5 Ways to get to know the arab emirates

The United Arab Emirates is a country of limitless possibilities. You can start your day with a breathtaking view of the world’s tallest skyscraper and end it in the desert, where the horizon is only interrupted by a caravan of camels. Whether you prefer pristine beaches and vibrant markets or cutting-edge technology and the allure of history, the UAE offers a diverse range of experiences for those seeking an exciting vacation.

1. Snowboard in the middle of the desert

Location: Dubai

In Dubai, coping with the scorching heat is a way of life for UAE residents. In a country where even bus stops are equipped with air conditioning, they’ve gone the extra mile by creating an entire indoor ski complex for those seeking a refreshing escape. Ski Dubai, located in the heart of the city, offers visitors a genuine snow experience with real snowdrifts and 400-meter-long ski slopes. The temperature inside is maintained at a chilly two degrees below zero, and complimentary warm clothing and equipment are provided upon entry.

After your frosty skiing adventures, you can unwind at the Chillout Ice Lounge cafe. For 80 dirhams, you’ll be provided with a cozy jacket, seated at an ice table, and served a steaming cup of hot chocolate. Interestingly, there’s a good chance that the bartender will converse with you in Russian, as recruiting cold-resistant staff from the native desert dwellers can be quite challenging.

And in order to have time everywhere and explore the Emirates at a pace that is comfortable for you, we recommend that you think about suv rental in Dubai. This way, you can easily plan the route of your dreams and you won’t need to adjust to public transport schedules or frequency.

However, if you’ve had your fill of snow and cold and prefer a different kind of thrill, consider conquering the sand dunes in the Rub al-Khali desert. You can easily rent a sandboard near the Big Red Dune, the desert’s highest point, for an exciting desert adventure.

2. Try camel milk ice cream

Location: Dubai

Arabic cuisine has found a special place in our hearts and palates. It’s hard to find anyone who hasn’t raved about the delights of shawarma or savored a succulent lamb kebab. When dining at any café in the UAE, you can count on being served something meaty and spicy, and it’s guaranteed to be delicious. However, the real culinary treasures of the Emirates lie in their unique sweets.

In numerous supermarkets and cafés, you can discover camel milk ice cream—a low-fat, salty treat with a range of flavor additives, from vanilla to saffron. Don’t miss the chance to indulge in the traditional Umm Ali dessert, a delightful bread pudding adorned with nuts. For Turkish delight, halva, and dates, a visit to the souk is a must. But for a bit of curiosity, stop by the enormous candy store, Candylicious, which offers candies from around the world, though it may not have a particularly Arabic vibe.

For those seeking a less sweet but still exotic experience, consider trying manakish from a street café—a flatbread adorned with mashed olives, herbs, and cheese. Alternatively, explore the intriguing flavors of briki, which are pieces of fish encased in delicate puff pastry.

3. Laze on the beach all-day

Location: Dubai, Sharjah, Fujairah, Abu Dhabi

For those looking to spend a relaxing day on the beach in the UAE, there’s an abundance of options across various emirates. With hundreds of kilometers of coastline to choose from, we’ll help narrow it down for you:

• Bahrain Island, Abu Dhabi: If you’re seeking a romantic beach getaway away from the hustle and bustle, head to the wild beaches of Bahrain Island in the emirate of Abu Dhabi. Here, you can escape the resort complexes and bask in the tranquility of azure waters and pristine white sands without disturbances.
• Nasimi Beach, Dubai: If you’re in the mood for beach parties and evening entertainment, Nasimi Beach in Dubai, located on one of the leaves of the artificial palm island, comes alive after sunset. It’s the perfect spot to join the rhythm of beach parties and enjoy the lively atmosphere.
• Kite Beach, Dubai: Active beachgoers will love Kite Beach in Dubai. Not only can you rent kites and kayaks, but there are also trampolines, football, and volleyball courts for some adrenaline-pumping fun.
• Fujairah, Gulf of Oman: While the sea in Fujairah may not always be the calmest, it boasts a rich underwater world, making it a paradise for diving enthusiasts. Al Aqa Beach offers sea fishing opportunities, and Sandy Beach provides diving lessons for beginners.
• Family-Friendly Beaches: Families with children may prefer the calm waters of the Persian Gulf. In Dubai, consider Jumeirah Beach Residence or the beaches at the Atlantis Hotel on artificial islands. In Sharjah, Lu-lu Beach Resort’s private beach and the Women’s Club beach are great options for a family day out. Note that the Women’s Club beach typically permits men only if they are under 10 years old.

No matter your beach preferences, the UAE offers a range of options to suit every taste, from serene and romantic getaways to vibrant and active beachfront experiences.

4. Spend the night in the desert

Location: Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman

For an exhilarating adventure, venture into the endless desert sands of Dubai, Sharjah, and Ajman. To experience the true thrill, embark on a desert safari. Local tour companies offer various options to cater to different preferences:

• Jeep and Buggy ATV Tours: If you’re a fan of high-speed adventures, local companies provide jeep and buggy ATV tours that let you dash through the dunes, creating a thrilling experience.
• Camel Tours: For those who prefer a more leisurely and traditional approach, camel tours are available. These allow you to savor the journey at a more relaxed pace while taking in the colorful desert scenery.

Most of these desert excursions are typically one-day trips. In the evening, the caravan halts at an oasis, recreating the ambiance of a Bedouin village. Here, you can enjoy a traditional dinner and a captivating dance show before being transported back to civilization.

However, for a deeper immersion into the desert experience and to add a unique twist to your standard hotel stay, consider spending a night in the desert. Be sure to pack warm clothing, sleeping bags, and a tent, which can often be arranged with the tour organizers. You won’t regret missing breakfast at your hotel because the desert night sky, with its thousands of stars, is an unforgettable spectacle, far surpassing the star rating of any hotel.

5. Appreciate contemporary art

At first glance, Dubai might appear as if it’s composed solely of hotels and shopping centers, but a deeper exploration will reveal the city’s rich cultural side. To truly appreciate this, pay a visit to the Al Quoz residential area, where you’ll find one of Dubai’s cultural gems: Alserkal Avenue. This street is home to a vibrant collection of galleries, art workshops, and exhibition halls.

In the past, this area was filled with empty warehouses, but today, Alserkal Avenue boasts over 60 galleries and studios. In the evenings, it becomes a gathering place for local hipsters, hosting arthouse shows, while art enthusiasts engage in discussions about new exhibitions and theater performances. Exploring the center can be a captivating experience, and you might find yourself so engrossed in the nooks and crannies of these creative spaces that you lose track of time, spending an entire day immersed in art and culture.