Category Archives: Middle East

Explore the Exquisite Gems of Oman

Oman is one of those exotic places, which still remains largely unexplored by most. Visiting the destination gives you some rare insights into the myriad facets of the Arab world – its landscapes, its culture, its cuisine, and its architecture.

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Refreshingly, there is no excessive display of wealth. Oman is blessed with natural beauty, which finds reflection through its rugged mountains, vast deserts, and a virginal coastline. A trip to the country will also let you experience its intriguing traditional culture, delicious cuisine, the warm hospitality of its simple people, and a lot more. Listed below are some of the beautiful experiences which travellers should not miss during a visit to this country.

Soak in the Scenic Views of Jabal Shams (Sun Mountain)

Get amazed by the rugged beauty of Jabal Shams, also known as the Sun Mountain, which is considered to be the tallest peak in the Arabian Peninsula. Jabal Shams reaches the heights of 3,004 metres above sea level and boasts of several slopes and summits. A popular tourist attraction in the Sun Mountain is a deep chasm known as the ‘An Nakhr Balcony’ – a deep ravine in the centre of the rocks. The views of this ravine from the top are very scenic. The surrounding region has many good guest houses.

Explore the Turtle Reserve

Travellers must visit the Turtle Reserve at the Al Sharqiyah South Governorate to experience the scenic beauty of the beaches and to get up close to these meek creatures. The area ranging from Ras Al Hadd to Masirah Island is protected as a turtle reserve, where the rare green turtles can also be found. Explore the Ras Al Jins, a turtle sanctuary where turtle eggs are protected. Travellers can enjoy spotting the turtles in their natural habitat and lucky visitors may even see a green turtle with eggs in its nest.

Bathe in the Alkasfah Spring

A new and unique experience in a desert region, travellers must visit the AlKasfah Spring located at Wilayat al-Rustaq in Al Batinah South Governorate, Oman. The Alkasfah Spring is a group of several natural hot water springs, with temperatures up to 45 degrees Celsius. The hot water from the Alkasfah Spring flows out through many streams and is used to irrigate orchards. These hot water pools are well-known for their sulphate therapeutic waters and swimming pools, ideal for bathing. The hot water pools are accessible to the public all round the year.

Enjoy a Boat Ride at Bandar Khayran Reserve

Another must-experience activity in Oman is going on an enjoyable boat ride across the Bandar Khayran Reserve. The reserve is located in the centre of Muscat and can be reached by a boat ride of around 30-40 minutes from the Bandar Al Rawdha Marina. Enjoy the views of playful dolphins swimming along the boats. The boat ride will also offer travellers scenic views of rugged mountains with small white houses overlooking the sea. After reaching the Bandar Al Khayran, explore its rich underwater life of rich coral reefs, exotic fish, and other diverse sea creatures. The place is a paradise for divers and has over 22 diving locations.

Dubai for Beach Bums: Dubai’s Best Public Beaches

Dubai is better known for its awe-inspiring man-made attractions such as glittering malls, amazing theme parks, bustling souks, and Burj Khalifa; the tallest building in the world.

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However, the ‘City of Gold’ also boasts of numerous white sandy beaches that are perfect for picnics, playing games, and enjoying waters sports. Many of these amazing beaches are part of resorts and are accessible only to the resort guests. However, Dubai has some great public beaches that can be visited for free or for a small fee. Read on to know more about these public beaches.

Jumeirah Bach Residence (JBR)

The JBR Beach is a popular beach among locals and tourists alike. The JBR beach is located beside the Jumeirah Beach Resort and is a free to use public beach, with clean facilities, showers, and beachfront restaurants. This beach, which is filled with people particularly on weekends, is the site of many popular events.

Kitesurfing Beach

Don’t forget to visit the Kitesurfing Beach in Dubai to see numerous kite surfers in action. This sporty beach is also a popular spot for soccer, volleyball, and kayaking. Also, known as the Woollongong Beach as it is close to the University of Wollongong, the beach is perfect for long walks. However, it has no facilities; so bring your own stuff.

Mamzer Beach Park

The Mamzer or Mamzar Beach Park is a huge picturesque beach. The Mamzer Park has five beaches in coves along the coastline of the park. These beaches have sheltered areas with public utilities such as changing rooms and showers. Sun loungers and umbrellas are available on rent. The area around the beach also has stores and cafes.

4×4 Beach

The 4X4 Beach is another popular public beach. It is located close to the Jumeirah Beach Park and has earned this quirky name because it is a popular spot for drivers to stop and enjoy stunning ocean and bay views.

Jumeirah Open Beach

Visit the Jumeirah Open Beach, which was earlier popular as the Russian Beach. This huge public beach is a great place to enjoy a quick swim or even bathe for hours! The beach is large and includes a 1.8km running track. Facilities include showers, public toilets, and round-the-clock shops.

Bu Qtair Beach

Explore this small and charming peninsular beach known as the Bu Qtair Beach. The beach is popular and has been named after a famous fresh seafood eating joint, the Bu Qtair. You can easily spend an entire day here.

Explore the Charms of Sharm-El-Sheikh

Sharm-El-Sheikh

The picture-perfect seaside city of Sharm-El-Sheikh is located in the southern region of the Sinai Peninsula in Egypt. The destination is well known for its scenic beauty accentuated by the Red Sea and the mountainous appeal of St.

Sharm-El-Sheik

Catherine and Mount Sinai. The City of Peace, as it’s often referred to, is a popular holiday destination among travellers visiting Egypt. Read on to know about some of the major attractions of this peaceful and scenic city.

Ras Mohammed National Park

A must-visit attraction, the Ras Mohammed National Park is a nature reserve sprawling across nearly 480 square kilometres of serene deserts, pearly white beaches, and several exotic dive and snorkelling sites such as Shark Reef, Anemone City, and Jackfish Alley. Here, you can explore the vivid waters of the Red Sea containing coral-reefs, over 1,000 species of fish, and a plethora of other aquatic creatures such as hammerheads, manta rays, and whale sharks. Visit its Main Beach for a memorable snorkelling experience, camp at the Khashaba Beach, swim at the Salt Lake, or relax by the Marsa Bareika. Besides, you may also explore the mangrove forests of the Mangrove Channel; there is sure a lot to do at the Ras Mohammed National Park.

Naama Bay

One of the most popular attractions is the Naama Bay; a long, sandy natural bay in Sharm El Sheikh. The place teems with tourists, particularly in the evenings. Stroll along its fully developed shoreline along the well-paved walkway covered with bougainvillaea and oleander on the sides. The Naama Bay also contains local bazaars, restaurants, bars, and ‘Sheesha’ cafes.

Saint Catherine’s Monastery

Travellers should visit the historical site of Saint Catherine’s Monastery, which is located at the foot of Mount Sinai. Explore this ancient monastery, which is considered to be one of the oldest working Christian monasteries in the world. It is also a UNESCO designated World Heritage Site and has the oldest operating library in the world.

Ras Um Sid Cliff

The Ras Um Sid Cliff is a very high cliff-top location with several hotels and links the Na’ama Bay to the bay of Sharm El Maya. Visit this region and marvel at its vibrant and abundant coral reefs that make it so popular.

Sharm El Maya

Visit the Sharm El Maya, or the old town of Sharm El Sheikh. It is a stunning bay, which acts as a natural harbour. Check out its beach area, which has been recently developed and boasts several 5 star hotels.

Get Set for Dubai Shopping Festival 2017!

shopping-in-Dubai

Get ready to attend the Mecca of all shopping festivals: the Dubai Shopping Festival 2017! This month long event is an extravagant shopping festival packed with amazing activities and festivities to keep you on your toes. The Dubai Shopping Festival 2017 will mark the 22nd anniversary of this amazing shopping and entertainment event. Billed as one of the largest shopping festivals in the Middle East, the event offers discounts up to 75%.

When

The Dubai Shopping Festival 2017 will be held from 26th December, 2016 to 28th January, 2017. It is one of the longest running shopping festivals across the world.

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The event is a major tourist attraction in Dubai, not just for shopping, but also for vibrant festivities involving spectacular fireworks, fashion flash mobs, film screenings, and street plays.

Venue

There is not one single venue for the event, but the festival is held across all shopping avenues such as shopping malls, traditional souks, and flea markets across the city of Dubai. Travellers will see special deals and offers at all shops, big or small, to attract visitors. The entire city revels in this international shopping bonanza, with not just shops, but also restaurants and hotels offering irresistible discounts and deals.

What Are The Best Things To Buy?

You’ll feel dizzy at the plethora of things being sold during the event across the city. So, here is a simplified list of the best things to keep an eye for during the event.

Clothing – From designer clothes to international brands to local creations – there is something for everyone.

Gold – Dubai is already a popular destination to buy tax free gold at cheaper rates. This festival takes the incentive even further and lets you buy gold jewellery, ranging from traditional to modern designs, as per your needs.

Cosmetics – Ladies, it will be criminal not to buy international beauty brands such as Chanel, Bvlgari, Estee Lauder, and Bobbi Brown at cheaper rates during the festival.

Perfumes – Buy duty free premium perfumes brands such as Bvlgari, Chanel, Burberry at discounts.

Watches – Be it non-branded diamond-studded watches or branded watches such as Cartier, Rado or Burberry, buy all these at discounted rates.

Leather Goods – Buy Dubai’s best quality leather products, including bags, belts and jackets, or choose from international leather brands such as Condotti, Burberry, and Prada!

Home Decor – Bag beautiful home decor items including amazing floor carpets at 50 or even 75% discounts.

Electronics – Reputed international electronic brands such as Sony, Bose, Apple, Acer, and Fujitsu can be bought at very low prices here.

Local Produce – Buy local specialities such as spices and dry fruits at discounts at local stores and shops.

What Else to Look Out For?

The amazing festival is not all about shopping and sales. During the festival, the city of Dubai turns into a cultural hub with many celebrity performances, fireworks, international fashion shows, and rock concerts at cultural centres across the city. Some of the other major attractions to look out for at Dubai Shopping Festival 2017 are as follows.

•    Be sure to witness the vibrant fireworks held at night during the festival.

•    Many local companies also offer amazing desert safaris, hot air balloon rides, and dune bashing experiences as part of the festival.

•    There are several world-class concerts, musical shows, and acrobatic performances held at cultural centres during the event.

•    Learn about the latest fashion treads at fashion shows of leading international designers and brands at various venues across the city.

Unravel Ancient Mysteries in Cairo

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The mention of Egypt’s capital city Cairo brings to mind the mysterious, ancient and awe-inspiring Pyramids of Giza. This bustling city is a popular travel destination due to its endless list of historical attractions. Some of these world famous historical attractions are well-preserved while some are in half dilapidated condition. However, these are all-time favourites. Listed below are some of Egypt’s pearls of the ancient world.

Pyramids of Giza

The Pyramids of Giza are undoubtedly the most popular and most visited attraction in Egypt, let alone its capital Cairo. The Pyramids of Giza are a collection of three primary pyramids or mortuary monuments, which were built around 4,500 years ago. Admire the architecture of the Pyramid of Cheops, also known as the Pyramid of Khufu, which is the biggest pyramid of the three. Travellers can explore the interiors of its narrow passages, which contain a tomb chamber and a sarcophagus. The Pyramid of Chephren, popular as the Pyramid of Khefre, is the second pyramid. The Pyramid of Mycerinus, also known as the Pyramid of Menkaure, is the third and the smallest pyramid of the three.

Great Sphinx

Lying close to the Pyramids of Giza is the lion-bodied and pharaoh-faced Sphinx. Another world-famous and must-visit attraction, the Sphinx is said to be the guard of the Pyramids of Giza! Admire this ancient sculpture, which has a massive height of 66 feet and is 234 feet long. The monument is flanked by two ancient temples; one belongs to the Old Kingdom, while the other belongs to the New Kingdom.

Al-Azhar Mosque

Visit the serene Al-Azhar Mosque located in the centre of the Islamic Cairo district in Cairo. The mosque is a fine example of ancient architecture and is said to be one of the earliest surviving mosques in Cairo. Enter from the main entrance, the Gate of the Barbers, and reach the central courtyard to soak in fantastic views of the five minarets of the mosque. Walk through the courtyard to the main prayer hall, which covers a massive area of 3,000 square meters.

Saqqara

Another marvellous ancient site in Cairo, the Saqqara is located between Giza and Dahshur in southern Cairo. Saqqara is home to the oldest stone pyramid in Egypt, the Step Pyramid of Djoser. The archaeological site, surrounded by palm trees, houses the Step Pyramid of Djoser, Egypt’s oldest stone pyramid. The Step Pyramid is believed to have been built for pharaoh Djoser by architect Imhotep. The monument contains beautiful ancient graffiti on its walls.

The Citadel

Visit Cairo’s equally mystifying ancient site of the Citadel, which is located at the foot of the Mokattam Hills in Cairo. The Citadel contains many ancient monuments including the famous Mosque of Muhammad Ali, also popular as the Alabaster Mosque, the El-Nasir Mosque, and the Gawhara Terrace among others.

Kid-Centric Attractions and Activities in Dubai

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Planning to explore Dubai with your children? Well, we have a list of attractions and activities that’ll easily grab the attention of your kids and ensure an enjoyable time for them in the ‘City of Gold’. Some of these are exclusively meant for youngsters, while others encourage parents as well!

‘KidZania’

Open 7 days a week, the KidZania is an ‘interactive edutainment centre’, where the little ones can experience more than 80 role-playing professions in the replica of a real city. This ‘city’ is built to scale for children, complete with buildings, paved streets, vehicles, and identifiable destinations. The role playing professions enhance the physical, social, and intellectual skills of the participants. There’s a safe and independent area for toddlers too.

Sega Republic

Sega Republic is an indoor theme park for kids and others. It features 15 breathtaking attractions and more than 170 games, ranging from cutting-edge motion simulators and virtual experiences to one of the area’s biggest assortment of skill and redemption games. Some of the ‘attractions’ are Giant Slider, Xyclone, Racer, Wild Jungle and Rope Rush. Sega Republic is open daily from 10 AM to 1 AM.

Go Ice Skating to the ‘Dubai Ice Rink’

skating

If your child or even you love to ice-skate, then head to the ‘Dubai Ice Rink’ right away! This Olympic-size venue has over 2,000 pairs of skates imported from a popular manufacturer in Italy to fit children and adults of all ages and sizes.

Ski-Dubai

‘Ice Marshals’ keeps an eye on everyone during public skating hours to ensure safety. To entice people further, there are awesome DJ nights for ultimate entertainment.

Al Nasr Leisureland

Youngsters will have a delightful time at Al Nasr Leisureland as it features amazing rides such as Go Kart, Bumber Car, Himalaya Ride, Helicopter & Mini Bumber. There are superb facilities for tennis, squash, swimming, and bowling as well. The Olympic-sized ice rink with gallery is an apt spot for social entertainment events, stage shows, and award ceremonies. The food at the on-site restaurants is truly admirable!

Swim with the Dolphins at ‘Dubai Dolphinarium’

Dubai Dolphinarium is a jaw-dropping attraction not only for kids but adults too! Over here, one can swim and interact with dolphins.

aquarium

The bottlenose dolphins and seals show off their master skills in various action-packed shows. Dubai Dolphinarium also hosts programmes where more than 20 different birds and parrots flaunt their spectacular abilities. There are numerous souvenirs and toys at the gift shop.

Top 10 Experiences and Activities at Ras Al Khaimah

Ras Al Khaimah, the northernmost emirate of the UAE, is a scenic paradise of several pristine beaches, splendid natural lagoons, thick mangroves, and golden deserts.

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The emirate also boasts of many heritage sites and buildings, luxury sea-facing resorts, and thrilling water sports opportunities. Here are the top 10 experiences and activities to enjoy at Ras Al Khaimah.

Bassata Desert Village

Enjoy an exotic desert experience at the Bassata Desert Village. Adventure enthusiasts can enjoy dune bashing and camel riding while experiencing other traditional cultural activities such as belly dance, Arabic Tanoura, and Arabic barbecue. Enjoy an amazing overnight camp at the village.

Khatt Springs

The Khatt Springs is well known for its mineral-rich hot springs with therapeutic properties. Heal yourselves while relaxing at the hot pools surrounded by palm trees and rugged mountains. After soaking in the waters of the Khatt Springs, explore the majestic surroundings, complete with around 170 interesting archaeological sites.

Falcon Show

Falconry is an ancient tradition in Ras Al Khaimah. For a sneak-peek into this tradition, or rather sport, check out the one-of-its-kind falcon and raptor display at the Banyan Tree Al Wadi. The display has an amazing collection of falcons, hawks, kestrels, owls, and eagles.

Ras Al-Khaimah National Museum

Visit the Ras Al-Khaimah National Museum, an important attraction in the region. The museum displays numerous archaeological and ethnological artefacts, including treaties between Great Britain and the rulers of Ras Al-Khaimah, and traditional weapons.

Hajar Mountains

Go for exhilarating trips to the rugged Hajar Mountains, which form a surrounding backdrop of the emirate. Hike the Hajar Mountains and reach its highest point, the Jebel Jais, while admiring the dynamic rust-coloured sand dunes surrounding the mountain range.

Beach Parties

Ras Al Khaimah has some very beautiful sandy white beaches, which have managed to remain almost untouched in their beauty and serenity. Winters are the best time to relax or sunbathe on these gorgeous beaches and be part of some exciting beach parties with loads of music, dancing, and FUN!

Awafi Desert

The Awafi desert in Ras Al Khaimah is one of the most popular camping sites in the area, though camping happens there only in winters. The desert is known for its silky soft sand dunes, lovely weather, and a popular annual cultural festival. Year-round desert camps can be enjoyed at Bassata Desert Village and Bedouin Oasis Camp.

Jebel Jais

Drive or hike up to the 1934-metre high Jebel Jais, which is the tallest mountain in the UAE and is part of the Hajar Mountains. Reaching the summit of this rugged and wind-swept mountain is rewarding, plus the trail offers fantastic views of the nearby valleys.

Dhayah Fort

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History buffs will love this 16th century mud-brick fort, the Dhayah Fort. It was built as a military tower on a hilltop. The surrounding area has several other ruined fortifications and watchtowers.

Al Qawasim Corniche

Visit the fabulous Al Qawasim Corniche and enjoy excellent views of the Ras Al Khaimah Creek, its mangroves and the Hajar Mountains. The corniche has some fantastic cafés, shops and restaurants set up within historical buildings, surrounded by landscaped gardens, fountains and streams, making it a popular leisure spot among the locals and tourists.

Best Places to Enjoy Jaw-Dropping Views in Dubai

Dubai seems to have a penchant for the phrase ‘Larger than Life’. It is home to the tallest building – Burj Khalifa, largest mall – Dubai Mall, longest indoor slope – Ski Dubai, and biggest natural flower garden – Dubai Miracle Garden.

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The list doesn’t end here! Travellers from around the world flock to this lovely destination to not only admire these man-made creations, but also to check out the natural beauty too. We have bunched together some of the places that offer terrific views.

The Observatory

Located on the 52nd floor of the Marriott Harbour Hotel & Suites, The Observatory is a must-visit restaurant that offers scenic views of Palm Jumeirah and Dubai Marina. It is stylish and has a lively atmosphere- just the kind of spot vacationers want! The skyline is simply mind-blowing. Tourists must visit ‘The Observatory’ on a Friday, when mouth-watering seafood is served here. Signature dishes include Fried Camembert and Sirloin ‘Strindberg’. The restaurant’s dress code is smart casual with closed shoes. Beach wear, swim wear, sport wear and flip flops are not permitted!

One&Only The Palm

If you wish to stay at a place, which offers stunning sights, One&Only The Palm is the apt place for you! Its beachfront rooms treat guests to mesmerising views of palm trees. Every morning, you can enjoy a cup of coffee on the private balcony or patio and, at the same time, admire the views. This means, one need not go anywhere else to watch the spectacular sunrise and sunset. At night, the futuristic buildings are brightly illuminated and their reflection on the Gulf waters looks incredible.

Bateaux Dubai

Bateaux Dubai is a glass-enclosed and air-conditioned restaurant that not only offers delectable cuisines, fine beverages, live entertainment and personalised service, but also panoramic views of Dubai. While enjoying the food, customers can appreciate the starry sky and wonderful cityscape simultaneously. Couples can enjoy their dream date here! Their signature dishes include Fennell risotto with grilled scallop and coconut-milk poached Barramundi with sweet potato gratin.

Armani Hotel Dubai

Situated inside the Burj Khalifa, the Armani Hotel Dubai is a 5-star hotel famous for its high level of sophistication standards. The ‘Armani Fountain Suite’ offers excellent views of The Dubai Fountain – the world’s biggest choreographed fountain system by WET Design. Hotel guests can enjoy these sights from the comfort of their suites.

Pierchic

Pierchic is a top-notch Mediterranean seafood restaurant, which appears to float on the sea. Thus, people who come to this spot have an over-the-water dining experience. The restaurant treats you to fabulous sights of the Madinat Jumeirah on one side and the Burj-Al-Arab on the other. In the background, you can hear the natural sound of the waves lapping. Its signature dishes are Tuna Carpaccio with king crab panna cotta, white asparagus, caviar and soft quail egg. Pierchic only serves lunch and dinner.

The Yellow Boats: The Perfect Choice for an Interesting Sightseeing Experience in Dubai

The Yellow Boats offers an outstanding sightseeing experience to foreign and domestic travellers alike.

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Operating all year round, the tours are absolutely informative and emotionally satisfying. People get an unprecedented chance to ride in an inflatable boat and appreciate the picturesque and charming views of Dubai.

Significance

Set up in 2009, The Yellow Boats carries more than 70,000 passengers annually. The brand aims ‘to deliver the highest levels of quality, best value and exceptional services’ to guests. The guides are experienced. They are professional and humble by nature. They will show you some of the best sights of the UAE and elaborate on its culture and attractions.

Safety

Focusing on safety, the boats are manned by experienced and fully qualified crews. Also, each boat comes well-equipped with the latest GPS navigation and safety equipment, thus guaranteeing smooth and safe rides. The eco-friendly Evinrude engines used in the boats can run properly in bad weather conditions. The fresh and ultra lightweight life jackets are provided to everyone on board!

Types of Dubai Tours

The tours are perfect for couples as well as families and corporate groups. Without beating about the bush, let us introduce you to the diverse types of tours that you may look forward to in the fun-filled in the ‘City of Gold’.

Palm Jumeirah, Burj Al Arab & Marina Tour

This 90-minute tour allows you to cruise through the Dubai Marina and marvel at its spectacular skyline. Many five-star hotels and well-known spots along the beach are visible. Other than the Burj Khalifa, JBR Walk and Atlantis Hotel, the luxurious villas on the Palm Island can be seen too. You will get many photo opportunities.

Prices: 280 AED (Adult), 210 AED (Child)

Palm Jumeirah & Burj Al Arab Tour

By participating in this 75-minute tour, embark on an unimaginable trip to the Arabian Gulf, passing through enchanting islands, astonishing architectural structures, pristine beaches and attractive water life. The tour takes the participants to the most exclusive waterfront areas of the region. Iconic sights such as The Palm Jumeirah and Burj Al Arab are not to be missed!

Prices: 200 AED (Adult), 150 AED (Child)

Marina & Palm Lagoon Tour

This 45-minute tour is a slow-paced panoramic trip of Dubai Marina and Palm Lagoon, treating you to views of the gorgeous skyline and the magnificent 21st century modern architecture. The guide will draw everybody’s attention to the popular landmarks such as the Twisted Tower, Princess Tower, Address Hotel, Al Fattan Towers, Dubai Marina Yacht Club and JBR Walk.

Prices: 150 AED (Adult), 110 AED (Child)

Thrill Ride

As the name suggests, the Thrill Ride is a 30-minute trip where the skipper demonstrates what the Yellow Boats can do at high speeds. There’ll be a series of twists and turns that will get your adrenaline pumping. Potential participants must remember that the tour is available on an exclusive basis only.

Prices: 1200 AED (Adult)

Exclusive Charters

A great way for a special day out with your family or friends. A maximum of 10 passengers are allowed aboard these exclusive charters: Palm Jumeirah, Burj Al Arab and Dubai Marina (2250 AED), Palm Jumeirah and Burj Al Arab (1850 AED) and Dubai Marina and Palm Jumeirah Lagoon (1200 AED).

Travel Tips for Visiting Abu Dhabi during Ramadan

Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic Calendar, is observed by the Muslims as a month of fasting to celebrate the first disclosure of the Quran to Muhammad.

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The fasting starts at dawn and ends by dusk. As many countries and cities commemorate this festival on a large scale, tourists must be aware of certain things.

Food and Drink

Tourists need to be careful as eating, drinking and smoking at a public space is strictly prohibited during Ramadan. Car and bus travellers must stick to this rule as well. Foodies should be aware that most of the restaurants and bars are closed during the day. Many of them open only after dusk, but do not play live music. These places extend their hours at night for innumerable consumers. Contrarily, 4-star and 5-star hotels can provide special facilities for the international travellers. Getting meals delivered by room service is a convenient option!

Schools and Companies

Corporate travellers need to keep in mind that private businesses and government offices tend to lessen their working hours during Ramadan. For example, this time the public sector is supposed to operate from 9AM to 2 PM. However, keeping things diverse, private companies can have a different work schedule. Business meetings should be kept short and precise. Morning is the best time as business partners tend to be more attentive! Schools run for a shorter period of time.

Shopping

The shops are closed in the daytime but re-open after sunset. The bigger businesses shut at around midnight while the smaller ones continue till dawn. To entice potential customers, there are attractive discounts on clothes and electrical items. Shopaholics can visit popular shopping malls like Yas Mall, Marina Mall, and Abu Dhabi Mall for a delightful experience. Some of the malls may even feature shopping festivals!

Dress Code

In the holy month, international travellers should dress more modestly. They need to cover themselves from the shoulder to the knee. Revealing or tight clothes should be avoided in public places such as malls and gyms. Shorts, miniskirts are a big no-no! Although hotel areas might be slightly flexible regarding this, everyone should adhere to the laid-out norms.