Dubai AED
Dushanbe is relatively poorly connected, so we were exploring direct flights options and discover Dubai. This is a great way to relax a bit, wash your clothes, plan the next steps and chill a bit by the pool after very intensive weeks of travel.
The hotel kindly allowed us a very reasonable early check-in surcharge as our flight inhumanely took off at 4am in the morning, which is common for the Arab and Central Asian region Planes (because of the heat) - in this case in Dubai - are probably allowed to land at early off-peak times and Somon Air gets cheaper slots at the airport. Anyway, we made a bold decision to fly with Tajikistan airline Somon Air, which is fine, they're a tiny bit above the no-go airlines list, so all good :)
Landed in our room, wow, well deserved after first busy weeks.
We arrive and have breakfast when the other hotel guests are just turning their heads and enjoy a great sumptuous breakfast buffet. We really didn't need much the week before in nature and giving up wasn't bad at all, but admittedly the new dish was a great thing.
That's all we do :) But got a little more, and we are still on a longer trip, which is dynamically making its way across the world.
It was even nicer to use the laundry room with dryer and to wash almost the entire backpack once. That was sorely needed, no wonder with how much dizziness and stamina our bags flew the entire Pamir ride through the 4WD :) Not to mention the millimeter thick dust.
We want to spend the first day at the pool and beach, but the rest of the week turns out to be more eventful than expected, because with such a city on our doorstep, we just couldn't resist collecting a few impressions. And the city is literally on your doorstep, what a great view from the beach over Dubai's many skylines.
Impressive and somehow got my thoughts circling every time: have we lost the motivation to bid on this little challenge (everything is the world's biggest, the best, the craziest and so on), is it wiser to shine on other playing fields, are we Germans (too right) modest or or...or am I completely wrong? There are different answers, but we think we could have a little more courage and ambition to be at the top in Europe. This can also be done without exaggerating, which, admittedly, cannot always be said of the Arabian Peninsula.
It will be Friday, the 31.03., another month gone and yesterday our dear Martin already knew what it means to have one year extra on the account :)
Today we have the honor to meet two friends in Dubai, that's always the nicest to have locals in the hood so to speak and after all we have enough moments together. Our destination is a delicious dinner with Magda and Ali on the Palm. It just looks crazy when you look at the artificial city construction on google maps and currently the second district of this kind is already under construction. Big. But as so often during this trip, the distances look small, but better don't start to walk :)
Craziness in Architecture and Entertainment (but both very well done) at the Palm, Dubai.
So we chill after the delicious breakfast at the water, that became the entire week our whim, before we then became active. Before the palm, of course, it goes directly to Burj Kalifa, the tallest building in the world and scurry once briefly through the Dubai Mall...which does not work so well, this is not a mall, this is a shopping indoor city in the city. A bit of an exaggeration, a first impression of how the region thinks quasi indoor cities, like Neom and Murraba. It's crazy.
Burj Khalifa is a skyscraper in Dubai, United Arab Emirates and is currently the tallest building in the world. It stands at a height of 828 meters and has 163 floors. The building features observation decks, luxury hotels, residential units, restaurants, and office spaces. The view from the observation deck on the 124th floor offers a stunning panoramic view of Dubai's skyline.
Off...
...On
In front of the Burj Khalifa, there is the Dubai Fountain, which is the world's largest choreographed fountain system. It is located in the man-made Burj Khalifa Lake and features over 6,600 lights, 25 colored projectors, and shoots water up to 150 meters high. The fountain show features a mix of classical, contemporary, and Arabic music, making for a captivating and mesmerizing display. The fountain show takes place every 30 minutes from 6:00 PM to 11:00 PM daily, and the best viewing spots are from the Burj Khalifa observation decks or from the nearby Dubai Mall waterfront promenade.
Interestingly a huge number of buildings were lighting with advertisement boards of EMAAR, so we asked what it's all about:
Emaar Properties is one of the largest real estate developers in Dubai and is known for its iconic and luxurious developments. The company has built some of the most recognizable landmarks in Dubai, such as the Burj Khalifa, Dubai Mall, Dubai Marina, and the Dubai Fountain. Emaar is also responsible for developing residential communities such as Downtown Dubai, Arabian Ranches, and Emirates Living. With a reputation for delivering quality projects that meet the highest standards of luxury and innovation, Emaar has played a significant role in shaping Dubai's skyline and is a major contributor to the city's status as a global hub for business, tourism, and lifestyle.
We also immediately make our earthbound only experience with Dubai's subway, which we missed so see in Riyadh. Overall, you notice in Dubai the time advantage in so some things that are already in place to make the lives of the attracted expats and tourists more accustomed and pleasant. But beware, Saudi is developing at a breathtaking pace, you should not underestimate that.
So back to the metro
The Dubai Metro is a fully automated metro network that runs in Dubai, United Arab Emirates.
It first opened to the public on September 9, 2009, and currently has two lines (Red and Green) spanning 90 kilometers (56 miles) of track.
The Dubai Metro is the longest automated driverless system in the world.
The Red Line has 29 stations, while the Green Line has 20 stations.
The metro operates from 5:30 am to midnight on weekdays, and until 1 am on weekends (Thursday and Friday).
The Dubai Metro has a total of 79 trains, with a maximum capacity of 643 passengers per train.
The metro system is one of the most advanced in the world, featuring air-conditioned stations, platform edge doors, and a gold class carriage.
The Dubai Metro has won numerous awards, including the "Best Metro Project of the Year" at the Global Transport Awards in 2010.
The Dubai Metro has helped reduce traffic congestion and air pollution in the city and has become an essential part of Dubai's transportation system.
The Dubai Metro has been used by over 2 billion passengers since its launch in 2009, making it one of the most popular metro systems in the world.
Conclusion: since there are not many lines, you have to get to the metro first, which you are already in a cab for anyway, so you might as well stay seated. The lines look short, like so everything on the map, as in Saudi already. But the broad and generously built expanse of the desert makes the clock tick as soon as you are on the road from A to B :) So we get a bit in time trouble, would have to change trains twice after Internet City and buy another ticket, which we did not know at all, because it was sold to us until the final station. So we get off and try not to be late for our dinner with a cab. Fail! But it was at least the German academic quarter hour and let the Lebanese cuisine on the palm still taste great. Sorry again, you two :)
A first giant fountain dances us suddenly after the Ramadan prayer echo from the muezzins something before, we found a great place. You do not really notice the palm tree, as expected, because it is so big that it looks more like Hamburg with a lot of water than an art structure as in the Maldives. But still impressive, at night the Atlantis Hotel in duplicate shines towards us. The second one has just opened and Beyoncé was paid a whopping $24m for an opening concert.
The two Atlantis Hotels on the Palm, Dubai
Recovered, full and impressed we return late to the hotel. It quickly becomes clear that we will not sit for days and all day at the pool, here is just too much going on.
Nightlife from our hotel entrance.
Saturday is Hair Day
Saturday is then finally ready and no April Fool's joke. A hairdresser appointment is booked and for the first time Patrik can not cut his hair in the home country :) Yes he has to quasi, but Ibrahim from Syria makes the top and on top of that we have an interesting conversation about his home country Syria, which we would also like to travel, but there is no need to say more. Whereby he even thought it possible to visit the country, but it would then certainly be something different than we would expect. But we think so too!
It became nevertheless also equal the hairdresser to the experience and the eyebrows were brought also equal still with much elegance and thread in form. That holds times again the next weeks, estimated Tokyo would be the next relevant place for a perhaps then somewhat more fancy hairstyle, let's see :)
Dubai Mall
We want to experience the mall again properly and also get a few little things and fill up the USD treasury. It is incredible what this shopping city offers everything. Waterfall, aquarium, in which Patrik almost dived on his birthday (but timing changed the gifts) :-D Then it was Riyadh. An ice rink still surprised us, the huge and colorful Nike store also held a great view of Burj Kalifa and the giant fountain ready. Everything is just a few sizes bigger.
Dubai Mall Fast Facts
Dubai Mall is the largest shopping mall in the world by total area, covering 1.1 million square meters (12 million square feet).
The mall has over 1,300 retail outlets, making it one of the most extensive shopping destinations globally.
Dubai Mall attracts around 80 million visitors annually, making it the most visited retail and entertainment destination in the world.
The mall has a massive indoor aquarium, known as the Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo, which is home to over 33,000 marine animals and the world's largest acrylic panel.
Dubai Mall has several other attractions, including a massive indoor ice rink, an indoor waterfall, a VR Park, and an outdoor fountain show featuring the world's largest choreographed fountain system, the Dubai Fountain.
Shops were often labeled in both, Arabic and with Latin letters, quite nice way of inclusion.
Like we have experienced in South East Asia, some walkways were completely AC'd, no wonder if summers have up to 50 degrees.
Desert Time
Sunday is not boring either, which is also anything but Sunday, since the weekend in the Arabian Peninsula takes place on Holy Friday and Saturday.
It goes into the desert. Once again with the 4WD, which our driver Moussa will later chase through the dunes. Dune bashing is what they call it in the jargon and when asked if the car never tips to the side and tumbles down the dune, because he cuts really steep slopes to make it really sandy bumpy for his fun. He laughs and replies "Yes, hmmm, four times." :-D You're not serious haha. But since a fellow passenger in the car has previously announced possible nausea, we are lucky and Moussa spares us with daredevil maneuvers. But it was funny.
It includes a lot of fun, which we can more than recommend. Although Patrik never stood on a snowboard, he elegantly glides down a complete dune standing on the board. Although stomping back up is extremely strenuous in the sand, Patrik doesn't miss out on the fun two or three more times.
At the very beginning of the tour we go on a quad bike. Riding the dunes on a well-motorized vehicle is fun.
At the welcome tea there is still a falcon on the arm, which has tradition and animal-fascinated it was a great experience to see this creature times so close and also to be able to stroke. When stroking the belly, the eyes opened and closed, as we could already see in incredible shark documentaries. Even wild animals sometimes need a change and are real romantics.
Falconry Infotheque
Falconry has been an integral part of the culture and tradition of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) for centuries. Falcons have been used for hunting in the Arabian Peninsula for thousands of years, and their importance in the region's history and culture cannot be overstated.
The falcon's popularity in the UAE can be attributed to several factors. First, falconry is considered a symbol of wealth and prestige in Emirati society. Falcons are expensive and require significant resources to care for, train, and house. Thus, owning a falcon is a status symbol and a sign of one's wealth and influence.
Second, falconry is deeply rooted in Emirati culture, with many families passing down the tradition from generation to generation. Falcons are seen as a symbol of strength, speed, and grace, and are admired for their beauty and hunting prowess.
Finally, the UAE has made significant efforts to promote falconry as a cultural activity and a tourism attraction. The Abu Dhabi Falcon Hospital, for example, is one of the largest falcon hospitals in the world and attracts visitors from around the globe. The government also sponsors falconry festivals and competitions, which showcase the skill and artistry of Emirati falconers.
In summary, the falcon is a cherished and iconic symbol of Emirati culture, embodying the values of strength, grace, and tradition. Its popularity in the UAE can be attributed to its cultural significance, its status as a symbol of wealth and prestige, and the government's efforts to promote falconry as a cultural activity and tourism attraction.
Desert Sundowner
We experience a great sunset in the dunes, this increases our fascination for the Middle East, maybe we will migrate after all, but to quite unexpected destinations :) The highway back to the skyline is completely deserted, a quick and pleasant return trip. And then we ask at Moussa but again and Klaro, we have forgotten the Ramadan. Everyone takes that damn seriously. There are within an hour really cars that you can count on one hand. No miracle, we drive just approx. 18:30 o'clock, exactly to the sunset and prayer, and also Moussa asks totally nicely at the gas station whether he can eat briefly what, he had since the morning at 4 nothing more. Of course!
Shortly to the gas station: before the dune drive we noticed a hiss. Moussa let air from the tires, a success formula for all dune racers among you. The tires were of course pumped up again after the desert ride, which explains the gas station visit. Funnily enough, our shoes were also blown out with the air pressure device, great service. And with the then clean shoes we were of course invited directly to their store. Everyone was too tired to buy anything, but the toilet was very appropriate for the return trip.
Roads completely empty because of Ramadan
Ramadan
Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar and is a time of intense spiritual devotion and reflection for Muslims worldwide. During this month, Muslims fast from sunrise to sunset, abstaining from food, drink, and other physical needs. It is a time of self-discipline, humility, and generosity, with many Muslims engaging in acts of charity and volunteer work during this period. In addition to fasting, Muslims are encouraged to increase their prayers and read the Quran more frequently, striving to deepen their connection with God. Ramadan is also a time for communal gatherings, with many mosques holding nightly prayers and breaking the fast together with a communal meal known as Iftar. Overall, Ramadan is a time of spiritual renewal and a reminder of the importance of faith, compassion, and community in the lives of Muslims.
Our Ramadan time already started in Tajikistan and of course you are asked to eat and drink as a tourist. And in the first moment you think, sure, I am not taking part in it, we have long intensive days, I need to eat, especially drink in the heat. But on the other hand, it would have been a nice challenge and sign of respect to join them in the Ramadan experience. We did not, but it was another interesting conflict of thoughts and everyone was very respectful and we tried to hide while eating.
Highspeed Transformation from Nomad to City of the future
Dubai, Jeddah, Al'Ula, Riyadh, Murabba, Neom... The Arabic countries have undergone remarkable transformations over the past few decades, with changes in tourism, business models, and societal attitudes. Historically, these countries were primarily known for their reliance on the oil industry. However, with the decline in oil prices, many nations have begun to focus on diversifying their economies. This shift has led to a growing emphasis on tourism and technology, among other sectors. As a result, many Arabic countries have become increasingly open to foreign visitors and invested in promoting cultural exchange.
Moreover, there has been a significant societal and cultural change in Arabic countries, especially among the younger generation, who are more open to new ideas and ways of life. These changes have led to a growing sense of openness and tolerance and a renewed focus on innovation and creativity in business and society as a whole. From the development of nomad villages in the desert to megacities, the Arabic world has seen significant urbanization and modernization in recent years.
Despite these changes, Arabic countries still embrace their rich cultural heritage and traditions. Many continue to celebrate ancient traditions and festivals such as Eid al-Fitr and Ramadan, which provide a fascinating insight into the rich history of the region. Overall, these transformations reflect a broader trend of growth, progress, and modernization across the Arabic world as it continues to evolve and adapt to the challenges and opportunities of the 21st century.
Jumeira Beach
On our second to last day we went to a new corner, the promenade of Jumeira Beach, the Kite Beach. Since it is winter and today is a windy day, which was noticed by the bigger waves already in the hotel, it sweeps the surfers and kiters like Formula 1 cars over the water.
Skyview Dubai
Before the evening program starts, we visit Dubai Skyview, a high tower, actually Twin Towers connected with a large multi-story bridge. There you experience a real skywalk in xxxx m height over glass. Looks easy, but the first steps cost then but really overcoming. We then overcome ourselves to the included Sky Slide, unbelievable, a three-sided glass slide, on which one sits on a mat and rushes into the depths of the next floor. And the whole thing is suspended from the outer façade, with nothing below or beside the slide except a unique view over Dubai. An experience of a special kind and definitely worth the lower entrance fee to get a higher view of Burj.
You can see the glass slide on top of the skyview building.
Bye-Bye Dubai
Unsurprisingly, our recreation program repeats itself and sad thoughts start to spread when we think about tomorrow's farewell. Actually, we feel this way in every place. It's a mix of comfort zone, you just got used to it, on the other hand the constant packing, even if it worked faster and faster and more optimized within the first two weeks, we were damn well prepared, you have to say. But also a piece of parting pain, because so far almost all places had something magical for us. Once we were sad to leave the country itself, that was Saudi Arabia. In Tajikistan, besides the great nature, it was our great driver Kubat with whom we spent complete 8 days, all day and on 2 square meters of car and in the same homestay and in the morning again having breakfast together. That was already a special tour, we really understood each other excellently and blindly.
In Dubai it was the fascination and the sunny beach that we will definitely miss and two friends that we have to leave again, while we have just met them twice, it already felt somehow used to.
We have dinner with Agata on a nice rooftop terrace overlooking the sunset. A nice end to our random rest break before the rest break, because tomorrow we're off to the next exciting country, where we'll take it easy with yoga on the beach before throwing ourselves into the colorful, crazy streets: India. Bye Bye Dubai and Emirates.
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