What holidays are celebrated in Dubai?

Dubai is becoming increasingly prominent on the global art scene. Contemporary art flourishes in the Alserkal Avenue galleries, which host exhibitions, performances, and festivals. I attended Art Dubai, an international art fair that brings together artists and collectors from around the world. Traditional art is also valued. Museums and cultural centers offer workshops in Arabic calligraphy, ceramics, and textile art. I tried my hand at creating henna patterns and was impressed by the complexity and beauty of this craft.Music and theater are represented at the Dubai Opera, where I enjoyed performances by world-renowned ballet and opera stars in a modern building with unique architecture.

Dubai Shopping Festival (usually takes place in January). Dubai Food Festival (in February). Various fairs and festivals, including Christmas holidays.

Dubai is a family–friendly paradise with water parks, theme parks, beaches and other entertainment options. Water parks: Aquaventure, Wild Wadi, Legoland Water Park. Theme parks: IMG Worlds of Adventure, Motion gate, Legoland Dubai. Beaches: Clean, well maintained, with playgrounds. Desert safari: Dune rides, camel rides, dinners under the stars. Dubai Miracle Garden: A unique flower garden. Dubai Aquarium: One of the largest aquariums. KidZania: Children's city of professions. Cultural attractions: Burj Khalifa, Dubai Museum, Al Fahidi. Other attractions: abra boat trains, markets.

Dubai Miracle Garden is the world's largest flower park, covering an area of over 72,000 square meters. It features impressive floral arrangements, sculptures and installations created from more than 50 million flowers. The park is constantly being updated, offering visitors new and exciting exhibitions every season. It is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Dubai. When is it open to the public? Dubai Miracle Garden is usually open to the public from mid-November to mid-May. The park is closed for the summer months due to the high temperature, which does not allow the flowers to stay fresh. It is recommended to check the park's official website before visiting to find out the exact opening and closing dates, as well as opening hours.

Smoking in Dubai is regulated by law to protect public health. Smoking is prohibited in public places such as shopping malls, restaurants, offices, and transport. However, many establishments have specially designated smoking areas. I have noticed that restaurants and cafes usually have a separation into smoking and non-smoking areas. Violating the rules can result in fines for both the smoker and the establishment. This helps create a comfortable environment for everyone and maintain cleanliness in the city.

Dubai International Airport is one of the busiest in the world, but it is well organized. After landing, I decided to take the metro, which connects the airport directly to key areas of the city. It’s a quick and inexpensive way to reach the center. The trains are clean, air-conditioned, and have space for luggage. An alternative is taxis, which are available 24/7. Official taxis are cream-colored and equipped with meters; the ride to the center takes about 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic. For added comfort, you can arrange a transfer through your hotel or use services like Uber and Careem. I chose the metro and was pleasantly surprised by the convenience and efficiency of this mode of transport.

Dubai offers many opportunities for learning Arabic. I signed up for courses at Eton Institute, where classes are held in small groups with experienced teachers. The program was flexible, which is convenient for tourists and busy people. Other language centers, such as the Arabic Language Centre and Berlitz, also offer various levels of instruction — from beginner to advanced. Learning the language helped me better understand the culture and communicate with locals, enriching my experience in Dubai.

The cost of renting a yacht in Dubai may vary depending on the company providing the services. Main payment methods: Bank transfer: one of the most common payment methods, especially when booking in advance. The company provides you with the details for the transfer, and you make the payment through your bank. It is important to keep in mind that bank transfers can take several days, so it is recommended to do this in advance. Credit/Debit cards: Many companies accept credit and debit cards from Visa, Mastercard, American Express and other popular payment systems. This payment method is usually the fastest and most convenient. Cash: Cash payment is possible, especially if you book the yacht directly on site. Keep in mind that yacht rental amounts are usually significant, so it is better to clarify in advance the possibility of paying in cash and limits. Online payment systems: Some companies may accept payments through popular online payment systems such as PayPal. Important points when paying: Deposit: specify the amount and conditions of the deposit. A deposit is usually paid to cover possible damage to the yacht during the rental period and is refunded after the end of the lease if everything is in order with the yacht. Prepayment: Many companies require prepayment (usually from 20% to 50% of the rental price) when booking a yacht. Payment currency: Specify the currency in which the payment is accepted (usually UAE Dirhams (AED), US dollars (USD) or Euros (EUR)). Additional expenses: specify which expenses are included in the rental price (captain's services, fuel, insurance) and which are paid separately. Fees: there are fees for making a payment (for example, the commission of a bank or payment system). Payment confirmation: Be sure to keep the payment confirmation (bank transfer receipt or credit card receipt) until the end of the yacht rental.

The main components used on the yacht include: Straight Knot: Used to tie two ends of a rope of the same diameter. Bowline: Creates a secure loop at the end of the rope, easily untied after loading. Figure-Eight Knot: Prevents the rope from slipping out of blocks and stoppers. Sheet Bend: Connects two ropes of different diameters. Garrote (Clove Hitch): Used to temporarily attach a rope to a rack or rail. Knot "bow" (Round Turn and Two Half Hitches): Secure fastening of the rope to the anchor chain or ring.

The ruling family of Dubai, the Al Maktoum, plays a key role in the history and development of the emirate. Since 1833, when Sheikh Maktoum bin Butti moved with the Bani Yas tribe to the Dubai Creek area, the family has ruled the city. Under the leadership of Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum, Dubai began its transformation into a modern metropolis. The current ruler, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, continues the dynasty's traditions, promoting innovation, tolerance, and development. I visited the Union Museum, which details the creation of the UAE and the contribution of the ruling family to the country's establishment. Their vision and leadership have been the driving force behind Dubai's success.