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UAE United United Arab Emirates - a state located in South-West Asia in the north-east of the Arabian Peninsula. Most of the territory of the UAE is occupied by salt marshes and sandy deserts, there are oases with date palms, acacia and tamarisk, sandy and rocky deserts are located in the west, and the Hajar Mountains in the east and northeast (the highest point is the city of Adan, 1127 m). The highest point in the country is Mount Jabal Yibir (1527 m). To the east of Al Udayd Bay, located at the base of the Qatar Peninsula, shifting sand dunes stretch. The shores are mostly low, the coastline is indented with small bays, framed by islands and coral reefs.

Weather in UAE

The climate in the UAE is dry, transitional from tropical to subtropical. Summers are hot, except in mountainous areas; in winter the weather becomes cooler. There is 100 mm of precipitation per year, in the mountains 300–400 mm per year. Sometimes there are heavy downpours.

Average air temperature in Abu Dhabi

UAE airports: Abu Dhabi, Al Ain, Dubai, Sharjah, Ras Al Khaimah, Fujairah

UAE visa

The UAE is a visa country (the so-called simplified visa regime, when to open a visa you do not need either an application form or a tourist’s passport, a copy of its first page is enough, the official required validity period of the OPP is 3 months from the start of the trip). The visa is issued at the Dubai Immigration Service. The registration procedure takes only three working days (weekends in the UAE are Thursday and Friday).

The cost of a visa is $50 (issued within at least 6 working days in the UAE, excluding Thursday and Friday), urgent visa (less than 6 working days, not including Thursday and Friday) – $80. If a child is included in the parents’ passport, the cost of opening a visa is $30, if the child has a separate passport, the full cost of the visa is paid.

Original visas are no longer issued; new system visas on-line. Now, to cross the UAE border, a copy of the visa is enough - all other information is located in the border computer.

Customs restrictions

You are allowed to import up to 1,000 cigarettes, 200 cigars or 1 kg of tobacco, but in most cases all these goods are cheaper in the UAE. Persons of non-Muslim religion can import 2 liters of strong drinks and 2 liters of wine for personal use. Videotapes may be required to be reviewed. Illegal importation of drugs and firearms is severely punished. There are no restrictions on the import and export of currency.

Attractions

Abu Dhabi- the capital city is located among lifeless sands and dry rivers on the shores of the Persian Gulf. It is the largest and richest of the emirates that make up the UAE: 87% of the territory of the confederation and 95% of oil reserves. The emirate consists of the city of Abu Dhabi itself and the oasis cities of Al Ain (140 km from Abu Dhabi) and Liwa (245 km). Abu Dhabi is called the Manhattan of the Middle East. A feature that distinguishes Abu Dhabi from any other modern city and which reflects its Muslim character is the large number of mosques in the city itself and its surroundings. From anywhere in the city you can see several intricately decorated minarets.

Ajman- the smallest of all the emirates, located 30 minutes from Dubai Airport. Like most cities in the northern emirates, Ajman is built on the shore of a bay that extends deep into the coast in the shape of the letter "U". Ajman was once widely known as a center for pearling and boat building. Best vacation in Ajman, those who are already tired of the city noise and want to communicate with nature in silence, enjoy the leisurely flow of life, reminiscent of this country many centuries ago, will find something for themselves. Well, for lovers of the exotic – the famous camel racing, organized in the deserts of this emirate.

Dubai- a center of tourism and trade. Most tourists who decide to spend their holidays in the UAE choose this emirate and this city. Dubai has been famous since ancient times as the “city of merchants”. Here, on the shores of a deep-sea lagoon that divides today's settlement into two parts - Deira and Bur Dubai, brave men met who maintained trade ties between Mesopotamia and the Indus Valley civilizations. Already 150 years ago, Dubai was considered the most important port of the Persian Gulf. It was here that the largest markets in the region, called “souk” in Arabic, were located. Dubai is known as a venue for international conferences, exhibitions and symposiums.

Ras Al Khaimah located in the northern part of the UAE, next to the Strait of Hormuz. The ancient city of Ras al Khaimah is considered one of the oldest. Several important islands are part of the emirate. The most famous of them are Bigger Tunub and Smaller Tunub. The nature of Ras Al Khaimah is characterized by lush vegetation and significant water resources. The emirate is also famous for its natural hot springs. It was the water that made it possible for the emirate to develop agriculture and become famous for the huge variety of fruits and vegetables grown. The city's convenient location has made it an important trading center since ancient times.

Fujairah- the youngest of the emirates, it was once part of Sharjah and became independent only in 1953. It's on the shore Indian Ocean, while all other emirates are located on the coast of the Persian Gulf. The main advantage of the emirate is its amazing nature: the beautiful Khojar Mountains, the clearest sea, magnificent beaches and a lot of greenery, which other emirates cannot boast of. If you prefer solitude to the noise of big cities, if you truly love nature, then your holiday in the UAE should undoubtedly take place in Fujairah, where the valleys among the mountains smoothly descend to the sea and reveal ancient buildings.

Um Al Quwain- the name of this city is translated from Arabic as a source of strength. For a long time it has become famous as a fishing center in the region. A characteristic feature of Um Al Quwain is its relative territorial isolation, which allows the emirate to preserve traditions and way of life for many years. The central part of the city is located deep in the embankment, which runs along the entire peninsula. Famous for Um Al Quwain by the Sea Research Center, the building of which is made of coral stones and is one of the earliest architectural achievements. The city also has a fort and watchtowers, as well as a 19th-century mosque.

Sharjah- a city no less interesting than Dubai and Abu Dhabi. It is located a 10-minute drive along a multi-lane, modern highway from Dubai. You can drive along this highway and miss the moment when you get to one city from another, but there is a natural border separating them - this is Al Khan Bay. In the old days, there was a strong current in the bay; at high tide, water flooded large areas, disrupting communication between the two cities. There were two villages between Sharjah and Dubai. Abu Hail, which is now part of the Deira region, and Al Khan - it has survived to this day and is located at the base of the bay.

AND Fujairah . The territory of the emirates has long been a haven for pirates, receiving the name because of this. Pirate Coast. IN early XIX V. British authorities in India began open military operations against the coastal Arab tribes, which ended with the signing of a number of treaties with local rulers and the establishment of a British protectorate (since 1853). Negotiated Oman ). In 1971, six principalities proclaimed the creation of an independent federal state of the UAE, which was joined by Ras al-Khaimah in 1972. The head of the federation is the president (one of the emirs), legislative power belongs to the Federal National Federation. council (advisory functions only).
The region is occupied by deserts, the coastline is indented by bays and framed by small islands and coral reefs. On the NE. low mountains (Yibir, 1934 m). Summer is very hot. There is little precipitation, it falls irregularly, mainly in the mountains, where unexpected storms sometimes cause significant destruction. To the west oases on the mountain slopes. Population more than 2.4 million people. (2001), mainly Arabs, as well as people from Pakistan, Iran, India and other countries. Immigrants make up approx. 3/4 of the inhabitants. State language – Arabic, religion – Islam (80% – Sunnis, 16% – Shiites). Population density 27 people. per 1 km², 85% city dwellers. Oil production (Abu Dhabi - 83%, Dubai - 15%), oil refining, production of steel, aluminum, fertilizers, cement, plastics, machines and clothing, construction and repair of ships. Large gas reserves (approx. 4% of the world). Dates, vegetables, and grain crops are grown; poultry, livestock, and fish are developed. Main trade. and industrial center - Dubai. Good road network. In 1988, the port of Jebel Ali was opened with the world's largest artificial harbor. Sea resorts. Cash unit – dirham.

Dictionary of modern geographical names. - Ekaterinburg: U-Factoria. Under the general editorship of academician. V. M. Kotlyakova. 2006 .

UNITED ARAB EMIRATES

A federation of 7 independent states lying along the eastern coast of the Arabian Peninsula. The federation includes Abu Dhabi (Abu Zabu), Ajman, Dubai, Ras al-Khaimah, Umm al-Qawain, Sharjah, and Fujairah. Previously, their territory was called “Pirate Coast”. In the north the state borders with Qatar, in the west and south - with Saudi Arabia. In the north it is washed by the Persian Gulf, in the east by the Gulf of Oman. The area of ​​the country is about 77,700 km2.
The population (1998 estimate) is about 2,303,000 people, with an average population density of about 30 people per km2. Ethnic groups: Arabs - 42%, Iranians, Pakistanis, Indians. Language: Arabic (official), others. Religion: Muslims (of which 16% are Shiites, the rest are Sunnis) - 80%, Christians, Hindus. The capital is Abu Dhabi. Largest cities: Abu Dhabi (605,000 people in 1990), Dubai (266,000 people in 1990). The government system is a federation of emirates. The head of state is the President, Ruler of Abu Dhabi, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Ad-Nahyan (in office since December 2, 1971, re-elected in 1991). The head of government is Prime Minister Sheikh Maktoum bin Rashed Al-Maktoum (in office since November 20, 1990). The monetary unit is the dirham. Average life expectancy (as of 1998): 73 years - men, 75 years - women. The birth rate (per 1000 people) is 18.6. The mortality rate (per 1000 people) is 3.1.
Since 1883, the states making up the federation have been called the "Treaty States" or Trucial Oman, since a treaty was signed between them and Great Britain to eradicate piracy in the region. Until December 2, 1971, the states were under the military protection of Great Britain. On December 2, 1971, the state gained full independence under the name of the United Arab Emirates. In February 1994, the country's president introduced Sharia law to deal with the following crimes: murder, theft, adultery, drug use and sale. The country is a member of the UN, World Bank, IMF, ILO, Arab League, OPEC.
The country's attractions include famous markets and one of the largest duty-free shops at Dubai International Airport.

Encyclopedia: cities and countries. 2008 .

United Arab Emirates

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is a state in the eastern part of the Arabian Peninsula. The area of ​​the UAE is 83.6 thousand sq. km; population 4.4 million people. There are twice as many men as women living in the Emirates, and city dwellers make up 76% of the country's population. The UAE is a federal state that emerged in 1971 from the unification of six Arab principalities: Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm al-Qwain and Fujairah. In 1972, the Principality of Ras al-Khaimah joined them. The largest emirate - Abu Dhabi - occupies 85% of the territory, a third of the UAE population lives here. The capital of the UAE is the city of Abu Dhabi. Dubai is considered the commercial and tourist capital of the emirates.
The Emirates occupy a crescent-shaped strip of deserts with oases located mainly along the coast of the shallow Persian Gulf, as well as the deep Gulf of Oman of the Indian Ocean. Low-lying plains predominate, in the east there are spurs of the Hajar Mountains (1127 m), in the west there are rocky deserts. In the south, in the desert, the UAE borders Saudi Arabia (cm. Saudi Arabia), in the west - with the Emirate of Qatar, in the east, the extreme protrusion of land near the Strait of Hormuz (Muscat) is occupied by the enclave of Oman.
All emirates are absolute monarchies, only in Abu Dhabi there are advisory bodies - the Cabinet and the National Advisory Council, which brings this emirate closer to a constitutional monarchy. Each emirate has its own government and administrative bodies. The rulers of the emirates constitute a legislative body - the Supreme Council, which elects the president and vice-president of the federation for a two-year term. The president appoints the prime minister and cabinet members. The Federal Council of Ministers, headed by the President, reports to the Supreme Council. The Federal National Council consists of 40 representatives from each emirate and is an advisory body. Since the formation of the UAE in 1971, the head of state - the president - has been Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, ruler of Abu Dhabi since 1966. His deputy on the Supreme Council of the Seven Emirati Sheikhs is the Ruler of Dubai.
The basis of the country's economy is the export-oriented oil and gas industry. The oil refining, petrochemical, metallurgical (aluminum smelting), and cement industries are developing. The traditional occupations of the population are fishing, pearling, handicrafts (making carpets, woolen fabrics, minting gold and silver items), oasis farming (date palms, gardens, grains, mainly in Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, Ras al-Khaimah and Umm al-Quwain) and nomadic livestock raising (in most of the territory). The emirate of Abu Dhabi plays a leading role in the development of the UAE economy. The trade and financial center of the UAE is Dubai. Seaports: Jebel Ali (Dubai), Rashid (Dubai), Zeid (Abu Dhabi), Mina Khaled (Sharjah). International airports: Abu Dhabi, Al Ain, Dubai, Sharjah, Ras al-Khaimah, Al Fujairah. The monetary unit is the federal dirham (since May 1973).
Natural conditions
The country's location in tropical latitudes determines its climate. Average monthly temperatures here range from +18 °C; sometimes dropping to +10 °C, in winter to +35 °C, sometimes rising to +48 °C in summer. The arid subtropical climate provides blue, clear skies all year round. In the east, in Fujairah, summers are somewhat less hot and more humid due to the proximity of the ocean and mountains. Precipitation is about 100 mm per year, in the mountains - 300-400 mm per year.
There are no permanent rivers. Temporary streams flow through the valleys; most of the year they are dry riverbeds - wadis. Significant areas are occupied by salt marshes and sandy deserts; the vegetation here is mostly sparse, consisting of dry grasses and shrubs. Acacia and tamarisk grow in the oases, date and coconut palms, grapes, lemon trees, grains, and tobacco are cultivated. The country is located in the tropical atmospheric maximum zone, so there is no need to worry about the climate’s impact on blood pressure, but it is advisable to have healthy kidneys.
In addition to the large oases of the coast - Abu Dhabi, Dubai-Rashid-Sharjah, Umm al-Qwain, Ras al-Khaimah, Al-Fujairah, as well as those stretching away from it - Qatar Al-Tarifa, Az-Zannah, there are also oases located in the interior of the continent, among which Buraimi is the most significant. The ocean coast in Fujairah is very beautiful. The most picturesque are the rocky surroundings of the Hatta fortress, a two-hour drive from Dubai, the Al Ain oasis and the Hili oasis near Buraimi. Migratory birds from Siberia and Central Asia find refuge in the UAE in winter, and the routes of those who fly further also pass through these places.
Story
In the 7th century, the southern coast of the Persian Gulf became part of the Arab Caliphate, which spread Islam among the local residents. During this period, the cities of Dubai, Sharjah, and Fujairah emerged. As the central power in the Caliphate weakened, local tribal leaders - sheikhs increasingly felt themselves to be independent rulers. In the 10th-11th centuries, Eastern Arabia was part of the Qarmatian state, and after its collapse it came under the influence of Oman.
Europeans flocked to the Persian Gulf in the late 15th century. The Portuguese were the first to gain a foothold here, conquering Hormuz, Bahrain and Julfar (the modern emirate of Ras al-Khaimah). Since the 18th century, the population of the coastal Arab principalities, engaged mainly in coastal trade, was drawn into the struggle with the English East India Company, whose ships monopolized cargo flows between the ports of the Persian Gulf and deprived the inhabitants of their main source of livelihood. This led to ongoing conflicts between the East India Company and the local Arab population, whom the British called pirates and the princely region the "Pirate Coast".
The East India Company constantly sent military expeditions to the Persian Gulf, and in 1820 forced the emirs and sheikhs of seven Arab principalities to sign the “General Treaty”, which marked the beginning of English rule in this territory and the final dismemberment of Oman into three parts - the Imamate of Oman, the Sultanate of Muscat and "Pirate Shore". Since 1853, these principalities were called Oman Trucial (in Russian translation - Oman Treaty, more precisely - Oman Peaceful).
British military bases were created on the territory of the principalities (in particular, in the territory of the Principality of Sharjah). Political power carried out by an English political agent. The establishment of the English protectorate did not lead to the destruction of the patriarchal system. Local residents continued to adhere to ancient traditions. They could not provide serious resistance to the colonialists due to their small numbers and constant civil strife between different clans. The dominant tribe in these territories was and is the Bani Yaz tribe, which originally inhabited the fertile oases of Liwa and Al Ain (the current emirate of Abu Dhabi). In 1833, one of the Bani Yaz tribes - the Maktoum clan - migrated from the oases and settled in Dubai, declaring the city's independence. This is how the Maktoum dynasty was founded, which rules the emirate of Dubai.
In the early 1920s, cities in Trucial Oman began a struggle for independence, reaching particular proportions in Sharjah and Ras al-Khaimah. At the same time, rich oil reserves were discovered in the Persian Gulf. In 1922, the British established control over the right of the sheikhs to grant concessions for oil exploration and production. However, in Treaty Oman there was no oil production and the main income for the principalities came from the trade in “fish eyes” - pearls. With the start of oil production in the 1950s, foreign investment began to flow into the region, and revenues from oil trade made it possible to significantly improve the standard of living of the local population. But the principalities remained under British protectorate, which was opposed in 1964 by the League of Arab States, which declared the right of the Arab peoples to complete independence.
In 1968, after the announcement of the British Labor government's decision to withdraw British troops from areas east of Suez, including the Persian Gulf, by the end of 1971, the principalities signed an agreement to form a federation of Arab principalities in the Persian Gulf. This federation was supposed to include Bahrain and Qatar, but later they formed independent states. On December 2, 1971, six of the seven emirates of Trucial Oman announced the creation of the federation of the United Arab Emirates. The seventh emirate, Ras al-Khaimah, joined in 1972.
The granting of independence coincided with the rapid rise in prices for oil and petroleum products, which made it easier for the new state to take independent steps in the field of economics and foreign policy. Thanks to petrodollars and successful investments in the development of industry, agriculture, the formation of numerous free economic zones, the UAE is in the most short terms were able to achieve economic prosperity. Ancient history emirates is reflected in numerous archaeological monuments in the UAE. So, ancient site caravans in Buraimi brought surprises - archaeological finds in the Hili oasis, dating back 5 thousand years.
In each of the capitals of the emirates there are palaces of rulers and old fortresses. The buildings have special “wind towers” ​​for ventilation. For example, in Dubai, the main economic center of the country, they are located in the ancient palace of Sheikh Saed, the grandfather of the current ruler. The old Al Fahidi Fortress, built in the last century, houses the Dubai Museum. It contains a rich display of the emirate's past. The former palace-fortress of the emir in Fujairah has not yet been reconstructed. There are many monuments of modern Arab architecture in the emirates (Jumeirah Mosque in Dubai). Ajman is one of the few, if not the only place where ancient Arabian sailing ships, the kind that Sinbad the Sailor sailed on, are still made.
Tourism
Beaches in the emirates are one of the most popular places among Russian tourists. The sun warms up the shallow waters of the Persian Gulf well. Almost all the best hotels are located near the sea and have their own beaches. You can also turn your attention towards land: go on a safari in the desert, drive a car along dunes or sand wadis, ride a sand surfboard from the ridge of a dune, watch camel racing, and finally, sit near a fire in an oasis, watching traditional Arab dances and listening to their songs. Every week in the largest cities traditional horse racing takes place - the “sport of kings”, the most popular here. You can join a golf club or go explore some mountain stronghold. In the area of ​​the ancient Hatta fortress, above the wadi, there is a modern mountain resort, the only one in the UAE. Returning to the sea, you can take a ride on a yacht, fish or go watch competitions traditional types sports that came here from Europe.
The largest cities of the UAE - Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah - are located on the sea and are resorts. The only “ocean” city that deserves attention is Fujairah. The only inland oasis city, Al Ain, is not so much a resort as a place that attracts tourists with its oriental exoticism. The extraordinary cleanliness of the cities is striking. It reigns in residential premises and trading floors; highways are cleared of blown sand; in the parks there is a hose connected to each tree.
Shopping centers (the largest in Dubai) and more expensive stores with courteous salespeople attract a lot of attention from tourists. Particularly popular are the bazaars where they sell carpets, best place- suk al-Jumaa (“Friday bazaar”) on the border of Sharjah and Al-Fujairah. The Gold Souk in Deira (in Dubai) is the world leader in the retail sale of gold products and stones: there are no restrictions on import and export.

Encyclopedia of tourism Cyril and Methodius. 2008 .

See what "United Arab Emirates" is in other dictionaries:

- الإمارات العربية المتحدة‎ al Emarat al Arabiya al Muttahida ... Wikipedia

United Arab Emirates.

The name of the state is determined by the name of the administrative-territorial units that form the federation.

Capital of the United Arab Emirates. Abu Dhabi.

United Arab Emirates area. According to various calculations, the territory of the state occupies 77,830 km2 and 83,600 km2 (this is due to the fact that some sections of the borders running along are not clearly marked).

Population of the United Arab Emirates. 2407 thousand people

Location of the United Arab Emirates. The UAE is a state in Western, southeast. In the north it is washed by the waters of the Persian Gulf, in the east it borders with the Sultanate, in the south - with, and in the west - with. Much of the country is a barren but oil-rich desert.

Administrative divisions of the United Arab Emirates. The federation of the United Arab Emirates includes 7 emirates: Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm al-Quwain, Ras al-Khaimah and Al-Fujairah, which used to be small settlements on the shores of the Persian Gulf.

Form of government of the United Arab Emirates. Federation of 7 subjects with a monarchical form of government.

Head of State of the UAE. President, elected for a term of 5 years.

Supreme body of government of the United Arab Emirates. Supreme Council of Emirs.

Supreme advisory body of the United Arab Emirates. Federal National Council.

Supreme executive body of the United Arab Emirates. Council of Ministers.

Major cities of the United Arab Emirates. Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain, Ras Al Khaimah and Fujairah.

Official language of the United Arab Emirates. Arab.

Religion of the United Arab Emirates. The majority of the population professes.

Ethnic composition of the United Arab Emirates. 90% are Arabs, 6% are Indians.

Currency of the United Arab Emirates. Dirham = 100 fils.

and lakes of the United Arab Emirates. There are no permanent rivers.

Sights of the United Arab Emirates. Art Nouveau architecture, exhibition, Cornici shipyard, famous oriental bazaars, duty-free shops. The ancient history of the emirates is reflected in numerous archaeological monuments. In each of the capitals of the emirates there are palaces of rulers and old fortresses. Tourists are attracted by the ocean coast, which is especially beautiful in Fujairah.

Useful information for tourists

Women's clothing should be loose; men should be greeted with a slight bow without shaking hands. Married women should not be taken by arm.

It is not customary to enter an Arab's house wearing shoes. If the owner walks ahead of you and comes in wearing shoes, then this ban is lifted.

Arabs remember grievances for a long time. Revenge has been elevated to the level of art. Revenge may follow in a few decades.

Food and drinks should be given and taken with the right hand. If there are no plugs, you should rinse with water. right hand and take food in small pieces.

You cannot pass in front of those praying. During Ramadan, never eat, drink, smoke, or chew gum on the streets or in public places before sunset. Ramadan is the month of Muslim fasting, and disrespect for traditions can result in fines and even imprisonment.

In a Muslim country, it is necessary to establish mutual understanding with your partner. The meeting begins with a handshake, but at the same time you must look your partner in the eyes. When greeting, you cannot hold a cigarette in your other hand or your hand in your pocket. The conversation begins with questions about the well-being and health of family members. The citizens of this country are in no hurry and do not like to take risks. Entrepreneurs speak excellent English, and business documentation is prepared in the same language.

In Southeast Asia, in the eastern part of the Arabian Peninsula, there is a rather young state, but developing at a crazy pace - United Arab Emirates.

UAE- this is the embodiment of all facets of oriental flavor with an ultra-modern level of services. The country literally strives to become the first in everything: here the best hotels in the world, like mushrooms in the rainy autumn, beautiful skyscrapers grow one above the other, the tight wallets of Arab sheikhs have long been the subject of envy. Diversity and scale shopping centers attract and drive shopaholics from all over the world crazy, and jewelry stores will outshine the most colorfully dressed christmas tree- there is heaps of gold here, for every taste and budget. At the same time, the UAE delights with excellent endless beaches with the purest sand, warm, crystal water of the Persian Gulf, paradise oases right in the middle of the desert, excellent sunny weather all year round. The choice of excursion routes is amazingly diverse, the range of entertainment negates even the slightest opportunity boring pastime, both day and night.

An anecdote involuntarily comes to mind: “When passing by the building of the GazNeft company, you realize that you are passing by a beautiful life. Or rather, beautiful life passes you by." IN UAE for the natives it’s exactly the opposite. The Father of the Nation, Sheikh Zayed, with feeling, sense, and thoughtfulness, took care of the happy and comfortable fate of every indigenous resident, thereby rewarding them for past suffering.

Story

The history of the Emirates dates back to a very distant past. But the real breakthrough happened only in the middle of the twentieth century. Being a British colony, the not yet united Arab Emirates were absolutely unremarkable - a typical backward state, with a poor and illiterate population. It was the British who discovered untold mineral wealth in the late 50s, which became the main locomotive that in an unprecedentedly short time brought the state into the TOP of successfully developing countries.

Geographical location.

The UAE is located on an area of ​​83,600 square kilometers, surrounded by wealthy neighbors to match itself - the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, the state of Qatar and the Sultanate of Oman.

The CLIMATE in the United Arab Emirates is dry subtropical. You have to try really hard to see rain here. The number of rainy days in a non-drought year can reach 10, but it also happens that there is no precipitation at all for the whole year. The air temperature in summer reaches +35…+43, in winter it does not fall below +13. The water in the bay warms up to +33 in summer, and cools down to +16 in winter.

State structure.

UAE- one of the richest states in the world, and the fact that it is just over 40 years old only adds respect and admiration! First financial success countries are associated with the beginning of production and export of “black gold” in the emirate of Abu Dhabi in 1962. And already in 1971, 6 Arab emirates (Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Ajman, Umm al-Quwain, Fujairah and Sharjah) decided that only together they could have a dizzying future and united into a confederation - the United Arab Emirates. A year later, another emirate of Ras al-Khaimah joined them. The capital is Abu Dhabi. Government is the responsibility of the Supreme Council, and each emirate is governed by a local sheikh. They speak mainly English in the Emirates, but the official language is Arabic.

Customs.

In a country with fairly strict rules, there are naturally restrictions on the import of certain goods. So, without any problems you can carry no more than 10 cartons of cigarettes or 400 cigars, or 2 kg of tobacco. By alcoholic products- no more than 2 liters of wine and 2 liters of stronger drinks. All these limits apply to every adult non-Muslim tourist. Cosmetics/perfumery can be carried within reasonable limits of personal needs.

You need to pack your travel first aid kit very carefully - codeine and codeine-containing drugs are strictly prohibited. Prescription medications can only be carried with a translated prescription. In the post-Soviet space, codeine is often used in antipyretic, antitussive and painkillers, so pay special attention to your first aid kit to avoid trouble at the UAE airport. Not everyone is checked, selectively, but in lately increasingly.

There are specific features of the entry policy into the country. Tourists from Israel are prohibited from entering the UAE. Also with high probability may be denied a visa to unmarried girls under 30 years of age traveling alone. Only with mom/dad or already with my husband.

Money.

Dirham (AED) - national currency United Arab Emirates, equals 100 fils. It has been stable against the dollar for many years (exchange rate 1 dollar = 3.67 dirhams). Even at the airport there is such a course, which is very rare in our harsh everyday life. In everyday use there are banknotes in denominations of 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200, 500, 1000 dirhams. There are also coins in denominations of 5, 10, 25 fils and 1 dirham. It is better to bring dollars with you; if you wish, you can pay with them, but change will be given in dirhams. Import/export of both foreign and national currency - without restrictions.

Cloth.

The UAE is a Muslim country, the moral rules of local residents are high and held in high esteem; tourists are strongly discouraged from violating them, even desperate tourists from the post-Soviet space. Therefore, you need to pack your suitcase for the Emirates wisely, do not overdo it with short T-shirts, skirts, shorts, tight-fitting clothes, and put off all clothes with a deep neckline until a more suitable occasion. Swimming trunks and swimsuits are only allowed on the beach or by the hotel pool; moving around the city in this form, even in a pareo, is prohibited. Sunglasses and hats will also come in handy.

Transport.

Public transport is poorly developed, most of the natives have their own iron horses, tourists often use taxi services. Buses are used primarily by visiting workers. In the cities of Dubai and Abu Dhabi there is a bus service between the main shopping centers. All buses are modern, always air-conditioned, and run strictly on schedule. Tickets are sold by the driver at the stops; on a Dubai bus the fare is 1.5 dirhams, entry only through the front door. Some emirate capitals also have bus services.

All self-respecting hotels provide their tourists with buses that will take them quickly and completely free to the city center, shopping centers and beaches.

The most common and popular transport is a taxi. The cheapest way is to flag down a passing taxi. It is a little more expensive (a few dirhams) to rent a taxi from the hotel. There may be no meter, then the price of the trip must be agreed upon in advance. Bargaining is appropriate. At airports there is an “Airport Taxi” service; the tariff is fixed, quite high, and bargaining is not accepted here.

Car rental.

This service is popular among tourists. The registration procedure is simple; the requirement for the driver is to be at least 21 years old and have a driver’s license. The price of the issue depends on the brand of the car and the size of the company providing it. In small companies it is $30-60 per day, in large companies it is $60-300. The minimum rental time is 24 hours. The cost of gasoline is paid additionally. Compliance with traffic rules here is recorded by radar, so if you are caught violating it, there is no point in arguing, the verdict cannot be appealed.

National characteristics.

Some prohibitions are incomprehensible and far-fetched, but this will not save you from liability for violation. So, you can't:

Photograph local women, men (only possible if they agree), government institutions, sheikh palaces and police stations;

Appear “in public” in the nude, nowhere, never and under any circumstances;

Drink strong drinks in public places (this does not apply to hotel bars - you can do so there). In the emirate of Sharjah you can’t even stay in a hotel. There is a strict dry law;

Littering on the street;

It is too urgent to show attention in public places to the fair half of humanity, even to your own spouse;

Lifelong boors and lovers of strong words will also have to learn to behave with dignity and express themselves without using profanity during their stay in the country;

The worst is for drug addicts. Consumption is punishable by prison, import and sale - death penalty.

During Ramadan (the Muslim holy month of fasting), it is advisable, as a sign of respect for the faith and solidarity with local residents, not to consume food or drinks in public places before sunset, and also to refrain from smoking.

Kitchen.

IN UAE The local population prefers mainly Arabic cuisine, which excludes pork and is generously seasoned with all kinds of spices. Veal, poultry, seafood, and eggs are held in high esteem. For tourists, there is a choice of almost all cuisines of the world; fortunately, there are a countless number of restaurants here.

Not every restaurant sells alcohol, so where they do offer booze, you will have to pay more for food.

Coffee connoisseurs will be able to treat themselves to invigorating drinks prepared according to a wide variety of recipes. There is a whole cult of coffee in the Emirates, so it is unlikely that you will find one that is frankly bad. The ayran drink is also popular among the natives, but its taste is not for everyone.

Power supply.

Network voltage is 220-240V. Sockets in UAE Mostly not European, so an adapter is required. Hotels often provide this free of charge. Sold in any store.

Features in hotels.

In 5* and some 4* hotels, upon check-in you must make a cash deposit for the duration of your stay, for the convenience of internal payments at the hotel. They accept both cash and credit card amounts. Upon eviction, unused funds deposited in cash are returned (in dirhams only), while the amount blocked on the card becomes available after a few days.

Tips.

In catering establishments it is usually included in the bill and amounts to 10-15%. If generous gratitude is not included in the bill forcibly, it is customary to leave the waiter 10% of the order amount. Porters at the airport will help you move your luggage for 5-10 dirhams. Tipping is not accepted in taxis.

Purchases.

Trade is the main activity in the Emirates. Here you can buy everything your heart desires. As in any Arab country, bargaining is common in the UAE. Moreover, this is a whole art and the ability to do it well is valued by sellers, and helps reduce the price by up to 50%.

Telephone connection.

International country code is +971. The communication system in the United Arab Emirates is modern and well-functioning. You can call anywhere in the world from a street pay phone using coins or plastic cards; the latter can be purchased in stores and gas stations. The call will cost less if you buy a Prepaid card. According to it, the cost of a call will be minimal even from a hotel. Mobile communications are also developed, but are somewhat more expensive.

Time.

The UAE switches to summer/winter time. Therefore, from the last Sunday in September to the last Sunday in March, time in the UAE is one hour ahead of Moscow. During the “summer period” the time coincides with Moscow.

Police.

If a policeman stops you on the street for a violation, there is no need to make excuses or argue. No use. The laws work and are the same for everyone.

In case of an accident, the issue is resolved immediately on the spot, the policeman’s verdict is final.

Privileges for local residents.

For any of his projects, a native Emirati has the opportunity to take out an unlimited, perpetual and interest-free loan. And if for some reason objective reasons the project was not successful, then in Ramadan the unfortunate businessman can approach the sheikh, describe in detail his situation and the scale of the tragedy, and he, if he believes and is inspired, can pay the debt from his own funds.

State schools and universities conduct educational programs for local residents absolutely free of charge. Moreover, for those who have especially distinguished themselves and who wish to continue their studies at prestigious foreign universities, full payment for these classes by the state is provided.

Foreign enterprise may begin its activities in the territory UAE only on condition that the founders include a resident of the Emirates. In this case, he does not have to work at all; he will simply receive a “salary” of at least $1,500.

It is impossible to obtain a residence permit or Emirati citizenship. Foreigners work as long as the work visa. They either don’t pay taxes at all, or pay a meager amount, so when they reach retirement age, they pack their bags and go to their native land for a well-deserved rest.