Middle East and the UAE Destination Guide

Centuries ago, the United Arab Emirates was a prosperous nation trading in frankincense and myrrh with no idea how different its future would be. Dubai was a quiet, sleepy town situated along the banks of the Dubai Creek, where coral huts housed Bedouin traders and pearl divers. Today the people and the merchants have moved Dubai into the twenty first  century  with science-fiction style skyscrapers looming  from the sands which stand alongside the mosques and the ancient wind towers of old Dubai just waiting to be explored.

The place

The United Arab Emirates is made up of seven sovereign sheikhdoms – Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Fujairah, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm al-Qaiwain and Ras al Khimah. Whilst Dubai is most definitely the most developed in terms of tourism and continues to grow, as is shown by its current construction programme, there are advantages to considering a holiday in one of the less well known Emirates. The hot, dry climate is still guaranteed for sun worshippers, but accommodation is generally more competitively priced and although there is development, the pace is much slower and less intrusive.

Distances between the various Emirates are relatively short. Although you can fly directly in to Abu Dhabi from the UK, it is still only around 50 minutes from Dubai. As a place, it is the richest Emirate and the capital of the UAE - a superbly modern city which, after Dubai, is probably the most developed in tourism terms. Fujairah is just 90 minutes from Dubai, Ajman is 30 minutes away and Hatta Fort in the Dubai desert is 45 minutes from the city. Many hotels offer shuttle services into Dubai for shopping.

Wherever, you choose to stay, remember that the UAE is essentially about the desert and any visit must include a trip out of the city, whether you opt to overnight there or just go wadi bashing in the dunes.

The culture

The UAE is a melting pot of cultures with just 27% of the population classed as local. The Emiratis themselves have a number of different backgrounds  - Persian, Indian or Baluchi. Abu Dhabi is the most “Arab” and Dubai has a huge ex-patriate community. Dubai has emerged as one of the great cities of the modern world – fashionable, cosmopolitan and tolerant. Dubai is a Sunni Moslem country, which is one of the most outward-looking of the Middle East. It has a real “east meets west” culture and of course, it’s a trading nation, which is plain to see from the flourishing markets.

The nightlife

Nightlife in the UAE is usually confined to hotels, where alcohol is freely available. In Dubai, especially, and also Abu Dhabi, there are a wide range of bars to choose from. It is also an excellent opportunity to sample all types of Middle Eastern cuisine, including Iranian, Moroccan and Lebanese. During Ramadan, it is forbidden to eat, drink or smoke in public places (which includes city hotels) between sunrise and sunset and no live entertainment is permitted. Hotels do usually provide a private area where non-Muslims can eat during the day. The Dubai beach hotels are slightly more relaxed than in the other Emirates, but you should still exercise discretion.

The shopping  

Undoubtedly, Dubai is considered to be the number one place to shop in the Middle East and no visit is complete until you have visited its famous Souks – Arab open-air markets. Visitors usually head for the Spice Souk and of course, the Gold Souk. Savings can be good, but as all gold is sold on weight, the price does tend to be fixed. On top of that, Dubai is renowned for quality luxury goods such as electronics, cameras, watches and suitcases. Don’t be fooled into assuming that everything you buy here is a bargain. Myth and clever marketing ploys have had a role to play in this belief. However, there are bargains to be had and haggling must be the order of the day.  Abu Dhabi has its own shopping centres and you may find it slightly cheaper than Dubai.  If you are staying in Ajman or Fujairah, a day trip to Dubai for some retail therapy will probably be on your agenda.

The facts

Geography – The UAE is made up of seven states. Abu Dhabi is the largest followed by Dubai. Every Emirate has a coastline and those in our brochure are set on the Arabian Gulf. The coastal area tends to be flat, but inland, are miles of desert and the Hajar Mountains ascend to a peak of 6560 feet.
Language – Arabic, but English is widely spoken and the ex-patriate community now makes up some 80% of the population.
Passports – You will need a full British passport valid for a minimum of six months beyond your date of return.
Visas – Visas are not required for full British passport holders for stays of less than 60 days. Non-British passport holders should check with relevant embassy for documentation requirements.
Vaccinations – Vaccinations are strongly recommended. For further information, please consult your doctor.
Travelling time – Abu Dhabi and Dubai are approximately seven hours by non-stop flight from the UK
Local time – GMT + 4 hours
Currency – UAE Dirham

More than a century ago, Dubai was a quiet sleepy town situated along the banks of the Dubai Creek, where coral huts housed Bedouin traders and pearl divers. Today the people and the merchants have moved Dubai into the twenty first century with science-fiction style skyscrapers looming from the sands which stand alongside the mosques and the ancient wind towers of old Dubai just waiting to be explored.

The sights

Dubai City – Divided into two by the Creek, a natural seawater inlet that is also the focal point of life. The fast developing city of Dubai consists of Deira on the northern side and Bur Dubai on the south. A mixture of modern day high-rise architecture and traditional Arabian heritage blend together to make an intriguing and vibrant city.

Dubai Souks –  are located on both sides of the Creek. Discover narrow alleyways selling handicrafts, carpets and every spice imaginable. The slightly larger lanes are where you will find the gold souks, which are shops overflowing with gold, said to offer the lowest prices in the world.

Dune Rides – Experience the thrill and challenge of a rollercoaster ride by four wheel drive jeep over the shifting sand dunes. Not for those in search of a leisurely drive.

Desert Safaris – Absorb the tranquillity of the desert, either on a half-day, full-day or overnight safari including a range of terrain from desert to mountain. En route discover remote camel and goat farms with isolated villages as you travel far into the desert.

Sand Skiing – Those in search of speed will enjoy the new and unusual sport of sand-skiing down the high desert dunes.

Golf – World renowned for its golf and home of the prestigious Dubai Desert Classic. Dubai offers many world class courses for experienced or non-golfers alike including a floodlit course in the hot summer months.

Horse Racing – Floodlit racing of the finest bloodstock at the Nadd Al Sheba Course in Dubai. Recommended for dinner and racing throughout the cool season.

Camel Racing – Unusual, exciting and available during the low season. With a village fair feel and a contagious atmosphere, this will be a memorable highlight of a visit to the UAE.

Wild Wadi – Located beside the Jumeirah Beach Hotel, ‘Wild Wadi’ is amongst the most advanced water parks in the world, offering 24 attractions, of which 16 are interconnecting. The ‘Jumeirah Sceirah’ is the fastest freefall slide outside of the United States. The first of its kind in the Middle East, this stunning theme park offers the young, and the young at heart, a welcome alternative to the shopping, beaching and sightseeing of Dubai.

Hatta Fort – Situated in the mountains of Dubai and just 45 minutes from the city, this is a great place to sample the real Middle East and the beauty of the mountains. A couple of nights makes an ideal break from the hectic world of the city.

The development

A variety of construction and resort development projects are underway and no matter where you go, you will see and hear evidence of the development work - some of which is underway 24 hours a day. A new marina complex is being constructed behind the hotels on Jumeirah Beach and land is being reclaimed out to sea for three Palm Projects and “The World”. The islands will have hotels, residential accommodation, shopping and entertainment complexes with completion due in 2007, 2008 and 2009 respectively.

The options

Dubai has developed in recent years to become a destination in its own right and you can have a fabulous and varied holiday here. It is certainly worth considering a two centre with one of the other Emirates or just choosing a quieter option and making the relatively short trip into Dubai when you want to shop or sample the hustle and bustle of the city. The location of the UAE lends itself to being an ideal stopover point en route to any number of more distant destinations. Sri Lanka, the Maldives, Mauritius and all the major South East Asian cities can all be reached by direct flight from Dubai. Definitely worth thinking about as a stopover on your return to do some last minute duty free shopping

In a nutshell ……

Dubai is the Middle East meets Hong Kong with a little Las Vegas thrown in for extra pzazz. Dubai is a cosmopolitan melting pot and the quintessential home of sand, sea, sun and shopping. A great destination whether it’s for a short break, a stopover or a longer beach holiday with almost guaranteed year-round sunshine. The summer months are low season because temperatures and humidity soar and swimming pools have to be cooled! 

Situated on the Eastern side of the Arabian peninsular, Fujairah is one of the most picturesque of the UAE and just 90 minutes drive from Dubai. As the least developed Emirate, tourism is relatively new. Steep mountains, mysterious valleys and a dramatic coast line with sheltered sandy beaches offer the visitor a visual show-piece. Le Meridien Al Aqah is a world-class hotel set on miles of untouched coastline, backed by dramatic mountains. A shuttle bus to downtown Dubai offers you the chance to explore the city from a distance! Its ancient architecture and monuments give you an insight into the fascinating Arabian culture. Fujairah also has a colourful and abundant marine life, making it an ideal location for deep sea fishing, diving and snorkelling. Whatever draws you to this magical destination it is sure not disappoint, as Fujairah touches the heart of all who visit.

The sights

Friday Market – takes place in Masafi every day (not just Fridays) between 8am and 10pm. Selling rugs, fruit, vegetables and souvenirs, it’s definitely worth a look.

Dubai – located just a 90 minute drive from Dubai with all its glitz, Fujairah is ideally located to allow you to dip your toe in the water of its sophisticated neighbour before returning to the relative peace and tranquillity of a quieter spot.

Hatta and the desert – a visit to the UAE would not be complete without experiencing the desert landscapes. The town of Hatta has an interesting Heritage Village and museum offering an insight into local dwellers.

Picture a country almost surrounded by sea, rich in Bedouin culture and religious history with strong tribal inclinations and you are in Qatar. The towering sand dunes in the southeast and the ancient rock carvings of the west in a land of, otherwise, flat desert provide a mix which is alluring and intriguing. Add to this the certainty of a warm welcome from the friendly and hospitable people and you have a destination which is guaranteed to please.

Doha

Doha is still relatively new to tourism, so entertainment outside the hotels is limited, although a meal at a restaurant overlooking Doha Bay is recommended for the views. A sunset stroll along Al Corniche or an evening dhow cruise is also rated highly. Shopping is big and Doha boasts one of the largest shopping malls in the Gulf whilst the old souks remain popular for bargain hunters, where haggling is compulsory! Don’t expect long sweeping stretches of sand a la Dubai – the beaches, whilst adequate, tend to be smaller coves. An excellent stopover en route to Dubai, Bangkok, Colombo in Sri Lanka and the Maldives.

The development

Like its neighbour Dubai, Qatar is looking to the future and is developing the Pearl Island project – a man-made island out to see in front of the Ritz Carlton. When complete it will offer a range of hotels, restaurants and leisure complexes. Naturally there is some visual impact from this and in their aim to complete as quickly as possible, construction work may continue 24 hours a day.

The facts

Geography – Doha is the capital of Qatar, a country with a population of just over half a million and covering an area of approximately 4400 square miles. This oil and mainly natural gas–rich peninsula juts out into the Gulf between Bahrain and the Emirates. Most of the country’s terrain is flat and rocky, covered with sand flats and dunes.
Language – The official language is Arabic, but English is widely spoken and understood.
Passports – you will need a full British passport valid for a minimum of six months beyond your date of return.
Visas – British passport holders require a visa, but a tourist visa can be obtained on arrival at Doha airport at a cost of approximately £17. Non-British passport holders should check with the relevant embassy for documentation requirements. On arrival in Qatar, British passport holders are issued a tourist visa for one month.
Vaccinations – Vaccinations are strongly recommended. For further information, please consult your doctor.
Travelling time – 7 hours
Local time – GMT +3 hours

A visit to Oman is truly an Arabian experience. The mountains surrounding Muscat form a dramatic backdrop to the ancient capital – a landscape which, it is believed, has taken more than 800 million years to create. With its a amazing scenery, secluded sandy beaches untouched by tourism, dramatic contrasts in architecture and peeks into ancient cultures, this land offers a unique and exotic holiday.

The place

Oman houses one of the oldest civilisations on the Arabian Peninsula. Muscat is one of the hottest capital cities in the world and the Sultanate of Oman is one of only two Sultanates in the world – the other is Brunei. Oman clings determinedly to its past to ensure that it does not “sell out to the west” and consequently, the capital retains an over-riding Arab character with very few high-rise buildings and a charm all of its own.

The shopping

Muscat has two main shopping areas – Ruwi, which caters mainly for the Indian ex-patriate community and is a good place to go for tailoring and Qurm has a number of shopping areas which combine traditional souqs with designer stores. As an added bonus, shopping is tax-free!

The nightlife

With soaring temperatures by day, it is perhaps not surprising that Muscat is livelier at night! Much of the entertainment centres around the hotels (as it does in most Middle Eastern countries) and Oman is definitely not the place for those seeking a wild time! However, Muscat does have some great restaurants. Lebanese food is as near as you will get to local food without an invitation to someone’s home. Omani food has absorbed many Indian influences and there are some excellent Indian restaurants and snack bars, especially in the Ruwi district. During the holy month of Ramadan (which varies year to year depending on the lunar calendar, but will be around September/October 2007) Muslims fast during daylight hours. Whilst hotel coffee shops remain open and serve food to non-Muslims, although no alcohol is served. Visitors are expected to refrain from eating and drinking in public. Entertainment, even in hotels, may be limited.

The sights

Muscat – the capital is a sleepy town built around a natural harbour. High above the harbour stand old Portuguese forts – a symbol of that country’s links to the Arabic world. One of Muscat’s most striking symbols is the Al Alam Palace – the home of the Sultan.

Muttrah – nestles in the neighbouring bay to old Muscat and is marked by its majestic corniche. Little touched by tourism as it caters mainly for local trade and fishermen, it does have one of the most authentic souqs in Arabia.

Batinah Coast – Hidden from view by the Hajar mountains, the coastal plain to the north of Muscat houses an area, never more than a kilometre wide, cultivated by ancient date plantations stretching as far as the eye can see and fringed by a grey sand beach lapped by the sea. A highlight of a visit to this area is to see the impressive forts at Nakhl and Rustaq.

Nizwa – is the capital of the interior and the birthplace of Islam in the Sultanate. Unchanged for generations, the town is still surrounded by square mud walls and houses and is approached via wooden doors and stairways. A visit to Nizwa’s fort and round tower is obligatory as is a troll through the souq.

Birkat al Mauz – an old town, which clings to the side of the Saiq plateau surrounded by lush date plantations and lies at the foothills of the Jebel Akdar (Green Mountains). The Jebel Akdar has its own Grand Canyon with drops of over 1000 metres in places!

Salalah – known as the “garden city of the south” because of its lush vegetation, Salalah lies in a region, which is the only part of the Gulf which is touched by the southwest monsoon – usually in September. A tropical paradise in the desert and home to the Sultan’s summer residence – Al Husn Palace.

The options

For a taste of the Middle East, why not twin Oman with a stay in Doha or Dubai? From either of the latter destinations, you can also fly on to the Far East or the Indian Ocean.

In a nutshell...

Oman is a country which clings determinedly to its past to ensure that it does not “sell out to the west”. It is relatively untouched by tourism and whilst the people are the friendliest in the Gulf and happy to welcome the visitors, they retain pride in their culture and ways, which will hopefully help it to retain an exotic and unique aura even in the 21st century. It is important to make sure that you respect the people by dressing modestly, which means long trousers, skirts to the knee and covering the upper arms! Shorts are definitely a “no-no” in public and beachwear is prohibited anywhere except the beach. You may even see signs on shop doors requesting you to dress appropriately. The best time to travel is November to February when temperatures are usually in the 80s.

The facts

Geography – The Sultanate of the Oman occupies the south-eastern tip of the Arabian Peninsula and boasts over a thousand miles of coastline stretching from the Straits of Hormuz to the borders with the Yemen. It is the second largest country in the Gulf (after Saudi Arabia) covering an area of approximately 120,000 square miles with a population of around 2.5 million.
Language – Arabic, although English is fairly widely spoken.
Passports – you will need a full British passport valid for a minimum of six months beyond your date of return.
Visas – British passport holders require a visa, but a tourist visa can by purchased on arrival for a maximum of 21 day stays at a cost of approximately £13. As visa processing can take up to 2 hours, we include access to a private lounge where refreshments are served and lounge executives complete the visa formalities whilst you wait in comfort. (Not provided for accommodation only bookings). Non-British passport holders should check with the relevant embassy for documentation requirements.
Vaccinations – Vaccinations are strongly recommended. For further information, please consult your doctor.
Travelling time – approximately 8 hours.
Local time – GMT +4 hours
Currency – Omani Rial. It is best to take US dollar traveller’s cheques for ease of exchange.