From Souks to Skyscrapers: A Traveler’s Guide to the UAE

Above Dubai - HeliDubai Review 2

In the UAE, you can get several experiences, often those for which people travel to several countries. One day, you can visit the heritage side of the UAE and go to various mosques and souks. When you’re in a driving mood the other day, hire a car in Dubai and drive through the urban landscape among glass towers. End your vacation on the sunny beach or among the dunes – the UAE has all of it.

As you see, the landscape is extra rich. If you seek to spend your vacation to the fullest, choose the UAE. Combine different experiences and get new emotions at first-rate destinations. 

Explore Beyond City Limits

Most travelers choose to stick to the city centers. But the real UAE is at ancient oases, dunes, and beyond Dubai, where taxis or public transport don’t really go. That is why, for a transformative and full experience in the Emirates, car rental deals are the best option. Plan your own route and shape it on the go because you are free to go anywhere you randomly want in the rental car in the UAE. 

Here, the roads are the additional attraction; they are worth driving at least once. Smooth highways and multi-language signage are only a part of modern road infrastructure in the UAE. For couples, family, and friends trips, and even for a single traveler, a hired car is the chance to not depend on anyone. Get in the vehicle and go wherever you suddenly want: the mountain villages of Ras Al Khaimah or the serene beaches of Fujairah. Or just race on the highways in a luxurious car!

There are several things to keep in mind if you choose freedom of rental car in the UAE:

  • The driver has to be at least 21, which can rise to 25 depending on the car model.
  • Grab your national driving license or an international driving permit.
  • Same as in the USA, roads are left-hand drive.

Get to Know the Soul of the UAE

The basic thing that all travelers come for is photos, skylines, and some cultural background. However, the UAE has something deeper to offer to them. Cultural connection is deeply represented in places like the Gold Souk. Step there and discover the new taste of shopping, which costs more than just a mall stroll. Here you can buy nearly anything except for uninteresting goods. Jewelry, wedding sets, custom goods – everything that represents traditions that are always relevant here.

To dive more deeply into culinary traditions, visit the Spice Souk or the Textile Souk. The latter will get you the opportunity to buy a wearable souvenir from your trip. Meanwhile, on the Spice Souk, you are likely not only to buy spices but also get unique Emirati cuisine insights.

The Cultural Heart of the UAE

Here, the culture concerns not only the trade. Visiting mosques or museums can bring you a deeper understanding of the UAE culture. Here is the list of places to include in the itinerary to appreciate the Emirates’ story:

  • Al Fahidi Historical District. This site will show you how this territory lived even before everyone discovered its rich economic potential.
  • Sheikh Mohammed Centre. Here, tourists can ask questions not findable on Google, and locals will answer them.
  • Old Sharjah. Tourists miss out on museums and rich heritage sights by avoiding this city on their itinerary.
  • Heart of Sharjah. Go to this area if you desire to see Emirati architecture and life before the skyscrapers.

Urban Wonders: Skyscrapers and More

Let’s move to one of the most prominent sights tourists come to Dubai for – Dubai downtown. Glass skyscrapers among the desert look fantastic, but it’s the UAE’s reality. The observation deck on Burj Khalifa will give you an enduring view. The Burj Khalifa is a symbol of the Emirates’ technological progress, and typically, nobody says no to visiting it.

Making Sense of Dubai Mall Culture 12

But there is more urban progress worth attention. For instance, the Cayan Tower, which spirals into the sky. Or Burj Al Arab, which you have no chance of mistaking for other skyscrapers because it looks like a giant sail. Dubai Marina is one more area worth visiting. The blue waters reflect glass towers in the man-made canal city. Rent a yacht there or get a new dining experience in one of the floating restaurants.

Among the other UAE destinations that you have most likely heard of is the Dubai Mall. Here, you can experience a different understanding of shopping. You probably expect there to be designer boutiques, but an indoor ice rink, a giant aquarium, and virtual-reality zones – unlikely. 

The UAE-Specific Traveling Tips

As you see, the UAE can bring you unforgettable memories to carry throughout life. Everything is about to go smoothly if you follow some generally known rules:

  • Exceeding speed limits, tailgating, or sudden lane changes are not tolerated here. Be aware of the UAE traffic regulations and drive calmly.
  • Respect the dress code. Cover your shoulders and knees in malls, museums, and religious sites.
  • Something casual may be offensive here. Public displays of affection, drunkenness, and rude gestures are the reason for a fine.
  • Alcohol consumption. Alcohol is legal only in licensed venues.

Having everything under control is the only right way to enjoy the trip fully. Plan your itinerary, think about what type of travel sticks to your desires, and explore the bright horizons of the UAE!


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