Maiasura

Phone: +1-857-529-9517

Mail: info@maiasura.com

United Arab Emirates

United Arab Emirates

Capital city description

Abu Dhabi is the capital of the UAE, and it is the country's largest and second-most populous city. Abu Dhabi is home to local and federal government offices, the United Arab Emirates Government, and the Supreme Petroleum Council.

Abu Dhabi is a humble abode to the President of the UAE, a member of the Al Nahyan family. Abu Dhabi's rapid development and urbanization, coupled with the massive oil and gas reserves and production and relatively high average income, have transformed it into a large, developed metropolis. It is the country's epicenter of politics and industry and an influential culture and commerce center. Abu Dhabi accounts for about two-thirds of the roughly $400 billion UAE economy.

Climate

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has a desert climate characterized by pleasantly mild winters and sweltering, sunny summers, with the humidity of the Persian Gulf.

Annual precipitation is almost everywhere below 100 millimeters (4 inches) and is concentrated in winter. The rains are rare, but they occur in showers or downpours, sometimes intense.

Languages spoken

The official language of the United Arab Emirates is Standard Arabic. The English language is primarily used in business relations and in educating students.  Other spoken languages in the UAE are Urdu, Hindi, and Farsi.

Fun/Fascinating Facts

  1. Terminal 3 of the Dubai International Airport is the largest airport terminal globally. It is no less than a shopping mall. It features a 5-star hotel - Dubai International Hotel, many apple stores, a swimming pool, a gym, Snoozecubes, a jacuzzi, and not one but TWO zen gardens! The airport also has the fastest Wi-Fi speed of any airport globally! The Dubai International Airport is also the second busiest airport in Asia.
  2. The Burj Al Arab is the world's first seven-star hotel and is believed to be one of the most luxurious in the world. The hotel's interiors are embellished with 24-carat gold leaves covering 1790 square meters. 
  3. The Dubai Aquarium Tank, with a capacity of 10 million liters, is the largest suspended aquarium globally! It is situated at the ground level of the Dubai Mall. It has the most extensive collection of Sand Tiger Sharks in the world. The aquarium houses more than 33,000 aquatic animals from over 200 species.
  4. The Dubai Mall is the world's enormous shopping mall. Its internal area covers 5.9 million square feet.
  5. The UAE has more than just one royal family. A different royal family rules each Emirate of the UAE. The most famous and influential are the Al Nahyan royal family of Abu Dhabi and Dubai's Al Maktoum royal family.

Unique Customs/Traditions

  • Most Emirati men and women dress in their traditional style. The national dress for men is the kandura, a white-colored ankle-length garment worn with a headscarf, either white or red checkered. 
  • Emirati men greet each other with long hugs and kisses. However, this is restricted to each other and does not involve women. For foreigners, the greetings are limited to handshakes. However, if you are a man, you should refrain from giving a handshake to an Emirati woman unless she offers first.
  •  Customarily, it is not allowed to take pictures of local women as it is disrespectful and can even lead to a big conflict between the two parties.
  • Showing public affection is not allowed and will most certainly lead to arrest. Another thing to remember is that since locals are not allowed to drink, drinking in public or being drunk is prohibited.
  • Traditionally, the Emirati diet is a hearty mix of highly seasoned and spicy dishes consisting mainly of meats, rice and cereals, dairy, and dates. The meats are mostly chicken and goat, with the camel on special occasions.
  • The magnificence ritual of painting the hands and feet with henna dye is an integral part of the lives of Arabic women here. The women wear henna at any time, especially at weddings and special occasions. Getting together for a henna party in the evening is a joint social event for Emirati women.
  •  Staring at  Emirati women is considered offensive and should be avoided at all costs, especially if you are a man.

Popular universities

Name Description
The United Arab Emirates University (UAEU) The United Arab Emirates University (UAEU) is the first and the largest academic institution in the United Arab Emirates, founded by the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan in 1976. Today, the university continues to fulfill its progressive vision, contributing to the development of the United Arab Emirates as a model for the Arab world and a successful example of a peaceful, safe, and fast-growing cosmopolitan society. United Arab Emirates University (UAEU) offers a full range of internationally accredited, high-quality graduate and undergraduate programs through nine Colleges: Business and Economics, Science, Education, Engineering, Food and Agriculture, Humanities and Social Science, IT, Law, Medicine, and Health Sciences.
The American University of Sharjah (AUS) The American University of Sharjah (AUS) is an independent, non-profit, coeducational institution of higher education formed on the American liberal arts model, founded in 1997. Acclaimed for its academic excellence and multicultural environment, The American University of Sharjah (AUS) integrates broad-based liberal arts education with professional education studies. The American University of Sharjah (AUS) offers 28 majors and 45 minors at the undergraduate level, 16 master’s degrees, and three Ph.D. programs through the College of Architecture, Art and Design; the College of Arts and Sciences; the College of Engineering; and the School of Business Administration.
New York University Abu Dhabi Established in 2010, New York University Abu Dhabi is a private higher education institution located in the urban setting of the large city of Abu Dhabi. New York University Abu Dhabi (NYUAD) offers engineering and social sciences courses to the sciences, arts, and humanities.
Higher Colleges of Technology Higher Colleges of Technology is a non-profit public higher education institution located in the medium city of Al-Ain, Abu Dhabi, founded in 1988 by the Federal Decree. Higher Colleges of Technology offers many different, work-relevant, English-taught programs in Applied Media, Business, Computer Information Science, Engineering Technology & Science, Health Sciences, and Education at various levels. All programs are designed in consultation with business and industry leaders to ensure the students’ skills are job-relevant and to the highest standards.
University of Sharjah The University of Sharjah is one of the leading academic institutions in the Middle East and the Gulf region. Endowed by a great campus and world-class facilities, the University places a strong emphasis on quality education. The University offers educational programs in many disciplines, including the Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences, Medical and Health Sciences, Engineering and Applied Sciences, Business, Communications, Law and Islamic Studies, and Fine Arts and Design.
Khalifa University Founded in 2007, Khalifa University is a private higher education institution located in the large city of Abu Dhabi. Khalifa University of Science and Technology brings together the best in science, engineering, and medicine in the UAE, to offer specialized degrees that can take promising high school graduates to top-rated doctorate holders.
American University in Dubai American University in Dubai is a for-profit private higher education institution located in the urban setting of the metropolis of Dubai. Established in 1995 and officially licensed by the Ministry of Education of the United Arab Emirates, American University in Dubai (AUD) is a small coeducational Emirati higher education institution. American University in Dubai (AUD) offers courses and programs leading to officially recognized higher education degrees such as pre-bachelor degrees (i.e., certificates, diplomas, associate or foundation), bachelor degrees, master degrees in several areas of study.
Zayed University Zayed University is a national and regional leader in educational innovation, founded in 1998. Zayed University has two modern Dubai and Abu Dhabi campuses that welcome national and international students. Zayed University (ZU) offers courses and programs leading to officially recognized higher education degrees such as bachelor's degrees, master's degrees in several areas of study.
Ajman University (AU) Ajman University (AU) is the first private University to admit international students. Established in 1988, AU continues to pioneer inclusion, innovation, and social impact in higher education within the UAE. Ajman University (AU) is a coeducational Emirati higher education institution. English is the primary language of instruction at Ajman University, with most undergraduate and graduate degree courses being taught in English. Some courses in Humanities and Law are taught in Arabic. Ajman University (AU) offers courses and programs leading to officially recognized higher education degrees such as bachelor's degrees, master's degrees in several areas of study.
Abu Dhabi University Founded in 2003, Abu Dhabi University is a for-profit private higher education institution located in the suburban setting of the large city of Abu Dhabi. This institution also has a branch campus in Al Ain. Officially licensed by the Ministry of Education of the United Arab Emirates, Abu Dhabi University (ADU) is a small coeducational Emirati higher education institution. Abu Dhabi University (ADU) offers courses and programs leading to officially recognized higher education degrees such as bachelor's degrees, master's degrees, doctorate degrees in several areas of study.

Festivals & Events

Dubai shopping festival

Date: 15th December- 30th January

Dubai shopping festival has been the perfect event for shoppers looking for great bargains. Residents and visitors alike can look forward to retail therapy from international and homegrown brands, as well as live entertainment and pop-up thrills for shoppers, gourmet, and families across the city.

Dubai shopping festival offers themed outdoor markets and new chances to win life-changing prizes to the best deals at world-class attractions.

National Day

Date: 2nd December

National Day is one of the most meaningful days in the UAE calendar. On 2 December, it marks the anniversary of the UAE’s formal independence from the UK and the union of the country’s seven emirates. The focal point of the festivities is the Zayed Stadium. Locals take to the streets in the colors of the national flag, heading to a wide range of celebrations, including dance shows, concerts, and more. The creative performances tell the story of the UAE’s history and culture, from military fly-pasts to breathtaking dance displays. 

Eid Al Fitr

Date: May or April (date varies)

Eid Al Fitr marks the end of Ramadan, the Islamic holy month of fasting. It’s one of the most important religious festivals in the Islamic world, and in the UAE, the whole country comes together to celebrate the occasion. Many Emirati Muslims will go to mosques on Eid Al Fitr for prayer, hear a khutba sermon, and give away food as an act of charity. 

Local communities may also hold communal meals and children’s events. Private families may also keep festive meals and share the food with the poor, and it is common to wear fine, new clothing to these events. 

Abu Dhabi Grand Prix

Date: December

Abu Dhabi Grand Prix has been a spectacular event since 2009; the UAE has hosted the thrilling climax to the Formula 1 world championship. Under the lights of the impressive Yas Marina Circuit. The Yas Marina Circuit is a shining example of modern Formula One circuit design. It features nine right turns, and 12 left turns and is one of the few venues on the calendar to run in an anti-clockwise direction. The circuit with the artificial harbor resembles the circuit of Monaco. A dominating sight is the Yas Viceroy Hotel inside the circuit. The cars pass the hotel beneath a bridge connecting the two parts of the hotel. The fastest drivers in the world battle it out on the track to take the coveted checkered flag. The whole city comes alive with unmistakable Formula 1 buzz during race weekend. 

Al Dhafra Festival

Date: November - January

Al Dhafra is one of the world’s biggest festivities of the local Bedouin culture, held near Madinat Zaye. The festival showcases a range of Emirati traditions, from falconry and camel racing to handicrafts and music performances.

There are numerous activities for the kids in the children’s village, including art workshops, cooking classes, and more. Nevertheless, the highlight of the whole event is the famous Mazayna known as the camel beauty contests that involve tens of thousands of camels from across the Arabian Peninsula and focus on the purebred camels from the Asayel (pedigree) and Majaheem (dark-skinned) lineages.

Dubai International Jazz Festival

Date: February

The Dubai International Jazz Festival has become one of the most famous music festivals since 2003, held annually in February at Dubai Media City Amphitheatre. The festival offers a variety of world-class performances, attracting the world’s top jazz musicians and internationally recognized artists, the most popular of them being Mariah Carey, Deep Purple, James Blunt, John Legend, and a lot more. The event has also hosted award-winning international stars like Ricky Martin and Alicia Keys.

The Dubai Jazz Festival has won many awards, the best being “Best Festival” at Time Out Dubai’s Music.

Prophet’s Birthday (Eid Al Mawlid Al Nabawi)

Date: October

One of the most important festivals in the Islamic community is the Prophet’s Birthday, referred to as Eid Al Mawlid Al Nabawi. The day celebrates the life of the Islamic Prophet Muhammed on the 12th day of Rabi Al Awwal. Locals often mark the occasion with parades showing their respect and love for him.

These celebrations traditionally conclude with sharing a meal with friends and family. Most Muslim communities spend the day connecting with God spiritually by either fasting or reading the Quran.

Attractions / Top Sights

Burj Khalifa

When to visit: November to March

The Burj Khalifa is one of the United Arab Emirates' most famous buildings and the soaring sky-high landmark of Dubai.

It is the world's tallest building at 828 meters high, located next to the Dubai Mall. It also lays claim to the titles of tallest freestanding structure globally, the most elevated observation deck globally, and an elevator with the longest travel distance in the world. 



Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque

When to visit: Between November and April

The remarkable and inspiring Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is one of the world's largest mosques, located in Abu Dhabi, the capital city of the United Arab Emirates. The mosque harmoniously blends modern and ancient styles and techniques to create a new interpretation of Islamic architecture.

The exterior and interior of the mosque utilize splendid amounts of gold, mosaic tiles, and glasswork to decorate the mosque's white marble stonework. Inside, the prayer hall is laid with the world's largest hand-knotted carpet (5,700 square meters) and enlightened by chandeliers made from 24-karat gold and crystals. While outside, the extended marble courtyard incorporates a mammoth swirling floral floor mosaic of semi-precious stones.

Al-Ain

When to visit: November to March

When to visit: https://www.nationalgeographic.com/travel/article/al-ain-united-arab-emirates

 Al-Ain is the capital's garden city, one of the world's oldest permanently inhabited settlements, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It was once a vital oasis on the caravan route from UAE to Oman. It is primarily known for its greenery and is a stunning sight amid a desert.

 Al-Ain is the cultural site of the UAE with a lot of history and culture broiling in it for a long time and a home to various panoramic forts and museums, along with the iconic oasis lined with date palm trees, which is the main attraction of Al Ain.

Louvre Abu Dhabi

When to visit: Between November and April (Tuesday - Sunday)

When to visit: https://www.louvre.fr/en/the-louvre-in-france-and-around-the-world/the-louvre-abu-dhabi

The first universal and most spectacular museum in the United Arab Emirates, the Louvre Abu Dhabi, the results from an intergovernmental agreement signed between France and the United Arab Emirates on 6 March 2007. It brings the Louvre name to Abu Dhabi and presents both ancient and contemporary works of historical, cultural, and sociological interest worldwide.

The museum's permanent collection contains some 700 artworks and groups from prehistoric times to the present day. Prize-winning architect Jean Nouvel designed the complex's avant-garde architecture inspired by the Saadiyat site's unique features: a virgin lagoon island, between sand and sea, shade and light.



Jebel Jais Mountain

When to visit: October to April

When to visit: https://visitjebeljais.com/

With an altitude of almost 2,000 meters, the Jebel Jais Mountain in Ras Al Khaimah (RAK) is the tallest peak in the UAE, a meaningful activity hub in the country. It features the most picturesque views in the region. The views of the winding road through the deep rocky canyon of the mountain are truly spectacular and unique.

The Jebal Jais Viewing Deck Park allows you to experience the magic and take splendid surroundings’ shots, flooded with exhilarating activities such as ziplining, hiking, camping, etc.

Palm Islands

When to visit: Between November to April

One of the most famous artificial archipelagos with unique structures globally, Palm Islands, is a group of 3 islands, Palm Jumeirah, Palm Jebel Ali, and Deira Island, situated on the coast of Dubai United Arab Emirates. The artistic design, incredible infrastructure, exciting entertainment centers, a wide variety of award-winning restaurants serving every cuisine, and other tourist spots make these islands famous and favorite tourists hubs.

Burj Al Arab

When to visit: November to February

One of Dubai’s first record-breaking structures and a famous luxury hotel, the Burj Al Arab, sits on an artificial island of 280 m (920 ft) from Jumeirah Beach and is connected to the mainland by a private curving bridge. It is one of the tallest hotels on Dubai’s coast and has impressive views of the ever-growing city.

Designed by Tom Wright and built on Dubai’s coast in 1999, the Burj Al Arab, which means ‘the Arabian Tower,’ was built over five years. The shape of the structure is designed to resemble the sail of a ship. It has a helipad near the roof, at 210 m (689 ft) above ground.

Dubai Parks & Resorts

When to visit: Between November to April

When to visit: https://www.dubaiparksandresorts.com/en

In Dubai, Dubai Parks & Resorts brings four major theme parks rolled into one: Motiongate, dedicated to rides themed around Hollywood films; Bollywood Parks; Legoland Dubai; and Legoland Water Park.

Abu Dhabi is home to two of the country's most well-known branded theme parks, both on Yas Island. Ferrari World is a thrill-seeker's dream come true, with the world's fastest roller coaster as its landmark ride. At the same time, Warner Bros World offers six worlds to explore, from Cartoon Junction for small children to Metropolis and Gotham City with rides and attractions themed around DC Comic storylines. Dubai's Wild Wadi Water Park is another perfect park for older kids and youngsters wanting something more than simply slides. The park offers white water kayaking, surfing, wakeboarding, and swimming pools for those who need a rest from all the tiring yet enjoyable activities.


Al Fahidi quarter

When to visit: October to April

The Al Fahidi quarter of Dubai, most commonly known as Bastakhia, is the last remaining fragment of Old Dubai. This small historical heritage area evokes a more superficial, gentler past before skyscrapers took over the skyline. The narrow lanes within the neighborhood are lined with carefully restored traditional buildings in typical Arabian architectural styles, many with the wind tower features, which kept houses cool before air-conditioning became common. 

The ancient buildings are now home to various Dubai museums, cultural centers, galleries, and restaurants.

Sir Bani Yas Island

When to visit: November to March

Sir Bani Yas Island is a nature-based destination, a haven to stunning wildlife, a range of family-friendly adventure activities, five-star boutique hotels, luxury villas, purpose-built stables, and historical sites. It was awarded the World’s Leading Sustainable Tourism Destination at the 2014 World Travel Awards.

More than half of this fantastic island comprises the Arabian Wildlife Park, one of the region’s largest wildlife reserves home to more than 17,000 free-roaming animals, including Arabian oryx, gazelles, giraffes, hyenas, and cheetahs. Guests can enjoy 4x4 nature and wildlife safaris in specially made vehicles accompanied by expert guides, with the island’s state-of-the-art stables offering a variety of equestrian activities and lessons for the whole family.