Our magazine continues to respond to letters from readers. We add to this section the answers to the questions that most often interest Russian-speaking tourists.
GENERAL DESCRIPTION
The United Arab Emirates (UAE), a young state with a 38-year history, was founded as a result of the unification on December 2, 1971 of six emirates: Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain and Fujairah. In February 1972, the emirate of Ras Al Khaimah joined the UAE.
The capital of the country is the city of Abu Dhabi, where about 900 thousand people live.
The head of state is the president - His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, ruler of Abu Dhabi.
The population of the UAE is only 15% indigenous, the rest are from other countries of the Arab region, Europe and the CIS, as well as from India and Southeast Asia.
The annual population growth of the UAE is about 7%, and in 2007 its total number reached 5 million 631 people (according to the latest census).
The United Arab Emirates is located in the north-eastern part of the Arabian Peninsula and borders on Saudi Arabia and the Sultanate of Oman, between 22 ° and 26 ° north latitude and between 51 ° and 56 ° east longitude. To the northwest of the UAE is Qatar. Saudi Arabia stretches west, south and south-east from the Emirates, and Oman - to the south and north-east. The area of the country is about 83,600 square meters. km UAE coastline - 600 km of the Persian Gulf coast and 100 km of the Gulf of Oman (part of the Indian Ocean).
CLIMATE
The climate in the UAE is dry subtropical. Rains are extremely rare, they occur in the autumn-winter period (November February). In winter, the average temperature at night is + 15 ° C, during the day + 21 ° C. In summer, the average temperature at night is + 30 ° C, and during the day + 40 ° C. The water temperature on the beaches in winter is + 19 ° C, in summer + 35 ° C.
The average monthly readings of air temperature, humidity and rainfall are given in the table:
| Temperature, ° C | Precipitation, mm | Humid% | |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 24 | 14,4 | 63 |
| February | 25 | 37,9 | 62 |
| March | 29 | 26,2 | 57 |
| April | 33 | 9,4 | 50 |
| May | 38 | 1,9 | 46 |
| June | 39 | 0,3 | 51 |
| July | 40 | 1,3 | 54 |
| August | 40 | 2,7 | 56 |
| September | 39 | 1,0 | 56 |
| October | 35 | 1,5 | 55 |
| November | 30 | 2,7 | 59 |
| December | 26 | 11,4 | 64 |
You may notice that the hottest and driest month of the year is July, the coldest is January, and the rainiest is February. One of the features of the UAE climate is the low oxygen content in the air - about 80% of the usual. Therefore, some tourists during their stay in the country may experience slight lethargy and drowsiness.
From October to May, the UAE has wonderful warm weather. The temperature does not exceed 35 ° C, the sun is not as merciless as in summer, evenings are warm and quiet. It is during these months that the peak of the tourist season falls.
In summer, the air temperature can exceed + 50 ° C, even many locals during this period leave for other countries where the climate is not so merciless. 
Clothing made from cotton and cotton-based fabrics is ideal for hot summer time. In winter, when it can be cool at night and in the morning, you may need a sweater.
Is the local climate harmful to health?
Not so much heat is harmful as frequent temperature changes during the transition from the street to the air-conditioned room and back. Although, of course, do not forget about the awning, a hat and sunblock. It is advisable to drink at least six glasses of water a day to avoid dehydration. Doctors also recommend eating more vegetables and fruits, as well as drinking laban (a local fermented milk drink) to cool the body.
The water in the hotel pools is cooled in the summer, otherwise it would have warmed up to 35 degrees and would not bring a feeling of freshness.
The main life in the UAE begins in the evening, so do not be discouraged if you safely overslept in the room the first half of the day.
Arriving here in the summer, you can significantly save on accommodation and flights. In addition, in the summer, the Dubai Summer Surprises festival is held, including all kinds of show programs and sales.
VISAS
Since July 29, 2008, the UAE Interior Ministry Decision No. 322 of 2008 entered into force in the UAE, establishing a new system for issuing UAE entry visas for temporary stay in the country. The system for issuing resident visas (residence permits and / or work permits) remains the same, as does the system for issuing entry visas for residence and employment. The new visa system is the same for all UAE emirates. Today in the Emirates the following types of entry visas are issued:
Visas (Visit Visa) residents of the UAE can only apply for their immediate family. Invitation to visit a visa of other relatives and acquaintances of residents requires special permission from the management of the immigration service. Only UAE citizens are allowed to invite friends to guest visas in the UAE.
PACKAGE OF DOCUMENTS FOR VISA IS APPLYED DIRECTLY BY THE SPONSOR. IT IS ISSUED FOR 2 MONTHS WITH THE POSSIBILITY TO EXTEND ANOTHER FOR 1 MONTH.
Holders of passports of some countries have the opportunity to receive a free visit visa for a period of 30 days at the airport upon arrival in the UAE, with the possibility of its further extension. These countries include: United Kingdom, France, Italy, Germany, Netherlands, Belgium, Luxembourg, Switzerland, Austria, Sweden, Norway, Denmark, Portugal, Ireland, Greece, Cyprus, Finland, Malta, Spain, Monaco, Vatican, Iceland, Andorra , San Marino, Liechtenstein, USA, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, Brunei, Singapore, Malaysia and Hong Kong.
Long Term Visit Visa valid for up to 90 days. It is not renewed or restored if it has not been used within 60 days from the date of issue. It can be issued both under the sponsorship of an individual, if the kinship of the sponsor and the applicant is proved, and under the commercial structure. The package of documents in the presence of an individual sponsor includes: a photograph of the applicant certified by the sponsor, a copy of the sponsor’s passport, a copy of the applicant’s passport, a salary certificate or a copy of the sponsor’s employment contract, a document confirming the relationship between the sponsor and the applicant, medical insurance.
The package of documents in the presence of a sponsor - commercial structure includes: a photograph of the applicant certified by the sponsor, a copy of the sponsor's passport, a copy of the certificate of registration of the company in Dubai, medical insurance.
The total cost of a visa is 1110-1120 drx (US $ 300-305). Mandatory for the applicant a deposit of 1000 drx (US $ 270) is made, which is returned to the sponsor after the departure of the sponsored person from the UAE.
Short Term Visit Visa is for a 30 day stay in the UAE. It is not renewed or restored if it has not been used within 60 days from the date of issue. It can be issued both under the sponsorship of an individual, if the kinship of the sponsor and the applicant is proved, and under the commercial structure. The package of documents in the presence of an individual sponsor or a sponsor - commercial structure includes the same documents as when opening a long-term guest visa.
The total cost of registration is 610-620 drx (US $ 165-170). Also, a deposit of 1,000 drx (US $ 270) is made for the applicant, which is returned to the sponsor after the sponsor leaves the UAE.
Multiple Entry Visa is valid for 6 months and allows its holder to stay in the UAE no more than 14 days after entry. A multiple entry visa application may be submitted to the UAE while the applicant is in the country on a guest visa. Not renewable and costs 2110-2120 drx (US $ 570-575). Nevertheless, there is no point in checking the conditions for issuing multiple visas at the embassy of the state in which the applicant resides, as they may vary depending on nationality.
Tourist visas. Only licensed hotels or travel agencies are eligible to request such visas. If earlier the permitted list of countries for issuing tourist visas included less than 80 countries, now this restriction has been completely removed. Tourist visas valid for 30 days can be renewed twice for an identical period of time. A visa is not refunded if it has not been used within 60 days from the date of issue. The total cost of registration is 210-220 drx (US $ 57-60). Tourist visa renewal costs 610-620 drx (US $ 165-168). Also, a deposit of 1,000 drx (US $ 270) is made for the applicant, which is returned to the sponsor after the sponsor leaves the UAE.
Transit visa (Transit / 96 Hours Visa) is designed for 96 hours of stay in the UAE. It is not renewed or restored if it has not been used within 30 days from the date of issue. It is issued to the traveler provided that the interval between flights is at least 8 hours. To obtain a visa, you need a copy of your passport, a completed form for a 96-hour visa, a ticket for the next flight, hotel room reservation. Issued at customs, costs 165 drx (US $ 45).
Visas for education (Education / Student Visa) can be obtained only on behalf of licensed UAE educational institutions. The applicant at the time of application must be accepted for training and have on hand medical insurance. A deposit of 1000 drx (US $ 270) is charged upon receipt of the visa, and returned after the expiration date. This type of visa is issued for a period of 60 days and can be updated four times.
The first student visa costs 1110-1120 drx (US $ 300-305), renewal - 610-620 drx (US $ 165-168).
Visas for exhibitors, festivals and conferences (Visa for Exhibition, Visa for Festival, Visa for Conference). This new type of visa is issued for a period of 30 days only to government agencies and private companies. It is not renewed or restored if it has not been used within 60 days from the date of issue.
The package of documents includes: a photograph of the applicant certified by the sponsor, a copy of the sponsor’s passport, a copy of the company registration certificate, a copy of the company’s license, an official letter from the organizer of the exhibition, festival and conference about the event, indicating the date, place and time, medical insurance. It is worth any of the subspecies of these visas 210-220 drx (US $ 57-60).
Medical Treatment Visa - a new type of visa, issued only if the sponsor is a medical institution licensed by the Ministry of Health of the UAE. A visa is issued for a period of 90 days and can be extended twice for 60 days. It is not restored if it was not used within 60 days from the date of issue.
To obtain this type of visa, you must submit: a photo of the applicant certified by the sponsor, a copy of the certificate of registration of the medical institution, a copy of the certification certificate of the hospital card from the Ministry of Health, medical insurance. The visa costs 1110-1120 drx (US $ 300-305), renewal - 610-620 drx (US $ 165-168).
A short-term work permit (Service Visa) is issued to foreigners who need to work in the UAE for no more than 14 days. It is not renewed or restored if it has not been used within 14 days from the date of issue. This visa costs 310/320 drx. Visa of the resident (Residence Visa). It is issued to persons wishing to reunite with a family living in the UAE. Validity period is 3 years. A visa is automatically canceled if its holder is not in the UAE for more than 6 months.
Parents of residents of the UAE receive this type of visa after special approval. Visa of parents after 3 years can be renewed annually. A deposit of 5000 dirhams (US $ 1367) is paid for each parent, which is returned after the visa is closed.
Work Visa A work visa (work permit) is issued by the Immigration Department to a foreign citizen who has an invitation to work in the Emirates, certified by the UAE Ministry of Labor.
The visa is valid for two months from the date of issue. It makes it possible to enter the country for up to 30 days. During this time, the employer must begin applying for a resident visa.
MANDATORY HEALTH INSURANCE FOR ARRIVING IN THE UAE
As part of the new UAE visa policy, a provision has been adopted on compulsory health insurance for people entering the country.
Insurers offer three insurance options, depending on the length of stay in the UAE. In Dubai, for example, if you have a visa for a period of 30 days, the cost of insurance will be 40 drx (US $ 11), for a period of 90 days - 90 drx (US $ 25), for a period of 180 days with the possibility of repeated entry - 185 drx (US $ 51 ) Insurance is valid only in the territory of the United Arab Emirates.
The insurance will cover 100% of the cost of medical services in case of accidents or other accidents leading to hospitalization, including operations and the patient's stay in the hospital. It also covers the cost of the medicines that a particular hospital has.
The insurance includes compensation for the rehabilitation period as part of the visa and dentist services if the insured's teeth were damaged due to an accident. In the event of the death of the insured, the insurance company incurs financial obligations in the amount of 7,000 drx (US $ 1944) for sending the body of the deceased to the country of registration.
The insurance does not cover cases of activation of chronic diseases, pregnancy and childbirth, ophthalmological and dental services. Help with the activation of chronic diseases can be obtained for free if the patient's condition poses a threat to his life.
How to open a tourist visa to the United Arab Emirates?
Tourist visas are opened by the immigration service. For this, travel agencies or hotels registered in the UAE submit documents for their opening. As a rule, a visa is opened upon request of the sending party.
The receiving party usually refuses the request from a private person, since in this case it may be difficult for her to receive a 100% guarantee of payment and the tourist’s return home before the visa expires.
Is it true that the UAE does not open visas for girls under 30?
In the Emirates there are no age restrictions on the opening of visas. However, the UAE authorities from time to time do restrict the issuing of visas to single young women.
Knowing about this practice, travel agencies try to avoid possible problems and refuse to apply for visas if the tourist is less than 30 years old. However, a woman up to 30 years old without a visa is opened if she flies with her husband or father - namesakes. Another option is when the girl leaves a guarantee at the travel agency, guaranteeing her timely return. You can also solve the problem by booking and paying for a five-star hotel - in this case, the probability of being refused is much lower. If you refused to open a visa in one travel agency - look for another.
Can problems arise if husband and wife have different surnames?
Problems can only arise when applying for entry visas, especially if the wife is less than 30 years old. If visas are already open, then there will be no problems at the entrance to the country. To exclude the possibility of unpleasant situations, take a marriage certificate. Some travel agencies recommend translating it into English and notarizing it, but most often it is an unnecessary reinsurance.
Do I need an original UAE entry visa at Russian customs?
To fly out of the country, the original visa is not needed - just have a copy in your hands, transmitted by fax. Large travel companies send their customers without a copy of visas at all. They present to the border guards of the CIS countries their own document, which contains a list of departures, on which a visa is guaranteed to be obtained. Tourists receive the original visa at the airport of arrival: individuals through a special visa delivery service, organized tourists - from an employee of the host travel company.
Recently, the emirate of Dubai has begun issuing the so-called "electronic" tourist visas, fully issued through the Internet. Such visas do not have the original at all - only a copy that is transmitted via e-mail or fax.Accordingly, at the UAE airport, the original of such a visa does not need to be obtained - you can go to passport control with a regular copy.
An important addition: today Dubai “electronic” visas are valid only in two emirates - Dubai and Sharjah.
Why do they scan the retina when entering the UAE?
Scanning the retina (eye control) allows you to stop the entry into the country of people who had previously been deported from the UAE and were blacklisted. Today, almost 100% of foreigners entering the country are subjected to this procedure, which often leads to large queues at arrival. Those who pass this control receive a stamp on the visa (or copies thereof) and can go for passport control.
CUSTOMS LIMITATIONS
Per adult, it is allowed to import up to 2 thousand cigarettes, 400 cigars or 2 kg of tobacco into the UAE. Non-Muslims can bring up to 2 liters of spirits and the same amount of wine for personal use. Photo and video materials, as well as printed materials of reprehensible and frivolous content, are prohibited. The import of drugs, weapons, psychotropic substances is strictly prohibited. There are no restrictions on the import and export of currency and products from precious metals, but customs has traditionally shown increased interest in very large quantities of currency and jewelry.
What drugs are banned for import and use in the country?
In Dubai you can buy almost everything you are used to. Therefore, take medication with you only in case of emergency, and with a doctor’s prescription explaining why you need just such a number of medications. The fact is that many drugs contain (to one degree or another) narcotic substances.
For example, codeine in the Emirates is prohibited and is considered as a drug that changes the human psyche. The import of illicit drugs without an accompanying permit is fraught with imprisonment and deportation from the country.
TONGUE
The official language is Arabic. But the vast majority of the population speaks excellent English. Hindi and Urdu are also widely used. Most of the shopkeepers, hotel and telephone network employees speak English, and you can often hear Russian.
Will the country's guests feel comfortable without knowledge of English?
Quite. Up to half a million Russian tourists come to the UAE annually, so the local market has adapted to it. In expensive hotels, as a rule, there is a Russian-speaking staff. The same applies to large stores (as well as small ones around Nasserskver). Don't be afraid to look like a black sheep with your English.
RELIGION
The UAE state religion is Islam, on the basis of which the country's legislation is largely built.
The country respects other religions as well - no one is forbidden to perform religious rites and to celebrate holidays, provided that this does not violate public order and does not sow hostility between peoples. For example, in Dubai, there are two Christian churches: St. Mary and the Holy Trinity, for immigrants from India - the Temple of Krishna, the Temple of Shiva, the Temple of Sikh-Gurudwara.
Is there an Orthodox church in Dubai?
Yes, in the UAE there is a community of the Russian Orthodox Church (Moscow Patriarchate). The community does not yet have a temple, but regular services are held on certain days. In Dubai, services are held in the building of the Anglican Church of the Holy Trinity (in Bar Dubai, on Ud Metha Street), in Sharjah in the temple of the Armenian Church (Yarmouk district). On September 9, 2007, the foundation stone of the first Russian Orthodox church on the Arabian Peninsula, which will be built in Sharjah, in the Al Yarmouk area, was consecrated. Now the parishioners are collecting donations for the construction of the church, which will officially belong to the parish of the Holy Apostle Philip, registered in the UAE.
CURRENCY
UAE Dirham is divided into 100 fils. Currently in circulation are coins in denominations of 25 fils (antelope), 50 fils (oil derricks) and 1 dirham (coffee pot), as well as denominations of 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200, 500, 1000 dirhams. Common abbreviations are AED or DHS. The dirham course is approximately 3.67 per US dollar. Tourists do not have problems with currency exchange: the country has a large number of exchange points.
Almost all trading enterprises accept for payment the currency of different countries and credit cards. On the streets, in banks, supermarkets there are many ATMs that work with all payment systems: American Express, MasterCard, Visa and others.
What currency is the most profitable to bring with you? What is better to pay in stores?
It is better to pay when shopping with local currency - dirhams. Course 1 $ = 3.67 dirhams. Coins of the same denomination can have different sizes. Bargaining, you can get in dirhams big discounts than when paying in currency. In stores where prices are fixed, it is also better to pay in dirhams: the exchange rates established there are clearly underestimated. In exchange offices at hotels it is worth changing the currency only in case of emergency - there is an unprofitable rate. Large amounts are best changed in numerous exchangers in the city.
The majority of the population of the UAE is made up of immigrants from other countries, so on every corner you can freely exchange the dirhams of the currency of India, the Philippines, as well as euros, pounds and money from all countries of the Middle East. However, the best option for today is US dollars, which in the UAE are still more popular than other types of currency. It’s definitely not worth carrying banknotes of the CIS countries, the exception is only the Russian ruble, which can be exchanged for dirhams at some large exchange points. Unused dirhams can be exchanged back without problems.
If you are left without money, relatives can send you the required amount through the universally located offices of Western Union.
CAFES, RESTAURANTS, BARS
In the restaurants and bars, of which there are a great many in the UAE, you will be offered the cuisine of any country in the world: here you can taste Chinese, Iranian, Arabic, Lebanese, Filipino, Indian, Korean, Italian, Japanese, Polynesian, Spanish, English, French, Greek, as well as Russian and Uzbek dishes.
In the UAE, despite the hot climate, you can not be afraid for the quality of products and finished products from them even on the street: an incorruptible sanitary-epidemiological service strictly monitors compliance with all necessary norms and rules.
Restaurants in hotels mainly offer international cuisine, as well as original, incomparable local dishes of lamb, chicken and fish, spicy seasonings and sauces.
How much money do you have to spend on food?
If you are satisfied with a lunch of salted kefir (0.75 drh), shawarma (5 drh) and some fruit, then it will cost you less than US $ 3. Juice or cocoa from a vending machine costs 1-2 drh. 
Guests of city hotels can easily find two or three establishments within the radius of "walking distance" offering a buffet for 40 200 drx (about US $ 11-50), especially if you arrive there before 16.00. In large supermarkets like Spinney's, Carrefour, you can buy ready-made take-away food. Let's say fried chicken costs only 12 drh there (about US $ 3).
To whom and how much should I leave "for tea"?
In many restaurants, tips are included in the cost of the service (Service charge 16%), but if the menu does not say this, then when paying the bill you need to add about 10% of the amount. The porter at the airport or at the hotel is usually given 5-10 drx.
Where can I smoke hookah in Dubai? How much does it cost and is it unhealthy?
There are many Arabian coffee houses in the city. These are small cozy cafes in the Arabic style, very different in class. Their menu includes coffee, tea, oriental sweets and hookah. These establishments are in special demand among the local population, leading a calm, measured lifestyle. It is here that the Arabs relax, having leisurely conversations, playing backgammon, smoking a hookah, or simply contemplating the world around them. We recommend visiting one of these establishments in order to fully plunge into the atmosphere of the East and slow down your life rhythm.
Usually smoking a hookah (in Arabic it is called "shisha") costs from 30 drx (US $ 8). If you are not familiar with this device, do not be shy: the waiter will be happy to show you how to use it, and will also quickly change extinct coal. If you wish, you can buy your device for "nargile" for 120-170 dirhams (US $ 32-46). Hookah tobacco is sold even in the smallest stores. The effect of getting used to it does not occur. After examining the pack, you will see that it contains 10-20 times less tar and nicotine than your favorite cigarettes. People with hookahs can be seen in designated restaurants.
WEEKEND
Government offices are closed on Friday and Saturday. The day off at the offices of private companies is Friday. At banks, Thursday is a short day (until 13.00). Large shops, shopping and entertainment centers work seven days a week, usually from 10.00 to 22.00, and during public holidays and weekends - until 00.00.
ACCOMMODATION
Tourists in the UAE are presented with a wide selection of beach resorts and city hotels of any category, including the world-famous for their luxury Emirates Palace hotels in Abu Dhabi and Burj Al Arab and Atlantis in Dubai, the class of 5 star deluxe. For a longer stay in the United Arab Emirates, it is better to rent a hotel type apartment.
It is also possible to rent or buy an apartment in a skyscraper, a villa on the beach or even a cozy cottage on any of the artificial islands.
In the UAE, as in any other country, modesty and restraint are the norm for both local residents and guests from abroad, who must respect the laws, rules and customs of the country in which they are located.
BEHAVIOR RULES
Is it true that you can’t kiss in public?
To show more than friendly feelings in public places is prohibited under the threat of a major fine, and even deportation from the country.
What clothes to choose for traveling around the country and visiting public places?
Nobody forces you to wear a burqa, but still the United Arab Emirates is a Muslim country. When choosing clothes, you should avoid miniskirts, deep necklines and translucent dresses on a naked body. Particular attention should be given to clothing for tourists living in the emirate of Sharjah, the most conservative in this regard.
Too frank outfit can create problems for you not only with the police, but also with local womanizer, who will immediately begin to make you "romantic" offers.
Is cohabitation allowed for unmarried persons?
Although five-star hotels are loyal to couples, it is best not to abuse their tolerance. Before flirting with anyone, think carefully: both of you are seriously at risk.
If he turns out to be a secret agent of the "morale police", then you will find a prison and expulsion from the country. The deportation stamp in your passport can complicate subsequent travel abroad.
Can I drink alcohol in the Emirates?
Alcohol is prohibited for Muslims. This prohibition does not apply to visitors unless they profess Islam.
It is strongly not recommended to offer or give alcohol to Muslims, as well as to drive while intoxicated. If you are "taken to the chest" in a restaurant, bar or disco, try to silently walk to the exit, catch a taxi and return to the hotel. Drinking alcohol, including beer, in public places (on a street bench, in a park, on the beach) is fraught with a fine and imprisonment.
Do I need to have a passport when traveling around the country?
No no need. It is enough to have photocopies of passports and visas. The originals are best left in the safe - in the hotel room or at the reception. The loss of a passport threatens a very big trouble until the arrest for the period necessary to obtain a new passport or certificate from the consulate. In any case, in case of conflicts with the police, do not try to offer money. Giving a bribe is likely to be a much more serious crime than what you tried to pay off.
Do Arabs have hostility towards Russians or people of any other nationality?
All local residents, including customs officers and border guards, are traditionally welcoming and hospitable. And this is not a game - because the Emirates, unlike Egypt and Turkey, do not live at the expense of tourists.
Most jobs in the service sector are occupied by Arabs from neighboring countries, as well as immigrants from the CIS and Southeast Asia. So it is unlikely that you will be able to communicate with local Arabs in everyday life (unless you yourself are curious about them).
Try to keep your interest from looking like an invasion of privacy. Do not photograph the inside of the house in the absence of the owner, the interiors of mosques, praying people and especially Muslim women - the latter is prohibited by law.
Avoid all that can be perceived as disrespect for shrines. A case is known, for example, when a guest from Britain parked near a mosque and was fined $ 1,100 for refusing to turn off loud music in the car during a call to prayer.
PURCHASES
The widest selection of goods and affordable prices, free trade zones and low duties are the reasons why the Emirates are often called the "paradise for customers."
Numerous shopping centers and markets (Souk), supermarkets and individual stores offer a huge assortment of goods at relatively low prices. Here, among other things, you will find a grandiose selection of gold jewelry, precious and semiprecious stones, Bedouin handicrafts. We advise you to bargain in small shops and markets when making a purchase - the initial price can significantly decrease.
UAE - haute couture haute couture country, many world famous brands are represented here. It is a real pleasure to make purchases at low prices, both in expensive stores and in general stores.
Where can I get alcoholic drinks?
Alcohol is available in restaurants and hotel bars; its prices are comparable to Moscow. Takeaway is not permitted. In restaurants, fast foods and eateries located in the city (not at the hotel), alcohol is not served.
In specialized stores, alcoholic beverages can only be purchased by foreigners living in the UAE who have received permission from the local authorities and only within the framework of the quota established for them. In this regard, we can assume that the alcohol that was brought with you or purchased in Duty Free upon arrival in the UAE is all that a tourist can count on.
Are condoms sold everywhere in the Emirates?
Condoms in the UAE are freely sold in all supermarkets and pharmacies, as well as at gas stations.
Does the UAE have Russian literature?
In many hotels and bookstores of major Dubai stores, you can buy books by Marinina and Dontsova, Cosmopolitan and Caravan of History magazines, Argumenty i Fakty newspapers, Mother-in-law Teschin, as well as Speed-Info with pictures painted with a marker.
Demand free copies of the Russian Emirates, Business Emirates and Keys of the East magazines, which are published in the UAE in Russian, from representatives of the host travel company. Remember also that the hut-reading room and the book department in the supermarket are not exactly the same thing.
ACCOMMODATION
Tourists in the UAE are presented with a wide selection of beach resort complexes and hotels of any category, including the world-famous for their luxury Emirates Palace and Burj Al Arab hotels of the 5 star deluxe class.
For a longer stay in the United Arab Emirates, it is better to rent a hotel type apartment.
It is also possible to rent or buy an apartment in a skyscraper, a villa on the beach or even a cozy cottage on any of the artificial islands.
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