UAE in short, the United Arab Emirates is one of the
oil rich countries in the Middle East. Comprised of seven emirates namely, Abu
Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, Ras Al Khaimah, Umm Al Quwain and Fujairah, which
range from cosmopolitan centers to serene agriculture regions. Lying at the
northeastern part of the Arabian Peninsular, the U.A.E. is bordered by the
Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to the south and west, and the Sultanate of Oman to the
east and north. It has a coastline on both the Gulf of Oman and is south of the
strategically Strait of Hormuz.
Abu Dhabi is the capital of the country, which
contrasts, blending traditional Arab, Islamic values and a culture with
cosmopolitan living environment. Every amenity is available to the visiting
tourist and well as the businessmen to make their stay comfortable and
enjoyable.
Dubai, the second largest among the seven emirates of
the United Arab Emirates with 3,885 sq. kms, lying in the calm waters of the
southern Gulf, surrounded by the arid deserts.
The UAE has an open economy with one of the world's
highest per capita incomes. Its wealth is chiefly based on the oil sector, which
in 1988 contributed 22% of the county's gross domestic product of Dhs. 170.1
billion. At present production levels, the oil and gas reserves in Abu Dhabi
should last a further 100 - 150 years. Abu Dhabi and Dubai contribute to the
country's GDP, with trade, manufacturing, tourism and construction also playing
an important part in the economy.
The situation in the Emirates today is radically
different to that of 30 - 40 years ago, when the area consisted of small,
impoverished desert states. Visitors today will find a unified and forward
looking state with a high standard of living and a relatively well balanced and
stable economy.
The UAE became a member of the United Nations and the
Arab League in 1971. It is a member of the International Monetary Fund, the
Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries (OPEC), the World Trade
Organization and other international and Arab organizations, including the Arab
Gulf Cooperation Council (AGCC, also known as GCC), whose other members are
Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar and Saudi Arabia. The UAE led by HH Sheikh Zayed
Bin Sultan Al Nahyan, had a leading role in the formation of the AGCC in 1981
and the country is the third largest member in terms of geographical size, after
Saudi Arabia and Oman. In its foreign relations, the UAE stance is one of
non-alignment, but it is committed to the support of Arab unity.
Getting Around
Dubai Dubai is mainly divided into two major
parts, the Deira Dubai and the Bur Dubai, with the Dubai Creek dividing them.
Deira is the traditional side of the city, with traditional spice souks, gold
souks, etc. where as Bur Dubai is almost the modern Dubai with major hotels,
state of the art communication facilities, with high raised towers. Roads as
well as Abras connect both Deira and Bur Dubai.
Except during a short
period in summer, Dubai has got a comfortable climate for tourist to go around.
Dubai has a well-knit public transport, and in addition to it Radio taxis are
available at affordable rates.
An ideal starting
point to get around Dubai, is the Dubai Creek, either from the Bur Dubai side or
the Deira Dubai side. Traditional wooden dhows known as the Abras connect either
side of the Dubai and are an enjoyable ride at a very reasonable cost.
Bastakiya The old Bastakiya district with its
narrow lanes into the shopping area of Bur Dubai is the traditional glimpse of
old Dubai. The window towers of the Bastakiya district, the Al Ahmedieh School -
Dubai's first educational institute, the ancient Al Fahidi Fort, now home of the
new Dubai Museum, are the traditional structures depicting ancient Dubai.
Al Fahidi Museum The Ancient Al Fahidi Fort, built in
19th Century and renovated in 1970. The objects and photographs on display
provide a glimpse of life as it was before the discovery of oil. Artifacts from
archaeological excavation have also been preserved.
Sheikh Saeed's House The palace of Sheikh Saeed. the former
ruler of Dubai and the grand father of the present ruler H.H. Sheikh Maktoum Bin
Rashid Al Maktoum was built during the late 1800s. The palace was built in a
commanding position near the sea so the Ruler could view the activities in the
sea. This palace is an example of regional architecture.
Jumeirah Mosque Dubai's culture is firmly rooted into
the Islamic tradition of the Arab. So the city has many fine mosques. One of the
largest and most beautiful - Jumeirah Mosque, with a twin minaret and majestic
domes is a city landmark. It has an excellent view in the night, the lighting
throwing out its artistry in relief.
Dhow Tours Tours by the creek are an interesting
feature offered by traditional dhows. Arrangement can be made to visit the
neighboring emirates by these tours.
The Souks The souks on both the sides of the
creek are not only a place for shopping bargains but also an attraction for
sightseer and photographers. The variety of goods available in the winding
alleys is bewildering - ranging from the latest electronics goods to gold
jewelry and textiles.
Heritage and Diving
Village A traditional heritage village, where
potters and weavers display their craft, is located near the mouth of the creek,
the visitors can have a look in the past history of Dubai. This is a good
location for evening visitors.
Al Boom Tourist Village A
village with a touch of traditional design, located near the mouth of the creek,
the village consist of a restaurant, amusement park, ornamental lake and a
marina with five cruise boats. Its traditional architecture forms a stately city
landmark.