United Arab Emirates
People
The UAE features a rather diverse population as most of the permanent residents here actually come from other nations and countries around the world. Indians and Pakistani citizens, however, are predominant here, while there are a vast number of people coming from other Asian countries, such as Malaysia, the Philippines and Bangladesh. Since the UAE is an oil rich country with many international companies, many Europeans and Americans have been moving here and reside mostly in Dubai and Abu Dhabi. Due to this diversity, the Emirates reminds one of a modern Babel. The Arabic language is predominant in administration and traffic signs, although English is fast becoming the most popular language in keeping with the requirements of an international community.
Geography
The United Arab Emirates borders the Persian Gulf and Oman, as well as Saudi Arabia. The seven states – emirates that make up the UAE are: Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm al-Quwain, Ras al-Khaimah and Fujairah . The total area of the country is 77,700 square kilometers; and the UAE boasts of a 1,300 kilometer coastline. The only problem when it comes to the exact size of the country is the desert of Rub Al Khali, which remains unmarked until today, while there are some border disputes with Qatar, mostly about some islands of the Gulf. The smallest emirate is Ajman measuring only 260 square kilometers.
History
The country does not feature a rich history, but a rather long one, since the first findings date back to the Bronze Age. The main influences here come from the Greeks and the Persians. It was formed originally from tribes that lived on the southern coast of the Arabian Gulf. The country as we know it today, consisting of the seven states, was established in 1971. It was in this year that the states bonded together forming one united country; the United Arab Emirates. Before 1971 the country was known as Trucial States or Trucial Oman. Since then the development of the country has been rapid and immense. The Human Development Index is really high, bringing the country to the 31st position in the world. According to the International Monetary Fund, the purchasing power of the Emirates is huge, almost close to 2,005 billion dollars.
Famous Attractions
When it comes to the Emirates, finding attractions is hard; but not because they do not exist. On the contrary, there are too many. All seven states feature places of amazing natural beauty, while the manmade attractions are equally impressive. The amazing mountain scenery of Hatta, the souqs of Sharjah, and the immense and gorgeous beaches of the Persian Gulf are just a few things to explore. The coral reefs and sapphire blue waters in Dubai are known all over the world.
The Khalifa Park is a large park in Abu Dhabi featuring lush gardens, aquariums, play grounds and numerous other facilities. The Lulu Islands are an absolute must see. They are manmade islands which were built to house immense tourist amenities and facilities. The Palm islands in Dubai are also famous worldwide. They are artificial islands made in the shape of palms and add 500 kilometers to the beach shores of the city. If you are up to something more traditional and Oriental, you can visit the deserts of Abu Dhabi for a camel ride or the famous bazaars in Jumeirah.
Nightlife
When it comes to nightlife, it all depends on where you are staying. Dubai has a bustling nightlife and competes with the burgeoning nightlife of Abu Dhabi. In the smaller states things are much stricter and more limited, especially when it comes to alcohol. In general though, since the UAE is Islamic, alcohol can be found in liquor stores, international hotels and bars. If you are a tourist, you can buy your drink freely at bars and restaurants of the cities, except for Sharjah; there you can drink only in your home or hotel room. For residents, there is a liquor license that is required in order to buy alcohol in stores.
If you visit the UAE during Ramadan, you will be surprised to see that liquor is sold nowhere during daylight hours. Music is also not played or allowed during fasting, even in Dubai.
Culture
The major religion in the UAE is of course Islam, practiced by 90% of the overall population. The remaining 10% belong to different religions, especially since most of them come from Western countries. Christianity and Hinduism are the other two most common religions in the region. Although there is some sort of religious freedom and tolerance, it is illegal in the country to spread ideas and philosophies of other religions. This has been causing some problems, although in the bigger and more diverse cities, like Dubai and Abu Dhabi, these problems are fading.
The bigger cities are much more liberal and open-minded than the smaller ones. Dubai is considered to be modern and cosmopolitan, while Ajman is quite conservative. The sheikhs of the states influence the policies and preferences in the region, therefore the differences are obvious.
Cuisine
A vast selection of international flavors is offered in Abu Dhabi and Dubai. Most restaurants are quite affordable for Western tourists, who can find anything they might want. Of course, there are elegant and luxurious restaurants that offer gourmet food and are quite expensive. The focus is on Arabic cuisine though; Shawarma, Hummus, Khubz and other traditional dishes are the most commonly found dishes in the region. In Dubai though, you will find McDonalds that opened relatively recently, as well as other international and local food chains.
United Arab Emirates Airports infomation
Flights to United Arab Emirates
Hotels in United Arab Emirates
Articles in United Arab Emirates
Al Barsha, Dubai - Holiday Inn
Dubai, United Arab Emirates
8 Sep, 2020
The Holiday Inn Dubai Al Barsha is a four-star hotel that houses 310 well-designed rooms and suites. Leisure facilities and amenities include full service spa, outdoor swimming pool, access to Jumeirah beach, and high-speed internet connection. If you are there for business purposes, you can employ the hotels' meeting and exhibition facilities as well. The hotel has nine international restaurants and bars that offer Thai, Indian, and Arabic food. The International Buffet, Sports Bar, Sushi Bar, Lobby Lounge, and the Night Club offer a nice food tripping experience as well. And if you will closely examine the architectural design of the hotel you will see a modern touch accentuated by traditional Arabic architectural features. <br/> If you want to explore Middle East culture, Dubai is the place to be. Dubai is popular not just for stunning and state-of-the-art establishments but as a shopping destination. You can shop for precious jewelries made of pure gold. Dubai is also known as a man-made city but the city still features strong Islamic culture which makes the city even more sensational. <br/> One of the good places to visit in Dubai is the Mall of Emirates, a notable product of modern architecture. As you explore the mall you can also use your bargaining power in buying good stuff. But, if you want to do an educational trip, you can visit Jumeirah Mosque and immerse yourself with Muslim culture and tradition. <br/> So if your goal in life is to travel with purpose, include Dubai and Holiday Inn Dubai Al Barsha accommodation on your list to visit. You will be surprised how productive your trip can be. <br/> <br/> Search for discounted hotel rooms around Asia on <a href='http://www.asia.com/hotel'>Asia.com hotels</a> search engine and save up to 70% on your hotel. <br/> <br/> <a href='http://www.asia.com/'>Asia.com</a> is neither affiliated with nor sponsored by Al Barsha. This article is provided for informational purposes only.
Dubai - Crowne Plaza Festival City Hotel
Dubai, United Arab Emirates
8 Sep, 2020
The Crowned Plaza Festival City is a five-star hotel situated on the banks of the Dubai Creek. Known as the first non-smoking Crowne Plaza, the hotel features 19 floors and 316 rooms equipped with leisure and relaxation facilities. During your stay, you can enjoy the 25m outdoor lap pool, the 24-hour gym, 3 spa pools, whirlpool, and business services amenities. If you are travelling with your kids, you can bring them to the children's splash pool. You may also employ the hotel's babysitting services. All furnished with high speed internet connection and flat plasma TV. <br/> <br/> Dubai is one of the seven emirates of the United Arab Emirates. It is the most populous city and most popular tourist destination as well. Dubai, also known as the "Pearl of the Persian Gulf", is considered to be the most multi-cultural city in the world. 10% of Dubai's population is national Emiratis while the rest are composed of expatriate communities. <br/> <br/> Your stay both in Dubai and in Crowned Plaza Festival City would be productive if your travel itinerary would include the popular attractions such as Dubai Museum, Dubai Creek Park, Za'abeel Park, Mamzar Beach Park, and the Dubai Exhibition Center. You can also make the most of your trip by engaging in thrilling activities at Dubai Camel Race and golf courses at the Montgomery, Dubai. <br/> <br/> If you are looking for an excellent location for your holiday getaway Dubai is the place to be. And if you are looking for an accommodation, Crowned Plaza Festival is the perfect place since it is only 10 minutes away from the airport. <br/> <br/> Search for discounted hotel rooms around Asia on Asia.com's hotel search engine and save up to 70% on your hotel. <br/> <br/> <br/> Asia.com is not affiliated with nor sponsored by Dubai - Crowned Plaza Festival City. This article is provided for informational purposes only.
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