Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
take a cab to Sharjah for a glimpse into the past in the
Heritage Area
, stocking up on souvenirs at the
Central
Souq
and enjoying dinner in bubbly
Al Qasba
.
One Week
Spend two days in futuristic Dubai and one in retro Sharjah before heading south to Abu Dhabi to marvel at the
Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque
, zoom around
Ferrari World
and learn about the new Culture District on
Saadiyat Island
. For total contrast, dip into the desert next to face a huge dune, magical silence and plenty of
camels, preferably on an overnight trip. Wrap up with a day in Al Ain and its fabulous
zoo
and Unesco-recog-
nised heritage sites.
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Essential Food & Drink
Strangely, restaurants serving authentic Emirati food are scarce. If you do get a chance, try
these typical dishes, and don't miss out on the succulent local dates!
»
Balaleet
Vermicelli blends with sugar syrup, saffron, rosewater and sauteed onions in
this rich breakfast staple.
»
Fareed
Mutton-flavoured broth with bread; popular at Ramadan.
»
Hareis
Ground wheat and lamb slow-cooked until creamy (bit like porridge); some-
times called the 'national dish'.
»
Khuzi
Stuffed whole roasted lamb on a bed of spiced rice.
»
Madrooba
Salt-cured fish
(maleh)
or chicken mixed with raw bread dough until thick.
»
Makbus
A casserole of spice-laced rice and meat (usually lamb) or fish garnished with
nuts, raisins and fried onions.
AT A GLANCE
»
Currency
UAE dirham (Dh)
»
Mobile phones
GSM network is widespread
»
Money
ATMs are common in urban areas
»
Visas
Available on arrival for 34 nationalities
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