How to get the most from your holiday in the United Arab Emirates...
How do I get around?
As there’s no rail existence in the UAE at the moment, getting around on the road is the only option, but a great option nevertheless. The extensive modern road systems make driving by far the best way to see the UAE. You must have a full international driving licence to rent a vehicle and in any case you need to drive carefully. The rules are very similar to those in the UK; (though) driving is on the right, talking on the phone is not permitted and it is illegal to overtake on the left or go through a red light.
Traffic regulations are strict so be aware of the laws before you rent a vehicle and, at the same time when driving in the UAE.
Bus services are frequent, reliable and comfortable. All buses are fully air-conditioned and there are separate seating areas for men and women, it’s a good idea to keep some change aside for convenience when paying to get on the bus. If you prefer a more private mode of transportation, the cities of Dubai and Abu Dhabi are with reasonably cheap taxis as they charge you for the distance travelled instead of a flat fee.
Motorcycles are rarely used in the UAE as they are very dangerous. It is advised you don’t hire a motorcycle in the Emirates to avoid stress or possible injury.
Money:
Life in the UAE is expensive, so tally up your expenses before you travel to avoid any unwanted surprises.
The dirham is the official currency of the United Arab Emirates. The dirham can be subdivided into 100 fils. Exchange your money at all internationally renowned banks that can be found in major cities of the UAE. You can also exchange your currency at countless money exchange houses but you can expect the rates may be higher.
Banks are open between 8am and 1pm, while money exchange houses operate between 8am-1pm and 4:30pm-8:30 pm.
Dress code:
The Islamic dress code isn’t compulsory but visitors should dress with a sense of modesty and common sense. Western style dress code is accepted in appropriate places such as bars and nightclubs but revealing or tight fitting clothes should be avoided during the day as local beliefs deem it unacceptable.
Eating in the UAE:
Due to harsh desert conditions, the traditional foods of the United Arab Emirates use a lot of meat, cereals and dairy, as vegetables are hard to grow they are not really included in the Emirati diet. Meat, fish, and rice are the primary foods used in Emirati cuisine and Seafood has always been a strong part of the diet.
Remember Muslims are prohibited to eat pork so you’re unlikely to come across it on most restaurant menus but hotels will typically have pork substitutes such as beef sausages. Local supermarkets are permitted to sell pork but it expensive, its own fridge and will have to be sold separately from other goods.
International theme restaurants such as TGI Friday's, Planet Hollywood and the Hard Rock Café are all well represented in the Emirates so you won’t get bored of Arabian food.
Check your bill before you pay, most restaurants don’t include a service charge so a mandatory 10-15% is suitable.
Safety tips for woman:
The UAE is safe for female travellers, yet women travelling alone may find themselves the focus of unwelcome male attention, be discreet and you should avoid men glaring at you.
Remember woman in the UAE do not have a very liberal lifestyle in comparison to those in the Western world. Avoid swimming on public beaches and don’t wear any tight or revealing clothes.
Many men would rather not shake the hand of a woman so don’t put your hand out first, wait until they greet you.
If you have any serious worries, don’t worry as the police take sexual harassment very seriously.
Immerse yourself in the local culture…
Ramadan is an important period of religious meaning for Muslims as it is regarded as the holiest month in the Islamic calendar. Muslims are required to abstain from food, drink and tobacco between sunrise and sunset. Out of respect and law, you will also be expected not to eat, drink or smoke in public or in the presence of a Muslim during the hours of Ramadan.
Generally people think travelling to the UAE during the month of Ramadan isn’t a good idea, but actually it’s a great time to experience local culture and food. After every sunset locals feast delicious foods and enjoy traditional music in open air festivity.
On the other hand, many may find travelling during the holy month slightly frustrating, the dress code is a lot more conservative and if you have young children or suffer from diabetes you may find it difficult to fast in public.
Ramadan 2010 starts on the 11th August and lasts till 9th September, dates do change each year so make sure you double check before you book if want to avoid the religious holiday.
Language…
The official language is Arabic but English is widely spoken and many locals will understand basic English so there’s no need to learn the lingo.
Forget your umbrella…
The tropical climate of the United Arab Emirates provides extremely high temperatures of 50°C. With only a few days of rain a year, the climate is very dry so make sure you drink plenty of fluids to stay hydrated. Make sure you put on plenty of sun cream and don’t expose your skin for long periods of time to avoid getting burnt.
Other useful tips:
- Homosexuality is illegal in the UAE and relationships outside the typical heterosexual relations are deemed criminal. Public displays of affection from the same sex can result in imprisonment, fines, deportation for travellers and even the death penalty. It is an offence to swear or make rude gestures and no matter what your sexual preference, it’s very offensive to show a public display of affection. It is advised you don’t act on any of the following offences mentioned above to avoid any legal worries.
- Medicines such as simple painkillers are not allowed in the UAE so don’t take any with you.
- Tap water is completely safe to drink but hotels and restaurants are likely to provide you with bottled water nevertheless.
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