24/07/2017
July, three years ago I traveled to United Arab Emirates. We arrived around midnight. My first thought when exiting the airport, Hell can not be this hot!!! The temperature was in the upper 90's, not including the heat index.
During July Ramadan is observed by everyone, including tourist.
1. No chewing gum in public
2. No smoking in public
3. No eating in public
4. No drinking in public
The restaurants are closed during the day. Fortunately, we were able to locate a grocery store nearby.
The daytime temperature 110-115º, not including the heat index. The Arabian Sea did not provide any relief. Felt more like a hot tub. On the beach by 7:00 a.m and back to the hotel room by 9:00 a.m.
There is a zero unemployment rate. The workers are expats from foreign countries. Keep in mind UAE exports oil, so the natives do not need to work. The expats go out of their way to make sure the tourist are happy. One complaint and they would be returned to their country of origin.
A must see while in Dubai is the Burj Kaliff, the tallest building in the world. Absolutely amazing. Most of the buildings in Dubai are futuristic in design.
The first night there was a big boom sound, like a canon sound. Scared the crap out of me! I thought Dubai was being bombed. Where is the U.S. Embassy? Keep in mind Afghanistan, Iraq, and Iran are not that far away. Well, what I found out the boom sound signalled the end of Ramadan for the day. Pig out time!!
During our 2 week stay, I met a very nice couple from Norway on their honeymoon, Charlotte and Daniel. We were 4 wheeling in the desert. I had so much fun! You know me, I tried to convince the driver to let me drive.
The Sheiks (pronounced shakes) and their families were very nice, pleasant and helpful. Even going out of their way being helpful.
I got to see Masaratis and Ferraris up close and personal. There is one more expensive car, I just can't think of the name right now. Whatever, it was very nice.
I would return to UAE. Just not in July.
