Know Before You Go
Traveling to any country has its dos, don’ts and ways to get the best out of the destination and your experience. I always start my tips with “know before you go”
The United Arab Emirates is an Emirate country. What does that mean? It means that it consists of territories or land of an Emir. There are 7 Emirates. Dubai (the most populous), Abu Dhabi (the capital), Sharjah, Ajman, Ras al-Khaimah, Fujairah, and Umm al-Quwain
US Citizens need a passport for stays of 30 days or less, just make sure it’s valid for six months beyond your date of entry and have at least one blank visa page.
If you visit travel.state.gov and click on entry and requirements, it’s noted to register your medications. What I’m not sure about is how many people actually do it. I’m just the messenger in this case. The direct link to register a pharmaceutical product is here.
Modesty is the best policy. Ladies, anything too short, tight or transparent should not go in your luggage. Not leaving the guys out, I’m sure you packed shirts, so wear them. no shirtless adventures, unless you’re at the beach or pool. Respect any culture when you visit a country.
To display PDA (Public Display of Affection) or not? I love to see couples in love but let’s not get carried away. Keep the canoodling for private moments, it’s very offensive and in some cases can lead to imprisonment.
Now to the fun stuff.
When to go? In the UAE it’s either hot or very hot, well maybe there’s very, very hot as well. The summer months are, of course, the hottest when temperatures can soar. The best time to go is October – April when the temperatures range between 65 – low 90’s.
Shopping: there are many ways and places to shop. Everywhere! Where you go depends on what you are shopping for and your budget. In Dubai, Malls Are Fun. There are high-end malls like the Dubai Mall and outlet malls like the Dubai Outlet Mall. Then, head to Dubai Creek for the Souks. Dubai is best known for its gold and the best place to get gold is at the Gold Souk, the varieties are endless. Also, check out the Silver. I’ve gotten some very unique pieces in Dubai in the Souks. Pashminas are also plentiful. Dropping some knowledge: Pashmina is a fine type of cashmere wool. The textiles made from it were first woven in Kashmir. The name comes from Persian meaning “made from wool”. The finest pashmina is Kasmiri. This means the prices will vary greatly depending on the fabrics used. Those blended with wool, silk or cotton are less expensive and those made of synthetic fibers are the least expensive.
Alcohol: Alcohol is sold at hotels, restaurants, and bars and can be consumed there. However, public drinking and drunkenness is not permitted so, drink responsibly.
Yummy in your tummy. Some of the best chefs in the world have restaurants in the UAE. But, you don’t have to spend a fortune. There are numerous dining experiences in the UAE, even Garretts Popcorn. Here’s another but…But, you’re in Dubai, why would you want Garretts Popcorn from Chicago? Check out this great list of foods to try in Dubai. There’s also a great Asian food scene in Dubai.
What To See:
- The Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world.
- The Burj Al Arab (The hotel that looks like a sail), the only way to enter is to have business there. If you have time, have high tea there. If no, just enjoy the view and take photos from afar.
- A desert safari: You can ride the desert sand dunes in a 4 wheel drive vehicle (driven by an expert), ride camels, dine under the stars, etc.
- Visit the Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi
- Visit the Louvre in Abu Dhabi
Know before you go, follow the rules, explore and enjoy the UAE!
“Where ever you go, go with all your heart.” – Confucius.