What kinds of sports are popular among Dubai residents?

Renting a yacht without a captain is impossible.

Yes, you can go diving in Dubai. The city offers several popular diving spots: - Jumeirah Beach: Suitable for beginners with shallow depths and calm waters. - Palm Jumeirah: Around the artificial island you can see a variety of marine life and artificial reefs. - World Islands: A complex of artificial islands with interesting underwater landscapes and marine life.

Beyond Dubai's urban skyscrapers, stunning natural landscapes await. The desert is the heart of the emirate. I embarked on a desert safari and was captivated by the endless dunes, changing color in the setting sun. At night, the star-studded sky creates a sense of infinity. The Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary is a unique place where you can observe pink flamingos and other migratory birds in their natural habitat. Mountain enthusiasts can venture to the neighboring emirate of Hatta, home to Hatta Dam and Hatta Rock Pools – ideal spots for hiking, kayaking, and picnicking. I enjoyed the tranquility and coolness of the mountain air, a welcome contrast to the city's hustle and bustle.

The following safety rules must be observed on the yacht: Life jackets: All passengers must wear life jackets, especially in bad weather or in open water. Fire safety: Fire extinguishers and fire fighting equipment must be on board. First aid: Having a first aid kit and knowledge of basic medical procedures. Navigation lights: Use navigation lights at night and in poor visibility. Route planning: Carefully plan the route and inform coastal services about the intended route and arrival time. Equipment inspection: Regular inspection of all systems and equipment on the yacht, including the engine, electronics and life-saving equipment.

Let's start with the basics. A yacht is not just a "big boat". This is a vessel that is used for recreation and entertainment. Yachts can be sailing and motor yachts, as well as vary in size and style. If you see a yacht in the distance, do not rush to call for rescuers — most likely, it's just someone who decided to spend the weekend away from civilization.

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.

There are many organizations in Dubai that welcome volunteers. I participated in a beach cleaning program organized by a local environmental group. It was a great way to contribute to the community and meet like-minded individuals. "Volunteer UAE" is a platform where you can find various projects, from working with children and the elderly to cultural and sporting events. Volunteering not only allows you to help those in need but also enriches your personal experience, opening up new aspects of city life.

Dubai is a true foodie paradise, where culinary traditions from around the world converge in one place. One of the most memorable places for me was "Al Mahara" restaurant in the Burj Al Arab hotel. Getting there is an adventure in itself: you walk through an "underwater" tunnel, surrounded by a huge aquarium with exotic fish. I was captivated not only by the exquisite seafood cuisine but also by the fairytale atmosphere straight out of "One Thousand and One Nights." If you are looking for something more authentic, "Al Fanar" offers traditional Emirati cuisine in an old Dubai atmosphere. I tried there "hari", a tender dish of wheat and meat cooked over a slow fire, and it was a revelation for my taste buds. For lovers of panoramic views, you should visit "At.mosphere" on the 122nd floor of the Burj Khalifa, where dinner is accompanied by a breathtaking bird's-eye view of the city.

There are several main types of yachts: Sailing yachts: Use a sailing system for locomotion. They can be single- or multi-hull (catamarans and trimarans). Motor yachts: Equipped with a motor and designed for faster travel. They include sports boats, cruisers and superyachts. Mega and superyachts: Large, luxurious yachts with numerous amenities designed for long trips and large companies. Expedition yachts: Designed for long voyages in difficult conditions, often used for research. Hybrid yachts: Combine sailing and motor installations for maximum efficiency and environmental friendliness.

Dubai is a place where dreams come true, especially when it comes to amusement parks. IMG Worlds of Adventure is the world's largest indoor theme park, which boasts areas dedicated to Marvel and Cartoon Network. I remember how my heart stopped on the Velociraptor roller coaster, which accelerates you to 100 km/h in 2.5 seconds, and the landscapes of the prehistoric world stretch around. Dubai Parks and Resorts is a whole complex including Motiongate Dubai, where I felt the magic of Hollywood while walking through the themed areas dedicated to DreamWorks, Columbia Pictures and Lionsgate. For families with children, Legoland Dubai and Legoland Water Park offer a variety of interactive entertainment using the famous LEGO bricks. And if you want something truly futuristic, visit the "VR Park" in Dubai Mall, where virtual reality takes you to incredible worlds.