What is the first thing that comes to the mind of the average person when they mention United Arab Emirates? Of course, the beauty, splendor and wealth of this federation. Perhaps, the adjective "rich" here can be christened everything: these are landscapes spreading in front of the beholder, and modern luxury hotels, and snow-white sandy shores, which are washed by bright blue clear water. The UAE is equally a country for tourists and a country where they come to deal with commercial issues. Here, the branches of the oil-producing and oil-and-gas economy are developing at a significantly increasing pace. The first oil fields were discovered in the 50s, until that time the locals were engaged in fishing and pearling.
An emirate is a form of government for a Muslim state. United Arab Emirates (UAE) contain seven states (emirates), each of which has an absolute monarchy.
Are Emirates in southwest Asia, in the eastern part of the Arabian Peninsula. It borders Saudi Arabia to the south and west and Oman to the southeast and northeast. Emirates washed by the Persian and Oman Gulfs. Relief in different parts Emirates heterogeneous. Deserts are increasingly common in the east, while mountainous areas have settled in the south.
capital UAE is the city of Abu Dhabi. Abu Dhabi is proclaimed the capital due to the fact that it is the richest of the emirates in terms of its oil reserves. It is the stock of wealth and oil that determines the position of the emirate in the political system. It is interesting that the emirates are not the first year considered the Federation, but the boundaries between them are strictly observed. Uniform laws do not always reign in different territories of the emirates.
United Arab Emirates occupy 83,600 sq. km. area. The population is about 4.5 million. The official language is Arabic. The official currency is the dirham.
HOLIDAYS IN THE ARAB EMIRATES
Arguments "for" visiting the United Arab Emirates
UAE a prosperous commercial country, striking in its heterogeneity and splendor of architectural buildings.
In the largest emirate UAE - Abu Dhabi, which includes several oasis cities, is one of the historical monuments of the White Fort. This monument, built in the 19th century, serves as a reservoir for storing fresh water. There are many fountains scattered throughout Abu Dhabi that adorn the streets of the emirate.
Most of the fountains are concentrated on the Corniche Road, which will be a great place to relax on a hot afternoon. Numerous entertainment establishments coexist along with fountains on the embankment. The best restaurants in the emirate are located just off the Corniche Road.
In another equally remarkable emirate of Dubai, the largest commercial hub of the Middle East and the resort part, as well as interesting modern buildings and ancient architecture, coexist. Start your exploration of Dubai with a boat trip to the Bastakiya area, which is built in a typical Arabic style. Also don't forget to visit the tallest skyscraper.
Climate in the United Arab Emirates
Hot, arid and subtropical - this is how you can characterize the climate UAE. Summer, of course, is hotter, the temperature during the day can rise to 45 degrees. Summer holidays in United Arab Emirates can be remembered only by unbearable weather and lack of precipitation.
The main wave of tourists arrives from the end of September, some prefer to come in winter. Winter temperatures are most comfortable up to +26 degrees during the day, but at night the temperature on the coast drops sharply to +12. The night temperature depends on the location in the emirates, for example, the lowest winter temperatures occur in the desert (down to -5 degrees).
The water temperature in coastal waters fluctuates around +33 degrees in summer, while in winter it drops to +22 degrees. It is noteworthy that in winter the water in the pool is heated.
Humidity in United Arab Emirates unstable and fluctuates over a wide range. In summer and autumn, humidity is incredibly high (up to 90%), but under the scorching sun, it drops to a minimum. Typical humidity ranges from 50-60%.
Rains very rarely disturb this corner of the earth. The vast majority of precipitation occurs between December and January.
weather in United Arab Emirates brings unpredictability. Sandstorms are not uncommon here, which cannot be predicted, they begin suddenly and can last up to three days. In this case, visibility is significantly reduced.
A couple of times a year, the Arab Emirates are surprised by strong hurricanes that last for several hours, tearing off the roofs of buildings.
The emirate of Fujairah can stand out with a particularly mild climate. This emirate is located off the coast of the Indian Ocean. It is characterized by a humid and mild climate to the greatest extent, unlike all other parts UAE.
National cuisine of the UAE
National cuisine remains an integral link in the chain of the overall impression of the country. Most kitchen recipes United Arab Emirates borrowed from the Lebanese tradition. The traditional snack - shawarma - is a kind of fast food. The shawarma recipe is simple: take lamb or chicken meat with salad and wrap it in a flatbread. Such food can be purchased in tents.
Because Emirates is a maritime country, then dishes from sea delicacies (lobsters, crabs, shrimps and fish) abound on the tables of restaurants.
Delicacies traditional for these places are unusual and taste great: umm ali (bread pudding), ash asaya (sweet cheese pie with cream on top).
Coffee occupies a special and honorable place in the heart of the locals. Therefore, in restaurants, its preparation is extremely in demand.
Resorts in the United Arab Emirates
Abu Dhabi
It is one of the greenest places on the coast of the Persian Gulf. The emirate will be remembered by tourists for its beautiful flower beds, countless fountains and stunning sculptures.
Ajaman
Small in area, the emirate is worth visiting. The fact is that on its territory there is an Ajaman shipyard, which manufactures Arab dhow boats. Here you can learn the basics of shipbuilding. Mineral springs are located not far from the territory of Ajaman. Ajaman is for tourists who value peace and regularity of life above vanity and active social pastime.
Dubai
A prime commercial development city in the Emirates. Here, for tourists, the doors of luxurious and luxury hotels will open, here you can look at the rich architectural buildings. Most likely, your eyes will diverge from the choice of souvenirs to take home. Dubai is divided into six districts and each of them deserves special attention:
- bar dubai
, which is the historical center of the city, will be a great start to explore Dubai. Here is the bulk of the attractions (Said's Palace, the Dubaev Museum, the World Trade Center);
- Gardens
, which is a sleeping area, will show the life of the natives as it is;
- downtown
, will be of interest to both ordinary tourists and businessmen. The fact is that this area is a building business complex. But here are the biggest attractions. Such as the tallest skyscraper in the world, the Burj Khalifa, the Dubai Fountain, as well as the Dubai Mall, the largest shopping and entertainment center to date.
- Deira
- the shopping part of the city, where a tourist can look for good gifts and souvenirs for his relatives and friends. Here is a huge market for gold products;
- Jumeirah
will surprise visitors with the wealth of local life. This is an area for wealthy residents of the emirates.
Sharjah
This emirate is suitable for tourists who respect the laws of Islam and do not try to bring something new to the life of the natives. Here, a woman (meaning arriving) should be in a long skirt and with her hands closed, and men should not take alcohol and cigarettes outside. This emirate may seem interesting for sightseeing. The most amazing thing here is a huge fountain spouting directly from the bay. The contemplation of this picture can leave few people indifferent. In addition to the fountain, there are other wonderful places here: Al Jazeera Park, in which there are several dozen entertainments, the King Faisal Mosque, the monument to the Holy Quran, the National Heritage Museum.
fujairah
The emirate is for people who love not the luxury and chic of hotels and skyscrapers, but who love to contemplate the beauty of nature.Here you can improve your health in sulfuric mountain springs. There are many historical buildings and beautiful sculptures. Al-Wuraiya waterfalls, natural protected areas and beautiful gardens delight the eye. Fans of outdoor activities will not get bored here, this emirate can offer hiking in the mountains, exploring dry riverbeds, diving deep into the depths of the sea towards sunken ships.
Ras Al Khaimah
The emirate is small in area, but contains many hotels on its territory. Here you can improve your health and rejuvenate thanks to the procedures carried out in local spas. Life-giving mineral water is traditionally used in beauty salons. The evening city will fully reveal the spirit of Ras Al Khaimah, wandering among the old forts and ancient mosques, you will get a lot of impressions. During the day, you can visit a huge water park that will charge you with vivacity and optimism for the entire upcoming vacation.
Umm Al Quwain
A city in which the traditional, ancient way of life has been preserved. There are few hotels here. What can a tourist find here for himself? Tranquility and serenity on the sandy shore near numerous lagoons. See the true provincial Muslim life. Emirate for those who are not looking for entertainment.
Hotels in United Arab Emirates
By studying the reviews on the network, you can rank the best hotels. True, it should be borne in mind that the prices for a day stay in some reach sky-high heights.
Mina A Salam Madinat Jumeirah Hotel
- positions itself as a whole resort. This hotel is for wealthy visitors who are ready to pay from 25,000 rubles per day. The hotel has its own sandy beach with access to the sea. The hotel has more than 40 restaurants with a variety of cuisines from around the world. Open and closed pools. Laundries and dry cleaners. Numerous beauty salons and spa services. Here you can rent a car. Full functionality has been prepared for children: you can hire a nurse while you are having fun in the company of adults, there are playgrounds, children's pools and a menu for children. The range of entertainment here is extensive: you can play golf or tennis, visit water slides, surf on the beach, and dance at local discos. If the atmosphere of the hotel starts to bother you, you can book a tour.
Rooms are equipped with bath and shower, minibar, satellite TV and wi-fi access.
Al Qasr Madinat Jumeirah - a hotel in Jumeirah, for a stay in which you will have to pay 19,000 rubles every day. This is a whole palace, conceived by architects in the style of the sheikhs' summer residence. The hotel, of course, has its own beach with a coastline of 3.5 km. The range of services provided is almost no different from the first hotel.
Atlantis The Palm - a hotel located in Dubai. Not suitable for lovers of tranquility and a measured lifestyle, as a metro station is attached to the building. The hotel is positioned as a good place for families. The cost of a room per day is from 16,000 rubles. Here is the largest amusement water park, there is a dolphinarium. In the water park, you can get a decent dose of adrenaline by going to the amusement slide, which passes through the lagoon with sharks. The walls of the slide-tunnel are made of transparent plastic. Otherwise, all the functionality is similar to previous hotels.
No less worthy, but with more mundane prices are hotels:
- The Radisson Blu Fujairah from 9000 rubles per day (Dibba area);
- Iberotel Miramar Al Aqah Beach from 7000 rubles per day (Dubai);
- Hilton Sharjah from 4000 rubles per day (Sharjah).
Attractions UAE
Many tourists tend to significant places, to the sights of the country in which they spend their holidays. In the rich and vibrant country of the UAE, there are not a dozen interesting, memorable places. Get your cameras ready and let's get started!
sheikh zayed mosque- located in Abu Dhabi, according to many tourists, is one of the most interesting tourist places. Since the mosque can be visited not only by Muslims, but also by ordinary tourists, you can fully feel the spirit of the Arab state. This majestic building houses the largest carpet and the largest chandelier in the world. The mosque is named after the first president of the UAE, his body is in the mosque.
At the corners of the mosque there are towers from which Muslims are called to prayer. The main building is decorated with 57 marble domes. The interior floor of the mosque is covered with colored marble.
Grand Mosque in Dubai- located near Jumeira Open Beach. It is difficult to pass by it, as it attracts attention with its large tower, from which the call to prayer is made. It has 9 large domes and 45 smaller ones. Also in the building there are colored stained-glass windows.
Al-Bidiya Mosque- the oldest mosque in the UAE. It is worth visiting for people who are not indifferent to Islam and Arab culture. It keeps the greatness of such an oldest and world religion as Islam. It is located 30 km from the city of Fujairah, in the north.
Palm Jumeirah is an island built by painstaking workers in the form of a palm tree with seventeen branches. A real corner of luxury and wealth.
The palm tree is divided into three parts:
- Crescent
- this is a barrier that is the protection of a palm tree. Here are located famous hotels, made in different styles.
- Trunk
- this is the center of Palma, in which the cultural and social life of this island is located. There are parks, shopping centers, restaurants. Also, multi-storey residential buildings are being built here. A water channel runs through the center of the Trunk.
- branches
- in general, there are seventeen of them. Here, rich people build exclusive villas to order.
AT UAE there are two more similar palm islands: Palma Deira and Palm Jebel Ali.
Singing fountain in Dubai- an unusual building, which is dancing to the accompaniment of Arabic and world classical music. The amazing structure is illuminated by over 6,000 lanterns and 25 colored spotlights. Located on an artificial lake.
Singing fountain in Sharjah- 220 meters wide and 100 meters high. It is not as famous as its brother in Dubai, but is also a popular destination for tourists. Music show every day starts from 20:30 to 00:00.
Ski Dubai is a ski resort on the Arabian Peninsula. Every day the top layer of snow is replenished thanks to the work of special devices. The resort has different slopes for both beginners and experienced skiers. There are tracks for snowboarding and bobsledding. In order for tourists to be completely imbued with the atmosphere of a ski resort, real fir trees are planted here. The temperature here is maintained at -2 degrees. Up to 1500 people can visit the resort per day.
Dubai Mall is a large shopping and entertainment center. You can spend the whole day here, because how to get around in a couple of hours and visit the Olympic skating rink, a huge aquarium, a candy store (the largest in the world).
Skyscraper Burj Khalifa- what could be more famous than this building, where thousands of tourists aspire every day? This architectural building will turn your head with its scale. The shape of the building resembles a stalagmite. 828 meters of the unknown, in which you will find the world's largest swimming pool, the world's largest nightclub, hotel rooms designed by Giorgio Armani. There are observation decks on different floors, and there is an observatory at the very top.
gold market- located in Dubai. The road is open here for those who wish to purchase jewelry relatively inexpensively. The shelves of the wound are breaking under the weight of the gold goods. Usually gold is purchased here in large quantities, in bulk.
Wonderland is a huge amusement park for adults and children. Here and singing gypsies, and illusionists, and clowns. Simple carousels, roller coasters of different heights, slot machines. There are many eateries in the park. Payment for attractions and other services is carried out by coupons, which are sold in books of 10, 20 or 30 pieces. Unused coupons you will have to take with you, as the money for them is not refundable.
Sheikh Zayed Street- located in Dubai, the street deserves special attention, because its ultra-modern buildings reflect the modern spirit of the Emirates.
Ferrari World Amusement Park- This park is entirely dedicated to the brand of Ferrari cars. The park is completely covered with a red tent with the emblem of the brand. In this park, you can buy a variety of accessories with the company logo (mugs, T-shirts, pens, key rings, baseball caps.
Fans of this car will love impromptu races, films about Ferrari engineers and the history of creation. The most inquisitive will have the opportunity to change the wheels on the car and much more.
Dubai National Museum- the largest national museum in the emirates. Located in Al Fahidi Fort. At the fort, tourists are greeted with old cannons. The exposition consists of a Bedouin house, rare weapons, musical instruments and other decorations. But in the underground part there is a large part of the exhibition. Here you will watch a film about the history of Dubai, the panorama "Night in the Desert", visit a Muslim school. Learn historical reports about different strata of the former population.
Wild Wadi is the most popular and modern water park in Dubai. Occupies a huge area. Motifs of Arabic colors are involved in the design of the park, which often attracts the attention of children and causes them a lot of delight. Surfing is possible in the large swimming pool. For children, there is a special entertainment here: a small lagoon with a pirate ship turned upside down in it, this is where you can spend the whole day and get vivid impressions.
Sharjah Aqua Gallery- a huge aquarium, entering which you will forget about all the problems. The underwater world will take you from the beginning to the end of the journey. The inhabitants of the aquarium are 250 different species of animals. This entire exposition serves the purpose of reminding residents that nature needs to be protected.
Dubai Festival City is a small town inside Dubai. Here you can combine relaxation with productive shopping. Businessmen also visit here. There are about 500 shops in the city.
Red dunes in Dubai- this place should not be missed by tourists who appreciate new experiences from extreme sports. From the very peaks of the Red Dunes, you can go down on a snowboard type board. You can get to these places by car with a breeze, you may get no less impressions from the trip itself than from the descent from the Dunes.
"Eye of the Emirates"- This is a huge Ferris wheel in Sharjah. It is located near the Al Kasba canal. It can accommodate up to 300 people at the same time. The best time to visit the wheel is late in the evening, when the views of Sharjah and its environs open from a height of 60 meters.
UAE FOR TOURISTS
Think about what United Arab Emirates- This is a Muslim country with its own strict way of life. Despite the fact that some cities have established themselves as liberal territories, it must be remembered that Islam is a strict religion. Literally, Islam is translated as "absolute submission to God", the locals treat their religion with trepidation. Everything related to Islam is sacred and inviolable. Muslims have special respect for the "Messengers of Allah" - these are Noah, Adam, Ibrahim, Moussa and Issa. The most revered and highly praised is the Prophet Muhammad. His name is traditionally not pronounced aloud, and if pronounced, then with an emphasis on the second syllable of the name. It was the Prophet Muhammad who laid the foundation of Islam. His teachings are set forth in the sacred writings of the Koran and the Sunnah. The Qur'an prescribes the basic moral and behavioral standards of a Muslim, how one should live until one's death. From the fact that the vast majority of the population professes Islam, the laws UAE built on the principles described in the Qur'an. The prayer rites of Muslims are the cornerstone of their religion, they are performed five times a day. There is no set timetable for prayers. There is a special tradition to announce daily prayer times through newspapers, radio or television. Calls to prayers are heard through the radios of the mosques. If the rite of prayer takes a Muslim by surprise, then even far from his home or a specially designated room, a Muslim can pray with his face turned towards the mosque.
Tourist behavior in the UAE
It is considered extremely indecent if a visiting person examines a praying Muslim, and even more so tries to photograph him or film him on a video camera, this is the height of indecency.
Muslims may be extremely outraged that tourists can enter the mosque in defiant clothing. Do not make ironic remarks about the way of life of Muslims: prayer five times a day, women's robes. Better not to discuss Arab women at all.
The handshake among Muslims is a sign of approval and friendly intentions, unlike the European handshake, among Muslims it is somewhat prolonged. At parting, be sure to shake hands with your interlocutor, especially a respected or close person, a handshake occurs with both hands. It is worth remembering that a Muslim woman, if necessary, gives her hand herself, the initiative should come exclusively from her.
When visiting the house of the Arabs, it is worth taking all the treats that the owners of the house seek to treat you to. The owner will be very offended if you do not accept treats, he will even regard it as a sign of disrespect to him.
It is fundamental in the Arab house that all items are taken and offered exclusively by the right hand.
The sight of soles facing the Arab is regarded as an insult.
There is a dress code for visiting office workers: men wear light trousers and shirts with a tie, women wear a light dress. Men wear jackets only on holidays.
When photographing landscapes UAE Do not allow strategically important objects such as military bases and police buildings to enter the camera. You can't take pictures of Arab women.
In a conversation with an Arab, you should not be curious about his wife; you can only ask about the family in passing, without making this topic the center of the whole conversation.
With the spread of a healthy lifestyle throughout United Arab Emirates, lovers of strong drinks and tobacco should not appear on the streets with this. There is no penalty for drinking in public places, but you are guaranteed to get a lot of discontent from the locals.
Clothes for tourists in the UAE
For such a hot country as United Arab Emirates suitable clothes made of natural fabrics, breathable and light cut. Dresses, skirts, sundresses. Sandals, hats. For men, light trousers, long shorts and cotton shirts. We must not forget to take warm clothes with us, as the nights in the emirates are often cold, especially when comparing the temperature contrast between day and night.
It is worth considering separately the wardrobe for the beach and for going out into the city. For shopping or excursions around the city, dress modestly. You should not choose dresses and blouses with an open neckline, tank tops and short shorts, skirts with a slit. For relaxation, a more free style is suitable, especially for a beach holiday. But do not forget that a city like Sharjah does not accept female nudity even on the beaches.
Memo to a tourist in the UAE
Treatment in United Arab Emirates will cost you a pretty penny if you do not take care of purchasing a medical insurance policy in advance. It needs to be issued in Russia. Treatment under the insurance policy, in case of emergency, will be provided free of charge.
Also make sure to pack a first aid kit on the road. With antiemetic, antipyretic, antiviral and pain medications. Take sunscreen and after sun lotion. With sunburn, which is not uncommon for a tourist, Panthenol can save you.
A Russian-Arabic phrase book can help you out a lot if you get lost in the city, among the Muslims.
If you are a heavy smoker, then take care to purchase several packs of cigarettes, because tobacco is very expensive in the Emirates.
Comparison of the UAE and other holiday destinations
United Arab Emirates or Turkey
The first thing a tourist pays attention to is the level of service in hotels. On the forums, avid travelers say that hotels United Arab Emirates far superior in service to hotels in Turkey. The price per day in a hotel in Turkey will be much less than in United Arab Emirates. Although both those and those hotels are promised approximately the same list of services and entertainment.
It is better to go to Turkey in the warm season, and in United Arab Emirates you can rush into the cold Russian winters.
It is worth noting that in Turkey there is no restriction on drinking alcoholic beverages.
United Arab Emirates or Egypt
Holidays in Egypt for people who do not like restrictions. Many free services than the Emirates do not boast. The prices are much lower. But the attitude towards tourists is different. In the Emirates, people are more polite and reserved, which is paramount for someone.
We leave for foreign countries to get new emotions that we cannot get in our usual surroundings. We want vivid emotions and memories. And the United Arab Emirates can give all this in abundance!
United Arab Emirates.
The name of the state is due to the name of the administrative-territorial units that form the federation.
Capital of the United Arab Emirates. Abu Dhabi.
United Arab Emirates Square. According to various calculations, the territory of the state occupies 77,830 km2 and 83,600 km2 (this is due to the fact that some sections of the borders passing along are not exactly marked).
Population of the United Arab Emirates. 2407 thousand people
Location of the United Arab Emirates. The UAE is a state in the West, in the southeast. In the north it is washed by the waters of the Persian Gulf, in the east it borders on the sultanate, in the south - with, and in the west - with. Most of the country is a barren but oil-bearing desert.
Administrative divisions of the United Arab Emirates. The federation of the United Arab Emirates includes 7 emirates: Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm al-Qaiwain, Ras al-Khaimah and Al-Fujairah, which used to be small settlements on the coast of the Persian Gulf.
Form of government of the United Arab Emirates. Federation of 7 subjects with a monarchical form of government.
Head of State of the UAE. President elected for a term of 5 years.
Supreme body of state power of the United Arab Emirates. Supreme Council of Emirs.
The supreme deliberative body of the United Arab Emirates. Federal national council.
Supreme executive body of the United Arab Emirates. Council of Ministers.
Major cities in the United Arab Emirates. Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain, Ras Al Khaimah and Al Fujairah.
State language of the United Arab Emirates. Arab.
Religion of the United Arab Emirates. The majority of the population professes.
Ethnic composition of the United Arab Emirates. 90% are Arabs, 6% are Indians.
Currency of the United Arab Emirates. Dirham = 100 fils.
and lakes of the United Arab Emirates. There are no permanent rivers.
Attractions of the United Arab Emirates. Art Nouveau architecture, exhibition, Kornichi shipyard, famous oriental bazaars, duty-free shops. The ancient history of the emirates is reflected in numerous archeological monuments. In each of the capitals of the emirates there are palaces of rulers, old fortresses. Tourists are attracted by the ocean coast, it is especially beautiful in Fujairah.
Useful information for tourists
Women's clothing should be spacious, men are greeted with a slight bow, without shaking hands. Married women should not be taken by the arm.
It is not customary to enter the house of an Arab with shoes on. If the owner walks ahead of you and enters in shoes himself, then this prohibition is lifted.
Arabs remember grievances for a long time. Revenge is elevated to the rank of art. Revenge may follow in a few decades.
Food and drink should be given and taken with the right hand. If there are no forks, then you should rinse your right hand with water and take food with a pinch.
You can not pass in front of the worshipers. During Ramadan, never eat, drink, smoke or chew gum on the streets or in public places before sunset. Ramadan is the month of Muslim fasting, and disrespect for traditions can lead to a fine and even imprisonment.
In a Muslim country, it is necessary to establish mutual understanding with a partner. The meeting begins with a handshake, but at the same time it is necessary to look the partner in the eyes. During the greeting, you can not hold a cigarette in your other hand or a hand in your pocket. The conversation begins with questions about well-being, about the health of family members. The citizens of this country are not in a hurry, they do not like to take risks. Entrepreneurs are fluent in English, business documentation is drawn up in the same language.
, Sharjah
and Fujairah
. Emirates territory for a long time was a haven for pirates, having received the name because of this. Pirate Coast. At the beginning of the XIX century. British authorities in India began open hostilities against the coastal Arab tribes, culminating in the signing of a number of treaties with local rulers and the establishment of a British protectorate (from 1853 to Negotiated Oman
). In 1971, six principalities proclaimed the creation of an independent federal state of the UAE, which was joined in 1972 by Ras al-Khaimah. The head of the federation is the president (one of the emirs), the legislative power belongs to the Federal nat. council (only advisory functions).
The northern coast is occupied by deserts, the coast is indented by bays and framed by small islands and coral reefs. On SW. low mountains (Yibir, 1934 m). Summer is very hot. Precipitation is scarce, falls irregularly, in the main. in the mountains, where sudden oncoming storms sometimes cause significant destruction. On the back mountain slopes oases. The population is more than 2.4 million people. (2001), mainly Arabs, as well as immigrants from Pakistan, Iran, India and other countries. Immigrants make up approx. 3/4 inhabitants. State. language - Arabic, religion - Islam (80% - Sunnis, 16% - Shiites). Population density 27 people. per 1 km², 85% of the townspeople. Oil production (Abu Dhabi - 83%, Dubai - 15%), oil refining, production of steel, aluminum, fertilizers, cement, plastics for machine tools and clothing, construction and repair of ships. Large gas reserves (approx. 4% of the world). Dates, vegetables, cereals are grown; developed birds, livestock, fish. Main trade. and prom. Center - Dubai. Good road network. In 1988, the port of Jebel Ali was opened with the world's largest artificial harbor. Sea resorts. Cash unit - dirham.
Dictionary of modern geographical names. - Yekaterinburg: U-Factoria. Under the general editorship of Acad. V. M. Kotlyakova. 2006 .
UNITED ARAB EMIRATES
A federation of 7 independent states lying along the eastern coast of the Arabian Peninsula. The federation includes Abu Dhabi (Abu Zabu), Ajman, Dubai, Ras Al Khaimah, Umm Al Qawain, Sharjah, Al Fujairah. Previously, their territory was called the "Coast of Pirates". In the north, the state borders on Qatar, in the west and south - on Saudi Arabia. In the north it is washed by the Persian Gulf, in the east - by the Gulf of Oman. The area of the country is about 77,700 km2.
The population (estimated in 1998) is about 2,303,000 people, with an average population density of about 30 people per km2. Ethnic groups: Arabs - 42%, Iranians, Pakistanis, Indians. Language: Arabic (state), others. Religion: Muslims (of which Shiites - 16%, the rest Sunnis) - 80%, Christians, Hindus. The capital is Abu Dhabi. Largest cities: Abu Dhabi (605,000 people in 1990), Dubai (266,000 people in 1990). The state structure is a federation of emirates. The head of state is the President, the ruler of Abu Dhabi, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Ad Nahyan (in office since December 2, 1971, re-elected in 1991). The head of government is Prime Minister Sheikh Maktoum bin Rashed Al Maktoum (in office since November 20, 1990). The monetary unit is the dirham. Average life expectancy (for 1998): 73 years - men, 75 years - women. The birth rate (per 1,000 people) is 18.6. Mortality rate (per 1000 people) - 3.1.
Since 1883, the states that make up the federation have been called "Treaty States" or Oman Treaty, since then a treaty was signed between them and Great Britain in order to eradicate piracy in the region. Until 2 December 1971, the states were under British military protection. On December 2, 1971, the state gained full independence under the name of the United Arab Emirates. In February 1994, the President of the country introduced Sharia law to deal with the following crimes: murder, theft, adultery, drug use and sale. The country is a member of the UN, World Bank, IMF, ILO, Arab League, OPEC.
The sights of the country are the famous markets and one of the largest duty-free shops at the Dubai International Airport.
Encyclopedia: cities and countries. 2008 .
United Arab Emirates
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is a state in the eastern part of the Arabian Peninsula. The area of the UAE is 83.6 thousand sq. km; population 4.4 million people. In the Emirates, there are twice as many men as women, the city dwellers make up 76% of the country's population. The UAE is a federal state that emerged in 1971 as a result of the unification of six Arab principalities: Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm al-Qaiwain and Fujairah. In 1972, the principality of Ras al-Khaimah joined them. The largest emirate - Abu Dhabi - occupies 85% of the territory, one third of the population of the UAE lives here. The capital of the UAE is the city of Abu Dhabi. Dubai is considered to be the trade and tourist capital of the emirates.
The Emirates occupy a crescent-shaped strip of deserts with oases stretching mainly along the coast of the shallow Persian Gulf, as well as the deep Gulf of Oman of the Indian Ocean. Low-lying plains predominate, in the east - the spurs of the Hajar mountains (1127 m), in the west - rocky deserts. In the south, in the desert, the UAE borders on Saudi Arabia (cm. Saudi Arabia), in the west - with the Emirate of Qatar, in the east, the extreme ledge of land near the Strait of Hormuz (Muscat) is occupied by the enclave of Oman a.
All emirates are absolute monarchies, only in Abu Dhabi there are advisory bodies - the Cabinet and the National Advisory Council, which brings this emirate closer to a constitutional monarchy. Each emirate has its own government and administrative bodies. The rulers of the emirates make up the legislative body - the Supreme Council, which elects the president and vice-president of the federation for a period of two years. The president appoints the prime minister and members of the cabinet. The Federal Council of Ministers, headed by the President, is accountable to the Supreme Council. The Federal National Council consists of 40 representatives from each emirate and is an advisory body. Since the founding of the UAE in 1971, the head of state has been Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, who has ruled Abu Dhabi since 1966. His deputy in the Supreme Council of the seven Emirates sheikhs is the ruler of Dubai.
The basis of the country's economy is the export-oriented oil and gas industry. The oil refining, petrochemical, metallurgical (aluminum smelting), and cement industries are developing. The traditional occupations of the population are fishing, pearling, handicrafts (making carpets, woolen fabrics, chasing gold and silver items), oasis agriculture (date palms, gardens, cereals, mainly in Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, Ras al-Khaimah and Umm al-Qaywaine) and nomadic animal husbandry (in most of the territory). The Emirate of Abu Dhabi plays a leading role in the development of the UAE economy. Trade and financial center of the UAE - Dubai. Seaports: Jebel Ali (Dubai), Rashid (Dubai), Zeid (Abu Dhabi), Mina Khaled (Sharjah). International airports: Abu Dhabi, Al Ain, Dubai, Sharjah, Ras Al Khaimah, Fujairah. The monetary unit is the federal dirham (since May 1973).
natural conditions
The location of the country in tropical latitudes determines its climate. The average monthly temperatures here range from +18 °C; sometimes dropping to +10 °C, in winter up to +35 °C, sometimes rising to +48 °C in summer. The arid subtropical climate provides blue clear skies all year round. In the east, in Fujairah, summers are somewhat cooler and more humid due to the proximity of the ocean and mountains. Precipitation is about 100 mm per year, in the mountains - 300-400 mm per year.
There are no permanent rivers. Temporary streams flow through the valleys, most of the year they are dry channels - wadis. Significant areas are occupied by salt marshes and sandy deserts, the vegetation here is mostly sparse, consisting of dry herbs and shrubs. Acacia, tamarisk grow in oases, date and coconut palms, grapes, lemon trees, cereals, and tobacco are cultivated. The country is located in the atmospheric tropical maximum zone, so you can not be afraid of the impact of climate on blood pressure, but it is desirable to have healthy kidneys.
In addition to the large oases of the coast - Abu Dhabi, Dubai-Rashid-Sharjah, Umm al-Qaiwain, Ras al-Khaimah, El-Fujairah, as well as stretching away from it - Qatar Et-Tarifa, Ez-Zanna, there are also oases located inland, among which Buraimi is the most significant. Very beautiful ocean coast in Fujairah. The most picturesque are the rocky outskirts of the Hatta fortress, a two-hour drive from Dubai, the Al Ain oasis and the Healy oasis near Buraimi. Shelter found in UAE in winter migratory birds from Siberia and Central Asia, and the paths of those who fly further also pass through these places.
Story
In the 7th century, the southern coast of the Persian Gulf became part of the Arab Caliphate, which spread Islam among the locals. During this period, the cities of Dubai, Sharjah, El Fujairah arose. As the central authority in the Caliphate weakened, local tribal leaders - sheikhs increasingly felt themselves to be independent rulers. In the 10th-11th centuries, Eastern Arabia was part of the Karmatian state, and after its collapse fell under the influence of Oman.
Europeans rushed to the Persian Gulf at the end of the 15th century. The Portuguese were the first to gain a foothold here, having conquered Hormuz, Bahrain and Julfar (the modern emirate of Ras al-Khaimah). Since the 18th century, the population of the coastal Arab principalities, which was mainly engaged in coastal trade, has been drawn into the struggle with the English East India Company, whose ships monopolized cargo flows between the ports of the Persian Gulf and deprived the inhabitants of the main source of livelihood. This led to ongoing conflicts between the East India Company and the local Arab population, which the British called pirates, and the region of the principalities - "Pirate Coast".
The East India Company constantly sent military expeditions to the Persian Gulf, and in 1820 forced the emirs and sheikhs of seven Arab principalities to sign the "General Treaty", which marked the beginning of English dominance in this territory and the final division of Oman into three parts - the Imamate of Oman, the Sultanate of Muscat and "Pirate Coast". Since 1853, these principalities have been called Oman Trucial
British military bases were established on the territory of the principalities (in particular, on the territory of the principality of Sharjah). Political power was exercised by an English political agent. The establishment of the English protectorate did not lead to the destruction of the patriarchal system. The locals continued to hold on to ancient traditions. They could not offer serious resistance to the colonialists, due to their small number and constant civil strife between different clans. The dominant tribe in these territories was and is the Bani-yaz tribe, which originally inhabited the fertile oases of Liwa and Al Ain (the current emirate of Abu Dhabi). In 1833, one of the tribes of the Bani-yaz - the clan of Maktums - migrated from the oases and settled in Dubai, declaring the independence of the city. This is how the Maktoum dynasty was founded, which rules the emirate of Dubai.
In the early 1920s, cities in Trucial Oman developed a struggle for independence, reaching a particular scale in Sharjah and Ras al-Khaimah. At the same time, the richest oil reserves were discovered in the Persian Gulf. In 1922, the British established control over the right of sheikhs to grant concessions for oil exploration and production. However, there was no oil production in Trucial Oman, and the main income for the principalities was brought by the trade in "fish eye" - pearls. With the start of oil production in the 1950s, foreign investment began to flow into the region, and income from the oil trade made it possible to significantly raise the standard of living of the local population. But the principalities remained under the British protectorate, which was opposed in 1964 by the League of Arab States, which declared the right of the Arab peoples to full independence.
In 1968, after the publication of the decision of the Labor government of Great Britain on its intention to withdraw British troops from the areas located east of Suez, including from the Persian Gulf zone, by the end of 1971, the principalities signed an agreement on the formation of a federation of Arab principalities of the Persian Gulf. This federation was supposed to include Bahrain and Qatar, but later they formed independent states. On December 2, 1971, six of the seven emirates of Trucial Oman announced the creation of the federation of the United Arab Emirates. The seventh emirate, Ras Al Khaimah, joined in 1972.
The granting of independence coincided with the rapid rise in prices for oil and oil products, which made it easier for the new state to take independent steps in the field of economy and foreign policy. Thanks to petrodollars and successful investment in the development of industry, agriculture, the formation of numerous free economic zones, the UAE was able to achieve economic prosperity in the shortest possible time. The ancient history of the emirates is reflected in numerous archeological monuments in the UAE. So, the ancient caravan stop in Buraimi brought surprises - archaeological finds in the Khili oasis, numbering 5 millennia.
In each of the capitals of the emirates there are palaces of rulers, old fortresses. Buildings have special "wind towers" for ventilation. For example, in Dubai - the main economic center of the country, they have the ancient palace of Sheikh Saed, the grandfather of the current ruler. The old Al Fahidi Fort, built in the last century, houses the Dubai Museum. It contains a rich exposition of the emirate's past. The former palace-fortress of the emir in Al-Fujairah has not yet been reconstructed. There are many monuments of modern Arab architecture in the Emirates (the Jumeirah Mosque in Dubai). Ajman is one of the few, if not the only place where ancient Arab sailboats are still being made, on which Sinbad the Sailor sailed.
Tourism
The beaches in the emirates are one of the most popular places among Russian tourists. The sun warms up the shallow waters of the Persian Gulf well. Almost all the best hotels are located near the sea and have their own beaches. You can also pay attention to the land side: go on a safari to the desert, rush by car along the dunes or sandy wadis, ride a sand surfboard from the crest of a dune, watch camel races, and finally, sit near a fire in an oasis, watching traditional Arabic dances and listening to their songs. Every week in the largest cities there are traditional horse races - the "sport of kings", the most popular here. You can sign up for a golf club or go explore some mountain stronghold. In the area of the ancient fortress of Hatta, above the wadi, a modern mountain resort is equipped, the only one in the UAE. Returning to the sea, you can ride a yacht, fish or go to watch competitions in traditional sports that came here from Europe.
The largest cities of the UAE - Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah - are located on the sea and are resorts. Noteworthy is the only "ocean" city - Al Fujairah. The only inner city-oasis of Al Ain is not so much a resort as a place that attracts tourists with oriental exoticism. The extraordinary cleanliness of the cities is striking. It reigns in living quarters and trading floors; motorways are cleared of shoveled sand; in the parks, a hose is connected to each tree.
Shopping centers (the largest in Dubai) and more expensive shops with helpful sellers attract a lot of tourists' attention. Carpet bazaars are especially popular, the best place is souk al-jumaa (“Friday market”) on the border of Sharjah and Fujairah. Gold Souk in Deira (in Dubai) - world leader retail gold products and stones: there are no restrictions on import and export.
Encyclopedia of Tourism Cyril and Methodius. 2008 .
Recently, more and more Russian tourists prefer the fabulous United Arab Emirates (UAE), located in the southeast of the Arabian Peninsula, to the usual Turkey and Egypt. "Tourist paradise" has grown in just a few decades on the site of a barren desert. An important impetus to the rapid development of the country was the active oil production in the region, which began in the late 1960s. The realization that this valuable natural resource is exhaustible formed such an economic model that would allow the Emirates to actively develop even after the depletion of black gold reserves. In addition to oil, the UAE had two more important economic advantages: firstly, a favorable geographical position at the crossroads of routes coming from Europe, Africa and South Asia, and secondly, a warm sea coast with magnificent gently sloping sandy beaches. The country's authorities decided to make the most of each of the advantages: to create free trade zones, the largest financial and business centers in the entire Middle East, and to form ultra-modern resorts of the highest class.
The official language in the UAE is Arabic, but due to the huge influx of employees from India, the Philippines, Bangladesh, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Pakistan, Egypt, Iraq, Ethiopia and other countries, dozens of languages and dialects can be heard in the markets and outside the resort areas . Almost all hotel and restaurant staff are fluent in English, and in some places, especially in Dubai, even Russian. In connection with high level labor migration, about 85% of the country's population are not its citizens. In addition to Islam, the inhabitants of the UAE also profess Hinduism, Buddhism and Christianity.
Capital |
Abu Dhabi |
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Population |
5 million people |
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Population density |
60 people/km2 |
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Arab |
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Religion |
Sunni Islam |
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Form of government |
federal monarchy |
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UAE dirham equal to 100 fils |
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Timezone |
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International dialing code |
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Domain zone |
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Electricity |
220/240V (triple plug) |
The largest cities are the capitals of all seven emirates into which the country is divided:
- Abu Dhabi,
- dubai,
- Sharjah,
- fujairah,
- Ajaman,
- Umm al Quwain,
- ras al khaimah,
- as well as the oasis city of Al Ain in the emirate of Abu Dhabi.
Climate and weather
Like the rest of the Arabian Peninsula, the UAE enjoys a tropical desert climate characterized by ultra-high summer temperatures reaching +50°C and virtually no precipitation. In winter, the air temperature is kept at a comfortable +20 ... +23 ° С. Going inland, it should be remembered that in the desert it is always a few degrees hotter during the day, and much colder at night than on the coast. Nighttime winter temperatures in the desert can drop to 0°C.
The average water temperature almost all year round is +24 ... +27 °С, dropping in January - February to +18 °С and rising to +35 °С in August. During the winter months, the water in the pools warms up to +26…+28 °C.
It rains occasionally in winter and early spring, and the average number of sunny days per year is about 350-355 days. The average rainfall does not exceed 100 mm per year. Fog occurs along the coast in spring.
Of, to put it mildly, unpleasant natural phenomena in the UAE, dust storms should be mentioned, which, however, go unnoticed in large resort cities. An important feature The climate of the Emirates is the low content of oxygen in the air, which makes this climate unsuitable for recreation for people with heart and lung diseases. August and September are considered the most difficult to endure months, when there is a 40-degree heat, and air humidity exceeds all conceivable limits. Therefore, the tourist season in the UAE is the period from late September - early October to May.
Nature
Most of the country is occupied by the desert Rub al Khali, which turns into clay plains, and those, in turn, crash into the Persian Gulf. The east of the UAE is occupied by rocky mountains Al-Hajar located on the coast Gulf of Oman with a rich underwater fauna, the most beautiful representatives of which live in coastal coral reefs. The abundance of commercial species of fish, crustaceans and mollusks in the waters of the Persian and Oman Gulfs explains why for many centuries the main occupation of local residents was fishing and pearling.
Of the animals in the UAE, there are still wild goats, camels, mountain goats (ibexes), Arabian leopards and some other desert dwellers.
During the migration period, many birds stop to rest in the northern regions of the country.
In the largest resort cities, greening work is constantly carried out both in the cities themselves and in the immediate vicinity, but this initiative has not yet been crowned with significant success, as severe weather conditions kill the planted plants (and they are constantly replaced, spending huge amounts of money on this). Desalination of water for irrigation, in turn, leads to such an environmental problem as soil salinization.
Attractions
Any person who has not yet visited the UAE or who has visited the country only once, at the mention of this state, unimaginable ultra-modern high-rise buildings in high-tech style, created over the past few decades in Abu Dhabi and the largest city of the Emirates Dubai.
Among them is a skyscraper Burj Khalifa("Khalifa tower"), hotel Burj Al Arab(Burj Al Arab) in the form of a sail and many others. Magnificent in the bright sun, modern skyscrapers become simply fantastic in the light of night spotlights and highlights.
But a few ancient buildings and winding streets in the cities of the UAE will help you plunge into the amazing and subtle world of the Ancient East. The most famous historical sights of the country are:
- Al Hosn Palace, or White Fort, in Abu Dhabi,
- Al-Kheil Fort near Fujairah,
- fujairah fort,
- Sheikh Zayed Mosque in Abu Dhabi,
- Jumeirah in Dubai
- Al-Bidiya between Fujairah and Dibba, etc.
Food
Speaking about the national cuisine of the UAE, it should be noted that all Arab countries are characterized by pan-Arab cuisine with some regional features. Thus, the cuisine of Iran, Lebanon, Egypt and other African and Asian countries influenced the culinary traditions of the UAE. The unconditional rule of Arabic dishes is the complete absence of pork and the presence of a huge amount of spices.
It is best to start your acquaintance with the local cuisine in the UAE from small shops and street cafes, where literally all dishes will be wrapped in pita bread or served with a round pita bun. Try it once manakish(melted local cheese with olives and aromatic herbs), falafel(delicious chickpea balls fried in olive oil) and, of course, shawarma- and you will always salivate at the mere memory of such a yummy.
In UAE restaurants, appetizers are mandatory before serving the main course. meze served on a large platter divided into cells. Among meze most often there are vegetable salads, walnut-garlic pastes, eggplant caviar, wheat and corn porridge, as well as pies with meat and cheese.
Among the main dishes, seafood dishes delivered to the table almost from a fishing boat, and meat dishes from chicken, veal and lamb are very popular among tourists. Worth ordering at least once for lunch bricks- triangular envelopes made of the thinnest dough stuffed with fish, shrimp or minced meat. Of the gastronomic "celebrities" of the UAE, there are Al Madrubu(boiled salted fish with sauce), fish and meat kebabs, biryani(basmati rice with meat or fish with vegetables, spices and sauce), etc.
Oriental sweets are a separate subject of conversation. In the UAE, the variety of desserts is so great that you can't count them all. Turkish delight, date honey, halva, Umm Ali pudding and much more are best bought at the bazaar or in specialized shops.
Among the drinks, tea and coffee of various varieties are most often consumed. Freshly squeezed juices are sold everywhere. It is better to refuse alcoholic beverages during a holiday in the UAE, since for possession of alcohol or being in public places while intoxicated, you can be prosecuted and deported from the country.
Restaurants in the UAE are all establishments, ranging from tiny street cafes to huge chic restaurants at 5-star hotels.
Tips are always included in the bill.
Accommodation
The quality of 1-2 star hotels in the UAE is very relative, that is, you can easily face the lack of a working air conditioner or water in the shower, roofs and windows leak during spring rain showers, water in the hotel yard. Often in the rooms of such hotels inexpensive noisy window air conditioners are installed.
3-4-star hotels offer a completely different level of service, but the price almost doubles: if a room in the first ones costs $50-60 for two, then in hotels with 3-4 stars the average cost of living in a double room is about $100 .
There are chic 5-star hotels in every resort in the UAE. The cost of living in double rooms of such hotels varies from $150 to $4,000. The best, but also the most expensive hotels are located in Dubai. The cost of a room depends, as a rule, on the class of the hotel, the distance of the hotel from the coast, the view from the window, the season (cheaper in summer), the availability of a private beach, heated pools in winter, etc.
Furnished rooms and villas are also available to tourists in the UAE. The average cost of private apartments with one bedroom is about $1,000 per week, villas with a small pool and a tropical garden - $8,000-9,000 per week.
Entertainment and recreation
The main type of recreation in the UAE is a beach holiday. On the shores of the Persian (in the UAE it is called the Arabian) and the Gulf of Oman, all the beaches are sandy.
Here you can rent sun loungers, sunbeds and umbrellas, you can go in for water sports (windsurfing, water skiing, scooters, etc.), have a bite to eat in numerous cafes and eateries. Hotels located on the seafront have their own beaches. Guests of 2-3 star hotels visit paid and free city beaches. Expensive hotels located in the city center, as a rule, have an agreement with coastal hotels on free access to private beaches for their guests, where regular buses run from the hotel.
Tourists who prefer outdoor activities are offered unique camel, quad bike or off-road safaris along the sand dunes in the desert, a walk along the coastal waters under the snow-white sail of the national dhow boat, diving, playing golf or tennis, visiting one of the largest water parks in the world Wild Wadi in Dubai, acquaintance with the fauna of the oceans in the Aquarium in the shopping and entertainment center "Dubai" and much, much more.
The undisputed leader in all kinds of entertainment, including nightlife, is the emirate of Dubai, but you can find good modern nightclubs in every major city in the country.
Purchases
Going to the UAE, many tourists are still looking forward to the best shopping in their lives, and most often such expectations are 100% justified, especially for cities such as Abu Dhabi, Dubai and Sharjah. There are two types of shopping in the Emirates: the first, traditional for all countries of the East, is on shopping streets and bazaars, where it is customary to bargain even when the price seems more than attractive to you; the second - in shopping centers, which are entire streets and even cities under one roof, consisting of boutiques and shops worldwide famous brands and stamps. In the markets, high-quality fakes for goods of famous brands are most often sold.
Shops and shops located on shopping streets are usually open from 9:00 to 13:00, then they close and resume work only after 16:00, working until 20:00-21:00. During the month of Ramadan, shops are open from 16:00 to midnight. The day off, unlike European countries, in the UAE is not on Sunday, but on Friday, which is due to the peculiarities of religion. It is Friday (Juma) in the Islamic calendar that is the day of worship of Allah. Many large supermarkets are open on Friday after 16:00.
In addition to fashionable clothes, shoes and accessories, it is customary in the UAE to purchase various primordially oriental items: products made of gold and copper, silk fabrics, oriental carpets, camel wool products, all kinds of coffee pots and hookahs, painted jewelry boxes, khanjara daggers and, of course, "delicious" souvenirs - oriental sweets and spices.
Transport
Direct flights to Abu Dhabi and Dubai are made from many of the largest cities in Europe, America, North Africa and Asia. Several direct flights depart daily from Moscow to the UAE. Charter flights are regularly carried out during the season. The flight duration is about 5 hours. The cost of an economy class flight in both directions will be from $425 to $750, depending on the airline and the date of the trip.
You can get to the UAE using the ferry that runs between the Iranian city Bandar Abbas and Sharjah(Port of Mina Khaled) or Dubai(port Rashid). The Port of Zayed in Abu Dhabi serves mainly cargo ships. The cost of a trip across the bay is about $55-60 one way.
You can travel between the emirates by bus. Urban public transport is not well developed - it is used, as a rule, only by visiting employees, so it is better to travel around the cities by taxi or rented car. Taxis in the UAE are the main mode of transportation for tourists, so many taxi drivers speak some English. Taxis come in private and private companies. The first ones are a little cheaper, the second ones are more often equipped with counters. The fare in a taxi without meters should be negotiated before the start of the trip, and be sure to bargain, as prices are specially inflated. A taxi caught on the street will cost less than one taken from the parking lot near the hotel. Local taxi drivers are not familiar with street names, so it is better to indicate the name of the place where you are going or a significant object located nearby.
Dubai has the only subway in the country, consisting of two lines.
You can rent a car in the UAE with or without a driver. To drive a car, you need an international driver's license (driver's licenses of the CIS countries are not valid in the UAE) and insurance. The age of the driver cannot be less than 21 years.
In the UAE, those who violate the rules of the road are punished to the fullest extent. The fine for running a red light is about $800, for not using seat belts - $150, for drunk driving - deportation from the country or imprisonment, for damaging government property - $10,000. The speed limit in cities is 60 km/h, on highways 100 km/h. Parking in cities is almost always paid, except for the time from 13:00 to 16:00. The quality of roads in cities and between the country's major tourist centers is excellent, but local residents, especially rich young people, behave extremely boorishly on the roads.
Almost all hotels with categories of 3 stars and above take their clients to the beach and back on their own buses for free.
Connection
Mobile communications in the UAE are provided by the following operators: Etisalat and du (Emirates Integrated Telecommunications Company PJSC), operating in the GSM 900 format. To buy SIM cards from local operators, you must present your passport. Etisalat has developed the Ahlan tariff plan especially for a short stay in the country. The cost of a call abroad is about $0.7, the cost of SMS is $0.25.
You can call abroad from pay phones that provide excellent communication quality.
You can get access to the Internet by connecting to the mobile operator Etisalat, using the services of Internet cafes or free or paid Wi-Fi in many cafes, restaurants and hotels in cities.
Safety
The UAE is the safest Muslim country in the world. There is practically no crime here, not even pickpockets. You can walk at any time of the day, but in the evening and at night it is better to bypass the areas where the settlements of visiting hired workers are located.
For thrown garbage or crossing the road in the wrong place, you will be asked to pay $ 135, and for foul language you will be taken into custody.
It is better not to use tap water, as it is obtained by desalination of salty sea water.
There are many strong coastal currents in the Persian Gulf, so always soberly assess your strength and do not let your children go into the water alone, even if they are excellent swimmers. Scuba diving is best done under the supervision of a local instructor who is well acquainted with the characteristic features of the area.
Business climate
One of the main goals facing the Government of the UAE is to turn the country into the most important financial and commercial center of the Middle East. To achieve this goal, a number of free economic zones have been created in the country, the banking and transport infrastructure is constantly developing, taxes are eased (corporate, income, VAT, from the wage fund), the currency (UAE dirham) is freely convertible, the free movement of capital is guaranteed, etc. .
All the best hotels are equipped with superb state-of-the-art conference rooms suitable for both inter-corporate negotiations and for organizing major international symposiums and congresses. Annually business centers Dubai and Abu Dhabi conduct business seminars and exhibitions of products of world-famous companies.
Real estate
Foreign citizens have the right to purchase real estate in the UAE - this is even welcome. Since 2006, foreigners have received the right to purchase land plots for new facilities, the rest can be taken on a long-term lease. The cost of 1 m 2 of housing ranges from $2,000 to $6,000. From residential real estate, mainly new buildings come to the market, the secondary housing market is not developed.
Residential buildings in the UAE are always being built at an accelerated pace and most often with the use of low-paid labor, so even the so-called "elite" complexes actually offer housing of poor quality. Dense buildings, especially on the “palm trees” in the coastal waters of Dubai, lead to the absence of picturesque views from the window, and one can only dream of peace and tranquility here.
As a commercial real estate, Russian citizens are most interested in the premises of offices, shops, hotels and restaurants. The average cost of 1 m 2 of an office is $1,700, a hotel is about $7,000.
Muslim traditions are strictly observed in the UAE, so there are a number of prohibitions that apply to tourists as well.
So, you can not appear in beachwear outside the beaches and pools, and sunbathing without a swimsuit or its upper part is strictly prohibited. Women are only allowed to sit in the back seat of the car and in no case should they get into the car without a taxi badge (you may be mistaken for a woman of easy virtue). It is forbidden to be in public places in a state of intoxication. You can not kiss and hug, show obscene gestures. Gambling and unmarried sexual relations are prohibited. You can’t talk to local women on the street, so you can only take pictures of men, after asking their permission. The country also has a strict ban on photographing the palaces of sheikhs, military installations, banks and government agencies.
When entering a house or a mosque, it is customary to take off your shoes.
Money, food and things are taken only with the right hand. While visiting the locals, do not give up a few cups of coffee. When shaking hands, do not look into the eyes of the interlocutor.
Customs restrictions, in addition to the standard importation of weapons, pornography and drugs, apply to a number of drugs, so it is best to get a prescription with a Latin name and dosage for the necessary drug.
When traveling to the UAE during the holy month of Ramadan, remember that many establishments, including shops and restaurants, may change their opening hours. That is, during the day there are practically no places where you can dine, since during Ramadan a strict fast is observed between dawn and sunset. Even tourists are condemned here and can officially complain to the police if they eat, drink, smoke or dress obscenely (from the point of view of the local population).
Visa information
To visit the UAE, citizens of all CIS countries require a visa. A tourist visa is issued by the Dubai Visa Application Center, the Abu Dhabi Visa Application Center, the Asian Visa Application Center in Moscow and tour operators.
The main requirements for obtaining a visa through Visa Application Centers Dubai and Abu Dhabi are:
- availability of air tickets to the respective airports of the country;
- traveling or holding a valid visa to the Schengen countries, the UK, USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand or Japan;
- the absence of marks indicating that you visited Israel.
Documents for obtaining a visa (copy of the international passport, photograph, questionnaire, copy of the birth certificate of children) are submitted electronically. The consular fee for Russian citizens is $60, for citizens of other CIS countries - $75.
The UAE Embassy in Moscow is located at: st. Olof Palme, 4, tel. (+495) 147 62 86, 147 00 66.
Emirate of Dubai (Dubai)
Dubai - the second largest emirate with the capital of the same name - stretches along the coast of the Persian Gulf for 72 km, on both sides of the narrow Creek estuary flooded by the sea.
Its area is 3,885 sq. km. - about 5% of the total area of the UAE, excluding the islands. But with a small size, Dubai is the main business center Middle East, one of the largest centers of international trade and tourism on the coast, the heart of the state's commercial life. The population of the emirate today has already exceeded one million people.
Archaeological excavations show that fishing settlements existed on this site more than 4,000 years ago. Dubai is sometimes referred to as the "Paris of the Persian Gulf".
The city of Dubai in the past is a small coastal village. Now it is a modern city, which has its own unique look, located on the shores of the bay, dividing it into two parts - the east, Deira and Bur Dubai, located on the western shore of the bay. Most of the cultural and historical monuments such as Sheikh Zaeed House, Dubai Museum, Heritage Village are located in Bur Dubai. This part of the city with Deira near the mouth of the estuary is connected by an underwater automobile tunnel. Deira is rightfully considered a wholesale and retail trade area, immediately at the exit from the underwater tunnel there are markets: fish (Fish Market), fruit (Fruit Souk), Spice Souk and the world-famous Gold Market (Gold souk). Also, the eastern part of Dubai attracts with an abundance of shopping centers and a large number of diverse stores where you can buy everything, without exception, from electronics to haute couture outfits.
Over the past 30 years, the emirate of Dubai has been transformed, architectural innovations have changed its appearance from an ancient oriental city to a modern metropolis. Glittering skyscrapers on Sheikh Saeed Road - the most prestigious street in Dubai, create a feeling of a completely European city. The decoration and pride of the street are the silver-gray twin towers Emirates Towers. One of the towers is the tallest building in the Middle East and Europe, its height is 350 meters. Nearby is the World Trade Center Dubai (World Trade Center), where various exhibitions, conferences, forums and seminars are held.
An oasis grown in the desert attracts many tourists every day. A large number of hotels, restaurants of all cuisines of the world, a variety of cafes, both in the areas on the shore of the bay from the side of Bur Dubai and Jumeirah (Jumeirah), and in Deira, will seduce even the most sophisticated traveler with their luxury and hospitality. Beaches, palm trees, golden sand, scorching sun and caressing sea spray have turned the city into a tourist paradise. Here you can find hotels of different categories, three- and four-star hotels are very popular with entrepreneurs, and five-star hotels with full service for those who come to relax and have fun. For lovers of good and tasty food, a little advice: the easiest way to master the cuisine of fish restaurants, which demonstrate the richness and diversity of the local fish market. Dubai is one of the few cities where eating on the street is hardly more risky than in a restaurant: the sanitary service is incorruptible here.
There are large golf clubs and yacht clubs in the city. Most of these clubs are located at hotels on the coast of Jumeirah, where you can not only go on boat trips and boats, but also go in for water surfing, water skiing and scuba diving. Jumeirah is considered the most expensive area of the Emirate of Dubai. Today you can come here not only for a vacation, staying in a hotel or a villa, but also to become a resident of the country - by buying real estate on the coast of the Persian Gulf, which surpasses all conceivable and unimaginable quality standards, at prices not exceeding the prices of Moscow. Jumeirah Beach Corniche is world famous for its beaches, shopping malls and hotels (Dubai Marina Beach Rasort & SPA, Jumairah Beach Hotel, Burj Al Arab). On the central street of Jumera - Jumeirah Beach Road (Jumairah Beach Road) family holidays are not ignored: there are many parks and playgrounds where children can have fun, the Dubai Zoo.
So - make up your mind and come to Dubai! Here you will find a warm and friendly welcome! The cosmopolitan nature of the emirate will make your stay in Dubai a real holiday, with the most vivid impressions.
Emirate of Abu Dhabi
A place where modernity meets history.
"Most people visiting Abu Dhabi expect nothing more than sand dunes and blue waters of the bay. But they are quite surprised to find a well-developed city there - a city where modernity meets history, and where progress multiplies heritage." (Sheikh Nahyan Bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, UAE Minister of Higher Education)
A quarter of a century ago, in March 1968, in response to Britain's announcement of a planned withdrawal from the Suez zone by 1970, the rulers of seven states, under the rule of the Sheikhs, in the southwestern part of the Arabian Peninsula decided to form a federation in a meeting. Various in size - from small to very small, with a total population of about 180,000 people, some did not have roads, schools, hospitals, while the conflicts between them were still fresh in memory.
However, in view of the coming changes, after 150 years of British presence in the region, the seven emirates (Trucial States - the old name of the emirates) had no choice but to unite. Outside observers gave critical assessments of the possible success of the entire enterprise. As is often the case, the observers were wrong. Since the creation of the federation in 1971, the seven states of the United Arab Emirates have gone through a successful path of accelerated economic and social development against the backdrop of political stability, having managed to overcome regional conflicts (Iraq's invasion of Kuwait), and withstand the onslaught of an avalanche of emigrants, as a result of which the population increased many times - up to 3.48 million (as of summer 2002).
The life of the indigenous citizens of the country, consisting of the emirates of Abu Dhabi (territorially the largest), Dubai, Sharjah, Ras Al Khaimah, Umm Al Quane, Ajman and Fujairah, has completely changed within one generation, after hundreds, perhaps thousands of years of existence in harsh natural conditions.
The old way of life meant survival; in the heat of summer, in one of the harshest deserts on earth, or in the barren mountains of Hajjar, with a constant shortage of water and rare rains, getting their daily bread by nomadic pastoralism and agriculture on tiny plots of fertile land, or winning fish and pearls from the sea. In order to survive, people could rely only on their own strength and skills, expecting little from life.
Today, thanks to the wealth that collapsed in early 1962 in the form of petrodollars, even the most modest in size and prosperity of the emirates, have succeeded significantly, and only in the most remote mountainous areas do tribes still live, preserving the old, familiar lifestyle, but rather habit than out of necessity. The rest of the population enjoys the achievements of a modern, developed society.
Here (in the emirate of Abu Dhabi) there are 1.360.000 people out of 3.48 million of the total population, and there are also the largest oil deposits in the UAE. With a production of 2 million barrels per day, the potential for oil production is one and a half times greater. The reserve of oil fields, with such production sizes, is 150 years. In terms of natural gas reserves, the emirate of Abu Dhabi is in fourth place in the world.
Once a formidable power in southwestern Arabia, the emirate fell on hard times in the thirties and forties, due in part to the international economic depression and the ensuing World War II; due in part to the Japanese invention of a process for producing cultured pearls, this severely disrupted the market for Abu Dhabi's main export product, real bay pearls.
Ironically, the source of the economic miracle that once and for all changed the face of the Emirate was also discovered at sea - or rather, at the bottom of the sea. First oil deposit UAE - Umm Shaif, was discovered in 1952, and in 1962 its development began. A year later, the development of the previously discovered onshore Bab field began. Abu Dhabi has entered the oil era.
Over the past 30 years, the emirate of Abu Dhabi has changed, along with other emirates of the UAE.
With His Highness Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan coming to power in 1966 with the wise use of oil revenues as his goal, the Emirate is flourishing.
In the capital of the Emirate, also bearing the name of Abu Dhabi, there are few memories of the past, mainly because the city, as such, did not exist at that time. Photographs from thirty years ago show groups of barasti - palm-leaf huts, simple coral houses and a large white fortress, standing alone, surrounded by several palm trees.
Today, this fortress - the State Center for Research and Documentation - looks like a dwarf in comparison with the high-rise buildings surrounding it, reminiscent, when looking at them, from a long 8-kilometer embankment, the skyscrapers of Manhattan.
The capital of the emirate and the UAE, the center of the oil industry, Abu Dhabi may not have the commercial streak inherent in its neighbor - the emirate of Dubai, but, nevertheless, is one of the richest cities in the UAE. Abu Dhabi, being the capital of the UAE, as well as the emirate of the same name, is the center of the oil industry with the most modern high-rise buildings. The many parks, beaches, leisure centers and great hotels in the greenest city on the Gulf Coast have made Abu Dhabi a desirable place for work and leisure.
The Emirate of Abu Dhabi is much larger than the capital. 160 kilometers to the east is the city of Al Ain. The western lands of the Emirate are mostly desert, stretching southeast to the high rolling dunes of Rub Al Khali, one of the most inhospitable places on the planet.
In the western part of the Emirate, with the new city of Medinat Zayed, there are onshore oil fields and the Jebel Danna industrial complex on the coast, where the oil terminal and treatment plant are located.
There is also the Liwa Oasis, which is actually a chain of small oases located in an arc. Here is the ancestral seat of the ruling Al Nahyan family.
Picnic trips to Liwa Oasis have become a popular pastime for expatriates and tourists. Hiking in the footsteps of the ancient Bedouin attracts Abu Dhabi residents who are happy to escape from the bustle of the city and the stress of the working week.
Emirate of Sharjah
Sharjah is the cultural capital of the Arab world.
The city of Sharjah is the capital of the emirate of the same name, where the main part of its population lives (about 350 thousand people). The third largest territory, after Abu Dhabi and Dubai, the emirate stretches for almost 3 thousand square meters. km along the Arabian coast, washed by the waters of the Persian and Oman Gulfs and the Indian Ocean. It has rich reserves of natural resources and an interesting landscape - from the endless desert and mountain ranges to the magnificent sandy beaches of the coast.
The Persian Gulf has long been a trade route, and due to its geographical position, the city in the so-called Lower Gulf has always been an important port, the richest and most prosperous in the region. In 1932, Great Britain founded the first International Airport in the UAE, conveniently connecting the directions of India and Great Britain.
On the way to success and prosperity, Sharjah overcame many difficulties, one of which was silt, which abundantly covered the bottom of the Persian Gulf off its coast in the middle of the 19th century. For 30 years, the difficulties in the movement of ships affected trade, in addition, a thick layer of silt interfered with the extraction of pearls, which these places have been famous for since ancient times.
Currently, the Sharja coast is being thoroughly cleaned, and the port is working without interruption.
In 1971, Sharjah joined the United Arab Emirates as a founding member and became one of the seven emirates of this young country. The following year, oil fields were discovered in Sharjah, and later, impressive reserves of natural gases were found. With the discovery of oil and gas fields, Sharjah was able to significantly accelerate its development.
Thanks to the careful preservation of cultural and trade traditions, today's Sharjah has retained its uniqueness. In 1998, UNESCO recognized this emirate as the Cultural Capital of the Arab World for its devotion to art and culture, careful preservation of heritage. Sharjah is a real museum treasury; restoration work is constantly being carried out here to restore old houses and forts, placing historical museums in them. Perhaps not a single emirate can compare with Sharjah in terms of the number of museums that are completely different in their areas.
Sharjah Science Museum of Natural Sciences is an educational center where the exhibits are valuable achievements of science and technology of the past and present. Unique exhibits that once belonged to people ancient civilization: jewelry, pottery, dishes, tools, weapons and much more will help museum visitors imagine how their ancestors lived. In total, today there are 14 museums in the emirate, as well as many historical monuments.
Commercial markets, the architectural design of which is made in Islamic traditions, can be safely attributed to the city's attractions. Sharjah has amazing places where you can relax and have fun with the whole family, such as Al Jazeera Park with special lawns for picnics, many attractions, a swimming pool for adults and children, a football field and a mini zoo, and Al Buheira promenade - a clean street with green lawns, squares and cozy cafeterias, stretching along the Al Buheira Bay, from the center of which a magnificent fountain beats.
A 20-minute drive from the city center is "Desert Park" - a unique complex containing the Arabian Wildlife Center, the Children's Farm and the Museum of Natural History. Perhaps, to see all the attractions of the park, you need a whole day. But even if there is not enough time to get acquainted with this unique corner of Arabian nature, the purchased ticket will allow you to catch up on your next visit.
Since the main religion is Islam, the long and melodious call to prayer sounds five times a day on almost every street in Sharjah. The city is famous for its huge number of mosques. Here is the largest mosque in the United Arab Emirates named after King Faisal, which can simultaneously accommodate up to 3,000 believers. The people of Sharjah firmly adhere to the principles of Islam in all aspects of life. We must not forget that Sharjah has a dry law and certain rules of conduct that must be observed by all tourists and holders of a resident visa. There is a strict ban on the sale and transportation of alcoholic beverages, as well as on wearing clothes that do not cover the shoulders and knees.
In the capital of the emirate there are: the office of the Ruler of Sharjah, government agencies, companies, banks, numerous hotels and campsites.
The Government of Sharjah welcomes the attraction of foreign investment into the economy of the emirate and successfully develops international relations and trade. To the east of the city of Sharjah are industrial areas with a total area of 26 square meters. km. The emirate's income is significantly supplemented by trade in products not related to the oil industry: the export of metals, chemical, mineral products, livestock products, etc.
Over the past decades, the city has significantly upgraded and expanded. Returning here after 2-3 years, they are surprised to note the incredible growth of new residential areas, hotels, places of recreation and entertainment.
Sharjah hotels offer a wide variety of services. You can have a great time in one of the many restaurants and cafes with excellent cuisine, or you can go in for sports: cricket, surfing, scuba diving - whichever seems more attractive to you. Sharjah Exhibition Center holds numerous fairs and exhibitions, visiting which you will get a lot of interesting and useful information.
An amazingly beautiful city, architectural and historical monuments, comfortable hotels, cozy restaurants and cafes make the Sharjah emirate a favorite holiday destination for tourists from all over the world and one of the most convenient and profitable places for business.
Emirate of Ajman (Ajman)
Ajman is the smallest of all emirates.
Ajman is the smallest of the seven emirates that make up the federation of the UAE, with an area of just 259 square kilometers and a population of just over 120,000, with a male population about twice the female population. Ajman is located on the coast of the Persian Gulf, which in English is called the Arabian Gulf, i.e. Arabian Gulf, north of the emirate of Sharjah. In addition, it includes two small land enclaves in the Hajar mountains - Masfut and Manama. The country is ruled by Sheikh Humaid bin Rashid Al Nuaimi.
In the Ajman area, archaeologists are still finding evidence that there was an important human settlement here during the Bronze Age.
As before, the main industry is fishing. Local boats are still being built here - dhows capable of going out into the ocean, but once a small port has turned into large shipyards owned by Arab Heavy Industries. The rest of the city lives due to its proximity to such centers as Sharjah and Dubai. It is due to these cities that the population of Ajman has recently been growing, since many employed at work in Sharjah and Dubai prefer to live in Ajman.
Today, many projects are being implemented in Ajman aimed at attracting tourists, raising the educational and cultural level of the population. Important milestones in the development of the emirate of Ajman were the separation of the Ajman Free Economic Zone from the seaport and the appointment of its own administration to manage the free economic zone, as well as plans to create a new industrial region that will complement the existing one with new factories and factories for the production of clothing, food and other products. light industry.
It is planned to expand the existing free economic zone and create a new drainage system that will regulate rainfall and sewerage, and create a new road network.
A new AED 100 million power plant and a drinking water plant are being built, and the Gulf's largest livestock complex is being built in the Manama area, which will produce dairy products among other things.
The new Ajman Exhibition Center is the venue for international exhibitions, which should attract both Arab and foreign investors.
Ajman is home to the Polytechnic University College, and the construction of the Khalifa Hospital has been completed.
Emirate of Ras Al Khaimah
Heritage and history. Ras Al Khaimah is a land of surprises.
A place where a rich historical heritage, ruins and sights are harmoniously combined with a unique topography. Springs and ancient forts, quaint villages with lookout towers, beautiful palm groves and picturesque hills, azure coastline and desert dunes - you will find all this in Ras Al Khaimah.
Recent archaeological research carried out under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Saqr Bin Mohammad Al Qassimi, Member of the Supreme Council and Ruler of Ras Al Khaimah, has shown that some of the finds date back to the 5th century BC. and testified that this emirate carried on a brisk trade with Mesopotamia (modern Iraq, Syria and Turkey).
Dai Fort, built in the 16th century, played important role in the military and political life of the emirate. The location of the fort made it possible to control most of the bay and the adjacent coast, which made it possible to successfully repel the attacks of enemy troops. In December 1819, locals witnessed a battle between the defenders of Ras al-Khaimah and the attacking British troops. After a fierce firefight, the British occupied the fort and then blew it up. In 2001, the fort was restored, the interiors were updated and opened to receive guests and tourists.
By visiting the ancient Al Husen Fort, built in the middle of the 18th century, guests of the emirate can get a complete picture of the traditions and history of the Emirate, and will also be able to visit an exhibition of history, archeology and crafts. In 1987, His Highness Sheikh Saqr Bin Mohammad Al Qassimi, Ruler of the Emirate, issued a decree establishing the National Museum of Ras Al Khaimah at the fort.
The museum is divided into sections. The section at the top of the building is very interesting - historical manuscripts and documents are displayed here, as well as weapons that belonged to the ruling family.
Another section, in the lower part, has historical finds found on the territory of the emirate. A magnificent collection of silver jewelry, including richly finished weapons, will draw the attention of visitors to this part of the museum.
National Museum of Ras Al Khaimah
Pia 94 RAK
Tel: +9717 2333411
Fax: +9717 2330431
Clock (observation) towers are located throughout the fertile lands of the emirate and are reminiscent of a glorious past, when military clashes between nomadic tribes and local residents regularly occurred. The total number of towers is 60, most of them have been restored and restored. These towers were once part of a system to protect the fertile lands, palm groves and villages of Ras Al Khaimah from enemy attacks and other dangers.
Al Falaya Fort was built in the 18th century as a summer residence for the Al Qassimi family. The buildings were surrounded by palm farms. This place is of historical importance, because. a peace treaty was signed here in 1819 between Al Qawasim and Omani-British troops. In the summer of 1820, another peace treaty was signed between the sheikhs of the Persian Gulf and the British government. Much later, in 1971, the United Arab Emirates was founded.
camel racing
The UAE government pays great attention to camel races, which are held regularly in certain time. This event is always widely publicized and held under the patronage of His Highness President Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan and his Sheikh brothers, rulers of the emirates and members of the Supreme Council.
Camel racing has become an annual event and celebration in Abu Dhabi, Dubai and Ras Al Khaimah. The government, state organizations, banks and private companies allocate funds for the development and maintenance of this sport and those who breed and train these animals.
Recently, a camel racing track was built in the emirate. Races are held from mid-September to the end of April annually. According to the results of the competition, two gold awards are awarded. The first gold prize is awarded by His Highness Sheikh Saqr Bin Mohammad Al Qassimi, Ruler of Ras Al Khaimah, in the yaataa category, i.e. young camels two or three years old. The second gold prize is for camels over 4 years old and this award is presented by His Highness Sheikh Kalid Bin Saqr Al Qassimi, Crown Prince.
Geography
Ras Al Khaimah is located 64 kilometers east of the coast of the Persian Gulf and covers an area of 1684 square kilometers, in the north and northeast it borders on the Sultanate of Oman. Some of the islands in the bay belong to this emirate, the most notable being Al Jazeera Al Hamra, Greater Thanb and Lesser Thanb.
The city of Ras Al Khaimah is the capital of the emirate. The bay divides it into two parts - western Ras Al Khaimah and eastern, including Al Nakil, Al Oraibi, Al Mairid and Al Mamora.
Shaam is the most remote area in the northern part. It is located 30 km from Ras Al Khaimah, next to the city of Al Rams and Kur Kovair. Sacre Port, located in Cour Kovair, plays a significant role in the export of raw materials. There are also several factories for the production of white cement.
The southern part of the emirate is famous for its hot springs.
Having visited the sources located on the picturesque mountains of the Emirate, you will forever remember the life-giving power of radon springs and an excellent panorama of the city-paradise, spreading at the foot of the ancient mountains.
Al Jazeera Aviation Club in Ras Al Khaimah
The Al Jazeera Aviation Club has been open to visitors since May 1998. The club is located in a very picturesque place not far from a five-star hotel. The club has two sites - Kozam (Saqr airfield), the second is located in Al Jazeera Al Hamren on the Dubai - Ras Al Khaimah highway, opposite Ibn Majit Resort and Beach (Al Jazeera airfield). The length of the runway of the Saqr field is 700 m, in addition, it is equipped with hangars and has windbreaks. The two runways of the Al Jazeera field are 500 and 800 meters long. This field also has hangars and a terminal.
Emirate of Umm al Quwain
Umm Al Quwain covers an area of 777 sq. km and is located on a peninsula,
protruding 23 km into the Persian Gulf, between Ajman and the emirate of Ras Al Khaimah. The population is about 40 thousand people. Umm Al Quwain is ruled by Sheikh Rashid bin Ahmed Al Mualla, who succeeded his father in 1981.
The traditional occupation of the inhabitants is fishing and growing dates. Here in Umm Al Quwain, 55 km northeast of Dubai, is the port and free economic zone of Ahmed Bin Rashid (The Ahmed Bin Rashid). The port has four berths with a total length of 845 m and an area of about 400,000 sq.m. The free economic zone within the port was opened in 1988. The administration of the port and the free economic zone encourages the registration of companies, assists businesses in administrative matters and in matters of logistics.
50 km from Umm Al Quwain is Falaj Al Mulla, the agricultural region of the Emirates. Seneiya Island, one kilometer from the city of Umm Al Quwain, is a nature reserve where large bird species, fallow deer and Al Qaram trees grow.
In Umm Al Quwain, there is the National Mariculture Center, which, under the auspices of the UAE Ministry of Agriculture and the UAE University, conducts experiments on growing freshwater fish, shrimp, mullet, and grouper in salt water.
The main attraction for tourists in Umm Al Quwain is the clean long sandy beaches, the enclosed lagoon and the stables with racehorses that you can rent.
A new boost to tourism in Umm Al Quwain has been given by the construction of the world's largest water park, Dreamland, which is just a 30-minute drive from Dubai. In addition to all kinds of slides and slopes, it has (the first among all Arab states) a dolphinarium, two restaurants on the water, an arcade of 21 shops, a 70 by 45 meter swimming pool, an amphitheater, a yacht club, a 5 * hotel with 320 rooms and a 5 * chalet for 150 rooms. The water park covers an area of 22 hectares and receives more than 8,000 people a day.
Emirate of Fujairah
The Emirate of Fujairah is the youngest of the seven emirates that make up the UAE.
This is the only emirate that is located almost entirely on the east coast of the country and covers an area of 1,450 square meters. km, population - about 66,000 people. The climate is dry subtropical, rains are extremely rare and occur mainly in winter. The emirate of Fujairah includes the settlements of Dibba, Murbeh, Qidfa, Al Bidiyah, Masafi and Al-Siji.
This beautiful region of the Arabian Peninsula borders the Gulf of Oman and the Hajar Mountains. It has everlasting blue skies and golden beaches. A notable feature of the emirate are mountains, fertile valleys, where there are many spring wells and, finally, a clean, golden sandy coastline that stretches for more than 90 km. About 80% of the population of Fujairah is concentrated on the coastal strip.
Fujairah got its name from the sea current, which is believed to carry its waters from the states of the Persian Gulf through the Indian Ocean to the countries of East Asia and Europe.
The history of Fujairah goes back to the reign of Sheikh Mohammed Bin Matar, head of the Al Sharkien tribe. The foundation and independence of this emirate is the merit of Sheikh Abdullah Al Sharqi and his son Sheikh Mohammed Bin Abdullah Al Sharqi. His Highness Sheikh Mohammed Bin Hamad Bin Abdullah Al Sharqi, his son and brothers - the rulers of the emirates - played an important role in the creation of the Commonwealth, in which Fujairah is one of the seven emirates that make up the UAE. Once this territory was one of the districts of the emirate of Sharjah, but in the 50s, thanks to their efforts and with the consent of the British colonial authorities, this emirate was declared independent.
Despite the fact that there are no oil fields in Fujairah - the main source of prosperity for the UAE - the uniqueness and architectural splendor of the buildings erected here can compete in beauty with both Dubai and Abu Dhabi. A beautiful international airport has been built in Fujairah, high-speed highways have connected the emirate with all the cities of the UAE, there are sea port, in the area of which the free economic zone is located. Implementation the latest technologies social and economic development is the basis for the prosperity of the emirate, the growth of its well-being and its role in the life of the country.
Discover the beauty and attraction of Fujairah
The economic and industrial development of the emirate is planned in such a way as to preserve and protect the rich cultural heritage of the city. Today, this modern city has luxurious hotels and resorts dotted along the coast, but the special charm and tranquility that has been the hallmark of Fujairah for many years remains unchanged today. The population still follows many of the customs and traditions passed down from generation to generation, although the traditional rules of fishing and farming are gradually being replaced by modern methods.
Excellent sandy beaches and the absence of any environmental issues made this city attractive for those who would like to enjoy walks along the green embankment, look at the picturesque ruins of old Fujairah, explore the ancient fortress, admire the fishing boats that go out to fish in the ocean. The climate here is much more pleasant than in other emirates. It is cozy and quiet at home in seaside hotels with a high level of service, superbly equipped with everything necessary for diving and hunting.
Holidays in Fujairah are not just an opportunity to relax and sunbathe on magnificent beaches, enjoy snorkeling, diving or deep sea fishing, see the nearby Hajar Mountains, where shrubs bloom in colorful mosaics during the winter months, admire the amazingly beautiful coral reefs, enjoy the abundance of unique marine fish and animals. This is also an opportunity to discover something new for yourself in the Arab culture and traditions, to plunge into the romance and mystery of the ancient world. Numerous historical monuments, mosques, ancient tombs and Portuguese forts emphasize the uniqueness of Fujairah and allow your imagination to recreate the bright moments of the historical past of this land. Archaeological excavations carried out here have revealed more than 500 ancient burials and ancient buildings - castles, forts, observation towers ... Fujairah Fort is a huge castle built in 1670, located in the very center of the old city. Al Hail Fort is a fort built 270 - 300 years ago, located 12 km southwest of the city. The Fujairah Museum contains unique monuments from different historical periods, as well as traditional handicrafts of the emirate. And 38 km north of the capital is the Bidiyah Mosque - the oldest mosque in the Emirates, built back in 1600.
Of particular interest to tourists and locals is the Ain Ghomour Hot Spring, 20 km southwest of the city. Excellent natural landscapes, the ability to heal from rheumatism and skin diseases with the magical water of the source attract many people here ... In the Al Wariya Valley, located 32 km north of Fujairah, picturesque waterfalls and mineral springs amaze with their splendor, Al-Siji, 30 kilometers north of Fujairah - large agricultural areas, huge plantations of flowers and fruits.
Fujairah Hotels
Hotels in Fujairah amaze with their architectural elegance and splendor of interior decoration, designed both in modern and in true Arabic style - with arabesques and oriental rich carpets and decorations. The hotel staff is polite and attentive - you will never experience any inconvenience, at your service at any time of the day, helpful employees, bars and restaurants, where you will be offered culinary delights from traditional Arabic cuisine, as well as dishes from other countries of the world.
Hilton Fujairah 5*
This beachfront hotel offers 73 rooms, 12 chalets and 7 suites.
Restaurants and bars:
Neptunia - international cuisine.
Octavia Bistro - bar. Opening hours: 10.30-23.59. Live music every evening - a duet from Eastern Europe.
Sailors Bar - located between the beach and the pool - open all day!
Tropicana - night club. Opening hours: 20.00-02.00. Happy Hour: 22.00-23.59. Musical ensemble from the Philippines.
In a hotel:
Gym, sauna, steam room, massage parlor, swimming pool, tennis court, basketball, volleyball, windsurfing, sea skiing, kayak, etc.
Al Diar Sizhi Hotel 5*
The hotel is located on the main street and is mostly popular with business people.
The rooms are standard: single and double.
Restaurants and bars:
Al Diwan - international cuisine.
Zobra Lounge - bar, opening hours: from 10.00, Happy Hour: 16.00-20.00 (two free drinks for each). Live music - Eastern European duet.
Starlight is a 70s style nightclub musical ensemble from the Philippines.
Opening hours: 20.30-04.00.
Bowling Alley - 6 lanes (AED 12 per game or AED 70 per lane per hour). Opening hours: Sat-Thu 16.00-01.00, Fri 12.00-01.00.
In a hotel:
Gym, sauna, steam room, swimming pool, jacuzzi.
Ritz Plaza Hotel 3* 4*
The hotel is located on one of the main streets.
Restaurants and bars:
Coffee shop - open all day, offers a variety of dishes and spirits.
Bar / Disco - on the top floor. An American style restaurant with a dance floor and a music band from the Philippines. Opening hours: 18.00-03.00. Happy Hour: 18.00-21.00.
Fujairah Beach Hotel 3*
The hotel is located on Beach Road, 1 km from the port gate.
In a hotel:
Swimming pool, nightclubs - Pakistani, Indian and Arabic. Opening hours: 21.00-02.30; restaurant, opening hours: 07.00-11.00 and 14.00-23.00
RESTAURANTS
The city has many restaurants for every taste and budget. Alcoholic drinks they are not served, with the exception of the Fujairah International Marine Club, where the restaurant and bar are licensed to sell alcohol. However, to paraphrase a well-known phrase - a person does not live by alcohol alone. Dishes of Arabic, European, Chinese cuisine will bring real pleasure to the most delicate and demanding gourmets.
Restaurants:
Meshwar is a Lebanese restaurant located on the road parallel to the Hilton Hotel. Arabic dishes at an affordable price, shawarma - for those who would like to just have a quick and tasty snack.
Sadaf is an Iranian restaurant located at the Hilton Roundabout opposite the Hilton Hotel. The whole range of delicacies of Iranian cuisine is offered.
Taj Mahal - This restaurant serves Indian and Chinese cuisines. Every Thursday - buffet, only 30 AED per person.
Kings Restaurant - located opposite the fruit and vegetable market - not much different from the Taj Mahal, but famous for its uniquely low prices. Every Thursday - buffet.
Restaurants fast food- located opposite the hotel "Al Diar Sizhi"
Pizza Hut
Kentucky Fried Chicken (Kentucky Fried Chicken)
Fujairah International Marine Club - Located on Corniche Road. Themed American bar and restaurant.
Fujairah is a storehouse of genuine Arab charm and hospitality - only here you can fully feel the warmth and friendly attitude towards the guests of this country.
The richest flora and fauna, numerous waterfalls and mountains, green embankments and excellent hotels - all this, creating the feeling of a fairy tale, an enduring holiday of the soul, delight from touching the oriental wisdom and the secrets of ancient civilization - good reasons to visit the unique splendor of natural beauty and modern elegance emirate, not without reason called the pearl of Arabia, where they are always glad to meet guests from all over the world with dignity.
