UAE is a magnificent country which has a total of seven emirates. All these emirates has multiple tourist attractions and activities for the travellers. You can visit UAE with your family and friends. Travel Saga will help you with your travel plan so that you can enjoy your holidays without any delay.

Sheikh Mohammed Centre Blog Banner by Travel Saga Tourism
CategoriesUAE Art & Culture By Abhishek Tiwari

Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding

Located on the Al Fahidi Historic District’s edge, the Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding opened its doors in 1995. Moreover, if you seek to gain a deeper insight into the cultural heritage and history of the Emirates, this is the place to be. Also, the various activities, the tours that are conducted and the local cuisine tell you more about life in the Emirates.

History and Introduction

Founded by Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid, this non-profit organisation’s motto is ‘Open Doors, Open Minds’. Firstly, the Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding aims to create harmony between various cultural traditions. With myriad origins, it helps visitors know about the UAE’s cultural heritage.

You should make it a point to visit the museum between mid-September and mid-July to take guided tours of the Al Fahidi Historic District held many times every week. Secondly, these tours of 90 minutes are very informative. If you’re in a group of more than 10, you can be a part of Creekside tours of 21/2 hours that are much more comprehensive. Thirdly, visiting a mosque, Bastakiya Village taking an abra ride and going on a tour of the souks selling spices, textiles and gold in Bur Dubai and Deira are included in this tour. Lastly, you gather a lot of information at a Q&A session sipping on Arabian coffee, savouring juicy dates and enjoying tea.

Dig into traditional Emirati cuisine at a traditional meal inspired by the Bedouins. Tasting preparations that are a speciality of the Emirates, you can enjoy dishes like balaleet, machboos, saloona and chabab. What you choose on your menu depends on whether you’re having breakfast, brunch, lunch or dinner. You can opt for a tour of the Jumeirah Mosque by the centre and visitors enjoy it immensely.

Highlights of Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding

  • A visit to Dubai’s only mosque allowing visits by non-Muslims, the Jumeirah Mosque
  • Provided you have booked in advance, a walking tour through Bastakiya is also arranged
  • A guided tour of the Al Fahidi Historical District
  • If you are in a group of 10, a comprehensive Creekside tour is also organised
  • A tour of vibrant souks selling textiles, spices and gold
  • A taste of traditional Emirati cuisine where exclusive dishes are served

Timings

  • The centre is open to visitors on working days from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
  • On Saturdays and Sundays, you have to visit the museum between 9 a.m. and 1 p.m.

Important Information

  • Since the tour includes a visit to a mosque, all visitors are to dress very soberly.
  • All should make it a point to avoid any exposure.
  • When visiting the Jumeirah Mosque, you have to be in the company of a representative of the Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding.
  • The museum was founded in the year 1995 by Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid.
  • In keeping with its motto of ‘Open Doors, Open Minds’, the museum is intended to help foster harmony between different cultures.

How to Reach

  • It’s best to take a bus since it’s cheap, yet comfortable. Hop into one at Bastakiya 1 or Roundabout 1 of Fahidi
  • Rent a car from Travel Saga Tourism to reach the museum conveniently.

To Conclude

Visiting the Sheikh Mohammed Center for Cultural Understanding is certainly an enriching experience since you get to learn about the Emirates’ rich history and cultural heritage. You take a trip back in time when you visited the Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood, where you witnessed how life was in the Emirates before oil was struck. The Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding beautifully presents the Emirates’ eventful history. Find Location On Map

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Al Zorah Natural Reserve Blog Banner by Travel Saga Tourism
CategoriesA Guide to explore UAE The Travel Journal UAE Places & Areas By Himani Rawal

Al Zorah Natural Reserve

The Al Zorah Natural Reserve is a vibrant and thriving biodiversity in Ajman. Though Ajman is considered the smallest of the Emirates, the place mostly houses lush green flora and fauna, with natural reserves all around the place. Ajman is quite famous among visitors here in the UAE due to the various heritage sites available here, along with the vast vegetation and mangroves around the place.

Let us check out the various activities to conclude while learning about the history of the Al Zorah Natural Reserve here.

Al Zorah is a natural reserve for protecting the biodiversity of the planet, including plants and animals, here in the small community of Ajman. The Al Zorah reserve stretches across a million square kilometres and has an area of 195 hectares. The area is covered with muddy marshes, dense mangroves, pristine beaches, and even natural lagoons.

Among the interesting places to visit in Ajman, the Al Zorah Natural Reserve is the place to spend a good time.

History

The place started as a reserve in 2004 and now accommodates over 100 species of birds and migratory avians. Various coloured fish with corals and sea molluscs can be found here in the Al Zorah Natural Reserve in Ajman. The famed pink flamingos can be viewed at the Al Zorah Reserve while they stop by during migration here.

Things to do at the Al Zorah Natural Reserve

Al Zorah Natural Reserve

There are various things to engage in while spending time at this park in Ajman. A few of the essential points are described below for checking purposes. Experiencing all these things will make your UAE tour memorable.

1. Bird watching activities

Individuals visiting the Al Zorah Natural Reserve can view the distinct birds roaming around the place. Over a hundred species of birds can be seen here, including parrots, woodpeckers, flamingos, bluejays, ducks, and much more. Egrets and herons are quite popular around the place. Migratory birds are also seen in abundance at the natural reserve here in Ajman.

2. Enjoy kayaking and boat rides

Another way to enjoy the mangroves in the Al Zorah Reserve is by boat along the green stretch. Individuals can hire a boat ride through the rainforest and check out the distinct wild animals like foxes, crocodiles, and hippos there. Kayak tours can also be enjoyed here while watching the marvellous UAE sunset on the horizon.

3. Get tanned at the beaches

Individuals wanting to enjoy their time in Ajman can check out the pristine sandy beaches here. Restaurants are lined up around the coast for individuals to relax on the beaches and get their natural tan. The tranquil clear waters of the Persian Gulf are also a sight to behold as we spend time enjoying nature at these beaches. There are many beaches in Dubai which are certainly worth a visit.

The best Time to Visit Al Zorah Natural Reserve

The best time to visit this place is during the winter months. Summers can be boiling hot here, and the beaches can burn the skin during that time. Winters are cooler, and enjoying the activities at the marshy lands here can prove to be the best time.

Entry Fee and Timings

The place is kept open for visitation purposes from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily, and the entry fee is free for everyone. Some tours and activities may cost you some charges.

This park is situated on the northern edge of the city of Ajman. Individuals can easily reach the place from Ittihad Street in the Ajman region. Hence, visitors travelling from Dubai or Sharjah can access the Sheikh Zayed Road to reach the reserve area without any hassle.

Final Thoughts

These are a few important activities, along with the history of the Al Zorah Natural Reserve here in Ajman. Moreover, the place is great for bird-watching, kayaking, and even spending some quality time with loved ones on the serene seashore beaches. Individuals can check out this place with their families or friends while staying in the Ajman region. For an immersive experience of the entire UAE, consider booking the 6 Emirates tour by Travel Saga Tourism. Find Al Zorah Natural Reserve Location On Map

UAE People Bid Adieu to The Last Summer Day Blog Banner by Travel Saga Tourism
CategoriesUAE Seasonal Blogs By Himani Rawal

UAE People Bid Adieu to The Last Summer Day

All the Middle Eastern countries are usually very hot and harsh in summer. UAE is no different. That is why it is suggested to visit the UAE during the pleasant weather months of the winter season. Thankfully, for the current year, summer has almost waved goodbye to the area. So, the entire UAE is ready to welcome tourists again to visit and experience the grand Arabian lifestyle.

The Last Summer Day

The Emirates has finally transitioned from summer and entered to the autumn season. According to the weather experts, the soothing autumn started on 23rd September. Therefore, the country will finally experience a little drop in the temperature and the weather conditions.

People will enjoy moderate temperatures in the morning and afternoon, and the night will get cooler in some of the Dubai tourist places. However, a significant change will be there during October and November when the country will start shifting to winter.

As per the National Center of Meteorology, the United Arab Emirates is stepping inside the 2nd transition period, which is the period between summer and winter. During this period, the weather gradually shows some changes in its patterns. Besides, this is the time when the Indian seasonal depression weakens. As a result, the Siberian air altitude interferes and massively affects the Arabian Gulf region.

Conclusion

In short, now is the time for people from the UAE and other foreign nations to visit Dubai. There’s no better time than to visit in winter months but the crowd remains a problem. Especially, from October to February, Dubai and the other 6 emirates of the UAE witness massive footfall from across the globe. So, right in the beginning and at the end of these months is a good time to spend in Dubai. Visit Dubai and see the cross-cultural harmony resulting in futuristic development. Plan your visit with Travel Saga Tourism to experience every side of the city in time and with ease.

Ajman National Museum Blog Banner by Travel Saga Tourism
CategoriesThe Travel Journal UAE Art & Culture By Sakshi Tanwar

Ajman National Museum

Ajman is considered the smallest of all the Emirates in the UAE but is known to accommodate some of the finest heritage sites across the country. Among the various, the Ajman National Museum is a place worth visiting. The Ajman National Museum is also referred to as the Ajman Fort Museum and was built using gypsum and coral stones for the structural feats here.

The fort renovations started under the leadership of Sheikh Rashid Bin Humaid around the year 1838. The museum now houses early manuscripts, ancient wooden dhow boats, and efficient irrigational systems within the complex.

So, let us check the basic history and facts at the proper time to visit the Ajman National Museum here in Ajman.

History

The Ajman National Museum once used to be a fort around the coastal areas of Ajman. It was around 1816 when Sheikh Nuaimi defeated the Al Bu Shamis and captured the fort under the circumstances. From then on, the fort became a household for the ruling family until it was renovated into a museum. The fort once acted as the first line of defense from the invaders and terrorists here, with watchtowers and windmills around the place. The entrance is guarded by a heavy metal gate with two cannons on either side of the entrance. The fort eventually acted as a police station between 1971 and 1975 and was later converted into a museum in 1981.

Things to Check out at the Ajman Museum

Ajman Museum

There are various artifacts and places to visit in Ajman relics to check out while visiting the Ajman Museum. There is ancient jewelry and pottery on exhibit, along with early pearl fishing tools and distinct manuscripts and tapestries. Among the varied things available to check out, a few of the important elements present at the museum are depicted below:

1. Pottery Artifacts

An ancient cemetery is present here, excavated in the Al Mowaihat area. It has the oldest jewellery and pottery artefacts from around 3,000 B.C. This place was accidentally excavated by construction workers, who found the first settlers of the Arab land here. The Al Mowaihat area is now a residential area for people, as are some of the excellent housing structures built around the location. Various ancient beads, painted jars, and conch shell buttons can be checked here, displayed over the exhibits.

2. Fishing and Pearl Farming Tools and Equipment

The Ajman Museum is also home to various fishing and pearl farming tools. They were used in the early societies of the Emirati land. The main trade for the Arabs used to be fishing and pearl farming. The museum displays the best artifacts used in the process. Replicas of the various early fishing scenes are created at the museum to help people learn about the various antics of the early Arab people. Therefore, during your UAE tour, experiencing all these things will make your every moment special.

3. Sculptures and Figurines

The Ajman Museum also houses some of the best sculptures and figurines from ancient times. Some figurines resemble the early lives of the Ajman people, with barbers and fishermen found throughout the place. The place also provides distinct light on the various police equipment and weapons used during the 1980s. Remnants of the first radio station built over the museum are still offered as an exhibit to visitors here.

4. The Best Time to Visit the Ajman National Museum

The Ajman National Museum can be visited at any time of the year since the exhibits are displayed within the interiors of the complex. If you wish to partake in distinct activities while visiting the Ajman National Museum here, then winter is the perfect time to enjoy it. Visitors can go fishing or enjoy the sandy beaches during this time of the year to avoid any kind of heat rash on the body.

How to Reach Ajman Museum?

The Ajman Museum can be reached from any place in the UAE. There are many transportation services like public buses and you can rent a car to reach the place here. The Corniche is quite near the Ajman Museum, making it a perfect spot to watch the landmarks here. Find Location On Map

Timing

The museum is open to visitors from Saturdays to Thursdays. Starting from 8 in the morning until 8 in the evening. Fridays are open for a half day, and visitational timings are between 2.30 P.M. and 8 P.M.

Entry Fee

The admission fee for Ajman Museum is AED 5 per person.

Conclusion

The above are a few important facts and histories considering the Ajman National Museum. Individuals can easily travel to the location using public lines from any place in the UAE. You can also visit the Museum of the Future Dubai. So, check out the rich history and immerse yourself in the great traditional ways of the early Arab people here at the Ajman Museum.

Al Hayl Castle Blog Banner by Travel Saga Tourism
CategoriesAll About Fujairah By Sakshi Tanwar

Al Hayl Castle

Among the different cities within the Emirates, Fujairah is the smallest one with a rich place for activities and attractions to glance by. Fujairah is known for the ancient structures and architecture present in the city. The city has its own beaches, conservational reserves, heritage sites, and more. Individuals wanting to spend some cherished moments with their loved ones can visit the Fujairah here in the UAE.

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UAE Passports Blog Banner by Travel Saga Tourism
CategoriesFull Guide to Dubai Visit Visa The Travel Journal By Himani Rawal

Visa Update for UAE: Nationalities from 87 countries are visa-exempted to enter UAE

The United Arab Emirates’ Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirms that residents of 87 countries get visa exemptions for entering the UAE. The ministry further urges tourists to check in with the ministry’s official website to get complete information regarding the visa status.

The ministry also confirmed the news that nationalities from a total of 110 countries would have to claim their visas before entering Emirati soil. They can easily connect with Travel Saga Tourism to get their urgent Dubai Visa. All the information regarding the new updates and notices is available on the official website of the ministry. Eventually, the complete list of countries with visa exemptions is available for the website records as well.

Individuals can check with the respective authorities and personnel over the matter or get information from the nearest consulate available. Among the few countries been visa-exempted Australia, Japan, Ukraine, Argentina, Italy, and Brazil are the primary ones. If your country does not fall in this category, you can apply for a 48 hours Dubai transit visa from Travel Saga Tourism.

Again, it has also been announced by the UAE Digital Government, that citizens belonging to GCC countries do not need a preceding visa to visit the Arab Emirates. Travellers can simply display their passports issued by a GCC country. Otherwise, they can use their ID cards once they arrive at any UAE port.

Check-in with the ministry’s official website to get the list of countries with visa exemptions in the recent notices. Dubai visit visa for certain countries would have a validity of 30 or 90 days with a 10-day grace period.

List of Exempted Nationalities

Albania El Salvador Oman
Andorra Estonia Paraguay
Argentina Finland Peru
Austria France Poland
Australia Georgia Portugal
Azerbaijan Germany Qatar
Barbados Honduras Republic of Ireland
Bahrain Hungary Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
Brazil Hong Kong San Marino
Belarus Iceland Saudi Arabia
Belgium Israel Seychelles
Brunei Italy Serbia
Bulgaria Japan Singapore
Canada Norway Slovakia
Chile Kazakhstan Slovenia
China Kiribati Solomon Islands
Colombia Kuwait South Korea
Costa Rica Liechtenstein Spain
Croatia Lithuania Sweden
Cyprus Luxembourg Switzerland
Czech Republic Latvia Special Administrative Region of China
Denmark Malaysia Nauru
New Zealand Maldives Montenegro
Monaco Malta Mexico
Mauritius

From this list, if you’re likely to explore any of these destinations, then you can opt for a particular Schengen visa or a separate visa, like Singapore, Mauritius, Belgium, or Finland Visa from Dubai.

Conclusion

Indian citizens carrying normal passports with a validity of at least six months from the arrival date have perks. For example, if you apply for a Slovenia visa from Dubai, then you should determine the criteria. The citizen carrying it can receive a 14-day visa upon arrival at the UAE ports. However, it should follow certain criteria, like a recent US visit or green card, or even a citizen visa from a European country with a minimum of 6 months validity.  Indian tourists can extend this timeline to an additional 14 days on request to the authorities. For visa extension, one can choose the airport to airport visa change option also.

An entry pass is necessary irrespective of the fact from whichever part of the world we hail from. Tourists can collect this entry permit from the GDRFA office which would signify the reason for visiting the UAE. For a 96 hour Dubai transit visa, you only need to connect with Travel Saga Tourism.

Over the years, the UAE passport has gained recognition and fame. According to the Passport Index Website, the UAE passport is one of the world’s most powerful passports. Passport holders from UAE can easily enter 140 countries, without the need for a visa. To stay in the country for 30 to 60 days, you can choose the 30 day Dubai visit visa or the 60 day Dubai visit visa. This way you can explore the whole city and nearby places easily without any hurry.

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Top 12 Museums in UAE Blog Banner by Travel Saga Tourism
CategoriesThe Travel Journal UAE Art & Culture Visitor Guide To Museums By Sakshi Tanwar

Top 12 Museums in UAE

UAE is famous for its vibrant destinations around the country and the tourist attractions and rides available to relax during the day. UAE is also famous for its museums reflecting the understanding and knowledge of ancient civilizations. Tourists and visitors gather around these destinations from around the globe to check the various artifacts and ruins available within these museums. Some of the museums here in UAE also provide events and shows for the public with educational tours for students and kids.

Top Museums in UAE

Let us check the 12 most stunning museums available to visit in UAE enclosed below.

1. Dubai Museum

Dubai Museum

The museum is located on the Al Fahidi fort in the Al Fahidi region. Moreover, the place houses ancient scriptures and essential habitats of the Bedouin people and was opened to the public in 1971. Also, the museum gives a proper depiction of the lives of Bedouins living along the coast, plains, and deserts of the UAE. The museum also has major findings from the past with maps and treasures to display. It is one of the top Dubai tourist places.

2. Louvre Museum, Abu Dhabi

Louvre Museum

The Louvre Museum Abu Dhabi is indeed known for its mind blowing interiors and the distinct artifacts available for display in the museum. The museum started its construction after being acclaimed by the Louvre in Paris. Moreover, the museum dome carries a staggering weight of 7500 tonnes and is pretty much heavier than the Eiffel Tower itself. The museum accommodates various priceless findings from ancient tapestries to certainly renowned paintings. The place also conducts shows for kids and students with interactive audio-visuals and exhibits over different cultures as well.

3. Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilization

Islamic Civilization

The Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilization was built around 1987 and is referred to as Souk Al Majarrah by the locals. This museum houses the ancient Islamic traditions and culture of the Middle East. There are many relics available for display with profound ancient sculptures and paintings. The impressive dome on the top is designed with zodiac signs that come alive during the nighttime. The Islamic Faith Gallery located on the first floor also depicts astronomical aesthetics that determine the direction of Kaba. Find Location On Map

4. Emirates National Auto Museum

Emirates National Auto Museum

The Emirates National Auto Museum is a place worth visiting if you are an ardent fan of classic automobiles. This place was featured in BBC’s renowned car show named Top Gear and accommodates over 200 cars of the Arab emperor Shaikh Hamid Bin Hamdan Al Nahyan. The museum was constructed in the year 2004 and is known for its classic Mercedes collections.

5. Etihad Museum, Dubai

Etihad Museum

The Etihad Museum in Dubai can be recalled as one of the best museums to enjoy while visiting Dubai. This museum is located in the 2nd of December street in Dubai and looks like a folded manuscript with 7 columns from the outside. This museum comprises vast hall rooms with decent administrative offices, educational areas for students, interactive sessions, and even distinct galleries to exhibit. It is open from 10 AM to 8 PM on a daily basis for visitors. Find Location On Map

6. Al Ain Palace Museum, Abu Dhabi

Al Ain Palace Museum

Shaikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan along with his family used to reside here. The palace was initially built in the year 1910 and later converted into a museum in 1966. The museum is known for the royal family belongings & the stunning interior designs of the rooms. Individuals can check the tours that are conducted to view the Royal villa and the majestic gardens built by the emperor. Find Location On Map

7. Sharjah Science Museum

Sharjah Science Museum

The Sharjah Science Museum is considered as one of the museums to hold various models based on physics, aerodynamics, and physiology. The museum opened its gates to the public in 1997 and has conducted special tours for students and children. The electricity show within the museum is one of the stunning shows to watch while taking our kids along. So, you must visit Sharjah to gain more knowledge at the Sharjah Science Museum. Find Location On Map

8. Saeed Al Maktoum House

Maktoum House

This house was built in the year 1896 and was referred to as the residence of Sheikh Saeed Al Maktoum. The Al Shindagha region in Dubai holds the house to this place. As a result, the house was later converted into a museum in 1958 and showcased the effervescent lives of the people here. Find Location On Map

9. The Women’s Museum of Bait Al Banat

Women's Museum of Bait Al Banat

This museum was created in the late 1950s by Professor Rafi Ghubash and marks the different sections of UAE women. This museum also pushes the stereotypical mindset of the people regarding Arab women and presents a beautiful culture over the same. The museum is located in the Old Dubai Gold Souk in the Deira region and is open for visitors from Saturdays to Thursdays. Find Location On Map

10. Camel Museum, Dubai

camel ride

The Camel Museum is another museum in Dubai that displays the various diets, habitats, and characteristics of the camels. Furthermore, the place is located in the Al Shindagha zone and is a hub for tourists and visitors. Entry to the museum is totally free while operating from Sundays to Thursdays. If you are amazed by knowing the facts about camels, you can also have a camel ride experience in Dubai.

11. Sharjah Archaeology Museum

Sharjah Archaeology Museum

The various archaeological findings in the UAE are displayed in the Sharjah Archaeology Museum. So, the different sections of the museum are the Bronze Age, Stone Age, Iron Age, and even Greater Arabia. The museum holds precious artefacts like the Golden Bridle, Ivory Comb, and even the ceramic dome over the top. This place can be visited by kids and adults. It conducts a few interactive games for the times to pass by. Find The Location On Map

12. Sharjah Calligraphy Museum, Sharjah

Sharjah Calligraphy Museum

Various calligraphic scriptures and texts using unique fonts by early artists are on exhibit in the Sharjah Calligraphy Museum. 2003 marks the construction of the museum and accommodates the famous Al Kufa in the Kufic font. Individuals can visit this place any time of the year which also has a free entry. Find Location On Map

Conclusion

In conclusion, the above are the 12 most important museums to visit while on a tour to  6 Emirates of UAE. One can also visit the Camel Museum and learn the characteristics of camels while others can check the automobile collections in the Emirates National Auto Museum. Additionally, you can check out the Museum of Future in Dubai. The places have their own timings and it is preferable to check their itinerary for the different events and shows conducted at the places. So, after reading about all the Museums in the UAE, you might be eager to go on a trip to the UAE. Connect with Travel Saga Tourism to book your trip with us. We create tailor-made packages for our customers. Visit our website for more tour-related information.