Category: Destinations

Dubai and the UAE are home to a thriving halal and organic food scene, making it easy for travelers to enjoy delicious, nutritious meals. As a Muslim-majority country, halal food is widely available, and the demand for organic and healthy eating is growing rapidly. Whether you’re dining at a trendy organic café, shopping at an organic supermarket, or grabbing a quick ready-to-eat meal, there are plenty of options to support a wholesome lifestyle.

Below are healthy halal foods you can order and find in most Middle Eastern restaurants.

1. Seafood cooked without alcohol

Just because it is seafood doesn’t always mean that it’s halal. But it’s quite a good alternative if finding halal food is difficult for you in your area.

Most seafood dishes you’ll find showcased in Western restaurants are being cooked with alcohol, and alcohol is a big no-no in the Muslim practice.

When dining out, check the menu or ask the waiter if the seafood comes with alcohol. If it does, send word to the chef and request that he skip the alcohol in your dish. Most restaurants accept this humble request, whether it’s because of religious grounds or allergies.

2. Chapati and brown rice

Chapati contains whole grains and whole wheat flour and is full of nutrients. It’s high in vitamins, minerals and fiber and has a low glycemic index. If you want to be fit, eating Chapati filled with beans and vegetables is one way to stay healthy while having adequate protein and fiber.

When choosing rice, some restaurants offer brown rice. Choose brown rice over white rice because it won’t increase your sugar levels. It can also provide more fuel for your workout while making you feel full for longer.

3. Manakeesh

If you love pizza, eating manakeesh is a healthier option. Manakeesh is the Arabic world’s version of pizza. It’s a round bread topped with ground meat, herbs or cheese.

Most people find this food ideal for either breakfast or lunch. They also come in different varieties from both street vendors and fancy restaurants.

Want a healthier version? Consider topping your manakeesh with organic shredded cheese.

4. Hummus

This is one of the most famous Middle Eastern dishes and it is quite an enticing appetizer and dip. Hummus is made with mashed chickpeas, tahini, garlic, olive oil and lemon juice. It is often served with vegetables and pita bread and can be a delightful sandwich spread.

As the most prevalent food in the Middle East, it is well-known for its delicious taste. Besides being delectable, it is also rich in essential nutrients.

This dip is quite versatile as well. You can enjoy it with pita bread, vegetables or sandwiches – you’ll find great pleasure in dipping into this food.

5. Fattoush

Fattoush is a dish with simple ingredients that create a magical taste. This tasty salad is one of the Middle East’s greatest contributions to the world. It’s a healthy dish served in crunchy squares of pita, crispy lettuce, cucumber, diced tomatoes, onion, lemon, garlic, mint leaves and olive oil.

6. Falafel

A falafel is a fried ball broadly recognized as a staple food made of onions, chickpeas and spices. It can be a source of protein in a vegetarian meal or an appetizer. It’s a veritable pillar of Middle Eastern cuisine, which you’ll find in many Arabic restaurants and street food carts.

Falafel contains an outstanding balance of delicious taste and nutrients. It’s also high in fiber, sugar-free and low in calories.

7. Tabbouleh

For your appetizer or light and healthy lunch, tabbouleh is a great salad to savor. It’s made with bulgur wheat, parsley, mint and vegetables. If you’re looking for low-fat vegetarian food, this salad offers a full range of flavors in a healthy way.

Tabbouleh contains vitamins and minerals that keep your immune system strong and reduce the risk of cardiovascular diseases.

8. Shawarma

Shawarma is a popular dish available in many restaurants and food stalls worldwide. Delicious and highly nutritious, this mouthwatering Arab dish is an irresistible treat for everyone, not just Muslims. Once you’ve had your first bite, you can’t wait to have more.

It is often made with marinated beef strips, chicken or mutton, chopped vegetables, fries (or “chips” as they are sometimes called) and some spices to make up one tasty meal.

How to Find Halal and Organic Foods In the UAE

Many restaurants and food establishments put up a halal sign to indicate their food is permissible for Muslims. But if you want to ensure, you can also request halal certification from the diner.

 Look for Halal & Organic Certifications: Most restaurants are halal-certified, and many organic supermarkets and cafés highlight locally sourced, organic ingredients.

• Shop at Organic Supermarkets: Stores like Organic Foods & Café, Ripe Market, and Greenheart Organic Farms offer fresh, organic produce, dairy, and ready-to-eat meals.
• Explore Healthy Local Cuisine: Traditional Emirati dishes like grilled meats, seafood, and date-based desserts are often made with natural, wholesome ingredients.
• Try Ready-to-Eat Organic Meals: Many supermarkets and specialty stores offer pre-packaged organic meals, fresh salads, and cold-pressed juices for a quick and healthy option.
• Check Ingredients in International Dishes: While most food is halal, some imported or specialty items may contain non-halal or processed ingredients—always check labels or ask when unsure.

With its wide range of halal, organic, and ready-to-eat options, Dubai makes healthy eating both convenient and exciting!

Are you ready to embark on a family adventure to the UAE, and explore its vibrant landscapes? The UAE offers a blend of modern cityscapes, serene deserts, rugged mountains, and breathtaking coastlines. Whether it’s a weekend getaway or a longer vacation, you and your family can get around in comfort and style with affordable luxury Chinese SUVs like Jetour.

Why UAE is Perfect for Your Next Family Adventure

1. Diverse destinations for every interest.

There is something for every member of the family. Explore the glitz and glamour of Dubai and Abu Dhabi where you can marvel at architecture such as the Burj Khalifa. If you prefer a refreshing break from city life, drive through the golden dunes of the desert, or a thrilling journey into the rugged terrains of the Hajar Mountains. For an educational twist to your road trip, add cultural experiences by visiting traditional souks, heritage villages, and museums.

1. Family-friendly attractions cater to all ages.

The best theme parks are in the UAE. Thrilling amusement parks like Ferrari World, Warner Bros. World, and water parks are fun for children and adults alike. Other outdoor adventures your family should experience are desert safaris, camel rides, dune bashing, and mountain treks.

1. Ease of travel with world-class infrastructure.

With UAE’s modern infrastructure, you are assured of a comfortable and hassle-free family road trip. Along with clear signage, highways and local roads are well-maintained so it will be a smooth ride when you navigate the city streets or explore the countryside. The abundance of rest stops makes it easy for your family to take breaks which is important for long trips.

1. Climate for all year-round adventures.

With the extreme summer heat in mind, you can plan a trip almost any time of year. Long drives and outdoor adventures are best during the winter months. During the hotter months, there are indoor attractions and shaded venues for daytime activities. Throughout the year, there are seasonal festivities and events to experience local traditions.

Top Places To Visit with Your Family

Dubai

• For urban adventures in Dubai, visit famous sights like the Burj Khalifa, The Dubai Mall, and the Palm Jumeirah.
• For desert tours and safaris, experience the thrill of dune bashing and sand boarding, or enjoy a traditional Bedouin camp under the stars.

Abu Dhabi

• Experience heritage travel in Abu Dhabi by visiting the Louvre Abu Dhabi, the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, and Qasr Al Watan, the presidential palace.
• For family entertainment, have an exhilarating day at Yas Island, where there are famous theme parks such as Ferrari World and Warner Bros. World.

Hatta

• Hatta takes care of your mountain escapes, you can explore the Hatta Dam, do some kayaking, or hike through scenic trails.
• If you’re into historical exploration, head to the Hatta Heritage Village where you can learn about the region’s heritage.

Fujairah and Ras Al Khaimah

• This area is known for its coastal drives where you can view the picturesque eastern coast with its pristine beaches and stunning mountain backdrops.
• The outdoor adventures here are one of a kind. You can engage in water activities, hiking, or simply relax in a beachfront resort.

The Joy of Exploring UAE Destinations with Jetour

Choosing the right vehicle is essential when planning a family road trip because the journey itself is already an experience. You would want the comfort of a well-equipped SUV as you embark on a trip to explore new horizons with your loved ones. A Chinese SUV like Jetour stands out because they are designed with the family in mind. Some notable features are:

Modern design without compromising comfort.

• Spacious Interiors: Plenty of room for passengers and cargo means you can pack all the essentials for a comfortable journey.
• Ergonomically Designed Seating: Seats are meant to provide comfort for long drives so children and adults alike enjoy the journey.
• High-Tech Features: Keeping everyone entertained is now easier than ever with the addition of modern infotainment systems and various connectivity options.

Safety is a top priority.

• Advanced Safety Technologies: Features like multiple airbags, electronic stability control, and driver-assist systems provide peace of mind.
• Robust Build: A sturdy construction that can handle varied terrains—from smooth highways to bumpy desert paths.

Fuel Efficiency and Performance

• Fuel Efficiency: Jetour SUVs are designed to be economical, helping you keep fuel costs in check.
• Smooth Driving Experience: Whether you’re cruising on the highway or navigating through city traffic, the performance of these SUVs ensures a reliable and enjoyable ride.

Bonus Tips for a Smooth UAE Road Trip

1. Plan your route. It helps if you have your trip mapped out beforehand. Consider stopping at interesting locations along the way.
2. Check vehicle readiness. Ensure your chosen SUV is fully serviced and stocked with necessary supplies like a spare tire, first-aid kit, and water.
3. Pack smart. Don’t forget to bring snacks, entertainment for the kids, and lots of sunscreen. Long drives can be made so much more enjoyable when you are well-prepared.
4. Stay informed. Learn the local traffic rules and regulations before you get on the roads. UAE’s road network is excellent, but being prepared helps avoid any surprises.
5. Embrace flexibility: While planning is crucial, leave room for spontaneous stops. Sometimes the best memories are made when you deviate from the plan.

Ready for Your Next Adventure?

Your family road trip in the UAE awaits!  Start mapping out your itinerary, explore the full range of Jetour offerings, and turn your road trip dreams into reality. Happy travels!

At CLYMB™ Yas Island, Abu Dhabi, hundreds of tons of custom-fabricated steel frames and thousands of square meters of glass fin structures come together to reflect the rugged mountains of the United Arab Emirates and capture the human ingenuity, creativity, and ambition it took (and continues to take) for the Arab people to thrive in the desert.

The tall structure of CLYMB™ Abu Dhabi, with its harsh edges, sharp ridges, and repeating geometric patterns that make the building look like a crumpled cross between a Rubik’s cube and the All Spark, is a stark contrast against the azure Arabian sky. The striking steel and glass façade also hints at the adventure that waits inside.

Do you want to try CLYMB™ but are waiting for a good time to go? Ladies Nights at CLYMB™ Abu Dhabi is your sign.

Ladies Nights at Clymb™ Abu Dhabi

Ladies nights are nights (and days) at CLYMB™ devoted only to female guests. Every member of the staff—the people manning the ticket counter, security personnel monitoring the CCTV cameras, instructors, cleaners, etc.—they are all female. Likewise, only female flyers, climbers, and spectators are allowed into the premises.

Male children eight years old and younger—you know, mommy tag-a-longs—are the only exception to this rule. The little boys’ moms must show a government-issued ID to prove their children are young enough to join in on a fun ladies night with their mamas and friends.

What’s the purpose of ladies nights? Ladies nights are designed to provide absolute privacy to female guests. There are no males on the premises (except the little boys exempt from the rule, as mentioned earlier), and mobile phones, video cameras, and other recording devices that may lead to privacy violations are prohibited.

Important note: The staff may allow you to take your photos and video-record your experiences, but be mindful of other people’s privacy, as any privacy violations could get you kicked out.

During ladies nights, female guests—even those who must adhere to strict dress codes when in public—can wear body-fitting athletic clothes like yoga pants and leggings and be more comfortable flying and climbing. Everyone can let down their hair, so to speak.

Ladies nights are also an excellent time to gather your favorite females together for some ladies-only bonding time. You can go with your sisters, best friends, daughters, mothers, aunts, etc.

Ladies Nights Offers

There are two primary attractions at CLYMB™ Yas Island, Abu Dhabi: indoor skydiving and indoor climbing. You can choose your preferred attraction or try both.

The following three ladies night offers are currently available:

1.     Offer 1: Indoor Climbing Only

Offer 1 comes with 60 minutes of indoor climbing for first-time climbers. It provides access to three walls:

• The Boulder Wall (4 m)
• The Warm Up Wall (6 m)
• The Intermediate Wall (10 m)

There are two other walls at CLYMB™ Yas Island. They are:

• The Advanced Wall (22 m)
• The SUMMYT (42 m)

However, this Ladies Night offer excludes access to the SUMMYT.

Offer 1 costs AED 120 if you buy it online and AED 135 if you buy it at the gate. Anyone four years old or older may climb and avail of this offer, but children up to 11 years old must be accompanied by an adult. If your 10-year-old daughter is climbing, you must get an offer (this or offer 3) to accompany her to the indoor climbing walls.

2.     Offer 2: Indoor Skydiving Only

Offer 2 is a two-minute indoor flight package for first-time flyers.

You’ll be indoor skydiving at the world’s widest flight chamber, which is 9.7 m wide. The wind from 16 fans (as opposed to the four fans found in standard skydiving compartments) provides sufficient “drag” to let flyers float mid-air.

The CLYMB™ flight chamber is also the world’s tallest at 32 meters high. That’s 649% taller than the 4.27-meter-tall standard flight chamber. For additional perspective, the flight chamber is so tall that it’s 10 m taller than the Advanced climbing wall and a mere 10 m lower than the SUMMYT, the tallest climbing wall in the region.

Offer 2 is for anyone at least three years old. Children up to 11 years old must be accompanied by an adult at all times, so if your daughter is taking up this offer, you must have the same offer (or offer 3) so you can fly with her.

Offer 2 tickets cost AED 235 online and AED 265 at the gate.

3.     Offer 3: Indoor Climbing and Skydiving Combo

Offer 3 is a first-time climber and flyer indoor climbing and indoor flight experience. This offer combines offer 1 and offer 2 and is an excellent choice if you wish to maximize your CLYMB™ visit.

Offer 3 costs AED 315, and it is available only online.

Have Fun With the Ladies at Clymb™ Yas Island

During CLYMB™ ladies night in Abu Dhabi, ladies can have fun comfortably and privately.

Gather your girl besties, go with your girl siblings, mom or daughters, and spend the time of your life trying indoor climbing and skydiving.

When schools break for the winter, bring your family to Sea World™, Yas Island, Abu Dhabi. It’s one of Yas Island’s four theme parks, and its winter events are not to be missed.

The highly anticipated winter events at SeaWorld™ Yas Island, Abu Dhabi include festive meet-and-greets and enchanting performances everyone in your family will love.

The Winter Experience at One Ocean

Go to One Ocean, one of the eight realms of SeaWorld™ Abu Dhabi, to experience its immersive winter wonderworld. Aside from the ethereally dreamy lighting, the lovely ambiance, and the beautiful winter-themed decorations, there’s also a 40-minute experience featuring aerial acrobatics, a harpist, and a roller skater inside a giant snow bubble.

Mr. Wonder and Festive Friends Meet-and-Greet

Mr. Wonder is a new SeaWorld™ Abu Dhabi character. He is white-haired, white-bearded, night-capped, bespectacled, and assisted by elves. He also lives in the Arctic cold. Hmmm–sounds familiar?

Anyway, children love him, and his good cheer will charm you, too, so head on over to The Armillary, a 360-degree dome that offers stunning views of the Arctic and Antarctica realms, to meet Mr. Wonder. Be sure to take lots of photos.

Winter Storytime

Join Puck the penguin, Shivers the polar bear, and Mr. Wonder the white-haired, white-bearded new character at SeaWorld™ Abu Dhabi for some fun story-telling at the Animal Care Center.

Hold your breath when they tell you about snow spirits. Imagine yourself as the hero in an epic tale of Arctic adventure or some legendary folklore.

Juhani Village

Make your way to the cold Arctic realm. If you’ve ever been curious how the North Pole would look dressed with string lights, tinsel, and garlands, wonder no more. Juhani Village, festively decorated for the season, will transport you there.

Taste of the Season

The festive season cannot be complete without holiday eats and drinks. Enjoy the cold with a hot cuppa choco or some other seasonal beverage in hand.

Sleepover

SeaWorld™ Yas Island also occasionally holds sleepovers (there’s one at the Dolphin Underwater habitat this winter break, too). It’s an event designed for children (and their parents) who want to spend the night at the theme park with peers to enjoy fun activities, such as ocean-themed hide-and-seek, interactive experiences, and marine education enrichment.

Children and their parents chow down on pizza, sleep on foldable camping beds, and enjoy a lovely continental breakfast the next day.

Learn About Marine Animals

SeaWorld™ park events aside, there’s so much to see and experience in this one-of-a-kind marine theme park. For instance, you can get to know many of the park’s animal residents.

Penguins

Visit the Antarctica realm to learn all about penguins. It’s also the perfect time to go visit because it’s the penguins’ nesting season, and you get to witness how these adorable, flightless birds act and behave at this special time of the year.

Trivia: Penguins may be flightless, but they’re strong and fast swimmers. In fact, they “fly” underwater.

While in Antarctica, enjoy interacting with penguins, shop for souvenirs at the Polar Pier, and get yourself pizza and pasta or some fish and chips.

Walruses

Walruses are beautiful, flippered marine mammals. Head to the Arctic realm for a visit and get up close and personal with these mammoth animals.

While in the Arctic realm, check out the Hypersphere 360°, an immersive virtual reality ride.

Dolphins

Dolphins are playful, intelligent mammals. You can see Atlantic bottlenose dolphins and learn how they live by visiting the Tropical Ocean realm. Resident experts will teach you what dolphins eat, what their habitat is like, and their unique traits.

While you’re in Tropical Ocean, do not miss the Manta Coaster. This is one of the newest rollercoaster attractions in Yas Island, featuring a zero-gravity flip, 17 airtime moments, and a ride through a bioluminescent tunnel.

Seals and Sea Lions

Seals and sea lions may look the same, but they’re not the same. If you visit Rocky Point, you can observe California sea lions and harbor seals playing on the rocks and jumping into the water.

The Rocky Point is a carefully engineered habitat that simulates the lighting conditions, water currents, and wave movements of the United States northwestern Pacific coast, providing an environment where seals and sea lions can thrive.

Tip: If you need a snack while in Rocky Point, visit Pretzel Point for (you guessed it) some pretzels.

Dugongs

Dugongs are sea cows like manatees. They are native to the UAE, and Abu Dhabi has one of the world’s highest concentrations of this fascinating marine mammal. The dugong rescue, Malquot, lives in the Abu Dhabi Ocean realm. During your visit, you can hear about Malquot’s story and learn how you can help protect the dugongs.

While in Abu Dhabi Ocean, try to spot the other animals that live in the realm, such as sea snakes, sea turtles, bamboo sharks, and rays.

Discover the Wonders of SeaWorld™ Yas Island

When schools break for the winter, enjoy the many magical winter events at SeaWorld™ Yas Island, Abu Dhabi.

Explore the entire park, especially its eight realms, and learn about the park’s resident marine animals.

Across the United Arab Emirates (UAE), you’ll discover and experience plenty of exciting activities to keep you occupied. You might do a desert safari, exploring the stunning landscape in a dune buggy. You’ll likely take the family to one of many theme parks, finally crossing off “conquer record-breaking ride” on your bucket list.

But there is more to the UAE. Steeped in culture and history, this country is an ideal destination for heritage travel, which is an authentic exploration of a place’s cultural, historical, and natural heritage.

Start with the capital city.

An Iconic Landmark

One of the must-see cultural attractions in Abu Dhabi that’s perfect for heritage tourism is the Qasr Al Watan. The magnificent site is a working presidential palace that’s become an iconic landmark. Its impeccable design pays homage to Arabian artistry and heritage, preparing you for what you’re about to see indoors.

Qasr Al Watan, which translates to “Palace of the Nation,” is a cultural landmark that highlights the remarkable history of the UAE. But this Abu Dhabi attraction is also a shining example of Emirati craftsmanship. As you learn about the UAE’s past and present, you’ll also marvel at the intricacy and beauty of the palace. If you’re fascinated by architecture, the Palace of the Nation is certainly something you can’t miss.

Because the palace presents history and culture through an amazing light and sound show, the contemporary approach appeals to every tourist on a heritage travel tour.

Apart from this spectacular storytelling, other features to check out are the House of Knowledge, which is a repository of the region’s rich heritage, and the palace library, which houses some 50,000 books on the political, social, cultural, and literary history of the UAE. This must-see cultural spot has become an essential part of any school program as it combines learning about education and culture under one roof.

Although it is cosmopolitan and modern, Abu Dhabi retains its deep connection to its past through unique sites that enable visitors to gain an authentic understanding of the city.

Beyond the Cultural and Historical

Heritage travel goes beyond visits to cultural landmarks and historical sites. Festivals are another way to experience this type of travel, and in the UAE, there are plenty of heritage festivals to participate in.

●       Al Dhafra Festival

Al Dhafra Festival focuses on the essence of Bedouin life by demonstrating community and cultural practices that have defined it for generations. Hundreds from across the UAE come for this festival to exhibit and compete.

You’ll learn how palm frond weaving and embroidery are done. You’ll be amazed at the date palm and packaging contests. And you’ll find excitement in the Saluki dog races and camel races.

The festival also holds a camel beauty contest wherein thousands of purebred camels from the Arabian Peninsula participate. It is quite a sight to behold.

●       Sheik Zayed Heritage Festival

What could be a more appropriate festival than one that’s named after the founding father of the Emirates, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan?

The Sheik Zayed Festival celebrates the country’s culture and rich heritage through handicrafts and traditional performing arts. Much like the Al Dhafra Festival, this festival also features falconry, camel races, and competitions. A highlight is the magnificent parade of Arabian horses.

●       Traditional Handicrafts Festival

Held in the Souq Al Qattara in Al Ain, the Traditional Handicrafts Festival is a celebration of the artisans and craftsmanship of Emiratis.

he festival is not just an exhibition of local craft, but it also serves to promote and advance the customs and traditions of the UAE. The Traditional Handicrafts Festival also seeks to pass on the skills to the younger generation to ensure continuity of this very valuable aspect of the Emirati heritage.

Interactive events, educational workshops and musical performances are just some of the festival’s highlights.

●       Liwa Date Festival

You can’t experience the UAE without including dates in your heritage travel itinerary. The Liwa Date Festival is an essential experience. The date palm fruit is perhaps the UAE’s national treasure, symbolizing the generosity, stability, and hospitality of the country and its people.

Emirati households traditionally serve the delectable fruit with coffee. For generations, the date fruit has served the dietary needs of desert communities across the UAE. Other parts of the tree, from the trunk to the fronds, have provided materials for buildings, tools, and handicrafts.

The Liwa Date Festival highlights all the attributes of this local tree.

Among the highlights of this date palm celebration is the “Best Date Fruit” competition among Emirati farmers.

Although much of the UAE, Abu Dhabi in particular, is cosmopolitan and modern, it retains its deep connection to its past through unique sites that enable visitors to gain an authentic understanding of the country.  So on your next trip to the Emirates, add an element of heritage travel to your visit.