What to try: cuisine of the United Arab Emirates. Fruit and Vegetable Market - vegetable market What fruits are in the emirates in March
Keep in mind that you can export everything from the United Arab Emirates, but then you will have to import it through Russian customs. But here the rules are stricter.
Don’t forget, there is also Russian customs
The total weight of goods imported into the Russian Federation should not exceed 50 kilograms. The total cost should not exceed 10,000 euros. Read about what exactly tourists bring in our article “”. We will talk in detail about the transportation of these items through the customs of the UAE and Russia.
Electronics and household appliances
The customs of the Russian Federation allows the free import of items for personal use. That is, if you buy one laptop in the UAE, you can transport it freely, but if you buy two laptops, then customs may have questions.
If you are bringing one fur coat or an expensive leather jacket, there will be no questions; if you are carrying three fur coats, then the customs officers will stop you, and talking about how you bought fur coats for your girlfriends will not help.
In any case, keep all receipts for large purchases, they will be useful in controversial situations.
Food
You can export any products from the UAE and in any reasonable quantities, but you can import them into Russia with restrictions.
The first limit concerns products of animal origin - 5 kilograms per person. Animal products include a popular gift from the UAE - and dairy products. In the same category: any meat, fish and seafood, sausages and deli meats.
Any food products of animal origin should only be ready to eat. No fresh camel meat, oysters or lobsters, all this can be confiscated at Russian customs.
In addition, such products must be in their original packaging, otherwise they may be confiscated. If you are planning to bring camel meat, then take it canned or dried in original packaging. Or take risks with fresh.
The second restriction is on the transportation of plant products “with phytosanitary risks” - up to 5 kilograms per person. This includes any fresh vegetables and fruits, dried fruits, including the most popular gift from the UAE - dried fruits.
Roasted coffee beans, any sweets and candies can be exported from the UAE and imported into Russia without restrictions. However, remember the limit of 50 kilograms and 10 thousand euros, and all this must comply with the concept of “for personal consumption and non-commercial use”.
Some other gifts
The situation with spices is complicated, because they can be mistaken for some prohibited substances. Buy spices only in packages, otherwise you risk falling under suspicion. Similar to (Arabic home incense), it can be mistaken for something illegal. Try to buy bakhur in a package that will say that it is exactly bakhur.
Is it possible to export shells?
Hookahs and tobacco, including hookah
Export of tobacco or hookahs from the United Arab Emirates is free. At Russian customs there will be no complaints about the hookah, but only 250 grams of tobacco can be imported.
Happy shopping in the UAE, and read our useful articles about this country ( links below).
When going for souvenirs in the United Arab Emirates, it is important not to forget about such an integral part of shopping “orientally” as bargaining. The only exception may be the purchase of goods in supermarkets, where prices are strictly fixed. So, what can you bring from the UAE and Dubai as a gift?
Incense
An excellent gift that can “envelop” you in the enchanting atmosphere of the East will be bakhur - incense in the form of balls or small figures that exude an unusually spicy aroma when heated.
It occurs due to special treatment of agarwood wood, which releases a rather unusual enzyme to destroy fungus on the trunk. This “aromatherapy” will not only help you relax, but also activate your brain activity.
Camel milk and cheese
One of the main ingredients for making cottage cheese, cheese and various desserts in the UAE is camel milk. It is much richer in its vitamin and mineral composition than cow's milk, it contains less casein, more sugar lactose, and an ideal amino acid content.
Cheese made from this milk has a delicate consistency and a mild salty taste. No less famous is ice cream made from camel milk with caramel, date and saffron flavors. And chocolate made from it not only has an amazing taste, but also does not cause any harm to the figure.
Perfume
Particularly popular are oil-based perfumes that do not contain alcohol and are very durable. Such perfumes should be applied directly to the skin, avoiding contact with clothing, otherwise oil stains may appear there.
The palette of fragrances delights with its diversity: you can purchase a copy of a popular brand, a classic Arabic fragrance, or create an original composition taking into account all your wishes to order. All perfumes are bottled in beautiful containers, and you can purchase them at perfume markets or in specialized shops.
When choosing a fragrance, it is recommended to apply a drop on your wrist to understand how suitable it is: often truly oriental aromas, when revealed on the skin, seem very “heavy” and sharp. The products of Al Ghurair City, Carrefour, and Swiss Arabian are considered popular and of high quality.
Caviar
In the United Arab Emirates, you should definitely buy several jars of high-quality black caviar. It is there, in one of the districts of Abu Dhabi, that the world's largest farm for breeding Siberian sturgeon and producing caviar is located.
It is worth noting that such products should be purchased either in supermarkets or in specialized stores, where the necessary storage conditions are observed, and the information on the packaging contains the expiration date, composition and energy value of the product. You shouldn’t “tempt fate” and save money by buying caviar of unknown quality on the market.
Hookahs, pipes, tobaccos
A hookah would be an excellent gift from the UAE. Its cost depends on the size and finishing options: the larger and “richer” the hookah, the more expensive it is. When choosing a product, it is more advisable to give preference to a glass container and be sure to check the tightness of all connections, and then select a pipe, coals and flavored tobacco of different types. The choice of hookahs is large: they can be found both in markets and in various shops.
Carpets and pillows
In order to fill your usual interior with a fabulous oriental atmosphere, you should definitely bring a real Arabic carpet and pillows from the UAE. The quality of these products is recognized throughout the world: handmade silk carpets are the most highly valued; factory-made products are no less colorful; among the variety of patterns, ornaments, colors and sizes, it is simply impossible not to choose something for yourself.
The variety of pillows is no less impressive: square, triangular, rectangular, round, in the form of rollers, of various colors, textures and degrees of softness.
Sand compositions
When wondering what souvenirs to bring from the UAE, you should pay attention to various sand compositions. The most popular and original is the “Bottle of Seven Sands”, consisting of the sands of all the emirates and a set of frames with pictures from sand layers. Such a thing will allow you to literally “touch” the enchanting nature of the East.
Cosmetics
Authentic Arabic cosmetics and perfumes will be an excellent gift for women of any age. High-quality skin and hair care products, as well as decorative cosmetics, can be found in the cosmetic department of any shopping center. However, there are three products that you simply must purchase in the United Arab Emirates.
Kayal
This is eyeliner that is made from antimony - a black stone. It has long been believed that antimony promotes accelerated eyelash growth, making them thicker. In addition, this stone contains many microelements that are beneficial for the eyes and cleanse them from any harmful effects accumulated during the day, so it is useful to apply kajal not only during the day - for beauty, but also at night - for health.
Oils
Arabic oils are famous for their high quality and are widely used for various facial and body care treatments. Amla oil gives hair gorgeous shine and strength, argan oil strengthens nails and makes facial skin even and smooth, grape seed oil keeps the skin young and elastic for a long time.
Henna
Henna can be used to color hair, after which it acquires a beautiful shade, becomes shiny, voluminous and thick. The main shades of colored henna are golden, brown, black, burgundy and swallowtail. Colorless henna can be added to body scrubs to keep the skin smooth and silky.
Another way to use henna is with mehendi (or mehndi). This is a pattern on the skin with finely ground henna, which is applied from a special bag in the shape of a cone. All mehndi accessories are sold in souvenir shops. This decoration is very popular among Eastern women.
Coffee
The UAE offers many types of coffee and all kinds of mixes of this invigorating drink. Coffee with cardamom is considered the most popular among the local population.
Coffee accessories
In addition to the coffee itself, you can purchase an original turka or dalpa - an Arabic coffee pot with oriental ornaments - as a souvenir. Their prices vary depending on the size, material and complexity of the patterns. Products made from copper are considered the best - the coffee in them acquires an incredible flavor.
Keffiyeh
This originally men's headdress was intended for protection from the sun, sand or dust. It is made from natural cotton. The traditional keffiyeh pattern is a beveled checkered pattern in black, red or green on a white background.
Today there is a large selection of colors for this product, including monochromatic ones, in which the pattern is formed by interweaving threads, and this item of clothing is worn not only by the stronger sex, but also by girls, tying it both on the head and around the neck. In our open spaces, such a scarf is called “arafatka”.
Fur
It is very profitable to bring fur products from the UAE. A huge range of fur coats can satisfy any request: here you can find both inexpensive Chinese products and luxurious creations from famous fur brands. Consultants in specialized stores will help you choose the model, length and fur itself that will highlight your advantages.
As for markets, the price for products there may be lower, but the quality of the goods leaves much to be desired. You shouldn’t take risks so as not to become the owner of a fake under the guise of a branded item.
Sweets
You can taste the atmosphere of the East with the help of delicious sweets. You can buy them in specialized stores (Candylicious, Iranian Sweets) and in markets, both in packages and by weight.
Nougat
This traditional treat is made from sugar, honey and roasted almonds, walnuts or hazelnuts and can be either soft or hard. Depending on the recipe, cinnamon, chocolate, candied fruits, zest, vanilla, and dried fruits are added to the mixture for flavor shades.
Baklava
An equally popular dessert is baklava, which is made from puff pastry with nuts in sweet syrup. You can purchase it individually, by weight, or in gift wrapping.
Turkish Delight
This oriental sweet, consisting of sugar, starch and molasses, is a real source of energy. Depending on the recipe, berries, chocolate, nuts, vanilla, coconut, and various juices can be added to it.
Dates
Dates in the UAE are an incomparable pleasure from the taste of a ripe fruit, which can be “hidden” in chocolate with the addition of honey, nuts or pistachios. You can bring a jar of date jam or dates in syrup. But it is important to remember that no more than 7 kilograms of dates can be exported outside the state.
Sherbet
This sweetness is somewhat reminiscent of halva, but its taste is ten times superior to it. This is a delicate fudge based on cream or milk with fruit, to which chopped nuts are added.
Spices
Real oriental spices will be an excellent gift. It is at local bazaars that you can feel the incomparable aroma that literally permeates the air. Spices can be bought already packaged, or by weight.
The most popular spices are cardamom, cinnamon, black pepper, Somali incense, coriander, turmeric, barberry, saffron, kmin, orchid root, black lemon, and various dried herbs.
Camel figurines
Since ancient times, in the eastern desert, people survived only thanks to camels, so this animal was revered and treated with great respect. Evidence of this is the ubiquitous depiction of camels, and figurine figurines in the form of this animal are considered almost obligatory to purchase. They are made from leather, glass, plush, stone, wood, plastic, metal, ceramics.
Shoes
The United Arab Emirates is famous for its quality shoes. You can buy a traditional pair of shoes at the Abu Dhabi market or choose from the latest collections of the world's most famous brands at the Dubai shopping mall.
Fruits
When choosing hotels, you should definitely look at the fruit market for exotic fruits: mangosteen, guava, mango. Dried fruits, nuts, and natural juices can be purchased as healthy sweets containing vitamins.
Khanjar
Khanjar is a blade made according to an ancient model that has a long history. Such a gift is not cheap - the high-quality steel of the blade itself and the gold or silver handle richly decorated with a scattering of precious stones look amazing.
Such daggers are sold in special souvenir shops, but in order to avoid problems at customs, you should keep the receipt from the store and pack the khanjar in your luggage, not in your hand luggage.
Electronics and gadgets
One of the advantages of buying electronics and various gadgets in the United Arab Emirates is their low price. In addition, new products appear here much earlier than in the CIS countries. When purchasing a product, an international guarantee is issued, providing a solution to repair problems in the event of a breakdown.
However, you should not chase low prices - sometimes, under the guise of original branded goods, you can become the owner of a Chinese counterfeit. You can protect yourself from such unpleasant “surprises” by purchasing electronics only in specialized stores and carefully checking the documents supplied with the product.
Jewelry and costume jewelry
The UAE is very famous for its gold jewelry. And the oldest Gold Souk in Abu Dhabi is simply impossible to leave empty-handed. On the territory of the market there are approximately 300 shops and stalls, the windows of which display all kinds of gold jewelry in the best traditions of the East: catchy, bright and massive, with many large stones. All products are made of 875 gold.
Jewelry containing precious stones such as diamond, emerald, sapphire, ruby and pearl have the highest price. A little cheaper - products with cubic zirconia, agate or garnet. Stones can also be purchased without settings.
Chains are sold by weight or by length (the required lock is installed on them, for which you pay separately). If you wish, you can make jewelry to order from the catalog, which will take about a week. As for costume jewelry, the choice is just as great, and you can purchase products both on the market and in specialized departments of shopping centers.
Cannot be exported
- everything that has historical and cultural value;
- wild animals;
- palm fruits and seeds.
When exporting carpets, jewelry and products made of precious metals, you must have receipts confirming their purchase.
Products priced over $250 are subject to tax.
As for the value added tax (tax-free) refund system, in the UAE there is no such thing, just like VAT itself.
It's hard to believe that just six or seven decades ago, most of the Emirates could attract only a few extreme travel enthusiasts. A few oases among the endless sands, whose population grew dates and grains, several cities built by the conquerors, coastal settlements of fishermen and pearl divers, nomadic tribes - this is how they were before the discovery of the richest oil deposits at the beginning of the last century.
In the past, the few Europeans who visited this country did not have the question of what to bring home? All they could find were items of national costume, traditional daggers and sabers, as well as carpets of various sizes.
Today, modern cities stand in the desert and on the coast, whose buildings most closely resemble pictures from science fiction films, and numerous tourists face a “serious problem” - choosing souvenirs and gifts from the UAE. Here you can still see beautiful traditional folk crafts, carefully preserved for posterity. But most are drawn to giant shopping malls with their abundance, variety of famous brands and tempting discounts.
Adding to this the celebrations that are held frequently and for any occasion, we get a real paradise for tourists and lovers of good shopping.
UAE SHOPS
The best places for shopping and exciting experiences
If you are interested in quality shopping, then it is better to stay in Dubai, Sharjah and Abu Dhabi. But even if you go to any other emirate, you will not be dissatisfied - visiting local shopping centers and markets will bring only pleasant emotions.
The Emirates retain the Eastern love for live bargaining between seller and buyer; choosing a product at any market or small shop, you can significantly reduce the price by haggling.
Echoes of the old tradition persist even in the most modern super-malls - it is worth checking whether they have a best fixed price or a last fixed price. Almost always, the buyer receives the desired discount, albeit not as large as that offered by market traders.
When in Abu Dhabi (port) or another free trade zone, be sure to visit the duty-free shops. The largest duty free at Dubai Airport.
Advice for those who want to get more new experiences - visit any of the huge oriental bazaars. In Sharjah, the Gold Souk is worth a visit if you like jewelry made from precious metals. A walk through the Textile Bazaar will be no less interesting. There are two large markets in Abu Dhabi - Fish and Green. For carpets, it is better to visit Mina Port Road, a large carpet market.
Although the first place, according to many tourists, remains with Dubai. It is difficult to resist the charm of cozy little shops, the variety of assortments of giant shopping centers or the fabulously festive atmosphere of oriental bazaars. Those who know how to bargain and are able to derive particular pleasure from this process will not only have fun, but also make many profitable purchases.
At markets (or "Souks"), tourists can expect increased attention from persistent traders who are ready to promise anything - from incredible discounts and gifts to a kind of "discount" for future purchases. Sometimes a discount with active and skillful bargaining can reach up to half of the initially named cost of the item.
Another advantage of the Emirates is that no one here will spoil the client’s mood with a sour expression, even if you have reviewed and tried on a lot of things and leave without making a purchase. But you still won’t be able to leave without some new clothes.
If the trip falls during the Shopping Festivals, this promises a 40-80% reduction in prices for absolutely all goods. They occur in one of the spring months and last about 30 days. The state is trying to support this practice and festivals are held in almost all emirates. Airlines allow you to increase the amount of baggage you carry. Prices for hotel accommodation are reduced.
WHAT TO BRING FROM THE UAE
What especially attractive things can you expect in the UAE? Almost everything, from high-grade gold bullion to adorable little rugs.
Gold in the UAE
For jewelry you need to go to the Gold Souk in Dubai. It is enough to say these two magic words to any taxi driver and you will be taken straight to him. Located in the Deira region, it is recognized as the oldest among all the markets in the UAE. His 
The actual founders are considered to be traders from India and Iran, who opened their shops in the 40s of the 20th century. Today there are about 300 shops and shops. The style of jewelry is most often typical of the East - the price is the massiveness of the products, bright, catchy, large stones. It is impossible to find elegant, elegant jewelry with a simple and strict design here. Although, many of our compatriots like this style.
Jewelry is not the only thing that tempts visitors to Gold Souk. Here you can buy coins, dishes made of precious metals, and boxes with fine inlay. Typically, gold from 18 to 22 carats is used in products. In the more familiar version for us, this is 875 sample. High-end jewelry can be chosen with rubies, sapphires, diamonds and emeralds. There are real pearls. Those that are cheaper often use cubic zirconia, agate or garnet. Stones and pearls can be found without settings.
It is possible to order jewelry according to your own sketch or from a catalogue, it will take no more than a week. You can buy the chain you like not only by weight, but also by length. In the second case, the cost of the lock and its fastening is added to the price.
There will not be much difference in assortment and prices between the two parts of the market - Old and New.
In Damas stores, certificates are included with jewelry.
Khanjar - an ancient weapon of the Arab East
Despite their commitment to all the benefits of modern civilization, the residents of the Emirates continue to make their famous khanjars according to ancient models. These crooked blades successfully outlived their Western counterparts. They are valued, stored and even worn on special holidays, even without removing them from their richly decorated sheaths.
Khanjars trace their history back to the ancient curved swords of India. But the masters brought a lot of new things into them, creating unique edged weapons that have lived for many centuries.
A real dagger cannot be cheap - the magnificent steel of the blade and the luxurious handle, covered with gold and precious stones, even look expensive. But such a weapon can be a delightful gift for men who love weapons.
Hookah or pipe
Another men's souvenir is smoking pipes. In addition to the “miduah” made of baked clay, there are wooden ones, similar to those beloved by Sinbad the Sailor.
The choice of hookahs is even greater - from small souvenir ones to models suitable for practical use. Finishes and dimensions determine the price. If you plan to use a hookah, then it is preferable to have a glass container. It is advisable to check the tightness of all connections. Hookahs are sold in any store; there is a good selection of pipes at the Fish Market.
You can add different types of flavored tobacco to pipes and hookahs.
Eastern spices
To visit the East and not bring back aromatic herbs and spices from there means not only breaking a small tourist tradition, but also depriving yourself and your family members of extraordinary pleasure. What can be purchased at spice markets should not even be compared with the seasonings sold in our stores.
Spices can be bought in almost any store, but if you want to enjoy all the delights of oriental exoticism, then it is best to do this at the special spice markets available in each emirate. Such as Spice Souk in Dubai. It is located in the Old Market of Deira.
Everything here is the same as in the old days - the noise of the market, spicy aromas, canvas bags filled with spices, from where an attentive merchant will pick them up to weigh them for you. Here you can learn a lot of useful information about storing seasonings, their use, and making delicious mixtures.
The only difficulty awaiting here is the large selection. To the whole list of seasonings familiar to all Europeans (coriander, cinnamon, saffron, peppers, barberry, cumin) are added those used mainly in the East - orchid root, black lemon, Somali incense and various herbs.
You can often see fresh, “under-dried” spices; they will have to be brought to their normal state by leaving them for some time in an ajar box or in a paper bag. The finally dried ones can be transferred to airtight containers, each variety in its own.
Prices here are the same as in supermarkets or a little higher. In addition to spices, you can buy coffee and tea at the market.
Coffee and everything for making it
Arabs are considered true experts and connoisseurs of this noble drink. They know how to cook it especially tasty, although some types may seem a little unusual for tourists due to the added cardamom.
You can see many varieties of coffee. You will find an amazing variety of roasts, mixes and even different grinds. Coffee lovers will remember this luxury for a long time.
In addition to bags of beans and ground coffee, you can take home a beautiful Turk with Arabic ornaments. Turks of any size and from different materials will be on sale. But it’s better to stick with copper, as it makes coffee especially tasty.
If you already have a Turk, then take a closer look at the dalp, which is the name of a traditional Arabic coffee pot with an elongated spout. They will also be everywhere. The price depends on the size, material and fineness of finishing. Copper dalpus are considered the best.
Don't like coffee, but want a practical oriental souvenir? Then be sure to take a closer look at thermoses made in the form of coffee pots. Arabs store cold drinks in them.
Dates
The fruits of date palms found in our stores do not allow us to get an accurate idea of how tasty a real ripe date can be. Staying in the UAE will correct this gap. More than 20% of all date palms grow in the country - approximately 120 varieties out of the known four hundred, and their fruits are everywhere here.
But such diversity cannot be found either in Egypt or in any other Eastern country. It is customary here to use additives for ordinary, “pure” dates - honey, chocolate, nuts, pistachios and much more. There is also jam and dates in syrups. Don't miss out on the opportunity to try all this sweet abundance. They are sold everywhere, but visit specialty stores to find the best sweet souvenirs. The most commonly purchased packages are blue "Arabian Delights". A layer of delicious chocolate hides dates “stuffed” with almonds. A 150-gram package costs about $7.5.
Remember that the export limit for dates is up to 7 kg.
Oriental sweets
Those who have visited eastern countries will be happy to try their favorite sweets. Although there will be slight differences in the recipes, the pistachio baklava, Turkish delight, nougat and sorbet will not disappoint.
Among the local desserts, we can recommend Umm Ali, served to honored guests and the festive table. It can be called bread pudding. The dough, soaked in plenty of rose water or fruit syrups, strewn with raisins, nuts and dried fruits, will not seem cloying, like many other desserts.
The pudding with the exotic name mechalabia is also worth trying, if you don’t have anything against rose water and petal jam.
For traditional sweets, you will have to go to small shops or spice markets. Be prepared to try a lot of desserts - there is too much choice.
Among the large specialized stores, we can mention the famous Dubai Candylicious. For 1000 sq.m. There are sweets, cakes and pastries, but there are few traditional sweets there.
But there will be a good selection in the Iranian Sweets chain stores. Most of the products can be purchased by weight. A great opportunity to buy a little bit of everything - to try.
An original sweet souvenir will be a set of chocolate palm trees and camel figurines in a beautiful box.
Some tourists like acacia honey; it is sold in small jars.
We can advise you to take a “sweet tour” - an excursion to the places where sweets are made with the obligatory tasting.
Fruits
When planning your walks, don't forget about visiting fruit markets. There you can try exotic fruits. Some people take with them mangosteens, which are similar to our garlic, but have a completely different taste. You can buy arugula, mint, natural juices from guava or mango. Don't give up nuts and fresh dried fruits.
For lovers of delicacies, we can recommend canned camel milk. The taste is a little specific, but quite pleasant.
There are many natural sauces on sale. In addition to our well-known Tabasco and soy, it will be interesting to try fish and oysters. There are many others, it all depends on taste preferences.
Arabic incense
Cosmetics from the UAE
In addition to regular cosmetics, you can purchase medicinal cosmetics in the UAE. One such product could be a package of MISWAK toothpaste with miswak tooth tree extract. Since ancient times, the peoples of Africa have chewed the root of this beneficial plant to clean and strengthen their teeth. Modern research has confirmed the content of a lot of useful substances in it. Today there is no need to look for and chew the roots - all the most useful ones are extracted and added to toothpaste.
Body care products and decorative cosmetics can be found in any specialized department of shopping centers. In addition to high-quality powder, lipstick and cosmetic pencils from famous brands, you can choose from Arabic products. Natural henna is used to dye hair and add it to masks and scrubs. There are many different natural oils (cosmetic, essential, massage) - grape seed, rose, alma, cassia, etc. Eye contour pencils - kajal - are popular as souvenirs.
Perfume UAE
When buying any Arabic perfume, you should remember that no alcohol is used in their production, only an oil base. They are durable, but such perfumes should not come into contact with clothing - it will be difficult to get rid of oil stains.
In addition to the usual perfumes of popular brands in different price categories (but not lower than $80 / 100 ml), you can see Arabic ones in stores. Would you like to have special flavors prepared just for you? This is done in small shops and perfume markets. Prices for such perfumes are usually 10-20 dollars per bottle. The assortment of Carrefour, Al Ghurair City is interesting.
Pay attention to Swiss Arabian products with an extensive palette of fragrance oils. Interestingly, among them there are very exact “copies” of fragrances from well-known brands in Europe. Beautiful bottles, affordable prices, durability make them a wonderful gift.
Tip: It is advisable to smell the selected oils or oil perfumes - some purely oriental aromas can be heavy and harsh for European tastes.
Camels
In the nomadic past of the desert inhabitants, these animals were the basis of life and a guarantee of the survival of the tribe. Today they have lost their importance, but continue to be of great value. Images of camels are found everywhere and remain among favorite souvenirs. Inexpensive figurines made of wood, plastic, metal and ceramics can be bought everywhere. Prices are related to the material and quality of workmanship, ranging from $3 to $80 on average.
Sand souvenirs
The UAE has a completely unique local souvenir associated with the peculiarities of the state. These are glass vessels filled with seven layers of sand. Each layer has a different texture and color, corresponding to each of the seven Emirates.
Craftsmen lay out patterns of multi-colored sand in a bottle or ball, creating beautiful pictures. The master can even write the name you ordered in Arabic or English.
There are also Seven Sands - framed pictures made from seven layers of sand.
Textiles and national clothing
Textile products in the Emirates are of the highest quality. It is difficult to resist buying products made from natural silk, cashmere, and cotton. Wonderful things are made from camel and sheep wool.
For those who are interested in sewing, advice to pay attention to fabrics and accessories. It’s better to go to Dubai Mall or Deira City Center for them.
Arafatkas, a men's headdress made of checkered fabric, are unlikely to be worn outside the UAE, but continue to be popular gifts.
Shawls made from pure cashmere or with the addition of a small amount of silk seem delicate and soft. No woman will refuse them. Their prices are higher than for shawls and stoles made of wool and cotton.
National clothing is also in demand. These things allow you not to experience discomfort on the hottest days and do not hinder your movements.
Women's abayas and shaylas, men's kanduras and khutras are on sale in a wide variety. Modest home and everyday outfits give way to beautifully embroidered ceremonial outfits made from expensive fabrics. If you couldn’t find something suitable from ready-made clothes, you can order tailoring in your size and from a certain fabric.
Bed linen sets, oriental-style clothes for the home and other textiles will delight you for a long time upon returning home.
Fur coats in the UAE
Our compatriots often bring fur coats from the Emirates. Here you will definitely find a fur coat that can meet the highest demands of capricious ladies. Prices vary widely - from inexpensive Chinese to luxurious products from famous fur companies. In specialized centers they will try to select the length, model of a certain style and the fur itself for the client.
Furniture
All these purchases can be easily fit into your suitcases; this will not work with furniture made of wicker or solid rosewood or walnut. But this is not a reason to refuse to visit Souk Madinat Jumeirah or furniture sections in malls. It is not difficult to find high-quality and stylish upholstered furniture. But you will have to send purchases by container. Shipping by sea costs two to two and a half times cheaper than air transportation.
Cushions and carpets from the UAE
In all oriental fairy tales, characters bask on numerous soft pillows, and the feet of beautiful odalisques are silently 
glide across fluffy patterned carpets. Bring some colorful tales of the East into your everyday life. The quality of Arabic carpets is recognized everywhere. A variety of colors, patterns and sizes allows you to choose what you need. Handmade carpets, especially silk ones, fetch a higher price. You can also find wonderful things among the factory ones.
There are no fewer pillows on sale than carpets. Different fabrics, colors and padding, even the shape of pillows can be different. In this abundance you can find a real highlight for any interior.
For example, for open glass doors of a terrace or balcony, there are triangular retaining pads filled with sand.
Phones in the UAE
It is very profitable to purchase the latest models of iPhones and iPads here - all the new Apple products appear on sale here for a long time 
earlier than in Russia and at lower prices. The same applies to other electronic gadgets. They come with an international guarantee that eliminates many problems in the event of a breakdown.
Prices for household appliances are slightly lower than in Russia, but the build quality is completely different. True, recently Chinese counterfeits have even penetrated here. It is better to be careful when purchasing so as not to get another fake.
Cars from the UAE
The car market in the UAE is known on the positive side. Here, the potential “for export” buyer is offered many special benefits and convenient conditions. And the choice of cars of any class offered by companies can shock anyone. Another plus is complete reliability at all stages of purchase and paperwork.
Nice and inexpensive little things
If purchasing a car, furniture and other expensive “souvenirs” is not part of your plans, then you can put together a whole collection of cute and inexpensive gifts for friends and acquaintances.
This long list may include charming silk bookmarks, coasters for mugs, computer mouse pads stylized as oriental rugs, small plates with Arabic designs, rosary beads made of natural stones, small sets of spices, trinkets or jewelry made of shells and corals. It's hard to give up the almost magical "Aladdin's lamps", chests with patterns and little boxes. You can take home miniature replicas of Dubai's most original buildings and delight your children with remote-controlled toys.
Prohibited for export
United Arab Emirates is distinguished by a strict attitude to compliance with its laws and customs regulations. Therefore, you should not spoil the memories of a wonderful holiday in this country by violating them and hoping that an attempt to export something forbidden will go unnoticed.
Items prohibited for export include:
- wild animals;
- seeds and fruits of palm trees;
- everything that may have historical and cultural value.
All jewelry, silverware and carpets purchased on a trip must have receipts. Products priced up to $250 will not be taxed.
There is no tax free or VAT here.
The United Arab Emirates is one of the incomparable holiday destinations not only for those who are attracted by the exoticism of the East. An amazing country where commitment to ancient traditions and pride in its past coexist with the desire for the latest achievements of civilization.
These fruits are glorified in legends and mentioned in all the sacred books of mankind - from the Torah, Bible and Koran to Buddhism and Hinduism. But most people, unless they live in the blessed Mediterranean or similar climates, know them only dried.
Did you guess it? We will talk about figs or, as they are also called, figs!
If you come to the UAE, then now is your chance to try these soft, delicate fruits, delivered here fresh from Spain, Morocco and Lebanon, in season from July to October. However, at other times, they are brought from different parts of the world, including India, America, South Africa and Australia, although it is not a fact that they will be as tasty as seasonal Mediterranean ones.
Health and benefits:
It is not for nothing that these fruits are mentioned in the sacred books: their nutritional and healing value is very great.
Fresh figs have a fibrous structure, are full of vitamins and microelements such as copper, potassium, magnesium, while having a low calorie content of 70 kcal per 100 g. At the same time, the calorie content of dried fruits triples!
As a result of practical studies conducted by American scientists, it turned out that daily consumption of one fresh fig fruit helps regulate blood pressure (due to the intake of magnesium and potassium), maintain the condition of the musculoskeletal system (due to calcium content), helps maintain weight (due to the large amount fibers), has an effect on maintaining vision and has other beneficial aspects.
The fruits are used as a mild natural laxative. They contain probiotics and help maintain a healthy and toned digestive system. In some cultures, fig leaves are used as a hypoglycemic agent in patients with diabetes and an anticancer agent.
Variety of varieties:
A fact that I was interested in learning about: figs, the well-known mulberry (mulberry) and the huge ficus belong to the same plant family - the mulberry family. Nowadays, about 150 varieties of figs are known, differing in fruit size, flavor, flesh color and surface - from white-green to black-violet. As a rule, white, green, and pink varieties are very delicate, while dark blue-violet varieties are more resistant. The largest producers of fruit are now Turkey, Morocco, Egypt and Algeria, as well as Greece, Spain and the state of California in the USA.
History mentions the cultivation of fig trees in ancient Egypt, 3 thousand years before the present day. But their story began even earlier: if you remember, it was with a fig leaf that Adam and Eve first covered their nakedness!
Nowadays, the wild fig tree can be found in abundance in the Atlas Mountains, where many monkeys live among the thickets, feeding on its fruits.
Selection and storage:
Figs are a perishable fruit, so they are not available for sale in all stores. We asked the manager of the Fruit and Vegetable Department of LuLu Hypermarkets how to make your choice: “Buy figs only if you plan to eat them within no more than 2 days. The fruits should be whole, not crushed, have a rich color and a herbaceous-sweet smell. If the smell is sour, it means they are already spoiled and are no good for anything.
The highest concentration of vitamins, microelements and antioxidants is found in ripe fruits. At the same time, don’t worry if you come across slightly unripe fruits; you can always add them to a regular salad, because the lack of taste does not detract from their nutritional value, in this case they are full of chlorophylls.
Ripe figs should be stored in the refrigerator for no more than 2 days, preferably separately from other fruits, in a sealed container so as not to absorb odors and, due to their softness, only in one row. If they are unripe, you can leave them for a day or two at room temperature.
As for dried ones, if they are stored in a cool, dark place or in the refrigerator, also in a closed container without access to air, they remain tasty and juicy for many months.
They need to be washed only when serving directly, carefully removing the petioles. Dried figs can be eaten as is, used in granola recipes and fruit salads, and if they are too dry, can be soaked briefly in water. Moreover, pouring boiling water over dry figs, like all other dried fruits, is recommended in any case, given that many manufacturers treat them with sulfur to increase shelf life. This is a completely legal practice, but it's worth keeping in mind."
Culinary ideas:
Figs, fresh and dry, are great to add to muesli or rice puddings. Pies and fudge are baked with it. Small ripe figs can be served with yogurt, ice cream or fruit juice. At the same time, it is better to remove the dense peel from dark varieties, but light ones do not need this, since they are already too tender.
During lunch and dinner, they will be a great addition to salads with quinoa, fresh fennel, arugula and Parmesan. Figs are also combined with mozzarella and seasoned with fresh thyme and rosemary. Stuffed with herbed goat cheese and sprinkled with almonds, they make a great appetizer before serving the main course.
Attention:
As for precautions, one must take into account their strong laxative effect, if consumed in excess, as well as the danger of allergies in people sensitive to latex (their skin contains this substance).
Where to buy in the UAE:
Figs are sold in the French hypermarkets Carrefour and Giant, in the British Spinneys and Waitrose, as well as in the local LuLu hypermarkets, where the most affordable prices for all exotic fruits are available. Because of their delicacy, tender seasonal figs are usually packaged in small wooden boxes, while large, dark varieties with thick skins can be purchased in bulk.
The United Arab Emirates is a fabulous country literally straight out of the pages of One Thousand and One Nights. The Emirates amaze the imagination not only with their nature, but also with ingenious inventions and grandiose buildings.
Just about half a century ago this place was a desert, but now it is one of the most popular countries among travelers, its settlements are like living illustrations for books or films about the future. However, when traveling here, you should remember that the laws here are very strict.
This is a state with a well-developed oil industry, but agriculture is also developing rapidly. To ensure the prosperity of the industry, huge investments were made and the world's leading biologists and breeders were invited.
Thanks to this policy, farms and greenhouses were built in the eastern part and in the northeast and part of the coast of the Gulf of Oman, equipped according to the latest technical trends, allowing for several harvests per year.
The investments quickly paid off, and at this time trade in the country ranks second after oil production. In our article we will tell you what fruits and vegetables you can buy and try in the Emirates.
According to statistics, 45 thousand tons of fruits and 2.9 million tons of dates are harvested in the UAE per year. Impressive, right?
What fruits grow in the UAE
First, let's list what fruits are grown in the UAE. As already mentioned, the agricultural sector is quite developed. On the world market, this country is famous for its amber dates, fragrant strawberries, potatoes, tomatoes, and cucumbers.
Other fruits are also grown here. Fruit crops are exported mainly from neighboring countries: Saudi Arabia, Iran, Egypt and even Thailand. When you go to the market or local supermarket, you can simply get confused by the abundance of unfamiliar exotic fruits brought here from all over the world.
They are sold in the UAE regardless of the time of year, but there is still a certain seasonality.
In January, strawberries and dates are harvested, and fresh citrus fruits, bananas, guava, and tamarinds are brought to the markets.
Tamarind is an unusual fruit that looks like a peanut or pea pod. Its unattractive appearance is more than compensated by its tasty and juicy pulp. Tamarinds are harvested from December to March. In neighboring countries, this is precisely the time when these fruits are in season. In February, the harvest of winter fruits continues.
Fruits in the Emirates in March delight tourists with their variety. They harvest strawberries, citrus fruits, tamarinds, wood potatoes (chiko). Externally, chiko is more reminiscent of large kiwi fruits. It has a brown skin and sweet reddish-brown flesh.
This exotic fruit comes in two shapes: oval or more round. The recommended shelf life is a maximum of a couple of days.
The season begins in March mangosteens, which will continue until November. This fruit has a dark brown shell, under which lies a pulp, somewhat reminiscent of garlic cloves in shape.
But this is where the similarity with garlic ends: the pulp of mangosteen is very sweet and aromatic. When choosing this fruit, make sure that the skin of the mangosteen is firm, not too soft and not too hard.
Mangosteen
Vegetables and fruits in the UAE become even more abundant in April. Peaches, watermelons, melons, grapes, citrus fruits, and bananas are brought from Saudi Arabia, Iran, and Egypt. The most unusual fruits for our tourists in May are longan, lychee, rambutan. At the same time, the lychee harvest is quite short, it ends in June.
Longan, like grapes, is sold in bunches. These are brown fruits with sweet and juicy pulp. When choosing this fruit, make sure that you are sold ripe fruits and not green ones.
Longan
In the UAE, the variety of fruits on store shelves throughout the year is impressive: some fruits replace or complement others. Some of them are harvested several times, so they can be found all year round.
Table of fruits in the UAE by season:
| Fruits | Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | But I | Dec |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Oranges | X | X | X | X | X | X | X | |||||
| Strawberry | X | X | X | X | X | X | X | |||||
| Watermelon | X | X | X | X | X | X | X | |||||
| Bananas | X | X | X | X | X | X | X | X | X | X | X | X |
| Grape | X | X | X | X | X | X | X | X | ||||
| Rambutan | X | X | X | X | X | X | ||||||
| Tangerines | X | X | X | |||||||||
| Grenades | X | X | X | X | ||||||||
| Dates | X | X | X | X | X | X | ||||||
| Lychee | X | X | X | |||||||||
| Mangosteen | X | X | X | X | X | X | X | X | X | |||
| Grapefruits | X | X | X | |||||||||
| Pears | X | X | X | X | X | |||||||
| Guava | X | X | X | X | X | |||||||
| Melon | X | X | X | X | ||||||||
| Figs | X | X | ||||||||||
| Longan | X | X | X | |||||||||
| Kumquat | X | X | X | |||||||||
| Lime | X | X | X | |||||||||
| Mango | X | X | X | X | ||||||||
| Persimmon | X | X | ||||||||||
| Peaches | X | X | X | X | ||||||||
| Physalis | X | X | X | X | X | X |
Cost of fruits in the UAE
If you are going to travel, then you will probably be interested to know how much fruit costs in the UAE. Due to the fact that many fruits are imported, their prices can be quite high. They depend on the location relative to tourist routes and the prestige of the establishment.
Many tourists note that inexpensive products can be purchased at markets such as the Fruit & Vegetable Market in Dubai. Locals shop here, as do many restaurant owners.
Fruit & Vegetable Market is the largest green market in the city; you are unlikely to find such a variety of fruits and vegetables anywhere else. Here you can buy exotic fruits, choose fresh herbs for salads, and pamper the whole family with oriental sweets.
In the markets, sellers are quite intrusive, but you can bargain with them and reduce the initial cost. At large wholesale markets, a box of any fruit costs the same as one kilogram in a supermarket.
Let's look at the average prices for fruits in the UAE:
- mango (1 kg) - from 12 dirhams;
- bananas (1 kg) - about 7 dirhams;
- watermelon, melon (1 kg) - from 6 dirhams;
- oranges (1 kg) - from 5 dirhams;
- pomegranate, mango, plums (1 kg) - 17 dirhams;
- guava (1 kg) - 11 dirhams;
- kiwi (1 kg) - about 15 dirhams;
- apples, pears (1 kg) - about 10 dirhams;
- chiko (1 kg) - 30 dirhams;
- longan (1 kg) - 28 dirhams;
- tamarind (package weighing 0.3 kg) - 17 dirhams;
- mangosteen (1 kg) - about 30 dirhams.
When choosing fruits for children, be careful; first give a small amount to avoid allergies. This is especially true for exotic fruits and vegetables that you have not tried before.