UAE at a Glance

The United Arab Emirates, sometimes simply called the Emirates or the UAE, is a country located in the southeast end of the Arabian Peninsula. It is a modern and dynamic country. UAE is a constitutional federation of seven emirates- Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm al-Qaiwain, Ras al-Khaimah and Fujairah. Four-fifths of the UAE is desert, yet it is a country of contrasting landscapes, from awe-inspiring dunes to rich oasis, precipitous rocky mountains to fertile plains. The United Arab Emirates, is one of the world's fastest growing tourist destinations which has all the right ingredients for unforgettable holidays. It is an advanced and clean country which can be called as manmade "Disneyland" for tourist.
Area83600 Square KilometersCapitalAbu DhabiPopulation0 MillionOfficial LanguagesArabicCurrencyEmirati DirhamTime DifferenceIndia is 1 hour and 30 minutes ahead of United Arab Emirates. (IST-1:30 hrs)ISD Code+971BoundarySaudi Arabia, Oman , Iran
  • Visa Requirements

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    Indian nationals need a Dubai visa to travel to UAE. Tourist visa usually remains valid for 30 days. Passports must be valid for at least 6 months from the date of return.

  • Overveiw

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    UAE is simultaneously a dynamic, international business centre and a relaxing tourist destination. These features make it a truly cosmopolitan place to live, but the rich history of the emirates also provides a culture deeply rooted in the Islamic traditions of Arabia. UAE is a very tolerant and welcoming place for foreigners, with visitors free to follow their own religions. Women are free to drive and go out unescorted, making the country a very relaxed place to visit and live. Each year, Muslims commemorate the revelation of the holy Koran during the holy month of Ramadan, during which Muslims abstain from eating, drinking and smoking between dawn and dusk. The fast is broken each day with the Iftar feast at sunset. Visitors also must take care not to eat, drink or smoke in public places between dusk and dawn.

  • Overview

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    The traditional food of the United Arab Emirates uses a lot of meat, grain, and dairy. Vegetables are easy to grow in some areas, and are strongly featured in the diet. Meats traditionally used are chicken, and goats. Saffron, cardamom, turmeric, and thyme are the core flavours used in Emirati cookery.

  • Shawarma

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    Shawarma is an Arabic pita wrap overflowing with shaved chicken or lamb. A crunchy tabooleh or fattoush salad accompanied by either tahini or hummus completes this Middle Eastern street food. It is the most eaten food across this country and has also become famous in Asian countries. Taste and preparation method can be different from one place to other.

  • Hummus

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    It is a famous dip made from chickpeas, olive oil, lemon juice, tahini paste, salt and garlic. Served with fresh or toasted pita bread, hummus makes for a great snack or appetizer. Hummus is served on a large plate, usually drizzled with olive oil and herbs and accompanied by fresh pita, tomato, onion, cucumber salad and maybe some falafel.

  • Falafel

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    It is a traditional Middle Eastern food, commonly served in a pita, which acts as a pocket, or wrapped in a flatbread known as lafa. It is made of chickpeas and usually served as a side dish. The recipe is a modified version of French fries.

  • Overview

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    The local government has implemented several festivals and events across the United Arab Emirates to increase tourism. Apart from the several religious and cultural festivals, the travellers can also visit UAE on special occasions like Abu Dhabi International Jazz Festival, Dubai Desert Classic, National Day Festival and Dubai World Cup.

  • Dubai Shopping Festival

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    It is one of the biggest events of the year, electrifying the city with concerts, art exhibits, street performances, sport activities, amazing raffles and huge sales lasting for one month. It is quite popular for participating in various other activities that event organizers prefer to organize every year. There are massive fireworks displays each night. The festival changes dates each year between January, February or March and usually draws around 3 million shoppers.

  • Ramadan

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    Ramadan is the month during which Muslims fast from dawn to dusk, and feast from dusk until dawn. Many restaurants remain closed and it is illegal for Muslims and non-Muslims to eat, drink or smoke in public. Alcohol is not served publicly at any time during Ramadan, except in Dubai. Shopping centres remain open till late night and the streets are crowded with people.

  • Eid Al Fitr

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    Eid Al Fitr is a three-day celebration following Ramadan. It is a festive family time during which Muslims do not fast. In fact, it is a time for feasting. The first day of Eid begins after dawn with prayers. Muslims gather in large outdoor areas for the first prayer of the day. Returning home, they spend the day greeting friends and family. Homes are busy with visitors arriving throughout the day. Sweets, fruits, and snacks are offered to all and gifts are often given to children.