The times when the camel was the only means of transportation in the Arab Emirates are long gone. Now these majestic 'ships of the desert' can only be seen at races and exhibitions, and for transportation locals have long preferred motor vehicles – off-road SUVs or, at the very least, road transportation by bus. For the population of the Emirates, a four-wheel drive SUV is the only serious mode of transport. Only it can cope with the sandy dunes of the desert. All other cars are contemptuously called 'soap dishes' by locals.
There is also a taxi system in the UAE. But before using their services, make sure the meter is working. Otherwise, you simply won't be able to pay – the bill will be so huge. The latest innovation is 'sharing taxi', from the English word share. These are analogs of Russian minibuses, they are designed for several passengers, the route and fare are strictly defined.
Some hotels in the Emirates have their own buses, which usually transport tourists along the route 'hotel – shopping center' and back. And this no longer surprises anyone, because not all foreigners are able to use local bus routes. Firstly, these routes are not everywhere, and where they exist (for example, in Sharjah and Dubai), they are mainly used by male migrant workers from across the Middle East. This is the second reason. Everyone knows that food in the East mainly consists of a large amount of spices and seasonings with a strong smell, the same can be said about incense, which Eastern men use, to put it mildly, in large quantities. In general, without preliminary preparation and special need, it is better not to use this transport.
Currently, a metro is being built in the Arab Emirates. This road will connect Abu Dhabi and Dubai. True, the metro is promised to be launched no earlier than 2011.
Domestic driver's licenses are valid in the UAE (with a tourist visa, of course). This allows our compatriots to rent cars. The agency only requires a license and a foreign passport. If a client of such an agency violates traffic rules and this is officially confirmed (by radar or traffic police), he pays all fines himself, usually when returning the car.
If you are going to the Emirates with a child, be especially careful. Child seats are not provided in rental cars, although some agencies may help, but this is more the exception than the rule. In many Eastern countries (and the UAE is no exception), babies sticking out of the sunroof or window of a car, and even sitting directly behind the wheel, on the driver's lap, is common today. Are you ready to take such a risk, especially knowing the special love of Arabs for reckless driving?
This short essay presents all available means of transportation in the Arab Emirates. Therefore, to get the maximum pleasure from the trip and minimize unpleasant impressions, follow our advice.
Material prepared by the company 'Transagent',
offering a variety of transportation services.