Where is the best place to relax in the UAE. What is interesting about the prestigious area of ​​Downtown Dubai? Abu Dhabi is not only the capital, but also a great resort to relax with friends and family

The country of the sheikhs - the United Arab Emirates - is located in the southwest Arabian Peninsula. The shores are washed by the waters of the Persian Gulf and the Indian Ocean (Gulf of Oman).

Why go to the UAE

The UAE is a fabulous country where skyscrapers made of glass and metal take off into the sky among the sands of an endless desert; a place where ancient customs are combined with the latest technology. If you like excellent hotel service, shopping from morning to evening, swimming in the ever-warm sea and picky about the choice of entertainment - you are here. The Emirates are home to the world's largest aquarium, a ski resort in the desert, amazingly beautiful mosques and, of course, many shopping centers with thousands of shops.

Visa to the UAE

A visa is not required to travel to the UAE. Upon arrival in the UAE, a tourist's passport is stamped free of charge on arrival in the country. The visa is valid for 30 days. In the case of several entries / exits from the country, you need to obtain visas each time.

The country unites 7 emirates. The largest emirate is , the smallest is . All emirates, except, have sections on the coast of the Persian Gulf. located on the coast of the Gulf of Oman.

When choosing tours in the UAE, tourists prefer the emirates and.

Weather in the UAE

The season in the UAE lasts all year round - warm and almost no rain. The best time to visit the Emirates is the period from late October to April, when it is not very hot. The water in the sea off the coast of the UAE is always warm: the temperature does not fall below 18°C. In winter, the water in the pools of the UAE hotels is heated, its temperature is 25-27 °C. In summer, the air temperature can reach 50 °C, and the sea - 35 °C.

Round trip flights to UAE

Ticket prices shown are for 1 person departing from Berlin

Currency in the UAE

The currency in the UAE is the dirham. There are 100 fils in one dirham. For one dollar you can get about 4 dirhams.

Attractions UAE

The Emirates cannot boast of many historical sights, like the cities of Europe or Asia. The rapid development of the country began only half a century ago. However, the lack of ancient ruins and ancient houses of the city of the UAE is more than compensated by ultra-modern skyscrapers, luxurious amusement parks, beautiful embankments and, of course, oriental bazaars in air-conditioned shopping centers.

The very best in the Emirates

If you want to definitely touch history and culture, then you should pay attention to beautiful mosques - for example, the Sheikh Zayed Mosque in - or the Bastakiya district, where clay houses, a fort building and the atmosphere of an Arab village have been preserved.

Picturesque oases are “scattered” throughout the emirates, and in the emirates there are healing mineral springs. Wildlife lovers are recommended to visit the unique mangrove reserve, the zoo and the Sheikh's Palace in the city of Al Ain in Abu Dhabi.

On excursions to the UAE, you can go to the desert in jeeps and ATVs, travel around all the emirates and even visit the neighboring Sultanate of Oman, sail on a yacht on man-made islands or simply in the Persian Gulf, even fly by helicopter near the Burj Khalifa or on hot-air balloon over the surroundings.

shopping

People go to the UAE for quality shopping - there are many multi-storey shopping centers and markets. The most famous of them are Dubai Mall, Mall of the Emirates, Souk Madinat Jumeirah next to Palm Jumeirah, Gold Souk in Dubai's Deira district, Abu Dhabi Mall. ​

Souvenirs

The most popular souvenirs brought by tourists from the UAE are chocolate and candies based on camel milk, amazing dates with and without filling, soft toys, seven sands - a bottle of multi-colored sand from different emirates, small carpets, hookahs, jewelry and jewelry.

Transport

Compared to Russia, public transport in the UAE is very poorly developed. This is due to the fact that almost every resident has his own car. Buses and metro are mainly used by labor migrants and tourists. Regular city bus service is available only in and Abu Dhabi. A bus ticket is inexpensive - about 1.5 dirhams.

Most tourists take taxis. Each machine is equipped with a counter. If you are traveling from one emirate to another, be prepared for the fact that a certain amount will be added for crossing the “border” (each emirate has its own, but not more than $ 5). You will also have to pay extra for travel on toll roads.

The metro is popular with both locals and tourists. It is fully automatic, there are no drivers. In total, the Dubai Metro has 2 lines, they are connected to each other and to the tram line. There are 3 categories of tickets for payment - "gold" (with a panoramic view and a guarantee of a seat in the head / tail car, they cost 2 times more than regular tickets), women's and children's tickets (tickets to a certain section of the car) and ordinary. Ticket prices range from 1.8 to 11 dirhams.

There is a tram line in the Dubai Marina area, and a monorail railway on the Palm Jumeirah, which tourists like to ride. One trip on the monorail costs 15 dirhams.

To rent a car in the UAE, you will need an International Driving Permit and a credit card. All registered cards issued in the Russian Federation are considered credit cards. In some cases, you can rent a car with a Russian license and without presenting credit card. However, if you are stopped by the police, you will have to pay a huge fine. When renting, the amount on the bank card is “frozen” (750-2000 dirhams), it is important that it is available.

Alcohol

The UAE is a Muslim country where alcohol is banned. Each emirate establishes its own law on alcohol - for example, it doesn’t even smell like it: you can’t not only use it, but even transport and store it. Surrounded by , there are a couple of liquor stores. You can find alcoholic cocktails on the menu, but be prepared that they will be expensive. Alcohol can be brought into a hotel room in some emirates. You can buy wine, beer and other drinks in duty-free shops upon arrival, but very little. The quantity is monitored - alcohol lovers can easily deprive their favorite drink.

Customs and traditions

The religion in the UAE is Islam. Believers pray 5 times a day. The call to prayer is heard through the loudspeakers of mosques, as well as on radio and television.

holy month Ramadan- a special period for Muslims, a time of fasting, humility and prayers. Its beginning is determined by the lunar calendar, each year a new date. In 2018, Ramadan lasts from May 15 to June 14, in 2019 - from May 5 to June 3.

During Ramadan, Muslims are forbidden to eat and drink before sunset, so many cafes and restaurants are closed during the day. Tourists are not recommended to eat or drink on the street, and when going on excursions, it is worth taking food rations with you. Many hotels are being renovated just in Ramadan. However, there are also advantages from visiting the UAE at this time, and considerable ones - there are almost no traffic jams in cities and on the highway, there are no queues to attractions (many increase their opening hours until late at night), there are fewer crowds in shops, and in hotels and on beaches much quieter and more spacious.

On the street, women are strictly forbidden to appear in open or translucent clothes. Firstly, it’s indecent, and secondly, the locals will immediately call the police and “half-naked”, according to the Arabs, the tourist will be fined a round sum (the vice police is especially fierce). We recommend that you dress in such a way that your clothes cover your knees, elbows and décolleté. You can not hug and kiss on the street in public places.

Kitchen

The UAE is located on the coast of the Persian Gulf, so there will be plenty of seafood on the hotel menu: there are grilled lobsters, various fish, and shellfish. Many tourists like to try kebabs, hearty snacks based on chickpeas, exotic fruits, dates. In the emirates, they sell camel milk ice cream and milk itself.

Good to know about the UAE

• The plane is flying from Moscow to 5 o'clock. Transfer to hotels is about 1.5 hours, to hotels in Abu Dhabi - about 2 hours.
• Time in UAE ahead of Moscow by 1 hour.
• In the three emirates - , and - charged tourist tax for accommodation. The tax is payable upon check-in at the hotel (in dirhams, foreign currency or bank card). The amount of tax in and is $2 to $6 per night depending on the star rating of the hotel. In Abu Dhabi, tourists pay $5 per night, regardless of the hotel category.
• In most hotels in the UAE upon check-in deposit is taken. Depending on the hotel, the spread can be very large: from $10 to $400 per day or from $50 to $600 for a period. Sometimes the deposit is calculated from the cost of the room (most often 50% of the cost of the night). The amount is returned upon departure from the hotel. In some hotels, you can agree not to pay a deposit if you empty the minibar and turn off the phone.
• It is not recommended to drink tap water in the UAE, it is desalinated or purified sea water. Bottled water is produced from oasis springs. Medium water bottle price(0.5 liters) - 1.2 dirhams.
• Religion in the UAE - Islam Sunni persuasion.
• Language in the UAE - Arab. The majority of the population knows English, and signs, road signs, and signs are duplicated in it.
• It is strictly not recommended to photograph local residents without permission, especially women. Also refrain from taking photos near government agencies.
• In the UAE, many objects do not have a permanent address - residents are guided by signs and nearby buildings.
• If you fall ill, contact the insurance service at the phone number indicated in the insurance policy that you received when purchasing the tour. If you just call an ambulance, you can get an impressive bill.
• In the UAE, cleanliness is very strict. Fine for a discarded wrapper or cigarette butt on the street or the beach is from 200 dirhams (3,200 rubles).
• Friday and Saturday in the UAE - weekend Thursday is a shortened working day. Banks, post office and government agencies close early- The working day starts at 8 am and ends at 3 pm, sometimes at 1 pm.
• Mosquitoes and mosquitoes not in the UAE, so you can do without a fumigator. Most shopping centers and public places are equipped with powerful air conditioners. To keep warm, bring sleeves with you.
• Snorkeling and diving in the UAE there is only in, in the rest of the emirates there is no bright underwater life. Flippers and a mask for those who came here on an excursion are given free of charge.
• Surprisingly, in the UAE cannot be imported nothing that was produced in Israel and even things with the Israeli logo - will be taken away at customs and may be denied entry. If you have a favorite keychain with mogendovid or you are bringing Dead Sea cosmetics to someone, it is better to leave them at home or use the mail service. The list of items prohibited for export is standard: no weapons, antiquities and cultural heritage. From the unusual - from the Emirates palm trees cannot be exported Weather by months

The date of December 1, 1971 is known to few tourists. Meanwhile, it was on this day that the state of the United Arab Emirates was formed, which now occupies a prominent place on the tourist map.

A country that grew rich thanks to oil production wisely disposed of its resources, creating an empire of miracles on the coast of the Persian Gulf - artificial islands, alien-looking skyscrapers, world-famous amusement parks and luxurious hotels with an unheard-of number of stars.

But when it comes to family vacations in the UAE, the hot climate and the gentle clear sea come first among the advantages of the country. Luxury, beaches, surprise - these are the three pillars on which the tourism of this country rests. What does this mean in terms of holidays with children in the UAE, read in our review.

Where is the UAE

The United Arab Emirates, or al-Imarat al-Arabiya al-Muttahid, is a state in southwest Asia located in the eastern part of the Arabian Peninsula. It borders Saudi Arabia to the west and south and Oman to the southeast and northeast. The western coast of the UAE is washed by the waters of the Persian Gulf, the eastern - by the waters of the Gulf of Oman. The territory of the country is 83.6 thousand square meters. km. The population is 8.5 million people. The capital is Abu Dhabi.

For residents of Russia, Ukraine and many other countries, there is a simplified entry regime to the UAE. national visa can be obtained at the airport upon arrival, for this you only need a valid passport and medical insurance for every traveler.

Vacation with children

The United Arab Emirates does not have time to bore tourists: every year, new wonders appear here. Most high building in the world, the largest candy store, the largest amusement park - the list of the "most-most" is growing.

To see all this with your own eyes, you just need to take a plane. The road to the resorts located on the coast of the Persian Gulf will take about 5 hours. At the same time, the main cities can be reached without tedious transfers.

And since the high season in the UAE falls on spring and autumn, imagine that in a few hours you will forget about the gloomy, dank dampness and be transported to a beach covered with soft sand, to warm sea. But wonderful beaches are not the only reason for traveling to the UAE with children. Young tourists are delighted with the huge amount of entertainment.

Amusement parks in the United Arab Emirates are beyond the wildest childhood dreams. Whisper only two names to your child - Ferrari World and Legoland, and the child will rush to pack a suitcase on a trip.

All information about entertainment is collected in the "Things to do with a child" section. And in the "What to see" section there is a list of UAE attractions for older children.

But in hotels there are almost no children entertainment program. If you want to relax with a child, but at the same time devote at least an hour or two a day to your own affairs, choose a hotel with a children's room and babysitting services.

Is it possible to have a relaxing holiday in the Emirates? Yes, and for this you don’t even need to be too far away from Dubai - the main center of entertainment. Already in Sharjah there is no such whirlwind, and in Ras Al Khaimah you will find complete serenity. It is Ras al-Khaimah, as well as Fujairah, with their peaceful atmosphere, that are most suitable for relaxing with baby. Look for useful information about the resorts of the country in the "Where to go" section.

When planning a holiday in the UAE, it is very important to take into account the peculiarities of the climate. Here for almost half a year there is an unbearable heat, but then an amazing summer reigns - and this is just at a time when temperate latitudes yearn for warmth. For more information about when to travel, see the sections “When is the best time to go” and “Weather and climate”.

And one more nuance: UAE hotels rarely use the all-inclusive system. This is not a sign of inconvenience, but rather a call not to stay too long within the walls of the hotel and get to know the country. So let's get acquainted!

When is the best time to go

The tourist season in the UAE lasts all year round. In spring and autumn, there are wonderful conditions for relaxing by the sea, in winter - for excursions and trips to the desert, and in summer - for successful shopping.

The beach season collects the largest number of tourists. To catch moderate heat and a warm sea, you need to come to the country's resorts in October-November and March-April. For a vacation with a child, it is better to narrow this time period a little more: the beginning of October and the end of April are already a very hot time.

By the way, winter good time for a beach holiday. Only swimming is not always possible, because the sea cools down to + 20 ° С. But bathing season in the UAE continues in winter thanks to water parks and pools in hotels. Warm winter weather is conducive to relaxing with a baby in the UAE: the little one will be able to spend a lot of time on fresh air without danger of overheating.

Thinking about when it is better to go to the UAE, travelers are wondering if the traditions of Ramadan will interfere with their vacation. Indeed, many restrictions are set for Muslims during this period, but this has little effect on tourists - museums, entertainment centers and restaurants operate as usual. In addition, until 2020, Ramadan will fall in the low season.

Weather and climate

It is easy to get an impression about the climate of the UAE if you know this:

• the weather in Dubai and Abu Dhabi is one of the hottest on Earth;
• mean annual temperature air in the UAE is + 33 ° С, while in summer the thermometers reach + 50 ° С;
• you need to sunbathe at the resorts of the country in autumn and spring, because only local residents can withstand the summer sun.

The climate of the country is really great for hiding from the cold. In October, when cold and rain cover temperate latitudes, in the United Arab Emirates the air "cools" to + 34-36 ° С - by the opening of the season, lovers come to the country to bask in the sun. In November, the temperature drops to + 30-31 ° C, and you can safely bask on the beach.

You can sunbathe in the UAE even in winter, since the air temperature is kept within + 23-26 ° C, and the sun shines regularly. One has only to take into account that by night it gets cold outside to + 13-15 ° С. You can swim in the sea until the end of December, then the water cools down. Dry and sunny winter weather is best for excursions, especially if you plan to get out into the desert.

The heat returns in March. The air warms up again to + 27-29 ° С, and a new holiday season begins in the UAE. By April the temperature rises to +30-33°C.

Mid-spring, like the second half of autumn, is a period for better holiday in the UAE with children. Sunny, moderately hot weather and a very warm, calm sea contribute to a pleasant pastime.

From May to September, we advise you to choose another country for your vacation. A vacation in the UAE is unlikely to bring pleasure if in the morning the thermometers show + 36-42 ° С, and even more at noon. Especially strong heat is set in July and August.

Rain during the holidays is not to be feared. Precipitation occurs only in winter and is more joyful than saddening. But sandstorms can really interfere with plans. The cities of the United Arab Emirates are ready for the onslaught of the wind carrying sand from the desert, but two or three days of rest will have to be devoted not to walks and excursions, but to rest on the territory of the hotel.

Sea water temperature

“The sky is clear, the air temperature is +26°C, the water temperature is +25°C.” This is what the weather forecast looks like in the UAE for… December. Can you imagine how warm the sea gets during the summer months?

In winter, however, few people want to swim in the sea. If in December the water in the Persian and Oman Gulfs maintains a temperature of +23-25°C, then in January-February the sea cools down to +18-21°C. Swimming is disturbed by high waves.

But already in March, the water temperature in the UAE begins to rise. At the very beginning of spring, the sea warms up to +23-24°С, by April the temperature reaches +25-27°С, and in May +28-29°С. In summer, a thermometer lowered into the sea off the coast of Dubai or Abu Dhabi will show + 30-33 ° C, and sometimes more.

The same sea temperature is maintained in September. But even in October the water remains almost hot, around +28-31°С. In November, the water temperature does not drop below +27°C.

Nutrition

The cuisine of the United Arab Emirates no longer seems particularly exotic: tourists have mastered the Middle Eastern resorts and have managed to fall in love with generously spiced meat wrapped in pita bread, chickpea dishes and oriental honey and nut desserts.

For a children's table, vegetable salads, meat with rice "biryani", lamb cutlets "kustileta" and a variety of sweets are quite suitable.

However, the peculiarity of many local dishes is their spicy taste, and therefore with small children it will not be possible to constantly eat in oriental restaurants. Finding a restaurant with European cuisine is not difficult: they are in every resort.

If during an independent holiday in the UAE with children you want to cook familiar food for your child, almost all the necessary products can be bought in supermarkets and markets. The only exception is cereals: you need to look for them in organic stores.

Supermarkets and pharmacies sell baby food, including well-known manufacturers. Despite the abundance of mashed potatoes, it is almost impossible to buy meat baby food - it is better to bring such canned food with you.

Transport

Public transport in the UAE is well developed, but completely unpopular with tourists. Travelers only use the metro in Dubai, but they avoid buses. The reason is simple - buses do not always adhere to the schedule and on many routes they run only once an hour. On buses (by the way, comfortable and air-conditioned) it is convenient to move only in the center of Dubai.

Intercity transport in the UAE is in much greater demand. You can take buses from the airport, go to a neighboring resort, and get to the Al Ain oasis. The fare depends on the distance. There are no discounts on tickets for children on buses.

The easiest way to get around the city is by taxi. Service in each emirate is established in its own way: in Abu Dhabi, for example, all cars are equipped with meters, and in Ras Al Khaimah you need to negotiate a price with drivers. There are pink taxis in Dubai that are reserved for women only.

To move around the UAE, you can rent a car. Car rental companies operate at airports and in large hotels, there is also a service for advance booking a car. The roads in the country are of exceptional quality, all resorts have paid and free parking - only a huge fine for violating the rules can spoil the pleasure of the trip traffic.

Things to do with a child

How to build a program family vacation in the United Arab Emirates? First of all, tune in to the fact that you will need to be surprised at every step. Everything surprises: ultra-modern skyscrapers and traditional Arab fortresses; unexpectedly rich fauna and flora of the desert; incredible water parks and amusement parks.

The most unusual sights

The main "exhibition of achievements" is, of course, Dubai. This is where the Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world, is located. On the 148th floor of the skyscraper there is observation platform: looking at the city from such a height is like looking at Dubai through the window of an airplane.

Another Dubai curiosity is singing fountains. This is a very popular entertainment in many countries, but the show in Dubai leaves others far behind. musical fountains. A candy store has also made the list of wonders of the UAE. This is not to be missed: they sell 5 thousand types of chocolates, lollipops, jelly sweets and other delicacies.

It is no less than a miracle that one will have to admit and. Here, even in the heat, people wear ski overalls, go skiing and sledding, build ice fortresses and watch the March of the Penguins.

The main wonder of Abu Dhabi is skyscrapers of the most incredible design. These are the skyscrapers of Al-Bahar, and the “falling” Capital Gate building, and the high-rise Aldar HQ in the form of a vertically installed disk. The ultramodern design of Al-Bahar uses elements of traditional Arab architecture, and for good reason: the lattice decor also has a screening function, so the building is cool even in summer.

Water and amusement parks

Holidays with a child in the UAE cannot be imagined without entertainment - simply because there are no such amusement parks anywhere else. Almost all entertainment centers are located in Abu Dhabi and Dubai, but it is easy to get there by bus or taxi from other resort cities in the country.

The largest in the world is stunning with the opportunity to see real racing cars and take part in the race on the Formula 1 track.

Where to go

The state of the UAE consists of seven emirates, and each is good in its own way. You just need to take into account the peculiarities of each emirate in order to choose where to go in the UAE with a child.

Whichever emirate you choose for your vacation, everywhere the authorities take care of the safety of tourists. To avoid problems, follow the laws of the country: do not break traffic rules, do not take pictures of local residents, wear discreet clothing (swimming suits can only be worn on beaches and water parks), refrain from drinking alcohol in public places.

Dubai

Has the most big amount luxury hotels and entertainment centers, but is also the noisiest and most expensive city in the country. family travel it's best to plan for the coolest period, as the best amusement parks are located outdoors.

Abu Dhabi

This UAE resort is devoid of Dubai pomposity, but promises respectable rest. The capital is one of the most popular regions in the UAE for families with children, as there are many attractions for young tourists.

Sharjah

Along with Ajman and Umm al-Quwain, it provides good options budget accommodation despite the fact that from there you can very quickly get to Dubai. In Sharjah, the level of service in hotels is worse than in Abu Dhabi and Dubai, so we recommend staying with children in four- and five-star hotels. Another characteristic feature of this region of the UAE is prohibition.

Ras Al Khaimah

Most suitable for lovers of secluded relaxation and picturesque nature. The budget hotels here are good enough to accommodate kids. The disadvantage of the emirate can only be considered the lack of regular transport links with other resorts.

fujairah

The only one of the emirates, washed by the waters of the Gulf of Oman and characterized by a little less heat than other resorts. Hotels here are mostly new, comfortable and not as expensive as in Dubai or Abu Dhabi. When thinking about which resort in the UAE to choose for diving, choose Fujairah. The depths of the Gulf of Oman are much more interesting for diving than the Persian Gulf.

Hotels or apartments?

An important plus of the UAE is hotels. The young country strives to fully utilize its tourism opportunities, so the hotel infrastructure is developing very quickly and efficiently. There is no need to wonder which resorts in the UAE are suitable for families with children: everywhere there are luxury and budget hotels with high quality service.

A feature of the country is that the all-inclusive food system is rarely used here. The only exceptions are the resorts of Ras al-Khaimah and Fujairah.

One more detail: children's animation in hotels is not very common. At the same time, there are kid-friendly hotels everywhere that offer services for families with children. In such hotels there are children's clubs and playgrounds, pools for kids. But in other hotels, they usually provide a baby cot, a high chair for feeding, and provide other services that are important on vacation with a baby.

Some hotel complexes become not only a place of residence, but also an independent excursion object. These are, for example, buildings of an unusual shape, like the Burj Al Arab sail hotel. And Dubai resort complex Atlantis The Palm offers great entertainment for children in the UAE: a huge water park, an aquarium and a dolphinarium.

Meanwhile, when deciding where it is better with children, it is quite possible to choose apart-hotels or apartments. This option has several advantages: a larger area than a hotel room, the ability to organize the usual daily routine and the presence of a kitchen where you can heat baby food or cook something from your child’s favorite dishes.

By car

Travelers rarely get to the UAE by car, but they often rent a car upon arrival in the country. The roads in all emirates are very good, the resorts have paid and free parking.

By ferry

One of the options how to get to the UAE from neighboring countries, - maritime communication. Ferries depart from the port of Bandar Abbas (Iran) and arrive in Dubai and Sharjah. There are also ferries connecting the UAE with Kuwait, Qatar, Oman, and India.

Which resort to choose for a beach holiday in the Emirates? About where it is better to relax and when it is preferable to go to the UAE, read in our detailed review!

The United Arab Emirates is truly a land of contrasts. Here you can meet stately men in white national robes, sitting in a Bentley studded with diamonds. The same streets are full of hard-working construction workers on their way to their slums. Deep poverty and unimaginable luxury, the dirt of poor neighborhoods and the grandeur of ultra-modern projects created by the hands of the richest people on the planet. Looking for the right place to relax in the UAE, you come across a combination of worlds that attract at the same time with their diversity and harmony.

Seasons in the UAE: when is the best time to relax?

Emirates has a dry subtropical climate. It almost never rains here. Beginning from May there is unbearable heat and lasts until until September. In this regard, the half-year of scorching heat is considered not a particularly favorable time for travel. In summer, the air temperature can go over the mark of + 50 ° C in the shade. In particular, this should be paid attention to those who go on vacation in the UAE with children during the hot season or have health problems. The positive aspects of this period are more low prices for tours and a well-warmed sea.

Peak holiday season in the UAE falls on October And november when the thermometer drops to +30°C. Prices for holidays in these months, respectively, are the highest. In December, and the cost of vouchers is reduced, as well as the temperature mark - up to +25°C. The water also cools down, however, for many tourists, such a cold snap is not critical, and the beach season does not lose its relevance. In April, the heat gradually begins to return to the Emirates, raising both tour prices and temperature indicators to + 30 ° C.

(Photo © Dima Soufi / flickr.com / Licensed under CC BY-NC 2.0)

Where is the best place to relax in the UAE?

7 emirates make it possible to satisfy the needs of perhaps even the most sophisticated tourists. We will talk about some of the features of the two most popular areas in the tourist environment.

Dubai

This is one of the most modern and progressive areas of the UAE, which is experiencing a real boom as economic development and tourism. The emirate is divided into 11 districts, each of which will be of interest to the traveler with its unique features. In the article we will focus on two of the most where you can best relax.

Jumeirah

Beach holiday center in the UAE and luxury resort where the best hotels are located. It is to him that the legendary archipelago adjoins Palm Jumeirah . It is an artificial island in the shape of a palm tree, protected from the waves by an 11-kilometer crescent of sand. Villas of famous millionaires were located on 17 "leaves", the "trunk" was occupied by shopping centers and restaurants, and the "crescent" has become an elite platform for hotels of leading international hotel chains.

There is another one 4 km from Dubai grandiose project The World, which is an artificially created archipelago of 300 islands that form a map of the world from a height of a helicopter flight. The islands here are divided into three main types: residential, commercial and resort. In addition, one cannot fail to mention the famous hotel located on an artificial island in Dubai. Burj Al Arab in the shape of a giant sail.

Downtown Dubai

This is a prestigious area, in the center of which is the tallest building in the world. Its roof offers a unique view of the city and the surrounding desert. Here you can dine in the tallest restaurant in history. At the base of the Burj Khalifa is the famous dancing fountain.

If you are looking for where you can not only relax in the UAE, but also go shopping, then we recommend visiting the world's largest shopping center in Downtown Dubai Mall. Opposite it is shopping mall Souk Al Bahar, which is stylized as an Arab market and offers a wide selection of national goods.

Interesting video! TV presenter and blogger Anton Ptushkin gives a video tour of rich life in Dubai:

Abu Dhabi

The federal capital and center of government of the UAE, Abu Dhabi, is considered one of the richest cities on earth. The emirate has become home to the largest oil companies. Despite the fact that Abu Dhabi has passed a very short historical path, here you can see not only chic boutiques and long traffic jams. One of better ways see the main sights in a few hours - go on a bus tour Big Bus Tour.

One of the main places to visit in the emirate is the sixth largest mosque in the world Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan Mosque. This marble shrine of 82 domes and 1,000 columns can accommodate more than 40,000 worshipers. Remember that there is a strict dress code for visitors to Muslim temples, especially for women.

Abu Dhabi is a good choice for those who go on vacation with children in the UAE, because the Al Mushrif Children's Garden and Hili Fun City amusement parks have many attractions for young tourists.

While in Abu Dhabi, do not bypass located on the neighboring Yas Island theme park Ferrari World. It is located under a roof stylized as a Ferrari GT car, with an area of ​​200 thousand square meters. m. Dozens of attractions in the spirit of the famous brand, a car museum and a complete list of entertainment capture the spirit of guests of the capital of the Emirates.

(Photo © Jason Mrachina / flickr.com / Licensed under CC BY-NC-ND 2.0)

Beach holidays in the resorts of the UAE

The length of the coastline in the Emirates is more than 700 km. White sand is washed by the waves of the Persian and Oman Gulfs. The beach holiday season in the UAE lasts almost all year round.

Abu Dhabi

The beaches of the capital are located a short distance from the city itself and are located on the island Bahrain Island. There is both a well-equipped resort coast and a line wild beach. The only way to get to the island is by water.

Fudgera

This is an emirate whose sea depths are chosen primarily by fans of diving and fishing. Exotic fish living in coral reefs and wrecks attract scuba divers from all over the world. The most popular beaches in Fujara are Al Aqah Beach, Dibba Al Fujairah and Shark Island.

Sharjah

Like almost the entire coast of the UAE, the beaches of Sharjah are perfectly clean. Nevertheless, this emirate differs from others in the special strictness of rules and prohibitions. Far from all the beaches of Sharjah, women are allowed to undress to their swimsuits. If the taboo is not imposed somewhere, then the representatives of the weaker sex will have to forget about the bikini in the emirate for sure. In order not to swim in clothes, you need to choose the beaches at the hotels and specify the dress code in advance.

Dubai

The emirate is considered the undisputed leader of a beach holiday in the UAE. You can talk about the beaches of Dubai resorts for a long time and admiringly. Whether it's remote from the center of the uncrowded Ghantoot Beach or a mecca for kitesurfers, Kite Beach, famous for the strongest wind in Dubai. I would like to focus on the top three most popular. Special place occupy two main beach parks in Dubai: Jumeira Beach Park(Jumeirah area) and Al Mamzar Park(Deira area).

Jumeira Beach Park

Municipal beach park with many tropical plants and neat lawns, permeated with the scent of flowers and filled with the chirping of birds. Entrance for adults is paid (5 AED per person), children can visit the park for free. The entrance to the sea is gentle, so the beach is well suited for families with children. It should be noted that on Mondays, only women and children under 8 are allowed into Jumeira Beach Park.

Al Mamzar Park

The second most popular beach park, featuring air-conditioned beach houses with BBQ terraces and large swimming pool. In addition to the well-maintained coastline, here you can see an unusual wooden fortress or attend a performance in the local amphitheater. Entrance fee, 5 AED per person. Wednesday is the day when men are not allowed to relax at Al Mamzar Park beach.

Jumeirah Open Beach

Free beach, very popular with Russian tourists. One of the main advantages of Jumeirah Open Beach is that it offers views of the main attractions of Dubai: the Burj Khalifa building, the Palm Jumeirah archipelago, the Burj Al Arab hotel. In addition, on the beach you can use showers, toilets, changing rooms, a playground and barbecue terraces for free. On Mondays, Jumeirah Open Beach is open to women and children only.

If you have always dreamed of visiting an uninhabited beach that resembles a popular advertisement for a chocolate bar, then 400 km from Dubai is Jebel Dhanna. And even if 50 meters from the shore the depth does not exceed the level of the belt, the atmosphere " heavenly delight"provided here.

In winter, many plan to relax in hot countries - such a sharp change in climate favorably affects the psycho-emotional background of a person. The UAE is one of the countries that can offer tourists a luxurious beach holiday during the coldest months of the year in most of the world. Dubai is the most frequently visited, its mass of unique sights, comfortable climate, clear sea and high level of service guarantee a quality vacation.

When is it cheaper to relax in Dubai: in summer, in autumn

Dubai can be visited all year round - the air temperature here, even in the winter months, does not fall below 25 degrees Celsius, the sea remains warm, hotels and shops are open without holidays and weekends.

According to experts, the most unfavorable months for a holiday in this eastern city considered summer - in June, July and August, the air temperature rises to 50 degrees Celsius.

It is especially important to know this nuance for those who have health problems - hypertension, any diseases of the heart and respiratory system are a contraindication to such trips.

But experienced tourists claim that these months have several attractive features:

• the flow of tourists is decreasing - you can safely walk the streets of the city, visit the sights without crowding and enjoy a relaxing beach holiday;
• the cost of tours is low, even independent trips will be profitable - accommodation and meals in the summer in the UAE are very adequate due to the unpopularity of the season;
• huge discounts are arranged in stores - shopping lovers will appreciate this moment;
• in August, a three-day holiday takes place after the end of Ramadan - interesting, fun and financially profitable, because sellers reduce the prices of their goods as much as possible.

And the heat in the summer months in Dubai is quite easily tolerated - absolutely all buildings are equipped with air conditioners, they are available even at bus stops.

October - March are recognized as the most successful months for a holiday in the UAE. The air warms up to a maximum of 35 degrees, the water temperature in the sea is within 21 degrees above zero - these are comfortable conditions for staying. True, this season is considered the busiest, tourists come to Dubai from all over the world and “demand creates supply”: prices for accommodation, excursions and souvenirs grow to incredible levels.

There are two main seasons in the UAE:

• hot and humid - lasts from May to October, during this period you will have to put up not only with high air temperatures, but also with stuffiness;
• warm with low humidity - begins in November and ends in April.

And at any time of the year, a sand / dust storm can occur. It is always sudden, but short-lived and rarely brings discomfort to the life of a tourist.

How to save money on your trip to the UAE

Holidays in the United Arab Emirates, in particular in Dubai, cannot be called economical - you have to pay for comfort and pleasure. But there are a few "tricks" that will help you save money on your trip:

• Renting a car and a taxi in Dubai are expensive, experienced tourists recommend paying attention to public transport. He works flawlessly in this eastern city - a tram, water bus and metro allow you to get anywhere in the city. Transport is comfortable, equipped with air conditioning and moves clearly according to the route schedule. For even more savings, you need to purchase a travel card.
• You need to buy The Entertainer Book, a collection of discount vouchers that collects 3,000 tourist sites across the country. It costs a little more than $ 100 (about 6,000 rubles or 3,000 UAH), but the price “beats back” literally from the first purchases.
• For example, you can visit a water park or a zoo with children with tickets at a 30% discount, in some cases this can be done for free with vouchers. Such books are different - for visiting spas / gyms / massage rooms, for visits to restaurants, for family holidays in parks, for excursions. This “treasure” is for sale at the airport, you can make a purchase online.
• Every guest of the city has the opportunity to visit a free tour. You can go to walking tour for 2 hours with a guide who leads the program on English language. Every day, free trips to the most famous sights are organized, in which the guide tells the history of the state. You can also visit the Jumeirah Mosque, which is open to non-Christians (all days except Friday), and the pink flamingo reserve.
• For your own pleasure, you need to visit the fountains at the Burj Khalifa skyscraper. Every day at 18-00 a show is arranged, one performance lasts 15 minutes, then a break is made for the same time - and the audience watches the next program, there are no repetitions. The Burj Khalifa fountain show is recognized as one of the most beautiful in the world, and it is allowed to watch it for free.
• Save money with the Dubai Card. It provides discounts on excursions to the most popular tourist sites, free pass in public transport.

To avoid large expenses, you need to remember three important rules:

• Do not use a taxi that does not have a meter, or negotiate the price of the trip with the driver in advance. Otherwise, the announced cost can greatly surprise and upset.
• Garbage should only be thrown into the bins. Even an accidentally dropped piece of paper can lead to a fine of $200 (approximately).
• It is better not to communicate with local women at all, or to be restrained in gestures and views - this rule applies to male tourists. Its violation can lead to a fine of $ 2000 - $ 18,000, or arrest.

Watch the video about the rest in Dubai and useful tips:

What to see in Dubai

Dubai is distinguished by a large number of attractions and interesting tourist sites. It is believed that even for a 2-week stay in this city, a tourist will not be able to see and appreciate every place. Experienced travelers and travel agents highlight several must-see attractions on your first visit:

• • • National Museum in the fortress of Al-Fahidi. The guests who came here seem to move in time - exhibits are collected here that tell about the centuries-old history of the emirate, household items, National clothes, jewelry. The cost of visiting is about 50 rubles (25 UAH).
    • Sheikh Said's house. This is the real housing of the sheikh, which has already turned into a museum. The guide will tell you about the history of the ruling Maktum family, you will be able to appreciate the decoration of the rooms of the Arab nobility, admire the traditional Arab architecture. 8-00.
    • Aquarium Mall. It is the largest in the world, as confirmed by the Guinness Book of Records. Visitors move along the tunnel, which is surrounded by huge containers with water and the inhabitants of the ocean depths. The view here is 270 degrees, it is allowed to take photos and videos of 33,000 representatives of the marine fauna that live here permanently.

  The entrance ticket costs about 750 rubles (340 UAH), there is an aquarium in the shopping center, so you can combine business with pleasant shopping.

  • Dubai Creek channel. You can take a leisurely walk along it in a small boat, it is better to do it at night - Dubai in the illumination is simply luxurious. Combining a trip with a walk along the embankment, you will be able to get the most positive emotions, and cafes are located literally “on every corner”, so you won’t have to go hungry.
  • Such a walk on the water will cost only 15 rubles (about 8 UAH), but only if you hire a small boat for entertainment, and not a full-fledged excursion ship, a ticket for it costs several times more.
  • Dubai Butterfly Garden. It is better to plan a visit here in weekdays– there are few visitors, so you will be able to fully enjoy the view of unique butterflies. They are large and small, brightly colored and soft pastel, they are happy to pose for guests - photography will certainly be successful. Entrance to the kingdom of butterflies costs about 100 rubles (UAH 45).
  • Museum of the Woman. The fair sex in this Arab country They appear to guests as modest and inconspicuous creatures. And you can find out if it has always been like this, the role of beautiful representatives in the world of sheikhs has changed in the Women's Museum. Pictures of the most famous artists of the UAE are also exhibited here. The cost of visiting the museum is about 300 rubles (140 UAH).

And this is only a small part of the attractions of Dubai! There are many places that you can visit absolutely free of charge - for example, the Coffee Museum. Here you can see the traditional decoration of the rooms, dishes and tools for making an invigorating drink, hear its history and recipes from the attendant.

Dubai is a city that is perfect for family and romantic holidays. It optimally combines modern buildings and buildings ancient architecture, shopping centers and a classic oriental bazaar. Adding to this the always sunny weather and the opportunity to save money, you can be sure of a comfortable stay.

For citizens of the Russian Federation, a visa to the UAE is issued upon arrival free of charge. The period of stay in the UAE should not exceed 30 days. The passport must be valid for at least 6 months. To obtain a visa on arrival, each child must have their own passport.

The United Arab Emirates is a sparkling mirage among the hot dunes of the Arabian Peninsula. Every tourist will find a dream come true here. Thirsty for Vitamin Sea - sunny beaches off azure waters Persian and Oman gulfs. Seekers of extreme entertainment - diving with sharks, jeep racing in the desert and race cars on the Formula I track. Connoisseurs of oriental exoticism - sheikhs' palaces, luxurious mosques. And shopaholics - giant megamalls, gold bazaars, markets with carpets and ceramics.

Living like in a fairy tale, the richest country of the UAE is by no means limited to ultra-modern Dubai and the “Arab New York” of Abu Dhabi with skyscrapers piercing the clouds. Sharjah - cultural capital Arab world, museum treasure. Fuijera has a truly beautiful nature with green oases, waterfalls and mountain landscapes. Ras Al Khaimah produced the largest and most beautiful pearls in the world, and today you can immerse yourself in this exciting process.

Beach tours in the UAE

A comfortable beach holiday on the shores of the Emirates happens from late September to May. In summer, the air temperature in the UAE exceeds + 40 C ° in the shade, and the water is + 35 C ° - not very refreshing. Coming to beach tours on new year holidays, tourists often swim in hotel pools, tk. the sea cools down to + 17…19 C°. Air + 24 C° - like Moscow summer.
The beaches of the United Arab Emirates - with gentle white or golden sand, a gentle entrance to the sea. In Dubai and Abu Dhabi, it is the calmest. There are waves in Sharjah, Ras Al Khaimah and Ajman. Beaches can be the property of hotels (free for their guests), public (with local residents And strict prohibitions) and clubs with paid entrance. In the latter, you can easily spend the whole day. For example, Jumeirah Beach Park in Dubai has a green, dense park with hills and plains, manicured lawns for picnics, barbecue areas, restaurants, cafes, playgrounds and beach area with sunbeds and umbrellas, showers and changing rooms. Entrance - only 5 dirhams. Beaches at hotels, even in Sharjah, allow you to be in open swimsuits. If you live far from the coast, a daily transfer is organized to the sea.

Traveling with children

For holidays with children, it is preferable to buy family tours in 4 * -5 * hotels with their own beaches. Transfer to the coast from a city hotel can be tiring. Which emirate to choose? With a high budget that allows the first line - Dubai, because. it is full of children's entertainment that boggles the imagination. Children will appreciate the world's largest aquarium, oceanarium, theme parks with the heroes of Marvel and the Jurassic period, Aquapark Wild wadi. Sharjah is beneficial not only for its proximity to the airport, but also for a large number of budget hotels right on the beach. And the entertainment of Dubai is within easy reach. Fujairah has a cleaner Arabian Sea, a calm environment. And when the heat is unbearable in Sharjah, it is 3-4 degrees cooler here thanks to the Hajjar mountains. At the same time, it is slightly warmer here in winter. Family hotels Fujairah is similar to hotels in Egypt, with large areas, animation and All Inclusive. In Ras Al Khaimah, ideal conditions for holidays with babies and young children, "All Inclusive", is found children's menu. When choosing tours in the UAE, avoid three months unbearably hot summer.

Excursion tourism

What to see in the UAE, in addition to the Burj Khalifa skyscraper, the Sheikh Zayed Mosque and the Dubai Aquarium? The garden city of Al Ain in the east of Abu Dhabi. This is the real Emirates, not tourist ones. There are several museum complexes, eight forts and numerous gardens and parks. The city was built among the waters of the oases. Abu Dhabi invites you to a living museum - ethnographic Village Heritage site with traditional Bedouin settlement. It's wildly interesting: tents made of goat hair, an old fish market, hearths with coffee pots. The oriental market is open on Fridays. Excursion tours to the island of Sir Bani Yas, covered with mangrove forests and virgin beaches, invite you to the Arabian Park wildlife where ten thousand animals live in natural conditions. In Ras Al Khaimah, where people have lived for seven thousand years, the Pearl Farm and the National Museum in the former royal palace. In Sharjah, it is worth visiting the Museum of Islamic Civilization, the Museum of Fine Arts with a rich collection of modern Arabic art.

Leisure

The UAE knows how to make your heart beat faster and your eyes glow with delight! Fans of speed and grace can visit the races of Arabian horses, as well as watch camel races. Embark on an exciting night crab hunt in the ancient way - with harpoons, waist-deep in water. Take a flight in a huge hot air balloon over the desert! Go sandboarding and sand skiing. A desert safari with a barbecue is dashing jeep races along the dunes and dinner in a Bedouin camp with a show program. Sheikhs adore falconry for small game. Worth a try! In Dubai, you can suddenly find yourself on a snow-covered ski slope or in an underwater abyss with scuba gear surrounded by sharks. And in Abu Dhabi - in a real car on the Formula I track. In Fujairah - on a fast surf, fishing or in a mask for snorkeling near coral reefs. By the way, Fujairah is the only emirate that has access to Arabian Sea Indian Ocean.

Youth tours

Exciting holidays promise tours for young people in the UAE with a vacation in Dubai. Here, unlike neighboring Sharjah, alcohol is allowed in hotels, bars and restaurants. However, you should behave with restraint on the streets. The best area for an unforgettable vacation there will be Jumeirah, where there are youth hotels and the Wild Wadi water park, beaches with music and fun companies, nightclubs with excellent DJs. The Bur Dubai area is home to many entertainment venues and affordable hotels. The doors of clubs and bars are open in Dubai even on sacred holidays. To visit the nightlife in Dubai, you will have to dress decently, leaving beach slates and shorts at the hotel. As a rule, entrance to discos is paid. There are discounts and bonuses for women. Youth tours to Dubai will become even brighter if you add to the stormy nights active sport- water, ski or in the sands of the desert.