Tourists in the emirates. Comparative characteristics of the emirates or which emirate to choose for a holiday? Features of national cuisine
Tez Tour brings to your attention several important features of a holiday in the UAE, which all travelers planning to visit this wonderful country should know.
The United Arab Emirates is a Muslim country, social and political life which are built on the basis of the Koran. The Koran states that drinking alcohol is prohibited. That’s why anyone who is used to relaxing on vacation with alcohol should not go on vacation to the Emirates.
Let's start with the fact that All Inclusive in the Emirates does not mean endless drinking alcoholic drinks(and even low-alcohol ones).
Secondly, you will also not find drinks containing alcohol for free sale on the streets of resorts. Only on site and in some bars. And even there it is very expensive (half a liter of beer costs 10-20 dollars). But you can be sure that you purchased a high-quality natural drink (if vodka, then it is the Finlandia brand and the like, beer - Budweiser, etc.).
Based on the fact that you cannot drink in the Emirates, it is also strictly forbidden to appear there while intoxicated. And if, for example, you had a party in some nightclub, then just call a taxi and go to the hotel to your room. Otherwise, you have the right to be sent to prison.
More stringent rules apply to all persons under the influence of alcohol during Ramadan (the most important fast for Muslims usually falls in the summer).
As for Duty Free alcohol, it can be purchased and imported into the Emirates, strictly observing the norms (liter per person). And of course, you shouldn’t wave the bottle in front of everyone. Everything you brought with you is drunk only in your own hotel room.
If you are traveling to Sharjah, please note that this is the strictest emirate that complies with all the rules of Islam. You will not find alcohol here, and if the police see you drunk, then prison is inevitable (by the way, in Sharjah they also treat clothes that do not cover anything).
Who makes sure that the peace of vacationers is not disturbed by drunks? Thousands of web cameras and morality police.
You will never see the police on the street, but if you commit any offense (throw the garbage in in the wrong place, light a cigarette, start pestering women and especially local ones), representatives of the law will appear right there. At best, you will be asked very politely and nicely, for example, to go change your clothes. A fine is also possible (there is no point in offering a bribe; moreover, such an offer can land you in jail), which you will have to pay. It is possible to be deported from the country without the right to appear here again. In the worst case scenario, you will be sent to prison.
It may seem to many that the rules in the Emirates are very strict. However, this is not the case. It's just that no one likes to see someone drunk. In addition, here you will really take a break from your always intoxicated and cheerful compatriots.
Enjoy your holiday in the UAE with Tez Tour!
Tired of the harsh climate, an increasing number of citizens seek to bask in the sun, regardless of the time of year. When looking for a destination, tourists choose an exotic country that amazingly combines oriental traditions with high standards of service. Holidays in the city attract with its exotic originality and developed infrastructure, allowing you to realize the dream of an oriental fairy tale.
The desire to visit the country of the sheikhs is easily realized today. Snow-white sandy beaches, amazing skyscrapers, luxurious and giant shopping centers await tourists.
UAE: location and climate
An area of 83.6 thousand square kilometers is located in the southeast coast of the Arabian Peninsula. The federal state borders Saudi Arabia, Sultanate of Oman and Qatar. Washed by the warm waters of the Indian Ocean and two gulfs (Oman and Persian), the UAE delights vacationers with a subtropical climate. Warm and sunny on an exotic coast all year round. 20 degrees Celsius is the minimum air temperature. For those who can hardly stand the heat, a holiday in best time for the trip. Excellent weather and comfortable temperatures will allow you to fully enjoy your useful time.
And in hot weather, from May to September, favorable conditions are provided for vacationers on the hotel premises. For the eastern coast of the mountainous regions of the country, in hot weather, saving winds soften the climate.
Are you planning a trip to the UAE? Prepare your documents
Tourists going on a trip to the coast, where a young country with strict Muslim laws and sacred traditions is located, should take care of a visa. You can apply for a permit to enter the country yourself by contacting the UAE consulate, or you can trust the agency from which you purchase the ticket. Required documents to obtain a visa:
· color photocopy of a valid foreign passport;
· filled in English language questionnaire;
· color photographs;
· 80 American dollars as a consular fee.
Children who are included in their parents' passport will not have to pay a visa fee. The time allotted for reviewing documents is three working days. The consulate may require additional documents, and employees also reserve the right not to explain the reason for refusing to issue a visa. Special attention is paid to unmarried women unaccompanied by relatives intending to enter the country.
If a visa has been received, then when crossing the border you must present a copy of it in electronic form, as well as a foreign passport.
Read the entry rules
Tourists should know about customs regulations when traveling on vacation, it can be spoiled already when crossing the border if the tourist is carrying products of erotic content, alcohol over two liters, or drugs. They are attentive to imported medicines, so those containing narcotics or potent sedatives It’s better to leave it at home, because for this you can go to prison or be deported from the country. Visual control identifies people with inappropriate behavior, who are required to undergo a test for the presence of inappropriate drugs, and if suspicions are confirmed, severe punishment follows, according to UAE law.
But there are no restrictions on the import of national and foreign currency.
7 emirates - choose any
An attractive tourist destination attracts holidaymakers all year round. The state represents a confederation of emirates, which includes Sharjah, Dubai, Ajman, Fujairah, Abu Dhabi, Umm al Quwain and Ras al Khaimah, each of which differs in size, identity, local laws, cost of recreation, infrastructure and attractions .
When choosing a holiday in the United Arab Emirates, people take a balanced approach to their financial capabilities, because on the tourist map of the world this destination is considered one of the most expensive options.
- The largest in area is Abu Dhabi, and the city of the same name is also the capital of the state. This emirate is focused on business tourists. Everything here amazes with luxury; incredible skyscrapers and man-made islands are admirable.
- Dubai, the second largest emirate, is liberal. Vacationers with different levels of income will be able to relax in both luxury hotels and budget hotels. Anyone can climb the tallest building in the world - the Burj Khalifa (828 m) or the record-breaking Rose Tower hotel (333 m). Skiing on ski slopes of any difficulty in an indoor ski complex, operating all year round, or having fun in giant water parks measuring 17 and 6 hectares will leave an indelible impression on those visiting the United Arab Emirates. Dubai, where a holiday will enrich you with impressions, attracts with the palaces of the sheikhs.
- Visiting the emirate of Sharjah means visiting the coast of the Indian Ocean and the Persian Gulf at the same time. Most often, gentle waves and golden sand attract tourists, because these are the associations that the United Arab Emirates evokes among those going on vacation. 4* hotel is a mid-price beach hotel, which is most often chosen by tourists who prefer tranquility and comfort.
- The delightful greenery of the emirate of Ras al Khaimah captivates with its exquisite design. This beautiful place is washed by the gentle waves of the Persian Gulf. The picturesque landscape is attractive to tourists.
- Umm al-Quwain is considered the quietest and most provincial emirate, attracting vacationers with its architectural monuments. The way of life and national traditions of the local residents have been preserved here.
- Tourists who avoid large crowds prefer to relax in Fujairah. Resort areas are attractive for fans of beach holidays and mountain climbing. Hotels attract with all-inclusive meals.
- The smallest emirate of Ajman, located half an hour from Dubai Airport, is rich in reserves mineral water, which supplies the Gulf countries. Here tourists enjoy visiting the National Historical Museum.
Mentality of local residents
Before traveling to another country, it would be a good idea to familiarize yourself with its national characteristics. An unceremonious attitude towards a woman (foreigner or local - it makes no difference) is unacceptable here, which cannot be said about Egypt or Turkey.
Tourists from all over the world strive to get a quality holiday in the United Arab Emirates, but in order not to overshadow the trip, you should adhere to the rules:
· in a country with strict Muslim morals, there is a “dry law”, and in in public places It is better to abstain from alcohol;
· It is prohibited to transport strong drinks from one emirate to another;
· alcohol as a gift is a bad sign;
· you cannot sunbathe topless, only in a swimsuit; it is also not recommended to be in it outside the pool or beach;
· Show respect for Arab women (taking pictures of them is tantamount to insulting them and is prohibited married woman take by hand);
· when entering a house or mosque, be sure to take off your shoes;
· Always tip taxi drivers.
Beach tourism
Each emirate has a different color of sand on the coast (from dazzling white to shades of red). Well-maintained and clean beaches attract tourists. The area is equipped for a comfortable pastime with sun loungers and sun umbrellas. City beaches can be either paid or free. There is also an area for family recreation. The coast of Abu Dhabi is marked with the EU flag for cleanliness.
In Dubai, on the beaches of Al Mamzar and Jumeirah Beach Park, one day of the week is considered women's day, so the presence of men is prohibited.
Fans of water sports should visit coastline Fujairah. A beach holiday in Sharjah will captivate you with picturesque views of coral reefs and delightful blue bays. On a yacht you can visit deserted places, the pristine beauty of which will leave an indelible impression.
United Arab Emirates: holidays with children
It is not only business tourism that attracts people to the actively developing eastern country. Delight and a sea of positive emotions guarantee tourists a holiday in the United Arab Emirates.
Feedback from families who visited the exotic region can be heard only positive. Long history and high technology intertwine here. Vacationers appreciate the ban on alcohol in Sharjah, where peace is guaranteed for families with children, and they also like the quiet emirate of Ras al-Khaimah with the wonderful Dreamland water park. A friendly attitude towards Russian-speaking tourists makes holidays in the United Arab Emirates more popular every year. And tourists are guaranteed safety and comfort on the Arabian coast.
Do you prefer active recreation?
Tourists who are tired of swimming and relaxing in the sun will be able to gain new impressions.
An exciting program is provided for fans of active pastime, making an unforgettable vacation in the United Arab Emirates. The reviews are impressive, because not every country will offer such diversity:
· desert rally in cars;
Camel or horseback riding;
· windsurfing, golf, diving, archery;
· racing on speed boats;
· racing on purebred Arabian horses;
· camel racing;
· catching crabs under the cover of night;
· falconry or “Birds of Prey Show”.
Means of transportation in the country
It is customary to use a taxi in the UAE, because public transport is poorly developed. For women, there are cars painted in pink color, where only women work as drivers. The fare costs five to ten dirhams, on the bus - 1.5. There is also a water taxi (boats - “abras”), providing communication between the banks of the Dubai Canal.
Tourists over 21 years of age can rent a car. To do this, you need an international driver's license issued more than a year ago. Insurance is required. The minimum rental period is one day. A rental car is most often equipped with a siren warning of speeding. It is permissible to drive 100 km/h on highways settlements- no more than 60 km/h.
The country's hotel fund
Settle in the city or on the beach? Tourists decide this issue based on individual preferences. The United Arab Emirates is famous for its developed infrastructure. The hotels guarantee an impeccable holiday. Luxury apartments are offered to tourists on the coast of Dubai, in prestigious areas of Jumeirah and Sharjah, where room prices are very high. In Abu Dhabi, buildings are located on the shore, because there is not enough land, the beach line is narrow because of this, which reduces the cost of living. Ajman has a weak hotel base, so it is attractive for budget tourists. In Fujairah, food is provided, allowing you not to worry about lunch and dinner, because in most other emirates the hotel only provides breakfast for the guest.
Tourists who cannot stand the heat are recommended to go on vacation in the spring. In the United Arab Emirates in April, the temperature is very comfortable, allowing you to fully enjoy your trip. Each of the hotels has a swimming pool where guests can relax with pleasure. Almost all city hotels offer a free shuttle to the beach.
Shopping fans will not be disappointed
The unique country attracts tourists with sales and attractive discounts. Low duties and favorable laws have made the UAE attractive to holidaymakers seeking not only to update their wardrobe, but also household appliances, electronics, computers, jewelry. Holidays in January allow you to purchase new items from world brands at the annual shopping festival in Dubai.
It is difficult to name a well-known brand that is not represented in the range of goods sold at an affordable price. New Year's tours are not so good for lovers of beach holidays, but for fans of excursion trips, wide prospects open up.
Features of national cuisine
Due to established religious peculiarities, pork is unacceptable in the diet of local residents. Dishes Arabic cuisine abound various types meat, tourists will be offered dishes made from beef, veal, lamb, goat or poultry on the hotel restaurant menu. Guzi, shawarma, kustilleta, kebeh, meshui-mushakkal, biryani-ajaj, adobe prepared with spices or nuts will delight hotel visitors. Seafood lovers will be surprised by makbus samak, biryani samak, zubaidi, sharks and crustaceans cooked on charcoal. Vegetarians will appreciate fermented milk products, vegetables, and herbs in grape leaves.
Traditional Arabian will amaze gourmets. And those with a sweet tooth will like pistachio or milk pudding, sorbet, and Asyda dessert.
Each hotel is proud of its chef, who adequately represents national cuisine in the menu of his restaurant.
UAE currency and language
They speak Arabic and English in the country. The influx of Russian-speaking tourists is forcing workers in hotels, restaurants, and shops to master the language of the Slavs. In most hotel complexes, the staff knows the necessary set of phrases to help tourists understand.
Dirham is the national currency of the UAE and is equivalent to 100 fils. US dollars are also actively used for payments, but it is better to exchange them at the bank for local currency.
The cost of a trip to the country of oriental charm depends on the time of year, the location of the resort, the star rating of the hotel, and the class of service. Although it is believed that a tour to the UAE is an expensive pleasure, you can purchase it if you wish. Today it is possible to choose an option for a budget or luxury holiday in a magical land.
When greeting, Arabs use a handshake, but be prepared for it to be longer than we are used to. By the way, when you say goodbye, the ritual should be repeated. With friends and people who are dear to you, a two-handed handshake is used. Meanwhile, all these rules apply mainly to men. Because it is not customary for Arab women to shake hands first; a handshake is permissible only if the women take the initiative.
Regardless of which local resident you come to and for what period of time, in the UAE it is customary to treat guests to at least drinks (tea, coffee, non-alcoholic chilled aperitifs). You cannot refuse a treat, otherwise the owner will think that you are offended by him or will perceive such a step as disrespect.
Since you understand that you will have to try something, then prepare yourself for what drinks they may offer you. Coffee in the Emirates has been elevated to the rank of a cult drink; it is drunk several times a day and brewed in a special way - of course, by hand. Then they pour it into small bowls - cups without a handle. Tea is also served in similar containers, often black with mint or green with herbs. As a rule, drinks are brought to the table moderately sweet, but without cream or milk.
When you enter an Arab home, it is customary to take off your shoes. While sitting, the soles of your feet should not be pointed towards the owners; this position is considered offensive to local residents.
It is customary for Arabs to pass and receive food and drink exclusively with the right hand.
If you want to show respect to the inhabitants of the Emirates, then follow the wardrobe rules. When walking along the city streets, men are not recommended to wear shorts and a T-shirt, and women are not recommended to wear clothes with an open stomach, back, neckline, mini skirts or see-through dresses. Even if you dressed inappropriately, you may not be reprimanded in a hotel, shopping center or restaurant, but near mosques, in the subway and residential areas you may be approached with a warning.
After 2 verbal reprimands, a fine of about $100 may follow. As for mosques, fortunately, visitors are offered temporary clothing: abayas for women ( Long Dresses), men - special long shirts. Meanwhile, for example, in Dubai the dress code is not so strict, here they treat tourists more loyally.
As for beachwear, topless sunbathing is not allowed in the Emirates. Baring one's breasts is considered not only a violation, but also a corrupting act. Nudists in the UAE are also not tolerated, so good luck, you can end up behind bars.
In the Emirates, it is not customary to kiss on the street, passionately hug in public places, and even more so to do something more serious in the direction of a romantic relationship. Even a girl sitting on a guy’s lap is a gross violation of law and order. For such actions they can be punished, for example, with a 10-day trip to jail. Exceptions from specified rules can only be done in nightlife establishments (clubs, discos) and hotel bars.
If you travel by public transport, keep in mind that there are exclusively women's carriages and seats only for women with babies. Men are prohibited from entering these zones, and it doesn’t really matter what country you come from. If you prefer to travel side by side with your significant other, then simply select public areas in the transport.
However, there is good news for lovers: couples can walk holding hands. Moreover, local romantics also do this. Lovers who are not officially married are allowed to live in the same room; local law enforcement agencies delicately and understandingly “turn a blind eye” to such details.
As you understand, it’s better not to flirt with locals, frivolous love relationship Muslims are not welcome.
Moreover, it is not recommended to start a conversation with Arab ladies on your own initiative - even if you have a tragedy, local law enforcement officers may regard such actions as sexual harassment.
As you know, Muslims are not drinking people. Meanwhile, our tourists, accustomed to liberties in Turkey and Egypt, sometimes do not believe that in other Arab countries they can be discriminated against in alcohol matters. Meanwhile, upon arriving in the Emirates, you will understand that everything is quite serious here - alcoholic drinks are prohibited. Of course, there are exceptions for travelers of non-Muslim faith, but there are also a lot of conventions that it doesn’t hurt to know about before your trip.
Let's start with the fact that tourists should not drink alcohol on board an airplane flying to the UAE. Otherwise, you risk returning to your homeland without ever setting foot on Arab soil outside the airport. Despite the fact that you can freely import 1 liter of spirits and 2 liters of wine into the country, transporting them on public transport or openly carrying them in public places is prohibited. Meanwhile, the severity of alcohol consumption varies across emirates. So, for example, if in Sharjah they don’t actually sell alcohol anywhere and strictly punish for appearing in public while “under the influence”, then in Dubai, for example, you can calmly enjoy your favorite alcohol in a hotel bar or in a hotel room. Meanwhile, if you go out into the street in a tipsy state, then you will be in trouble, you may pay a fine, receive a warning, or even go to jail. But what about those who were at a disco or in a restaurant at another hotel and “took it on the chest” a little? Just calmly and quietly walk to the exit and get straight into a taxi, return to your place of residence without incident. Do not try to drive a rental car while drunk, you risk paying a fine of about $5,000.
By the way, don’t even think about giving local residents our legendary vodka or other strong treats (regardless of where they came from), such surprises are not welcome here.
It is not allowed to photograph Arab women in the UAE. In general, some Muslims consider the process of photographing a sin (haram). So avoid photographing men, especially those with a striking appearance, in national clothes, with beard. It is possible that you will come across a strict Muslim who will feel insulted.
It is also prohibited to film public buildings and government institutions; these actions can be equated to espionage. It is not customary to photograph mosques, as well as people performing prayers.
Not all beaches allow you to photograph even yourself or your family. If you see a prohibitory sign, it’s better not to take risks. Meanwhile, the desire to capture yourself on the sand “as a keepsake” can be realized on other beaches where this is permitted.
It is not customary to talk loudly on the phone on the streets and in public places of the Emirates.
When talking with local Arabs, it is not recommended to ask questions about your wife; however, you can inquire about the interlocutor’s family as a whole.
It is not necessary to carry the original passport with you; a copy of the passport and visa is sufficient. It is better to keep the originals in a hotel safe.
Do not even think about giving a bribe to local police officers - this is considered a crime, and it is possible that it is even more serious than what they tried to punish you for.
Fighting, swearing (believe me, local police have already learned all the colorful Russian curses) and showing indecent gestures are strictly prohibited in the Emirates - a fine of $1,000 or even 7 years of “rest” behind bars can be imposed for this.
For some violations, you may be permanently barred from entering the country. Moreover, changing your passport will not help in this matter, because upon entry they take a retinal scan, so if you are deported for violations, you will never be able to visit the Emirates again.
Meanwhile, the residents of the UAE are very good-natured and hospitable people, and their sincerity is natural, because local residents, as a rule, are wealthy people, regardless of the income that tourism brings to the country.
Now that you know all the intricacies of staying in the country, your vacation will be “correct,” comfortable and interesting.
About the UAE
Not so long ago, here, on the site of this fabulous country, there was an ordinary desert. Today, the Emirates symbolize the standard of style, luxury and IT technology combined with the Arab world. In place of the desert and dunes, modern shopping centers and palm groves have grown up, people travel here in expensive sports cars, and artificial islands have been created on the coast and some of the best hotels in the world have been built. Oriental fairy tales have become a reality here, in which rich sheikhs sincerely welcome guests from all over the world.
Cities and resorts of the UAE
Abu Dhabi. The largest resort city and the largest of the emirates in the UAE. The city is designed in high-tech style, it contains not only a large number of luxury five-star hotels, most of which are recently built, but also a huge amount of entertainment, including Ferrari Park and the Formula One track.
Dubai is the second largest emirate. Dubai is famous for its beaches on the Persian Gulf. Holidays in Dubai will seduce you with its shopping; this is where world-famous markets and shopping centers are located. Dubai is home to the world's most expensive hotel, the Burj Al Arab, and one of the world's tallest buildings, the Burj Khalifa.
Jumeirah- This is, first of all, the most fashionable residential area of the Emirates. This area is densely built up with villas, clubs and skyscrapers. The main attraction is the artificial island made in the shape of a palm tree.
Sharjah it is the third largest Emirate. A special feature is that alcohol is completely prohibited here. There are not very many hotels in Sharjah, but most are located either on the first line of the sea or not far from it.
Ras al Khaimah– located in the north and began to open as a resort relatively recently. There are not many hotels in Ras Al Khaimah, but most of them support the all-inclusive system. An equally important factor is that, unlike, for example, Sharjah, there is no prohibition here and alcohol is allowed.
Fujairah is an emirate located on the shores of the Indian Ocean. Fujairah's climate is milder and the terrain and nature are more diverse. On the coast of Fujairah there are coral reefs that attract divers. As elsewhere in the UAE, there are a large number of modern hotels, shopping centers and restaurants.
Umm Al Quwain– this is not a tourist Emirate. Despite the excellent beaches and quiet lagoons, there are not many hotels here compared to other cities in the UAE. For the most part, local residents live here. Um Al Quwain has an amusement park and several architectural monuments.
Ajman it is the smallest emirate in the UAE. There are not many hotels here, but they are all of a very high level, have a large area and their own beaches.
Seasonality in the UAE
The low season in the UAE is summer. At this time of year the temperature rises above 30-35 degrees and there is practically no precipitation. The optimal time for a holiday in the UAE is considered to be from October to April. With good, sunny weather and a warm sea, the temperature is very comfortable for relaxation, and the sea is ideal for swimming.
Difference in time
UAE time is one hour ahead of Moscow.
Currency in the UAE
The local currency is the dirham, the exchange rate of which is closely tied to the dollar exchange rate.
UAE visa
Russian citizens do not require a visa to the UAE for a stay of up to 30 days.
UAE language and religion.
Islam is practiced in the UAE. The official language is Arabic, but most of The population speaks English; in many hotels the staff speaks Russian.
Culinary features of the UAE
As in all Muslim countries, in the UAE all dishes are prepared from beef, veal and goat. Particular attention is paid to soups, dairy products and desserts made from honey and nuts. In the Emirates they do not drink alcohol, and their favorite drink is strong coffee. For lovers of good food, the Emirates is an ideal place; restaurateurs from all over the world are eager to open their representative offices here; it is no coincidence that this small country leads in the concentration of Michelin-starred restaurants. In addition, there are a large number of cafes in the UAE offering dishes at very affordable prices.
UAE transport system
The Emirates has a well-developed public transport system, but the optimal means of transportation for tourists is a taxi. Most hotels regularly organize free shuttles to beaches and major shopping centers.
We must remember that the Emirates is an Islamic country with its own rather strict laws. There is virtually no crime in the UAE. The UAE is a country with strict laws; there is practically no crime here.
Swimwear or toplessness is prohibited.
You cannot photograph Arab women - this may be perceived as insulting, and it is not recommended to photograph the state. institutions.
Gambling is prohibited in the UAE
Alcoholic drinks are prohibited in the UAE. You can only drink them in restaurants and bars. Drinking in public or driving under the influence is a serious offence.
