What cultural characteristics should be taken into account when yachting in Dubai?

Both Islamic and secular holidays are celebrated in Dubai: - UAE National Day: Celebrated on December 2, accompanied by parades and fireworks. - Ramadan and Eid al-Fitr: The holy month of fasting and the holiday that ends it. - Eid al-Adha: The Feast of Sacrifice. - New Year: Celebrated on a grand scale, with fireworks and parties. - Dubai Shopping Festival: A festive event with great discounts and entertainment programs.

No, you do not need a license to rent a yacht.

The main attractions of Dubai include: - Burj Khalifa: The tallest building in the world. - Burj Al Arab: A luxury hotel in the shape of a sail. - Palm Jumeirah: An artificial island in the form of a palm tree. - Dubai Mall: One of the largest shopping malls in the world. - Dubai Fountain: A grandiose show with musical fountains. - Old City of Dubai (Bastakia): A historic area with traditional architecture.

Allowed, but in specially designated places, please contact the staff before starting to smoke

When yachting in Dubai, it is important to take into account the following cultural characteristics: - Clothing: A conservative dress code should be followed, especially when entering ports and marinas, especially for women. Avoid leaving the yacht in open swimsuits. Yacht club security may ask you to get dressed when going ashore. - Behavior: Show respect for local customs and avoid public displays of affection. Kissing, hugging, touching intimate areas in yacht clubs in Arab countries is not recommended. - Religious norms: Respect prayer times and religious holidays such as Ramadan. During fasting, do not eat food and water in public, this can cause discomfort to people who are without water and food all day. - Alcohol: Drink alcohol only on board the yacht or in licensed places.

In Dubai, as in many other places, it's important to respect personal space and cultural norms when taking photographs. Photographing military installations, government buildings, and airports is strictly prohibited. It's also not advisable to photograph local people without their consent, especially women. I always try to be polite and ask for permission if I want to take a portrait. In most tourist areas, photography is allowed, and you'll be able to take plenty of stunning shots. However, some mosques and religious sites may have restrictions, so it's best to check with the venue. Drone usage is also regulated and requires special permission.

Dubai offers high-speed internet and excellent mobile coverage. I was pleasantly surprised by the speed and stability of the connection, even in public areas. Free Wi-Fi is available in most hotels, cafes, and shopping malls. Mobile connectivity is provided by two major operators: Etisalat and du. I purchased a tourist SIM card at the airport and had no issues using the internet or making local calls. 5G networks are being actively rolled out, which is especially convenient for those who rely on fast internet for work or entertainment. Moreover, many public spaces, such as the metro and parks, are equipped with Wi-Fi hotspots, making getting around the city even more convenient.

The prices for renting a boat in Dubai strongly depend on the selected vessel, the duration of the rental and additional services. On average, renting a small motorboat that can accommodate up to 8 people starts from 300 AED per hour. If you need a more spacious and luxurious boat, for example, a yacht 50-60 feet long, be prepared to pay from 500 AED to 5,000 AED per hour. The cost may vary depending on the level of comfort, the amenities provided and the services included, such as the availability of a captain and crew.

Despite rapid development, Dubai preserves its cultural roots through traditional crafts. In the Deira market, I watched craftsmen create exquisite silver jewelry and copperware. Pottery is also popular, and in some workshops, you can see how beautiful vessels and decorative elements are born from clay. I was particularly impressed by the art of calligraphy: Arabic letters transform into works of art, decorating homes and public places. Weaving and rug making are another traditional craft, using intricate patterns and natural materials. In Al Fahidi, a historic district, I visited the Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding, where you can not only see these crafts but also try your hand at them under the guidance of local masters.

Alcohol is available in Dubai, but its consumption is strictly regulated. Beverages can be purchased at licensed restaurants, bars, and nightclubs, usually located in hotels. I enjoyed a cocktail on the terrace of Barasti Beach Bar, where the music and sea views created a special atmosphere. However, drinking alcohol in public places outside designated areas is prohibited. Appearing intoxicated in public can lead to serious consequences. For residents, there is a licensing system for purchasing alcohol at specialized stores. It is important to respect local laws and customs to ensure a safe and enjoyable stay.