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. The “tourist paradise” grew up in just a few decades on the site of a barren desert. An important impetus for 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 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, profitable geographical location at the intersection of routes coming from Europe, Africa and South Asia, and secondly, the 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 and create 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 markets and outside resort areas . Almost all hotel and restaurant staff speak excellent English, and in some places, especially in Dubai, even Russian. Due to the high level of labor migration, about 85% of the country's population are not citizens. In addition to Islam, residents of the UAE also profess Hinduism, Buddhism and Christianity.

Capital	Abu Dhabi
Population	5 million people
Population density	60 people/km 2
	Arab
Religion	Sunni Islam
Form of government	federal monarchy
	UAE dirham equal to 100 fils
Time zone
International dialing code
Domain zone
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 entire Arabian Peninsula, the UAE has a tropical desert climate, characterized by ultra-high summer temperatures reaching +50 °C and almost complete absence of precipitation. In winter, the air temperature remains at a comfortable +20…+23 °C. When traveling inland, you should remember that in the desert it is always several 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 °C, dropping in January - February to +18 °C and rising in August to +35 °C. 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 precipitation does not exceed 100 mm per year. In spring there is fog on the coast.

To put it mildly, one of the unpleasant natural phenomena in the UAE is dust storms, which, however, go unnoticed in large resort cities. Important feature The climate of the Emirates is the low oxygen content in the air, which makes this climate unsuitable for recreation for people with heart and lung diseases. The most difficult months to bear are considered to be August and September, when the heat is 40 degrees and air humidity exceeds all imaginable limits. Therefore, the tourist season in the UAE is from late September - early October to May.

Nature

Most of the country is desert Rub al-Khali, which turns into clayey plains, which, in turn, crash into the Persian Gulf. The east of the UAE is occupied by rocky mountains Al-Hajjar 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.

Animals in the UAE also include wild goats, camels, mountain goats (ibex), Arabian leopards and some other desert inhabitants.

During the migration period, many birds stop to rest in the northern regions of the country.

In the largest resort cities, work is constantly being carried out to plant trees both in the cities themselves and in the immediate surroundings, but this initiative has not yet been crowned with significant success, since 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, when mentioning this state, immediately sees unimaginable ultra-modern high-rise buildings in the 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 shape of a sail and many others. Modern skyscrapers, magnificent in bright sunshine, become simply fantastic in the light of night spotlights and backlights.

But the few ancient buildings and winding streets in the cities of the UAE will help you plunge into an amazing and subtle world Ancient East. The most famous historical sights of the country are:

• Al Hosn Palace, or White Fort, in Abu Dhabi,
• Al Khail fortress near Fujairah city,
• Fujairah Fort,
• Sheikh Zayed Mosque in Abu Dhabi,
• Jumeirah in Dubai,
• Al-Bidiya between Fujairah and Dibba, etc.

Nutrition

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 characteristics. Thus, the culinary traditions of the UAE were influenced by the cuisine of Iran, Lebanon, Egypt and other countries in Africa and Asia. The absolute rule of Arabic dishes is the complete absence of pork and the presence of a huge amount of spices.

It’s best to start getting acquainted 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(fried in olive oil the most delicate chickpea balls) and, of course, shawarma- and your mouth will always water at the mere memory of such yummy food.

In UAE restaurants, appetizers are required before serving the main course. meze, served on a large platter, divided into cells. Among meze most often present vegetable salads, nut-garlic pastes, eggplant caviar, wheat and corn porridges, 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 extremely popular among tourists. It's worth ordering at least once for lunch Bricks- triangular envelopes made of the thinnest dough filled with fish, shrimp or minced meat. Among the gastronomic “celebrities” of the UAE are: Al Madrubu(boiled salted fish with sauce), fish and meat kebabs, biryani(basmati rice with meat or fish with the addition of vegetables, spices and sauce), etc.

Oriental sweets are a separate subject of conversation. In the UAE, the variety of desserts is so great that it’s impossible to count them all. Turkish delight, date honey, halva, Umm Ali pudding and much more are best purchased 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 avoid alcoholic drinks while on holiday in the UAE, since possession of alcohol or being in public places If you are intoxicated, you may be brought to criminal liability and deported from the country.

Restaurants in the UAE are called all establishments, from tiny street cafes to huge chic restaurants in 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 encounter a lack of working air conditioning or water in the shower, during spring rain showers, roofs and windows leak, and there is water in the hotel courtyard. Often, the rooms of such hotels have inexpensive, noisy window air conditioners.

3-4 star hotels offer a completely different level of service, but the price almost doubles: if a room in the former costs $50-60 for two, then in hotels with 3-4 stars the average cost of living in a double room is approximately $100 .

There are luxury 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 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 time of year (cheaper in summer), the presence of a private beach, swimming pools with heated water in winter, etc.

Furnished rooms and villas are also available for tourists in the UAE. The average cost of a private one-bedroom apartment is about $1,000 per week, villas with a small pool and tropical garden - $8,000-9,000 per week.

Entertainment and relaxation

The main type of holiday in the UAE is a beach holiday. On the shores of the Persian (in the UAE it is called the Arabian) and Oman Gulfs, all the beaches are sandy.

Here you can rent sun loungers, sun loungers and umbrellas, you can practice water sports (windsurfing, water skiing, scooters, etc.), and have a snack in numerous cafes and eateries. Hotels located on the seashore 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 visits to private beaches for their guests, where regular buses run from the hotel.

Tourists who prefer an active holiday are offered unique safaris on camels, ATVs or SUVs 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, and a visit to one of the largest water parks in the world, Wild Wadi. Dubai, getting to know the fauna of the oceans at the Aquarium in the Dubai shopping and entertainment center 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

When going to the UAE, many tourists are still at home anticipating the best shopping experience of their lives, and most often such expectations are met 100%, especially for cities such as Abu Dhabi, Dubai And Sharjah. There are two types of shopping in the Emirates: the first, traditional for all Eastern countries, 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 stores of world-famous brands and brands. In the markets, high-quality counterfeits of well-known 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, in the UAE it is customary to purchase various originally oriental things: products made of gold and copper, silk fabrics, oriental carpets, products made of camel wool, 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 operate regularly during the season. The flight duration is about 5 hours. The cost of a round-trip economy class flight will range from $425 to $750 depending on the airline and date of travel.

You can get to the UAE by taking a ferry that runs between the Iranian city Bandar Abbas And Sharjah(port of Mina Khaled) or Dubai(Port Rashid). Port 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 It is not well developed - it is used, as a rule, only by visiting hired workers, so it is better to travel around the cities by taxi or rented car. Taxis in the UAE are the main way for tourists to travel, so many taxi drivers speak a little English. English. Taxis are privately owned and operated by private companies. The former are a little cheaper, the latter are often equipped with meters. The fare for a taxi without meters should be discussed before the start of the trip, and be sure to bargain, as prices are deliberately inflated. A taxi caught on the street will cost less than one taken from a hotel parking lot. Local taxi drivers are not well versed in 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 two-line metro in the country.

You can rent a car in the UAE with or without a driver. To drive a car, you need an international driving license (driving licenses from CIS countries are not valid in the UAE) and insurance. The driver's age cannot be less than 21 years.

In the UAE, those who violate traffic rules 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 damage to 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 from 13:00 to 16:00. The quality of roads in cities and between the country's largest tourist centers is excellent, but local residents, especially rich young people, behave extremely rudely on the roads.

Almost all hotels with 3-star categories and above transport their clients to the beach and back for free on their own buses.

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 a passport. Etisalat has developed the Ahlan tariff plan specifically for short stays in the country. The cost of a call abroad is about $0.7, the cost of an SMS is $0.25.

You can call abroad from pay phones that provide excellent call quality.

You can access the Internet by connecting to the mobile operator Etisalat, using the services of an Internet cafe 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 avoid areas where settlements of visiting hired workers are located.

For throwing garbage or crossing the road into in the wrong place you will be asked to pay $135 and will be taken into custody for swearing.

It is better not to drink 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 strengths and do not let children go into the water alone, even if they are excellent swimmers. It is best to dive under the supervision of a local instructor who is familiar with the characteristics of the area.

Business climate

One of the main goals facing the UAE Government is to transform the country into the most important financial and trade center in 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 simplified (corporate, income, VAT, from the wage fund), currency is freely convertible (UAE dirham), free movement of capital is guaranteed, etc. .

All the best hotels are equipped with magnificent, ultra-modern conference rooms, suitable for both inter-corporate negotiations and the organization of large 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 out for long-term lease. The cost of 1 m2 of housing ranges from $2,000 to $6,000. The residential real estate market comes mainly from new buildings; the secondary housing market is not developed.

Residential buildings in the UAE are always built at an accelerated pace and most often using low-paid labor, so even the so-called “luxury” complexes actually offer low-quality housing. Dense development, especially on the “palm trees” in the coastal waters of Dubai, leads to a lack of picturesque views from the window, and one can only dream of peace and tranquility here.

As commercial real estate Russian citizens are most interested in office premises, shops, hotels and restaurants. The average cost of 1 m2 of office is $1,700, for a hotel - about $7,000.

The UAE strictly observes Muslim traditions, therefore, there are a number of prohibitions that also apply to tourists.

Thus, you cannot appear in beachwear outside of beaches and swimming pools, and sunbathing without a swimsuit or its upper part is strictly prohibited. Women are only allowed to sit in the back seat of a car and should never get into a car without a taxi badge (you may be mistaken for a woman of easy virtue). It is prohibited to be in public places while intoxicated. You cannot kiss, hug, or show obscene gestures. Gambling and sexual relations not legalized by marriage are prohibited. You can't talk to someone on the street local women, so only men will be allowed to photograph, after asking their permission first. The country also has a strict ban on photographing sheikhs' palaces, military installations, banks and government institutions.

When entering a house or mosque, it is customary to take off your shoes.

They only take money, food and things right hand. When visiting the locals, you shouldn’t skip a few cups of coffee. When shaking hands, do not look the other person in the eye.

Customs restrictions, in addition to the standard import of weapons, pornography and drugs, apply to a number of medications, so it is best to obtain a prescription for the required medication with the Latin name and dosage.

When traveling to the UAE during the holy month of Ramadan, please remember that many establishments, including shops and restaurants, may change their opening hours. That is, during the day there are practically no places left where you can have lunch, since during Ramadan a strict fast is observed between dawn and sunset. Even tourists are frowned upon here and can officially complain to the police if they eat, drink, smoke or dress indecently (from the point of view of the local population).

Visa information

To visit the UAE, citizens of all CIS countries require a visa. Tourist visas are issued by the Dubai Visa Centre, Abu Dhabi Visa Centre, Asian Visa Center in Moscow and tour operators.

The main requirements for obtaining a visa through the Dubai and Abu Dhabi Visa Application Centers are:

• availability of air tickets to relevant airports in the country;
• traveling or having a valid visa to the Schengen countries, UK, USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand or Japan;
• absence of marks indicating that you visited Israel.

Documents for obtaining a visa (copy of passport, photograph, application form, copy of children’s birth certificate) 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.

There is no bad weather or low season in the Emirates - here, either in July or in February, excellent hotels for a real holiday and exciting shopping at tempting prices await tourists. Perhaps the UAE’s policy (we will present photos of stunning views in our article) regarding tourism can be expressed in the following words: “We want to surprise you with everything that the country has, and if something is not there, it will be built, and then we will surprise you even more.” more!"

A little about comfort

The flow of tourists wishing to visit the country is increasing. After all, it combines everything with everything: in the dunes from the nomad camp you can see the glowing needle of the Burj Khalifa, and camel racing takes place on a site neatly squeezed between modern skyscrapers. If you value comfort above all else, but are also partial to Arabian exoticism, the Emirates is a place that can satisfy your needs 100%!

UAE: state map and geographical features

A new country that appeared on the world map in 1971, which united six emirates that were under the protectorate of England, in a short time turned into a developed state with the most low level crime in the world and a high standard of living.

The UAE (you can see the photo in the article) is located mainly on the shores of the Persian Gulf (except for the Emirate of Fujairah, located on the Indian Ocean). Moreover, a significant part of the state is located in areas occupied by the Arabian desert. In order to see such beauty: the azure sea, the velvet desert, the majestic Hadjar mountains, luxurious cities and masterpieces of palace architecture, it is worth visiting this pearl of the East.

Climate is not a hindrance

The Emirates is a country with a dry climate, close to tropical. It rains here rarely and mainly in winter. Imagine that this territory experiences no more than 10 rainy days per year! And the temperature in January is surprisingly comfortable: +24 °C. By the way, despite the fact that the UAE turns into a real “brazier” in August (with a temperature of +48 ° C), at this time there are still a lot of people who want to visit a hospitable country that offers amazing comfortable conditions for relaxation.

Let's go there now!

capital - meet!

Abu Dhabi is perhaps the greenest city on the coast. It is proud of its parks, fountains and sculptures that decorate its boulevards and squares. Abu Dhabi can be compared to a colorful puzzle, assembled from ultra-modern landscapes and ancient architectural traditions. Skyscrapers, mosques, overflowing with the aromas of spices and the colors of exotic fruits - all this will make an unforgettable impression on the traveler.

The streets of the city are perfectly straight, and the residents are friendly and always friendly. A special feature of Abu Dhabi is the huge number of mosques with intricately decorated minarets. You can admire them endlessly.

The pride of the capital (and the whole country) has always been considered its stunning hotels, built with all possible luxury and comfort. They are famous throughout the world for their service, interiors and a huge range of additional services. The hotels are where most of the city's galleries, shops, gyms and diving centers are located.

The UAE, a photo of the capital of which is offered here, is fighting for the attention of tourists and is actively constructing increasingly unimaginable buildings. Let's take a look at these mind-blowing human creations already available in Abu Dhabi.

At Al Raha Beach, you can admire the round skyscraper in the shape of this symbol of perfection and stability, designed by MZ studio.

Capital Gate (the so-called falling skyscraper), built at the end of 2011, will excite you no less. Imagine that its angle of inclination is 4 times greater than that of the Leaning Tower of Pisa! On the upper floors of this building there is a helipad belonging to the family of the Sheikh of Abu Dhabi.

Don't forget the Marina Mall tower with its slowly rotating top.

Why, it’s impossible to describe all the wonders of the city in a short article: go and see for yourself!

Local restaurants are a paradise for foodies

But what are the skyscrapers of the UAE compared to the cuisine of the Middle East! Go to any restaurant you like and you won't go wrong. Among them there are those who give preference only to the Lebanese, Moroccan or Iranian tradition. And for lovers of European cuisine, there are plenty of Italian, French, Greek, etc. restaurants, where dishes will be selected and served with unforgettable grace.

Note to travelers: special attention The menu should focus on fresh fish from the Persian Gulf or seafood: lobster, crab, shrimp. In any kitchen they are the decoration of the menu!

Lovers of hearty and inexpensive food are offered a huge number of small cafes and eateries, which nevertheless offer visitors a high level of service and, most importantly, quality products. You won't be bored while your order is being prepared: as soon as you sit down at the table, you will be offered salads and bread. Special tip: be sure to try the local fruit drink - mocktail.

By the way, lunch will cost a hungry tourist an average of about 10 dollars. And tips are already included in the bill, so there is no need to leave them.

Some tips for tourists, or “To a foreign monastery with its own charter…”

When coming to a Muslim state, you need to be especially attentive to the traditions of the people who warmly received you. You should not appear on the streets in mini, transparent or low-cut clothes.

It is not recommended to photograph Muslim women and flirt with them, and to show more than friendly feelings unacceptable. In the UAE, a photo of which you can see here, littering, drinking alcoholic beverages or offering them to local residents are serious offenses.

Staying in the UAE during Ramadan requires tourists to be especially respectful of the religious feelings of believers, and failure to comply with regulations is a crime in this country even for foreigners.

Please note that during Ramadan, many shops open from 20:00 to 3:00 am, and most bars and restaurants do not offer musical or other entertainment performances. During daylight hours, the country observes fasting (you can’t not only eat and drink, but also smoke, and even just chew gum on the street). True, tourists are allowed to do all this on the premises of their hotels.

What's the best way to relax?

The United Arab Emirates is famous for its opportunities for active recreation and various sports, which more than makes up for the lack of historical attractions.

Thus, jeep or motorcycle safari is very popular in the country, which allows you to get to know the life of the Bedouins closer. In addition, go-kart racing, horse riding, camel racing, as well as excursions to the Sheikh's Stables and zoos are offered. Sea fishing is extremely popular, or sand skiing is no less common.

And shopping in the Emirates has long become a special attraction. After all, the UAE is a huge trade zone on which no duties are imposed; this circumstance, in turn, allows the country to set competitive prices for popular goods.

If you miss the snow, then even in this situation the Emirates can offer you an excellent vacation: the Ski Dubai ski resort. This is a unique indoor complex that offers skiing, snowboarding and sledding. Considering that the Arabian desert stretches around, bathed in the hot sun, you can imagine how exotic such a vacation (possible only in the UAE) looks like!

What is the first thing that comes to mind for the average person when you mention United Arab Emirates? Of course, the beauty, pomp and wealth of this federation. Perhaps the adjective “rich” can be used to describe everything here: the landscapes spread out before the beholder, modern luxury hotels, and snow-white sandy shores washed by bright blue clear water. UAE in equally both a country for tourists and a country where people come to engage in commercial matters. Here, the oil-producing and oil-and-gas industries are developing at a significantly increasing pace. The first oil fields were discovered in the 50s; before that time, local residents were engaged in fishing and pearl mining.
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 located Emirates in southwest Asia, in the eastern part of the Arabian Peninsula. It borders on 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 In the east, deserts are increasingly common, while mountainous terrain has 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 oil reserves. It is the supply of wealth and oil that determines the position of the emirate in political system. It is interesting that the emirates have been considered a Federation for several years, but the borders 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.

HOLIDAY 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 home to one of the historical monuments, the White Fort. This monument, built back in the 19th century, serves as a reservoir for storing fresh water. There are many fountains scattered throughout Abu Dhabi that decorate the streets of the emirate.
Most of the fountains are located along the Corniche Road, which is a great place to relax on a hot afternoon. Along with the fountains, numerous entertainment venues coexist on the embankment. The emirate's best restaurants are located just off the Corniche Road.
In another no less remarkable emirate, Dubai, the largest commercial hub Middle East and resort part, as well as interesting modern buildings and ancient architecture. Start your exploration of Dubai with a boat trip to Bastakiya, 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 the climate can be characterized UAE. Summer is naturally hotter; daytime temperatures can rise to 45 degrees. Summer holidays in United Arab Emirates can only be remembered for the 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 the most comfortable up to +26 degrees during the day, but at night the temperature on the coast drops sharply to +12. Night temperatures vary depending on location in the emirates, with the lowest winter temperatures occurring in the desert (down to -5 degrees).
The water temperature in coastal waters fluctuates around +33 degrees in summer, and drops to +22 degrees in winter. 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 the humidity is incredibly high (up to 90%), but under scorching temperatures sun rays it is reduced to a minimum. Typical humidity ranges from 50-60%.
Rains very rarely bother this corner of the earth. The vast majority of precipitation occurs between December and January.
Weather in United Arab Emirates carries with it unpredictability. Sandstorms that cannot be predicted are common here; they begin suddenly and can last up to three days. At the same time, visibility is significantly reduced.
A couple of times a year, the Arab Emirates are caught by surprise by strong hurricanes that last for several hours, tearing off the roofs of buildings.
The Emirate of Fujairah has a particularly mild climate. This emirate is located off the coast of the Indian Ocean. 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 a country. Most kitchen recipes United Arab Emirates borrowed from Lebanese tradition. A traditional appetizer - shawarma - is a type of quick food. The recipe for shawarma is simple: take lamb or chicken meat with salad and wrap it in a flatbread. Such food can be purchased in tents.
Because Emirates Since this is a maritime country, restaurant tables abound with seafood dishes (lobsters, crabs, shrimp and fish).
The traditional delicacies of these places are unusual and delicious in taste: umm ali (bread pudding), esh asaya (sweet cheese pie with cream on top).
Coffee occupies a special and honorable place in the hearts of local residents. Therefore, its preparation is extremely in demand in restaurants.

UAE Resorts

Abu Dhabi
It is one of the greenest places on the Persian Gulf coast. The emirate will be remembered by tourists for its beautiful flower beds, countless fountains and stunning sculptures.

Ajaman
The small emirate is worth visiting. The fact is that on its territory there is an Ajaman shipyard, which produces Arabian Dhow boats. Here you can learn the basics of shipbuilding. Not far from the territory of Ajaman there are mineral springs. Ajaman is for tourists who value peace and regularity of life above the hustle and bustle and active social pastime.

Dubai
The Emirates' premier city for commercial development. Here, the doors of luxurious and luxury hotels will open for tourists, and here you can look at the rich architectural structures. Most likely, your eyes will run wide when choosing 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, is a great place to start exploring Dubai. Most of the attractions are located here (Said Palace, Dubai Museum, World Trade Center);
- Gardens , which is a residential area, will show the life of the aborigines as it is;
- Downtown , will be of interest to both ordinary tourists and businessmen. The fact is that this area is a business complex under development. But here are the biggest attractions. Such as the tallest skyscraper in the world, Burj Khalifa, the Dubai Fountain, as well as Dubai Mall, today's largest shopping and entertainment center.
- Deira - the shopping part of the city, where tourists can look for good gifts and souvenirs for their loved ones and acquaintances. There is a huge gold market here;
- Jumeirah will surprise visitors with the richness 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 are not trying to introduce something new into the life of the natives. Here, a woman (meaning a visitor) must wear a long skirt and have her hands covered, and men must not take alcohol and cigarettes outside. This emirate may seem interesting for sightseeing. The most amazing thing here is the huge fountain that flows 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, where there are several dozen entertainment options, the King Faisal Mosque, the monument Holy Quran, National Heritage Museum.

Fujairah
An emirate for people who do not love the luxury and chic of hotels and skyscrapers, but who love to contemplate the beauty of nature. Here you can improve your health in sulfur mountain springs. There are many historical buildings and beautiful sculptures here. The Al-Wuraya waterfalls, natural protected areas and beautiful gardens delight the eye. Fans of active recreation will not get bored here; this emirate can offer hiking in the mountains, exploring dry river beds, diving 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 get healthy and rejuvenate thanks to the procedures carried out in local spas. Beauty salons traditionally use life-giving mineral water. 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, which will charge you with vigor and optimism for the entire upcoming holiday.

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? Calm and serenity on the sandy shore near numerous lagoons. See true provincial Muslim life. An emirate for those who are not looking for entertainment.

Hotels in the United Arab Emirates

By studying online reviews, you can rank the best hotels. However, it is worth considering that prices for day stay in some it reaches stratospheric heights.

Hotel Mina A"Salam Madinat Jumeirah - positions itself as a whole resort. This hotel is for wealthy visitors who are willing 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 serving a variety of cuisines from around the world. Open and closed swimming 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 caregiver while you have 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 hotel environment begins to bore you, you can book a tour.
The rooms are equipped with bath and shower, minibar, satellite TV and access to wi-fi.

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 summer residence of the sheikhs. 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 peace and a relaxed lifestyle, as there is a metro station attached to the building. The hotel is positioned good place for family holidays. Room cost per night from 16,000 rubles. Here is the largest amusement water park and a dolphinarium. At the water park, you can get a decent dose of adrenaline by going on an amusement slide that goes through a lagoon with sharks. The walls of the tunnel slide are made of transparent plastic. Otherwise, all functionality is similar to previous hotels.

No less worthy, but with more down-to-earth prices are the following hotels:
- The Radisson Blu Fujairah from 9,000 rubles per day (Dibba area);
- Iberotel Miramar Al Aqah Beach from 7,000 rubles per night (Dubai);
- Hilton Sharjah from 4,000 rubles per night (Sharjah).

Sights of the UAE

Many tourists strive for significant places, the sights of the country in which they spend their holidays. In the rich and vibrant country of the UAE, there are dozens of interesting, memorable places. Get your cameras ready and let's get started!

Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque- located in Abu Dhabi, according to many tourists, it is one of the most interesting tourist places. Since the mosque can be visited not only by Muslims, but also by ordinary tourists, you will be able to fully experience the spirit of the Arab state. This majestic building houses the largest carpet and 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 domes made of marble. The floor of the interior of the mosque is made of colored marble.

Grand Mosque in Dubai- located near Jumeira Open Beach. It is difficult to pass by, 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. There are also colored stained glass windows in the building.

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 preserves the greatness of such an ancient 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 shape 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 protects the palm tree. There are famous hotels designed in different styles here.
- Trunk is the center of Palma, where the cultural and social life of this island is located. Parks, shopping centers, and restaurants have been built here. Multi-storey residential buildings are also 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.
IN UAE there are two more similar palm islands: Palma Deira and Palm Jebel Ali.

Singing fountain in Dubai- an unusual building representing people dancing to the accompaniment of Arab and world classical music. The amazing structure is illuminated by more than 6,000 lanterns and 25 color spotlights. Situated on an artificial lake.

Singing fountain in Sharjah- 220 meters wide and 100 meters high. Not as famous as its brother in Dubai, but still a popular destination for tourists. The music show starts every day 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 bobsleigh. In order for tourists to fully enjoy the atmosphere of the ski resort, real spruce trees are planted here. The temperature here is maintained at -2 degrees. Up to 1,500 people can visit the resort per day.

Dubai Mall is a large shopping and entertainment center. You can spend the whole day here, because in a couple of hours you can get around and visit the Olympic skating rink, a huge aquarium, and a candy store (the largest in the world).

Skyscraper Burj Khalifa- what could be more famous than this building, where thousands of tourists flock 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 discover the world's largest swimming pool, the largest in the world nightclub, hotel rooms designed by Giorgio Armani. There are observation decks on different floors, and at the very top there is an observatory.

Gold Market- located in Dubai. The way here is open to those who want to purchase jewelry for themselves relatively inexpensively. The shelves of the market are bursting under the weight of gold goods. Usually gold is purchased here in large quantities, in bulk.

Wonderland is a huge amusement park for adults and children. There are singing gypsies, illusionists, and clowns. Simple carousels, roller coasters different heights, slot machines. There are many eateries in the park. Payment for attractions and other services is carried out using coupons, which are sold in books of 10, 20 or 30 pieces. You will have to take any unused coupons with you, as they will not be refunded.

Sheikh Zayed Street- the street located in Dubai deserves special attention, because its ultra-modern buildings reflect the modern spirit of the Emirates.

Ferrari World- this park is entirely dedicated to the Ferrari car brand. The park is completely covered with a red tent with the brand's logo. In this park you can purchase a variety of accessories with the company logo (mugs, T-shirts, pens, key chains, baseball caps.
Fans of this car will enjoy impromptu racing, films about Ferrari engineers and the history of its creation. The most inquisitive will have the opportunity to replace the wheels on a 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 by old cannons. The exhibition consists of a Bedouin house, rare weapons, musical instruments and other decorations. But most of the exhibition is located underground. Here you will watch a film about the history of Dubai, the panorama "Night in the Desert", and visit a Muslim school. Find out historical reports about different layers of the former population.

Wild Wadi is the most popular and modern water park in Dubai. Occupies a huge area. The design of the park uses motifs of Arabic colors; this often attracts the attention of children and causes them a lot of delight. There is a large swimming pool where you can go surfing. There is special entertainment for children here: a small lagoon with an upturned pirate ship 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 your problems. The underwater world will captivate you from the beginning to the end of the journey. The inhabitants of the aquarium are 250 various types animals. This entire exhibition serves the purpose of reminding residents that nature must 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 value new extreme experiences. From the very top of the Red Dunes you can go down on a snowboard type board. You can get to these places by car with a breeze; from the trip itself you will probably get no less impressions 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. It is best to visit the wheel in the late evening, when views of Sharjah and its surroundings open from a height of 60 meters.

UAE FOR TOURISTS

Think about what United Arab Emirates is a Muslim country with its own strict way of life. Despite the fact that some cities have established themselves as liberal territories, one must remember that Islam is a strict religion. Literally, Islam translates as “absolute submission to God”; local residents 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 extolled is the Prophet Muhammad. His name is traditionally not pronounced out loud, and if pronounced, it is with emphasis on the second syllable of the name. It was the Prophet Muhammad who laid the foundation of Islam. His teachings are set out in the sacred scriptures of the Koran and Sunnah. The Qur'an prescribes the basic moral and behavioral standards of a Muslim, how one should live until death. Because the overwhelming majority of the population professes Islam, the laws UAE built on the principles described in the Koran. Muslim prayer rituals are the cornerstone of their religion and are performed five times a day. There is no clear schedule for prayers. There is a special tradition of announcing prayer times daily through newspapers, radio or television. Calls to prayer are heard through mosque radios. If the ritual of prayer takes a Muslim by surprise, then even far from his home or a specially designated room, a Muslim can pray, facing towards the mosque.

Behavior of tourists in the UAE

It is considered extremely indecent if a visiting person looks at a Muslim praying, and even more so tries to photograph him or film him with a camera, this is the height of indecency.
Muslims may be extremely outraged by the fact that tourists can enter the mosque in provocative clothing. You should not make ironic remarks about the way of life of Muslims: praying five times a day, women's attire. It is better not to discuss Arab women at all.
A handshake among Muslims is a sign of approval and friendly intentions; unlike the European handshake, among Muslims it is somewhat drawn out. When saying goodbye, be sure to shake the hand of your interlocutor, especially a respected or to a loved one a handshake occurs with both hands. It is worth remembering that a Muslim woman, if necessary, offers her hand herself; the initiative should come exclusively from her.
When visiting an Arab home, you should accept all the treats that the owners of the house try to treat you with. The owner will be very offended if you do not accept the treat, and will even regard it as a sign of disrespect for him.
It is fundamental in an Arab home that all objects are taken and offered exclusively with the right hand.
The sight of soles facing an Arab is considered 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 Keep the camera out of strategically important objects such as military bases and police buildings. You can't take pictures of Arab women.
When talking with an Arab, you should not be curious about his wife; you can ask about his family only in passing, without making this topic the center of the entire conversation.
Due to 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 fine for drinking in public places, but you are guaranteed to get a lot of dissatisfaction from local residents.

Clothing for tourists in the UAE

For such a hot country as United Arab Emirates Clothes made from natural fabrics, breathable and light cut are suitable. Dresses, skirts, sundresses. Sandals, hats. For men, light trousers, long shorts and cotton shirts. Don't forget to take with you warm clothes, since nights in the emirates are often cold, especially when comparing the temperature contrast between day and night.
It’s worth considering separately your wardrobe for the beach and for going out into the city. When going shopping or on excursions around the city, you need to dress modestly. You should not choose dresses and blouses with an open neckline, sleeveless T-shirts and short shorts, or skirts with a slit. A more free style is suitable for relaxation, especially when beach holiday. But do not forget that a city like Sharjah does not tolerate female nudity, even on the beaches.

Reminder for tourists in the UAE

Treatment in United Arab Emirates will cost you a pretty penny if you don’t take care of purchasing a medical insurance policy in advance. It needs to be formalized 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 for the trip. With antiemetic, antipyretic, antiviral and painkillers. Take sunscreen and after-sun product. In case of sunburn, which is not uncommon for tourists, Panthenol can save you.
A Russian-Arabic phrasebook can really help you out if you get lost in the city, among Muslims.
If you are a heavy smoker, then take care of purchasing several cartons of cigarettes, because tobacco is very expensive in the Emirates.

Comparison of the UAE and other holiday destinations

United Arab Emirates or Türkiye
The first thing a tourist pays attention to is the level of service in hotels. On forums, avid travelers say that hotels United Arab Emirates are much 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 hotels promise 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 are no restrictions on drinking alcoholic beverages.

United Arab Emirates or Egypt
Holidays in Egypt for people who do not like restrictions. There are many free services that the Emirates does not boast of. Prices are much lower. But the attitude towards tourists is different. In the Emirates, people are more polite and reserved, which is paramount for some.

We go to foreign countries to experience new emotions that we cannot get in our usual environment. We want bright emotions and memories. And the United Arab Emirates can provide all this in abundance!

The United Arab Emirates is a relatively young federal state. The Federation was created on December 2, 1971. It consists of 6 emirates - Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Umm Al Quwain, Ajman and Fujairah. The Emirate of Ras al Khaimah joined a year later, in 1972. Thus, the history of the United Arab Emirates covers the last 50 years. This story is fast and impetuous, unparalleled in speed and pace of development. In a very short period of time, the country has transformed from a desert into a developed state, where the wildest dreams and ideas come true. But more on that a little later.

Historical finds

Now I would like to go back many centuries and see what the territory of the modern United Arab Emirates was like in the past, who inhabited these lands, and what interesting things history can teach us.

Let me start with an amazing discovery made by a team of German scientists from the University of Tübingen in the northeast of the United Arab Emirates. This find has expanded our understanding of prehistory in the UAE. Stone tools were found in the hilly ridge of Jebel Faya, an hour's drive from the Emirate of Sharjah. The age of these tools is estimated at 120-130 thousand years. The owners of the found tools are people of the modern type - Homo Sapiens, who entered the Arabian Peninsula through the Bab el-Mandeb Strait. Scientists attributed these finds to the prehistoric period “Homo sapiens of the Middle Paleolithic.” Also near the Emirate of Sharjah, archaeologists have found artifacts dating back to the Neolithic, Iron and Bronze Ages.

Discoveries made on the territory of the United Arab Emirates have revolutionized the ideas of modern scientists about the route of human migration from the African continent. Previously, most scientists believed that the first migration to Asia occurred 40-60 thousand years ago. Now this time period has doubled, reaching 120 thousand years ago.

From time immemorial

Now let's go back to ancient times. The United Arab Emirates is washed by the waters of the Persian Gulf, the coast of which was inhabited back in the 5th millennium BC. e. Presumably, these were tribes of pastoralists from Northern Arabia and the Syrian Desert.

In the third millennium BC. The United Arab Emirates became part of the Magan civilization, which at the moment is practically not studied by modern historians. Presumably, this civilization originated from Iran or Pakistan. The Magan state actively traded copper with Mesopotamia.

Later, in the 1st-2nd centuries BC. Ancient Semitic tribes lived on the territory of the modern United Arab Emirates, from which the ancient Arab people subsequently emerged.

The territory of the United Arab Emirates is a sandy desert where it is difficult to find water and where there is practically no vegetation. Only in rare green oases can you find water and grow date palms , where the only animals are camels. It was camels that became the basis for the survival of the inhabitants of these lands. Camels enabled the Bedouins to lead a nomadic lifestyle, helping them travel long distances in search of water and food. Clothes were made from camel hair. Camel meat and milk were the main food of the Arabs.

The ancient history of the United Arab Emirates before the adoption of Islam is called by local residents “the time of jahiliyyah,” which translated from Arabic means “the time of ignorance.” Islam came to these lands in the Middle Ages. In the 7th century AD small sheikhdoms located along the southern coast of the Persian Gulf and the northwestern coast of the Gulf of Oman became part of the Arab Caliphate, which spread Islam among the local residents. During this period, the cities of Dubai, Sharjah, and Fujairah emerged.

As the Caliphate weakened, the sheikhdoms received increasing autonomy. In the 8th century, many territories left the Arab Caliphate, becoming different times either completely independent or partially dependent states. It was at this moment that the emirates, small states, were formed.

This is how the local sheikhdoms (emirates) lived until the 16th century, when they began to fall under the control of European powers. First, the territory of the UAE was captured by the Portuguese, and then by the British. European powers controlled maritime trade and port cities.

Bedouins, caravans, desert

While the world was developing, the local people mostly lived in the desert and traded with the help of camel caravans. The Bedouins survived as best they could and no one cared about them in a rapidly developing world. They suffered from a very high temperature, they were tormented by thirst, they ate very simple, meager, monotonous food. The Bedouins had practically no educational institutions, there was no health care system, life expectancy was very short. During these times, Dubai was a small village where the height of houses did not exceed two floors.

The pearl trade helped the Arabs survive. It was the pearl trade that occupied the lion's share of the emirates' economy, accounting for approximately 95% of all treasury revenues. Dubai was called the “coast of pearls”. But only pearl divers know how much effort it took to get them. The danger of being eaten by predatory fish in the Persian Gulf, sea salt corroding the eyes, pressure changes, all this affected the diver’s health, leading to deafness and blindness. The life of a pearl diver was short-lived, and the profession was passed on from generation to generation.

Two world wars, the crisis of 1929 and the emergence of synthetic Japanese pearls caused serious damage to the pearl industry in the United Arab Emirates.

Oil changed everything

In the 50s of the twentieth century, oil was discovered on the territory of the United Arab Emirates. This was the second key moment in the country's history. No one even imagined that there was even a drop of oil on the territory of the United Arab Emirates. But there was oil. And it was enough to exist comfortably.

By this point, the Arab League was actively fighting for the right of all Arab peoples to achieve independence. International pressure forced the British to retreat. But the British left these territories only in 1971. It was at this moment that the history of the UAE as an independent state began. In 1971, 6 emirates announced the creation of an independent state - the United Arab Emirates.

Rapid growth of the UAE economy, sharp rise prices for “black gold” in 1973 gave impetus to unprecedented rapid development countries. The UAE has become one of the countries with the highest level life.

At a barrel price of US$75, oil revenues were approximately US$150 million per day. The government of the United Arab Emirates, led by Sheikh Zayed, managed this money very wisely. First of all, a course was taken to improve the lives of local residents. The Emirates began to build houses, hospitals, schools, and began to import food. Huge amounts of money were spent on the construction of water desalination plants. Currently, the United Arab Emirates ranks second after Saudi Arabia in terms of volumes of desalinated water produced.

A harmonious oasis of the future

The United Arab Emirates can easily be called a country of millionaires. It is simply impossible for a local resident to become poor, only if he consciously refuses all the benefits that the state provides him. Free water and electricity in homes, wedding gifts of US$100,000 to newlyweds, a plot of land and a subsidy of US$20,000 with the birth of each child are just some examples of how the government of the United Arab Emirates takes care of its citizens.

The country has proven itself financially and militarily on the world stage. The latter made it possible to prevent military attacks from neighboring countries. Iran at one time took advantage of the formation of a single UAE state and took three oil-rich islands for itself and never returned them to the Emirates.

In order to avoid dependence on the “oil needle”, the government of the United Arab Emirates made a wise decision to differentiate the economy and invest cash to various projects around the world.

Huge investments are being made in construction and tourism, agricultural development and trade. Many international companies have opened subsidiaries and representative offices in the United Arab Emirates.

At the moment, oil revenues account for 18% of the GDP of the United Arab Emirates, and tourism brings about the same amount to the country. The main source of income for the UAE is trade and financial transactions.

By differentiating the country's economy, the United Arab Emirates wanted to create something durable and stable and, I must admit, they succeeded.

High revenues from oil exports and far-sighted management of money have ensured the UAE prosperity and development in all areas of the economy. Now the United Arab Emirates is one of the richest countries in the world. And although the majority of the population of the United Arab Emirates at the moment are immigrants, local residents control all sources of income in the country.

Now it’s hard for all of us to imagine that just recently, instead of roads with multi-level interchanges, luxury hotels, beautiful parks and unique attractions, there was an endless desert and lonely Bedouin villages.

Beyond the distant seas, behind the high mountains, where there is almost no rain and the sun creates unbearable heat all year round, there is a small country that has been ruled by sages since ancient times. And what has been said is not a fairy tale, but the real truth, the truth of which you will see for yourself. We are talking about the state of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), located in the Middle East and being a federation.

Its rulers actually follow the suras of Islam in matters of domestic policy. The sheikhs of the UAE are one of the richest people in the world, they are educated, cultured, prone to oriental luxury and state-of-the-art technology and gadgets. Rulers do not put on the mask of servants of the people, while remaining rich, but their subjects live comfortably, feel needed by their country, and glorify their emirs.

Geography

First, let's briefly present some statistics on this state. The territory of the UAE is 83.6 thousand km 2, it is approximately equal to the Leningrad region. The UAE is adjacent to Oman and Saudi Arabia. Its geography and geology are characterized by its location on the coast of the Arabian Peninsula.

The country, located on the slope of a tectonic plate, is rich in minerals. The main oil reserves, according to rough estimates amounting to 12.3 million tons and gas reserves of 5.6 trillion m 3, lie in the depths of the emirates of Abu Dhabi and Dubai.

The gently sloping sedimentary Khojar mountain ranges, rising in the east, are rich in mineral springs. Aluminum is mined here.

The geographical space of the country is heterogeneous in relief. The main tourist centers are located on sandy and rocky soil near the coast. The sea off the coast is exceptionally clear, and the sand is golden. However, going deeper into the peninsula, the traveler will find only completely saline soils, replaced by sand dunes and rock plateaus, occupying more than 60% of the country’s area.

The northern and eastern regions of the country are fertile, but not due to nature, but because they are landscaped in accordance with the program drawn up by the Council of Emirs.

Thus, the climate of the UAE is basically desert; only a narrow coastal strip is characterized by favorable tropical weather.

History is ancient and colonial

Every cloud has a silver lining; it was during this period that Islam became the titular religion here, which appealed to the locals. The teachings of the Prophet strengthened them spiritually.

Since the 15th century, Portugal, on the territory of what is now the UAE, has pursued its rather unsuccessful colonial policy, robbing the people and forcing them to engage in piracy. In the 19th century, it was displaced from here by the Queen of the Seas - Britain, which has its own civilizational plan and created the rudiments of industrial infrastructure on the territory of the UAE.

History of the independence of the emirate states

However, all this time it was not the foreign colonizers, but the local sheikhs who remained the leaders of their people. It would seem that for three hundred years the emirate states were in bondage; for three centuries they remained the servants of the colonialists on their land. However, having heard the call of the Bani Yaz clan of the Maktoum dynasty, they followed the sheikh's family in 1833, captured Dubai, bringing independence from foreigners to it. How can one not recall here the Arabic proverb that a lion leading a flock of sheep will defeat a flock of lions led by a ram. By the way, the direct ancestor of the current head of state commanded that army.

The British then thoughtlessly did not attach any importance to this. In the 20s of the 20th century, they discovered oil deposits on the peninsula and began its mass production in the 50s. However, by that time the Arab countries had become a world power, and the precedent of the Maktoum dynasty still had force. In 1964, the League of Arab States opposed the British protectorate, demanding recognition of the independence of Arab countries, and the British were forced to retreat.

In 1971, six states united to form the UAE, with the seventh emirate of Ras al-Khaimah joining the following year. Emir new country became its founder, Sheikh of the Emirate of Abu Dhabi Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, an outstanding personality.

He was a man of clear mind and amazing foresight. He took on the burden of leadership and managed to unite and convince his then poor and demoralized people of the prospect of a decent life: “If there is at least one blooming branch left in your soul, a songbird will certainly sit on it.” The sheikh appealed to the pride of his people, to their faith, which was confirmed in the flag of the new state.

And he turned out to be right, fulfilling his promises in abundance. The children and grandchildren of these people, struggling for existence and ending their lives at just 40 years old, today live in a rich country, enjoying all the modern benefits. And this is without wars, without revolutions, without the extermination of “fifth columns”.

“A wise man will understand as soon as he winks, but a fool is not enough when he is pushed,” says an Arabic proverb about the properties of the mind. One of his 19 sons, Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, now rules the country as skillfully as his ancestors, and his subjects bless him.

Each of the emirates (Shurjah, Fujairah, Umm al-Quwain, Ras al-Khaimah, Dubai, Ajman, Abu Dhabi) is solely governed by its own emir.

The President of the UAE is the emir of the largest of the emirates, Abu Dhabi, the capital of which and, at the same time, of the entire federation is the city of Abu Dhabi. The position of president is passed down from father to son. In the short history of the country, there have actually been two presidents. When the first president-sheikh died, and the second just entered the ritual of taking power, the prime minister performed the duties for two days.

The President of the UAE is the head of the country's Supreme Council, Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces, and head of the Supreme Petroleum Council. Seven rulers-emirs make up the highest body of state power - the Supreme Council of the UAE.

These are amazing rulers from whom Westerners have a lot to learn. How do these seven people manage to rule the country without revolution? Why do their supercars sit in the parking lot with the key in the ignition, and none of their fellow citizens even think about bad things?

How could it be otherwise in a believing country, whose citizens their rulers give jobs, provide a decent life, provide an impressive social package, provide free (but organized far from our model) medicine and education, and even provide them with abundant fresh water.

How can sheikhs, under such circumstances, not be leaders of their people? After all, as the Arabs say, with the help of kindness and affection, even an elephant can be led by a thread.

Language, flag

The official language in the UAE is Arabic. It shows films, publishes newspapers, books, and publishes legal acts. This language is quite flexible. Having a primordial Arab core, it changes in accordance with the progress of society.

At the same time, local businesses widely use English for business correspondence and communication with counterparties. In the country, British is the language interethnic communication. Also among labor emigrants, their native languages ​​are in use.

The UAE flag, as a state symbol, was adopted on December 2, 2017, the day of the unification of the emirates into one state. Its four-color panel has a rectangular shape with an aspect ratio of 2 to 1.

There is a single vertical (the rest are horizontal) red stripe running along the shaft. To the right of it follow stripes of green, white, black. Each color carries a symbolic meaning. The red stripe, as it were, consolidates the UAE flag; it signifies pride, strength and freedom of civil society. The green top is Islam, the state religion. White - the morality and purity of the country's inhabitants and, finally, black - its natural resources, in particular oil.

Capital

The capital of the UAE - the million-strong city of Abu Dhabi - is the economic (56% of GDP), political, religious and cultural center of the state. It is built on an island connected to the continent by three highways. The business district of the metropolis is located in its northern part, adjacent to the ultra-modern Corniche embankment. The city is green, there are more than two dozen parks, the greenery of which is fed by desalinated sea water. Abu Dhabi is built up mainly with modern low-rise buildings and villas.

The largest petrochemical, pipe rolling, shipbuilding, and cement production is located in the suburbs of the capital.

Economy

Words in Islamic countries (unlike domestic politicians) are not simply thrown into the wind. Once upon a time, the Supreme Council of a country where there are no rivers, and instead of fertile lands there are salt marshes, sands and rocks, announced that it would gradually turn it into an oasis. And the sheikhs, never tired of surprising the world with ambitious infrastructure projects, are gradually fulfilling their promises. The council of wise emirs is truly effective and adequate to modern times. Figuratively speaking, the dynamic eastern monarchs understood time, because you can comprehend it only by being in motion.

There are no fewer representative offices of international corporations in the UAE than in New York, London or Tokyo. According to the ranking of countries, the economy of the UAE, a tiny country, ranks 31st in the world in terms of GDP produced, which in 2016 amounted to $375 billion, the value of goods and services produced in this state per year.

The amount per capita per year is 67.7 thousand dollars, this is the ninth figure in the world. According to IMF specialists, the country will maintain its growth dynamics until 2020.

The national currency of the UAE is called the Arabic Dirham (AED). 100 fils equals one dirham. Until 1978, the dirham exchange rate was pegged to the American dollar and was 0.27 of it. It is noteworthy that this rate has been maintained since the date of introduction of the Emirati currency, i.e., since 1973. And is this surprising? After all, Arab wisdom from time immemorial says that good money should be like birds: fly away and come back, and therefore the country’s currency exchange rate should be stable.

Industry

In the UAE, industry has a strong oil and gas focus. However, state programs for its diversification do have an effect: 67% of the country’s GDP are other goods and services, and not black gold or its products.

The UAE has developed aluminum production, light industry, production of metal structures and building materials, energy industry, water desalination, dairy, meat, fish industry enterprises.

The traditional (pre-oil) industries of this country are the cultivation of date palms, pearl fishing, horse and camel breeding, and fishing.

Since 2004, the Emirates has been a country of free trade with the United States; the domestic market is overflowing with high-quality, branded goods. Sheikh law prohibits traders from buying counterfeits. How can one not recall the words of the oldest Persian poet and scientist Abu Rudaki: “The sage is drawn to goodness and peace, the fool is drawn to war and strife.”

Tourism

The high tourist season here lasts from May to September. The air at this time warms up to 50 0 C in the shade. However, through the efforts of cunning sheikhs, an amazing infrastructure for tourism has been created here. The sages consistently fulfill the task they set themselves - to transform the climate, to make an oasis out of the desert.

Please note that it is preferable for people sensitive to heat to visit the Land of Sheikhs from October to April. At this time, the average monthly temperature is 21 0 C. The UAE is dynamically developing tourism as a branch of its economy. Arriving guests seem to be immersed in a fairy tale in the land of the emirs. The largest cities and at the same time beach centers are Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Ajman and Sharjah. The best public beaches in the UAE, according to tourists, are Jumeirah Beach Park, Mamzer Beach, Burj Beach, Ghantoot Beach.

Guests of the country are amazed at how organically the traditions of Islam here flow into the form of high-tech, and how high-tech is filled with its content. This small country has the largest mosques in the world and the largest skyscrapers.

The majestic, domed marble Sheikh Zayed Mosque, erected in honor of the first president of the UAE, amazes with its marble purity and whiteness. In ancient times it would certainly have been called a wonder of the world. The largest temple in the Middle East, the King Faisal Mosque, also surprises with its architecture.

Younger tourists are attracted by other wonders of the world: skyscrapers exclusively built by the world's best architects, as well as the most picturesque islands artificially created according to intricate designs. The East, even after millennia, remains faithful to its tradition: building new wonders of the world. Here you can see the largest artificial stalagmite in the world - the Burj Khalifa skyscraper, rising 800 meters into the air. Also unique is the Arab analogy of the Leaning Tower of Pisa - the “falling” skyscraper Capital Gate. It is famous in the world as the most expensive and most luxurious hotel “Sail” (Burj Al Arab Jumeirah), built according to the design of the brilliant British Thomas Wright.

The legendary Gardens of Babylon would obviously pale in comparison to the greenery planted on artificial Palm Islands and generously watered with desalinated water.

Even the most charismatic fashionistas in the world do not consider it shameful to look at the most unique gold market, located in Dubai. By the way, here you can even exchange currency for gold in the hotel machine.

The wonders of the world are truly collected here. Those who wish can go skiing in an indoor complex designed to accommodate 1,500 people, and the megamall in Sharjah is rightfully considered one of the largest in the world. Don't believe me? Here, even an aquarium with five-meter sharks, stingrays and other marine life is not striking.

Labor migrants

It would seem: these sheikhs are the richest people. How do they manage to live in such a way that their subjects love them? Most likely, this royal oriental nobility and wisdom are really in their blood: do not neglect little people, because they help to rise.

The demographic policy of the UAE is of interest. The population of the country with an area of ​​83.6 thousand km 2 is 8.5 million people. If in 1975 a little more than half a million people lived here, then a 16-fold increase in social development is evident. The moral foundations of the country of emirs prevent Arab citizens from performing menial work.

Almost 89% of the population are foreigners who came for work; they happily take on poorly paid jobs here. They have a status that does not allow them to become citizens of this country, but they can pursue a career in the non-state sector. The UAE is considered one of the most liberal Arab powers. The country's population, as proof of this thesis, is actively increasing.

Thus, less than every ninth sheikh you meet in the Country is its citizen. People from South Asia (Pakistan, India, Bangladesh) make up more than half of the UAE residents. The population of the state is also represented by:

• other people from Asia (Arab countries, Thailand, China, Philippines);
• Europeans, Americans, Australians;
• Africans.

Not all Arabs in this country are its citizens. After all, many of them are labor migrants in the UAE. The Arab population of the Country of Emirs, in addition to the indigenous inhabitants, is represented by immigrants from Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Iran, and Bedouins.

Note: labor emigrants are grateful to the sheikhs for the humane conditions at work and for the decent amount of payment.

Indigenous people

There are about 950 thousand indigenous people, that is, citizens, in the country; they work in the public sector, and many of them have their own businesses. Thus, the sheikhs implemented a fundamental formula: the citizens of the country manage its wealth as civil servants. Moreover, they receive a very decent salary.

An Arab citizen of the Country of Sheikhs is guaranteed to receive at least 4 thousand dollars in his first job. If he graduates from a university, he will already be paid 10 thousand greenbacks a month. This amount is not the limit yet. What our civil servants call categories and ranks, which, interspersed with diplomas, are awarded for diligent work, in the UAE results in a significant increase in the salaries of civil servants.

The most successful powers in the performance of power functions receive (for comparison) salaries of the same order as the heads of large structural divisions Gazprom.

The economic and political power of the sheikhs is based on the welfare of their subjects, generated by a fair distribution of the country's GDP. The richest reserves of oil are in its depths, and wise rulers know how to wisely share the proceeds from its sale with their fellow citizens and stimulate progress with them.

Society

For us, this would be a paradox: the activities of political parties and trade unions are prohibited in the state. However, this aspect also contains the wisdom that says, “Don’t open a door you cannot close.” After all, parties (and in the West, trade unions) often initiate destructive consequences in society. Slogans like “What to do?” and “Who is to blame?” Sometimes a killer is released from a bottle of bloody genie. The sheikhs initially ruled out this possibility. However, they did this, initially ensuring the sustainable progress of the power. This scheme is ideal if the monarch manages to create a socially responsible society. And it works in the UAE.

In the Emirates social policy is paid directly by the sheikhs, and not with the help of “gray funds” from which dishonest intermediaries extract money. This reveals the strategic wisdom of their rulers. Petrodollars are directly poured into healthcare and education, which are free for the indigenous citizens of this country.

The local army is also financed from a separate fund, without compromising the well-being of the people.

Religion

The legal system and way of social life in the UAE are determined by the religion of Islam. For residents of the Country of Emirs, the suras of the Koran leave a significant imprint on the state structure, social and cultural life. The five commandments of Islam are sacredly observed by Muslims.

Wherever an Arab is, five times a day at a set time, loudspeakers on the minarets call him to prayer. Business Muslims even install prayer applications on their smartphones. There are prayer rooms here and in supermarkets.

The laws of this Islamic state are drawn up based on the principles set forth in the Koran, and the Sharia court in the Land of Sheikhs also follows the non-Western classics - Roman law.

Citizens of this country celebrate UAE holidays of two types: secular and related religious tradition. There are very few of the first:

• January 1 - New Year.
• August 6 is Zayed Al Nahyan's Throne Day.
• December 12 is the day of the formation of the state.

Some religious holidays are associated with certain events in the life of the Prophet Mohamed:

• migration from Mecca;
• birth;
• ascension.

Others are defined by other Muslim traditions:

• associated with the holy month of Ramadan, with its fasting and pacification of passions;
• spring (Navruz);
• sacrifices (Eid al-Adha);
• sorrow (Ashura).

The most significant holidays for Muslims in the UAE are the day of breaking the fast after Ramadan (Eid al-Fitr), the day of sacrifice (Eid al-Adha) and, of course, the holy month of Ramadan itself.

Conclusion

The wisdom of the rulers of the UAE, which led their people to prosperity, is worthy of respect. Emirs do not seek to strengthen the country in order to conquer foreign lands and expand power. They do not dream of a “nuclear club.” Rulers simply seek prosperity for their people by rationally using natural resources. They are connected with the Western world mainly by economics.

The UAE's GDP is distributed truly wisely. The indigenous population is stimulated by him in all areas of their lives, and migrant workers are grateful to the sheikhs for their rewarding work and its conditions. There are no state-level thieves in the Country of Sheikhs. The seven wise emirs will not allow a cunning rogue oligarch to appear thanks to their money.

This is an extremely interesting experience of Muslim rule, giving the population promising job and free social benefits.