the price of the cruise, and watch a costume performance of ancient and modern national arts. Seats are provided on one of the ship's two decks - a closed lower and an open upper observation deck.

If you want to plunge into the night waves and experience the joy of victory, feel free to arm yourself with a lantern and a trident and go on a night hunt in the crab shallows, which will end with dinner on the seashore, the main delicacy of which will be the crabs you caught, cooked by an experienced chef.

An amazing dance show: a fiery belly dance against the backdrop of a fabulous panorama of the city, performed by a professional dancer. You get an amazing opportunity to take part in dancing with an Arabian beauty and learn the basic movements of oriental dances.

The fourth most populous city in the UAE, Al Ain, is located 148 km east of the country's capital on the border with Oman. This amazing city will immerse you in the atmosphere of camel caravans, Arab princesses and noble emirs. During the tour, you will visit the largest zoo in the Middle East, where you will see animals living in natural conditions, the ancient forts of Al-Hilla and Al-Khandaq, and also visit the camel market, where huge desert ships and small camels are waiting for their buyers. Undoubtedly, the most indelible impression on you will be made by a walk through the palace of the first Supreme Ruler of the country - Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan.

Getting around the country

Between countries

By bus

Bus service is provided with a number of countries: Oman, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Jordan, Syria, Lebanon and Egypt. Given the extremely complex procedure for obtaining a Saudi transit visa, the only real option to visit the UAE by land is Oman. Regular bus services from the capital

Oman Muscat to Dubai and Abu Dhabi is operated by ONTC at least four times a day. The company's fleet is equipped with modern buses that are quite suitable for long trips, the fare for which is $12-15 one way. Travel time is five hours.

On a ferryboat

Permanent ferry service carried out by the state Iranian company IRISL (Islamic republic of Iran shipping company) in the following directions: Bandar Abbas - Sharjah (UAE) and Bandar Abbas - Dubai (UAE). The cost of the cheapest ticket, depending on the season, is $55-60.

Around the country

The main form of transport in the Emirates is a car. Buses are used primarily by workers and service personnel. The easiest and most convenient way to move around cities and between them is to rent a car. If you do not have a license or renting a car is impossible for you for some reason, use a private or municipal taxi. To move around Dubai, you can use the metro, the first stage of which, consisting of 10 stations, was opened on September 9, 2009.

Car rent

You can rent a car from one of the large or small car companies.

IN large companies The cost of renting a car, depending on the brand, ranges from $60 to $300 per day.

In small companies, you can leave your original passport as collateral. The cost of renting a car from such a company is $30-$50, but without insurance.

Car rental period is at least 24 hours. Gasoline is paid separately. The approximate cost of 1 gallon of gasoline (about 4 liters) is $1.

A temporary driving permit is issued for persons over 21 years of age with a passport (sometimes a copy is sufficient), a credit card, a valid international license issued at least a year ago, and two photographs. When you are driving, always have your license and/or a copy of your passport with you.

Traffic rules in the UAE

• The country drives on the right, and it is customary to give way to pedestrians and move in the central lanes, leaving the outer lanes for special cases.
• At intersections it is often customary to move along rings, each of which has its own name; one can navigate by them in the same way as by the names of streets. When driving on a roundabout, those who are already on it have the right of way.
• Entering an intersection if it is occupied by vehicles ahead is prohibited even with a traffic light and is considered a gross violation.
• You cannot transport alcohol in a vehicle without the appropriate permit (license issued to residents).
• A mandatory rule is to wear seat belts; compliance with this rule is strictly monitored by government officials.
• It is customary to warn cars behind with a turn signal about the presence or absence of obstacles ahead for overtaking.
• The accepted speed in the city is 60-80 km/h, on the highway - 100-120 km/h. There are radars installed on the roads, and fines are issued and sent directly to the company where you rented the car. The size of the fine depends on speeding, the minimum is 100 dirhams.
• For breaking the rules traffic Your license may be taken away, and if you offer a bribe to a police officer, you may be prosecuted.
• If you, while driving a car, hit a man - a fine of $10,000, a woman or a camel - a fine of $5,000.

The heaviest traffic occurs on Friday, when the UAE has a day off and many people go to the beaches or for shopping. Road signs are also similar to domestic ones; the inscriptions are in English and Arabic. Drivers are required to be constantly vigilant and carefully read road signs.

IN in case of an accident You must call the police by calling 999 and obtain a certificate of the accident, without which you will not be able to obtain insurance or permission to repair the car.

Parking and parking

In cities, almost everywhere there are paid parking lots indicating the price for 1 hour. The parking receipt must be placed under the windshield so that it is visible. Failure to pay for parking is punishable by a fine of 150 dirhams, a notice of this will be placed under the “janitor”. There is no need to pay for parking from 13:00 to 16:00. If you do not find your car where you left it, it could be towed to the traffic police station for failure to comply with parking rules. In this case, you should call 999. A possible fine on the spot is 50-75 dirhams.

When entering a paid parking lot (2 dirhams/hour), you must press the button on the automatic barrier panel. If there are free seats, the barrier will open and you will receive a control card from the slot next to the button. Based on the time stamped on it, payment will be made at the exit. In case of short-term parking, parking is free. If you use a parking lot with a machine, put 2 dirhams into the coin slot and receive a ticket.

Taxi

There are two types of taxis in the UAE - with a meter (2 dirhams for boarding + 1 dirham for each kilometer) and without a meter (the minimum cost of a trip is 5 dirhams). Stopping a taxi at a hotel is always a few dirhams more expensive than just stopping on the street. Traditionally, women sit in the back seat of the car. It is not customary to leave a tip in a taxi.

Communication

Majlis

The concept of “majlis” (literally, “the place where one sits”) appeared as a result of the development of the ritual of Arab hospitality. For Bedouins, this is part of a tent or even a separate tent; for sedentary residents, it is part of a house or a separate building, designed to adequately receive a guest.

To the extent possible, the Majlis is covered with mats and carpets, oriental pillows, in order to create maximum comfort for visitors. Everyone who is in the Majlis is located along the walls, and in the middle there is a copper tray with coffee pots for treating guests and a brazier for incense. Since the concept of “guest” in Arab society has a broader interpretation, unlike us (for example, the head of a clan who comes to the sheikh of a tribe is also considered primarily not as a subordinate, but as a guest), the Majlis plays a social and public role. The Majlis of any person, regardless of social status, is open to everyone who comes in peace - this tradition is inherited from the times of the tribal structure of society, in which issues of internal democracy were resolved in this way. Therefore, the Majlis of the tribal leader is actually an official place, a council.

Modern institutions and hotels in Dubai support this tradition, so in many places you can see specially constructed majlises in the form of tents with pillows, carpets, hookahs, long-nosed dall coffee pots standing ready on hot coals, in which the strongest coffee is brewed (qahwa arabiya), dishes with dates (the sugary sweetness of dates is designed to emphasize the taste of coffee). Although majlises are almost never used for their intended purpose, they emphasize the hospitality of the place and respect for guests.

Etiquette

• It is impolite to immediately start talking about business without offering the guest tea, coffee or a soft drink and without asking a few polite questions - about health, how the trip was, etc.
• If you yourself are a guest, then do not refuse the offered coffee and other drinks and take at least one small sip.
• It is not customary to ask about your wife and female relatives. Usually they are all united by the word “family”.
• To avoid being embarrassed, remove your shoes when entering if you see others doing so.
• During visits and meetings, greet new arrivals while standing; Don’t forget to shake hands with everyone present when you arrive and say goodbye, but don’t shake hands with local women.
• Don't forget to praise the offered treat.
• Do not look into the mosque out of idle curiosity.
• Don't expect your gift to be unwrapped and examined in your presence.
• Do not discuss the merits of passing women and do not look at their jewelry.
• Do not appear on the street with alcoholic drinks, do not offer alcoholic drinks to a Muslim.
• Smoking is prohibited in many public places in Dubai, so before you reach for a cigarette, check whether you will be in an awkward situation.

Culture

The United Arab Emirates is a Muslim country, so the rules of behavior and culture are radically different from Western and European ones, but in recent years, due to the large number of tourists, the boundaries of decency are still shifting towards European traditions. This contribution

There is an increasing need for education every year, thanks to which more and more world-class higher education institutions are being created in the UAE and research and training centers are opening for the largest, technically advanced companies in the world.

UAE customs

Eating

• It is not customary to eat while standing or walking
• Looking into the face of a person eating is considered a violation of etiquette;
• Bread is usually broken by hand.
• Do not take or offer food to others with your left hand.
• You should take food, money and things with your right hand.
• The soles of your feet should not point in any direction.
• When shaking hands, you should not look into the eyes of your interlocutor, and you should not keep your other hand in your pocket or vigorously wave it in the air (especially with a cigarette).
• It is considered impolite to refuse an offer of coffee.
• To avoid refills of coffee, you should shake the empty cup or say “shukran”.
• Do not offer pork dishes to a Muslim.

Religion

• You cannot walk around those praying in front.
• Shoes should be removed when entering mosques and houses.

Keeping it clean

• The fine for throwing garbage on the street is 500 dirhams, even if you just missed the trash can.

Communication with a woman

• Excessive attention to a woman (as well as actions that may be considered such) can lead to imprisonment or a fine of up to 60 thousand dirhams.

Respect

Photographing

• It is strictly prohibited to photograph government institutions, sheikhs' palaces, military installations and structures.
• You are not allowed to take photographs of local women.
• Men should be asked for permission to take photographs.
• Clothes should be modest.

Cloth

• Women should not wear provocative clothing.
• Men's clothing should also be modest.
• Sharjah law requires women to wear clothing that covers their arms, neck and knees.
• Appearing in public places in sportswear or beachwear is considered extremely indecent.
• Even on the beach it is forbidden to appear naked or topless.
• In Sharjah, women are prohibited from wearing swimsuits on municipal beaches.

Calendar

The Muslim calendar (Hijri) is based on the lunar calendar, which has 354/355 days. The Hijri year is 11 days shorter, and events according to lunar calendar occur every year approximately 11 days earlier relative to the Gregorian calendar.

Kitchen

The most common cuisines in the Emirates are Italian, French, Lebanese, Chinese, Mediterranean, Indian, Pakistani, Japanese, Thai, Korean, Filipino, Indonesian, Polynesian, Mexican, Irish, Iranian and, of course, the local Arabic. Recently, Russian cuisine has also become relevant. All world fast food systems are also widely represented.

Arabic cuisine

Main dishes

• Biryani - specially prepared rice with a large piece of meat, chicken or fish
• Haris - lamb boiled for several hours in water with grain
• Machbus - roast lamb or chicken with rice
• Homos - a kind of mashed pea puree with lemon
• Shawarma - pieces of lamb or chicken cooked on a spit and wrapped in a flatbread with seasonings
• Mezza - a set of traditional snacks
• Kebab mushekel - assorted lamb or chicken fried on skewers
• Stewed chicken with tomato
• Steamed chicken “al-mandi” with honey
• Casserole with chicken or veal “haris”
• Rice with pieces of biryani ajaj chicken stew
• Chicken tikka dajaj skewers
• Spicy chicken "jaj tannuri"
• Quail meat "samman"
• Coarse wheat flour pies with kubbe meat
• Small triangular sambusa pies with vegetables - "khudar", cheese - "jabna", meat - "lyakhma" or spinach - "sabenekh"
• Fish and seafood dishes, dairy products are widely consumed; vegetables and herbs form the basis of sauces and seasonings

Dessert

• Umm Ali milk pudding with raisins and nuts
• Sweet cheese pie with acai cream
• Mehallabiya pistachio pudding
• Baklava
• Donuts with honey “ligemat”
• Sherbet
• Arabic dessert "asida"

Tips in restaurants are usually included in the price of meals, and this is indicated on the menu. If you don't talk about tips we're talking about separately, it is customary to give 10% of the invoice amount if the service was truly high-quality.

When choosing dishes in restaurants and cafes, be careful and better ask the waiter about the ingredients of the dishes you will order: not all Europeans can boast of a love for fiery and spicy dishes. Be especially picky about the food your children will eat.

Alcohol in the UAE

The Koran prohibits Muslims from drinking alcohol, so in Arab countries there are restrictions on alcohol consumption. If you want not only to have a snack, but also to drink, you need to go to an establishment at the hotel. In Dubai, alcohol is served in hotel restaurants and bars. Non-Muslim residents can purchase alcoholic beverages in specialized stores if they have the appropriate liquor license.

To be in public place or in a motor vehicle with alcohol, offer or sell alcoholic drinks forbidden to a Muslim. There is a prohibition law in the emirate of Sharjah. Bringing alcohol into this emirate is a criminal offense. Showing up on the street while drunk can result in a fine or even imprisonment. If you do drink a little more alcohol, try to stop a taxi and get to your hotel, do not disturb other guests, as well as the hotel staff.

Purchases

Opening hours of shopping establishments

Retail establishments and markets are open from 9:30 to 13:00, followed by a siesta, after which they reopen from 16:00 to 22:00.

Shopping centers from 10:00 to 22:00 without a break, on Friday from 16:00 to 22:00.

Most supermarkets are open 7 days a week, some are open 24 hours a day. On Fridays, all shops are closed during the midday prayer: from 11:30 to 12:30, but then many work without a break, and in the evening - until late.

During the Muslim fasting month of Ramadan, shops open as usual in the morning, close in the evening for iftar (evening breaking of the fast), and then continue to open until midnight and beyond.

Shopping in the UAE

It is the opportunity to make profitable purchases in the United Arab Emirates that makes this country especially attractive to tourists. A distinctive feature of the UAE is the absence of income taxes, which sometimes makes prices for goods lower than even in producing countries. Main market town Emirates - Dubai. It is rightly called “a paradise for shoppers.” Shopping lovers will have great pleasure traveling through countless shops, stores, shopping centers and markets, where you definitely need to bargain in order to fully experience the flavor of the oriental bazaar. Shopping festivals are held in spring and summer, famous for discounts and lotteries.

Buying gold

Dubai is a major international gold trading center. There are markets where they sell gold products not only in Dubai, but also in any major city in the Emirates. You will find countless stores that stock gold jewelry of every design and grade. The most common hallmarks are 18 and 22 carats; you can buy items of 24 carats. If you wish, you can purchase kilo bars, 10 tola bars (1800 grams), small coin bars and gold plates. The price of gold is set daily - prices are published in local newspapers every day. Make sure the price you ask does not include “alterations,” which vary by store and style of jewelry.

Most items in the UAE can be even more expensive compared to similar items in Europe - however, hold the item in your hands and you will understand why the price is what it is: most jewelry that is made and sold here is made of pure gold, without impurities, so you literally get more gold for your money. You can also buy precious stones, pearls and a variety of jewelry for clothing.

Dubai Shopping Festival

The Dubai Shopping Festival takes place annually from mid-January to mid-February. This is a kind of huge fair in which more than 2,500 shops and trading companies. Discounts during this period reach 40% or more. The festival holds lotteries: gold bars, cars, etc. are raffled off. As part of the festival, entertainment: pigeon competitions, a competition for the best cooking, an ice show, dolphin performances, a competition for the largest bicycle, a parachutist show, a crawling competition on all fours, performances by Chinese acrobats, a fire show, a bullfight and other amazing things. The program includes business conferences and sports competitions. During the shopping festival, hotels and airlines reduce prices for their services.

More detailed information You can read about shopping in Dubai in our special material.

Connection

The international code for the United Arab Emirates is 971.

When calling from the UAE to Russia via an automatic line, the dialing code is 007 + area code + phone number. An international call to Russia will cost about 25 dirhams per minute.

When calling from Russia, the dialing code is 8-10-971-(emirate code) - the subscriber's number.

Cellular communication - 050 (when calling from Russia to Dubai cell number 8-10-971-50 + subscriber number).

Emirates internal codes

• Abu Dhabi - 02
• Al Ain - 03
• Dubai - 04
• Sharjah, Ajman, Um Al Quwain, Ras Al Khaimah - 07
• Hatta - 085
• Fujairah - 09

Useful phone numbers

All types of telephone communications in the UAE are paid. It is easier and cheaper to make calls from street pay phones. There are also special meeting points. The most expensive type of communication is a call from a hotel room. The cost of telephone conversations with Russia via automatic communication is 9 dirhams/min., during preferential times (from 0.00 to 7.00) - 7 dirhams/min., through an operator - 12.5 dirhams/min. You can call abroad from any street pay phone.

There are 2 types of calling cards in Dubai, issued in denominations of 30, 60 and 120 dirhams.

Normal card- a regular telephone card, which can only be used in pay phones that have an appropriate slot for reading information.

Prepaid card- used for calls from any phone, including from a hotel, at a minimum rate, which is significantly lower than the hotel rate.

For local calls to pay phones, cards can be purchased in Itisalat stores and offices.

mobile connection

If you intend to use mobile communications, then it is best to use a local SIM card with a UAE number (Tariff plan - “Al Wasel”). In order to purchase it, you will need a passport or a copy thereof. The SIM card costs AED 165 (this includes the cost of outgoing calls) and is valid for one year. All incoming calls are free.

Internet

To surf the Internet, use the “Dial and Surf” service. There are no registration fees or subscription fees in the UAE; you only pay for the time spent online through the phone you used to connect. Traffic cost: 15 fils/minute (9 dirhams/hour).

If problems arise, use the services of a telephone operator (tel. 100) or mobile phone service operators (tel. 101). Operators speak English and Arabic.

Sport

Service in the field of sports (especially aquatic species) in the UAE is at a very high level. Here you can go diving, sailing, and watch boat races. motor boats. Exotic sports include camel racing and safari. Western games such as bowling, tennis, football and golf are also widespread.

Bowling

Abu Dhabi Tourist Club, near the Marilyn Hotel, bowling alley with 12 lanes. Visiting hours are from 8:00 to 24:00. T.: 02 6723400.

Al Nasr Leizereland, near the American Hospital, Ala Karama open from 9:00 to 24:00. Lanes should be booked in advance as Leisereland is a very popular meeting place. T.: 04 3371234.

The Kalifa International Bowling Center is located near the Skating Rink in the sports town of Zaved. This impressive 40-lane facility is considered one of the most modern bowling alleys in the world. Opening hours are from 12:00 to 24:00 from Saturday to Wednesday, from 10:00 to 24:00 on Thursday and from 14:00 to 24:00 on Friday. T.: 02 4034650.

Camel racing

This may be your only opportunity to experience this unique sport that is an integral part of the UAE culture. Camel racing takes place during the winter period (Thursdays and Fridays from 8 am to 2 pm) from October to March throughout the country. Prize-winning places are rewarded with significant monetary rewards. There is no entrance fee.

Cricket

Cricket is becoming more and more popular in the UAE. The Abu Dhabi Cricket Board organizes tournaments throughout the year. Among the most popular is the Abu Dhabi tournament.

Football

Of course, football for the Emirates, as for any other world power, has long become a national sport. Many stadiums have been built for training and competitions. Zaved Sports City is the largest sports complex in the Middle East.

Golf

There are more than a dozen golf courses in the United Arab Emirates, six of which have lush fairways and elegant green surrounds. Modern club buildings have been built on all main fields, the service and quality of sports equipment are excellent. Usually the dress code is regulated: T-shirts, shorts or trousers; shoes with rubber soles with soft spikes are allowed. It is strictly forbidden to wear jeans on the field or in the club. Golf carts available for hire.

Horseback riding

All Arab countries are famous for their enthusiastic attitude towards horses. You have a wonderful opportunity to ride a purebred Arabian horse across the sultry sands of the Emirates.

Skating

If you suddenly get tired of summer entertainment and you want to relax like in winter, there are skating rinks for you.

Abu Dhabi Tourist Club has big skating rink with television screens and bright lighting. T.: 02 6723400.

Skating rink in the sports town Zaved. T.: 02 4448458.

Powerboat racing

Every year the world powerboat race is organized in the UAE. And the Abu Dhabi International Marine Sports Club organizes powerboat races throughout the year. T.: 02 6815566.

Rock climbing

Anyone can take up rock climbing - beginners and professionals will find absolutely everything related to this sport at the Pharaohs Club in Dubai. T.: 04 3240000.

Sailing

The opportunity to go sailing can be provided to you directly at the hotel or at the sailing club.

Tennis

Tennis courts are most often located in hotels and private clubs throughout the UAE. Many courts are open in the evenings to give players the opportunity to enjoy the game in fresh, cool air.

Safety

There is practically no crime in the UAE: it is absolutely safe here day and night. The main dangers that tourists expose themselves to are failure to comply with basic rules of protection from sunlight and careless attitude to the strict customs and laws of this Muslim country. In order to save yourself from most of the problems that may arise for you in the Emirates, try to remember thoroughly what is stated in the section »Culture» And "Communication ".

When arriving in the Emirates, women should not wear a hijab, but should refrain from wearing shorts and short T-shirts. The optimal length of the skirt is below the knee. They will be the most picky about your outfit in many areas of the emirate of Dubai, in the resorts of Ajman and Fujairah. The most conservative emirate is Sharjah.

People with a non-traditional sexual orientation should behave extremely carefully in society, since homosexual behavior is punishable by death. However, according to the laws of the Emirates, everything (except serious crimes) that happens behind “closed doors” remains there and does not concern representatives of the law.

It is not considered unnatural for men or women to show physical affection - Emirati men often kiss each other on the nose when greeting each other, while women greet each other with kisses on the cheek and may hold hands or arm in arm. Many Arab and Asian men show physical affection by holding hands as a sign of friendship.

If you are suspected of being under the influence of drugs or alcohol, a blood test may be taken and if this proves the presence of illegal substances in your blood, then you are likely to be sent to prison, even if the substances were taken in another country.

The general level of medical care in Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Sharjah is quite high, and there are a large number of clinics providing general and specialized care. These include hospitals that accept patients 24 hours a day. Hospitals are equipped with the necessary equipment to provide medical care in emergency situations. IN major cities There are ambulance stations, but the cars are designed to transport patients, and not to provide emergency medical care. There is no malaria in the Emirates. The country's water is safe to drink, but you should avoid drinking tap water. Catering establishments comply with sanitary standards that meet Western standards. As in Russia, in order to avoid food poisoning, you should refrain from buying food from street stalls. Before leaving home and while walking, drink as much fluid as possible: this will prevent dehydration.

Transportation of alcohol

It is illegal to transport alcohol from emirate to emirate. True, the punishments for this offense vary: a tourist will simply be reprimanded and, at most, the bottles will be confiscated, but a “bootlegger” with a resident visa will most likely be imprisoned for three months.

Swimming in the sea

Most beaches in the UAE are located on the coast Persian Gulf, where coastal currents are often unpredictable. Therefore, you need to swim with caution, and dive only when accompanied by local instructors who are well familiar with the nature of the surrounding waters.

Just some 40 years ago, the UAE was a complete desert. And now many tourists from all over the world come here to observe the result of architectural and technological progress. The Emirates are growing and developing at incredible speed. Surrounded by the warm, clear waters of the Persian Gulf, they are always fully armed and happy to receive “overseas” guests who want both relaxation on the beach and the opportunities of a developed metropolis.

The UAE is a country where the impossible is possible!

5 reasons to go to the Emirates:

1. The holiday season in the UAE lasts all year round. The hottest months are June-September. The temperature reaches 40-42°C, but you won’t notice this heat - air conditioners in the Emirates work at every turn. In January, the air temperature does not drop below 25°C.
2. There is wealth, cleanliness, luxury and the smell of expensive perfume all around. And local traffic cops patrol the streets of big cities in Bugatti and Lamborghini cars.
3. The desert in the UAE is as real as it gets, with dunes. What it can't brag about resort area Egypt. So feel free to go on a jeep safari!
4. You won't find drunken brawlers here. Laws are strictly observed in the emirates. By the way, if a tourist looks at a Muslim woman for a long time and intently, he can be fined or put in prison. Be sure to check your local dress code.
5. A relatively short flight (4-5 hours) will allow you to find yourself on a paradise beach, no worse than in the Maldives or the Dominican Republic, but 2-3 times faster. With the same fluffy and clean sand and a smooth entry into the sea!

Read also: Which beach is right for you?

Which emirate to choose?

First, decide what you will do. Go to clubs? To you in Dubai or Abu Dhabi. If you want a comfortable family holiday, the emirate of Fujairah is for you. For inexpensive, quiet relaxation, head to the emirates of Ras Al Khaimah and Sharjah.

The UAE is a major shopping center. All emirates have malls and markets. The locals have a special attitude towards them - they spend evenings, weekends, celebrate holidays in shopping centers and just drop in here at any free moment.

In the Emirates there are city hotels, first line hotels with their own beach and coastal hotels near municipal beaches. City hotels, as a rule, have their own swimming pools, which are located on the upper floors of the building. Love breathtaking views? Look for a hotel with a pool located as high above sea level as possible.

Focus on price: the further the emirate is from Dubai, the main entertainment and shopping center of the country, the cheaper the hotels. However, from hotels in distant emirates, a bus runs to Dubai several times a week, paid or free depending on the hotel.

Dubai

The most cosmopolitan and “Europeanized” emirate. This is a huge metropolis with a vibrant nightlife, one might say, “the second Moscow”. Only here there is more shopping centers, water buses are common, and the metro generally runs without drivers.

Dubai has a very vibrant nightlife and restaurant scene. Everywhere you can smoke delicious hookah, try the delights of world cuisine and buy designer items. However, youth under 21 are not allowed into the clubs.

If you are planning to visit the Emirates for the first time, then go here. From the excursion program - the tall Burj Khalifa tower, the Village of pearl divers, Dancing fountains and much more

Dubai hotels do not have their own area where you can walk. AND beach holiday there is no such thing either - many go to the neighboring emirate of Sharjah to swim.

Sharjah

A very strict and conservative emirate, “prohibition” reigns here. It is prohibited to drink alcohol in open restaurants, on the street, on the beach, and alcohol is not sold in the hotels themselves.

Sharjah also - cultural capital countries with numerous attractions. Boys of any age will be interested in visiting the Museum of Vintage Cars.

Holidays here are much cheaper than in larger emirates, so Sharjah is popular among light drinkers Russian tourists. It is quiet and peaceful here, with uncrowded beaches. Located 45 km from Dubai.

Fujairah

Fujairah is called the most beautiful emirate of the country, it is located on a bay, and many hotels have own beaches. There are fewer skyscrapers here, and therefore much more comfortable. Exotic lovers and diving fans come to Fujairah: there are a lot of corals in the sea, you can see moray eels, butterfly fish and other underwater inhabitants.

Among the attractions of the emirate are the Museum of Ancient Settlements, the Old City area, and a busy port. The city itself is decorated with numerous fountains and sculptural compositions with traditional Arabic motifs.

This is the northernmost emirate, so it is always 2-3 degrees cooler here and there is more greenery. It takes about 5 hours to drive from Dubai.

Ras Al Khaimah

In the emirate of Ras al-Khaimah there is much less entertainment than in Dubai or Abu Dhabi. It is better to come here on an excursion from the neighboring emirate. It is about 1.5 hours drive from Dubai - buses run for an additional fee.

There are few tourists, there are more locals on the beach. But there is also a lot of entertainment for tourists here: again, shopping malls, camel racing, sailing and others. The Old Town area is rich in historical sites, such as the ruins of the Palace of the Queen of Sheba. The Ice land water park is open for children and adults.

Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi is the business center of the UAE; there is no beach recreation area here. However, the emirate is worth visiting! You will be amazed by the breathtaking views of mosques scattered across the “field” of skyscrapers, beautiful architecture modern buildings. You will see palaces, monuments, numerous fountains. It's as luxurious as Dubai. You can even safely buy gold from a machine. Night life also quite active. Among other things, this is the greenest emirate!

Where to go with children?

The UAE loves children very much, so here you can find good water parks and zoos, including the Dubai Aquarium - the largest in the world. There is practically no animation in hotels, and All Inclusive not very common. However, the all-inclusive meal option will be the only reasonable option, since food prices in all cafes proudly called “restaurants,” regardless of the menu, are quite high. For a relaxing family holiday with children, choose the emirate of Fujairah.