In the heart of Emirati culture, the kandura is a symbol of tradition, grace, and heritage. This flowing white robe, worn by Emirati men, is more than just clothing; it represents a rich legacy. To keep your kandura looking its best, it’s important to know how to iron it properly. In this blog post, we will provide you with guidance on the best methods for ironing your kandura; keeping it in excellent condition.
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is a thriving hub of business and innovation, attracting professionals from around the world who are looking for new career opportunities. Whether you’re moving to the UAE for the first time or you’re already living there and looking for a new job, there are some important things to keep in mind. In this blog post, we’ll provide you with a guide to working in the UAE to help you navigate the job market and cultural differences.
The Jalabiya, a long gown dress, has a historic significance as it predates Islam and is still a big part of Arab culture today. Along with other UAE traditional clothing like the kandura, the jalabiya is highly recognisable due to its beautiful colours. Because of its prestige, maintaining the quality of jalabiya is essential. In this blog, we’ll walk you through how to do just that.
Continue readingThe kandura is the most traditional dress in UAE and it is the symbol of pride and identity. It is a long white cloak with full sleeves with no collar. Because the kandura is all white, the dirt and stains will be more visible but in this blog, we’ve compiled 3 tips for taking care of your kandura.
Abu Dhabi is the capital and second-most populous city of the United Arab Emirates (after Dubai). The city is located on an island in the Persian Gulf, off the Central West Coast.
The whole of the UAE is home to over 200 nationalities, with Emiratis making up roughly 20% of the total population. It’s such a popular destination for Expats. This list will tell you all you need to know about moving to Abu Dhabi.
The capital of the UAE is a culturally unique city on the shore of the Arabian Sea. Abu Dhabi has been the traditional home of the federal government. The emirate owns 95% of the UAE’s oil production. As a result, the city provides a wealth of opportunities to ex-pats by allowing residents to live tax-free.
Abu Dhabi Island is the centre of the city, connected to the mainland by three bridges and surrounded by several smaller islands. The last decade has seen the city concentrate on developing its tourism, education, financial and cultural sectors.
Before you go to the UAE, you will need to apply for a visa. Most noteworthy, you will need a work permit, residence visa and an Emirates ID card. Often employers will apply for the visas for you and once granted, they last for up to two years. To get a residence visa for your family, you will need to show you earn at least AED 4,000 a month.
The main airport in the city is the Abu Dhabi International Airport, the second-largest in the UAE after Dubai. Another important detail to know before arrival is the currency, which is the UAE dirham (AED or Dhs) and is pegged against the US dollar at US$ 1: AED 3.6725.
Arabic is the leading language spoken in Abu Dhabi, with English generally spoken throughout. As well to English, the other common languages spoken are Farsi, Hindi and Urdu.
One of the most desirable areas to live in the city is The Corniche on Abu Dhabi Island. The area is home to many mixed-use developments, hotels and malls. Similarly, the highly sought-after modern luxury developments found on other islands such as Al Reem prove very popular with Expats. Saadiyat Island is currently being developed with a host of villas and high-end apartment blocks and will be home to about 160,000 residents.
While most Expats move to one of these Island suburbs, there are plenty of suburbs on the mainland suitable for potential Expats, such as Khalifa City along the Abu Dhabi – Dubai Road.
The climate of the UAE features a desert climate with hot summers and cold winters. Most days are sunny and pleasant except in the middle of the summer season (July – August) when it is VERY hot in the UAE.
As a result, the nicest period is during wintertime, which runs from October to March. The weather is moderate and pleasant during this time, making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities.
The UAE is a very family-friendly country and a place you can make a fresh start with your spouse and children. Fortunately, English is widely spoken in Abu Dhabi, which makes the initial move more comfortable.
Family is highly valued throughout the United Arab Emirates, and this will give you a simple way to bond with locals and new colleagues. As for Education in Abu Dhabi, private or international schools are abundant, so there is plenty of option for your kids.
Brunch is very popular in Abu Dhabi, and beyond in the UAE. It is not uncommon for people to settle for double or even triple brunches in one day. Yes, you read that correctly, some people will repeatedly jump from one brunch to another once the weekend comes round.
One staple food found all over the region is the national fruit: dates. You will see these fruits being sold everywhere and will often find them incorporated into local recipes. As well as these regional delicacies, you will be able to access almost every type of dining in Abu Dhabi, from high-end to fast food. Because of its diverse population, Abu Dhabi has a plethora of different cuisines, as you’d find in any big city.
Another reason to go to Abu Dhabi is that Laundryheap operates there! We offer the people of Abu Dhabi a same-day laundry and dry cleaning collection with free next-day delivery.
To learn more about Laundryheap, visit our website or download the free app on iOS or Android!
Dubai is a tourist dream; 7-star hotels, amazing architecture, food etc., it just ticks every box you’d want from a holiday. If you are planning to visit, here are some facts about Dubai that will heighten your interest further!
It’s difficult to start a list of facts about Dubai without mentioning the tallest skyscraper in the world. The Burj Khalifa has a height of 828 meters and the construction of this beautiful skyscraper started in 2004 and was completed in 2010.
If you visit, make sure to get your cameras ready and take pictures!
To this day, projects of building new skyscrapers are still ongoing. Skyscrapers are such iconic landmarks in Dubai that every year, at least 10 are built.
Furthermore, 41 buildings, over 100 meters, were completed in 2007 alone.
One of the most interesting facts about Dubai is that water consumption is the highest in the world. 500 litres are consumed per person per day. Perhaps not too surprising because it is in the middle of a desert where temperatures are consistently above 50 degrees.
If you are keeping track of facts about Dubai, you’d realise they hold the world record for many things because Dubai is not just home to the tallest skyscraper in the world, but it is also home to the largest mall in the world! The Dubai mall is so massive that it contains 1,200 stores, an Olympic-sized rink, an underwater zoo, and an aquarium. It is a shopper’s dream!
A useful fact about Dubai is that Laundryheap services are available for you!
Your future visit to Dubai needs to be one where you enjoy your trip and not worry about laundry duties. If you’re staying at a hotel, simply go to our website to book a service and we’ll collect your clothes on the same day and return them all cleaned and fresh within 24 hours!
All in all, Dubai is a fascinating city and we’ve run out of superlatives to describe how beautiful it is. These facts about Dubai will make you more knowledgeable the next time you visit!
To learn more about Laundryheap, visit our website or download the free app on iOS or Android.
Dubai has become synonymous with luxury and uniqueness, it’s no surprise it has become the benchmark around the world. If Dubai is on your travelling bucket list, here are unique things you will only see in Dubai
Travelling with friends? Family? Undecided on group activities? That’s why we recommend Jumble; the world’s first URBAN maze and the first indoor maze in Dubai. This unique Maze, which you can only see in Dubai, requires teamwork and communication to step up to the plate and escape the maze. If you love puzzles, you’ll love Jumble!
While it’s catered to families with kids, Aquaventure Waterpark can be just as fun for adults! Melt your problems away with a day of unlimited fun and thrilling rides. What makes this waterpark a unique thing to see in Dubai? It is home to the ‘Aquaconda’; the world’s largest waterslide tube and it was voted the fourth-best water park in the world.
You’ll likely get all your clothes wet but no stress, we have a drying service to wash your problems away!
It doesn’t get more unique than the Dubai Mall Aquarium. Located on the third floor of the Dubai Mall, this unique attraction, which you will only see in Dubai, will fill you with an adrenaline rush.
Learn about the extraordinary life of the aquatic animals at the aquarium. The tank is home to 140 species such as sharks, rays, and sand tiger sharks. As you walk through the 48-metre tunnel, take pictures of the fascinating animals within your sight! There is also a souvenir shop to make the trip memorable!
When you think of Dubai, you think of unique buildings and architecture, but it is also home to a beautiful water canal that gives the city so much vibrance and colour that just fits the bill for a honeymoon trip!
Enjoy a romantic walk around the canal or if you just love fitness, the canal has added a running track and a cycling path.
Book a ferry and get your camera out and go crazy with the pictures as this is a truly unique sight to see in Dubai!
This list just wouldn’t be complete if we didn’t talk about Burj Khalifa. This enormous building is a world icon and you will only see such a unique masterpiece in Dubai. There are other tall buildings around the world but the charm isn’t the same.
The gigantic building was first constructed in 2004 and opened in 2010. Located in Downtown Dubai, you can visit the tower and purchase tickets to go inside. Once you’re at the top, enjoy the unique and breath-taking view of the city! Take great pictures to show your friends!
We hope your laundry stack is nowhere as big as the tower but if it is, we’ll take care of it!
Dubai is truly beautiful and it has become every tourist’s dream.
Whenever you’re in Dubai, sit back in your hotel and decide which unique place you will see.
We also provide Laundryheap services in Dubai. Explore Dubai’s uniqueness and we’ll do your laundry!
Dubai is a cultural mecca. It’s a city that combines the innovation of technological advances with Dubai tradition. These are just 5 of the culture hotspots to check out the next time you visit Dubai.
Have you ever wondered what it was like to live in Dubai during the late 19th century? If your answer was yes, then the historic town of Al Fahidi is the perfect culture hotspot for you. Located along the Dubai Creek, Al Fahidi was originally built in the early 1900’s, and many of the towns original buildings are still intact. As you trek the winding streets, admiring the historical buildings, you will come across several museums, art galleries, and traditional food stalls which will transport you to 1900’s Dubai. To get as much historic knowledge about Old Dubai as possible, book yourself on a walking tour of the town.
The Grand Mosque is the hub of religious and cultural life in Dubai. Holding up to 1,200 worshippers, it is an architectural masterpiece with intricate geometric carvings and blue mosaic. The original Grand Mosque was built in 1900, but was replaced in 1960 and re-built again in 1998 to resemble the original structure. Non-Muslims can enter The Grand Mosque from 9:30am to 11:30am Sunday to Thursday for free tours.
If you would like to learn more about Dubai’s creek history, and wider Emirati culture, than head to the Al Shindagha Museum. Sat along the Dubai Creek, the Al Shindagha Museum offers a carefully curated tour of interactive videos, historic photos, and artefacts that show exactly what it was like to raise a family by Dubai’s waterway. Then, explore the legacy and trading importance of Emirati fragrances at The Perfume House. The Al Shindagha Museum is a fascinating day out, overflowing with beautiful artefacts and interactive fun.
Alserkal Avenue is the cultural hotspot of modern Dubai. What was once an industrial area of 40 warehouses has been transformed into a cultural bohemian of art galleries, dance studios, and artisanal cafes. The transformation of Alserkal Avenue began in 2008 when one gallery moved to the area. Word soon caught on, and over the past 13 years contemporary artists have been relocating to the area, creating the Alserkal Avenue you see today. Discover new art and some of the best coffee Dubai has to offer at Alserkal Avenue.
Venture outside of the skyscraper city of Dubai and to the beautiful mountain village of Hatta. Many people visit Hatta to take part in activities such as mountain biking and paddle boarding, however the historic village of Hatta is also incredible to explore. In the town centre, you can find Hatta Heritage Village, which has been preserved and reconstructed to showcase centuries of rural living in Dubai. You can wander through traditional Dubai huts, and even observe villagers carrying out traditional activities, such as making jewellery, weaponry, and pottery. The beautiful surroundings of Hatta, coupled with learning about the historic culture of the village, make for an unforgettable day out.
Don’t let laundry stop you from exploring the cultural hotspots of Dubai. Book your Laundryheap service today by heading to the Laundryheap website or downloading the free Laundryheap app.
It’s always nice to get a souvenir from your holiday to remind you of where you have been. These are the best souvenirs to get from Dubai.
Camel milk chocolate is not a life-time souvenir but more a tasty reminder of your time away. It is manufactured solely in Dubai by Al Nassma and comes in only five flavours- whole milk, 70% cocoa, dates, macadamia, and spiced. These chocolate bars are famous for their enticing taste and can be found at Al Nassma kiosks, duty-free shops, and the Camelicious Camel farm. For an added treat, buy the camel shaped chocolates rather than a standard bar.
Whilst you are walking around Dubai, you may notice a distinct smell. That will be either oudh or bakhoor. Oudh is a traditional and expensive oil that comes from agar wood resin. Bakhoor is the term for agar wood chips that are burnt to produce a similar smell to oudh.
Both oudh and bakhoor can be bought as souvenirs, however, oudh is much more expensive than bakhoor as it comes in an oil form, and can be mixed with floral oils to produce a stronger smell.
Whether you choose oudh or bakhoor both allow you to bring home the smell of Dubai.
Sticking with scent-derived souvenirs, attar is the name given to essential oils that are derived from plants. These oils are widely used by men and women in Dubai as perfumes. There are a variety of scents that you can choose from, and if you can’t decide the vendors at the Perfume Souk in Deira will be more than happy to help you choose one.
If you are looking for a more distinct and original scent than you can make your own fragrance. Simply inform the vendor of what fragrances you would like to combine and they will make it for you.
Prices for attar start at AED90
If you are looking for a slightly more luxurious souvenir than get yourself a pashmina. A pashmina is a traditional South Asian shawl that is made from cashmere. The starting price of an authentic pashmina is AED250.
If you would like a pashmina but don’t want to pay the high price for it, there are plenty of vendors who sell inauthentic pashmina’s. These will be made from viscose or silk and will be priced around AED30.
To test whether your pashmina is authentic or not try pulling the whole shawl through a ring. If it is authentic, the silkiness of the cashmere mixed with 30% silk should allow it to pass through the ring easily. If your pashmina does not pass through easily it is likely that it is not authentic.
Dubai is the perfect place to buy yourself some gold jewellery as it is a lot less expensive than in many other countries. Whether you are looking for a pair of earrings, a necklace, or a ring, the best place to buy your gold souvenir is the Dubai Gold Souk. The average price of gold begins at around AED110 per gram, however, don’t forget that you can often haggle vendors for a better price.
Coffee farming is a long tradition in the Middle East. Arabic coffee has a very distinct, often bitter, taste that is not to every coffee drinker’s liking. That being said, if you do enjoy an Arabic coffee then do not miss out on the opportunity to take some home from your trip to Dubai. To complete your Arabic coffee experience buy yourself a traditional Arabic ‘dallah’ coffee pot. Often these pots will be exquisitely decorated so can be used for coffee purposes or simply as a design feature.
Lucky stones are based on your birth month and are said to bring good luck. They can usually be found set in gold or silver rings and pendants that are to be worn to receive the gift of luck. All lucky stones can be customised to fit your taste and make great souvenirs for those in need of a bit of luck.
If you visit the Spice Souk you can take home the taste of Dubai. At the Souk you will find an array of spices, including those that you can not find anywhere outside of the Spice Souk. If you like aromatic food, then you simply must purchase some Dubai spices.
Be warned that as pleasant as these spices make your food, they can also make your luggage smell and prove difficult to get through customs. Make sure that you have securely wrapped them in your suitcase before heading to the airport.
Traditional Arabic shoes are beautiful and said to be incredibly comfortable. They can be bought for men, women, and children, and come in an array of colours and with beautiful embellishments. Buying a pair of traditional Arabic shoes as a souvenir will serve as a reminder every time you wear them of your time in Dubai as you will not be able to buy an authentic pair outside of the UAE.
The average price for these shoes is between AED50- AED100.
A Persian rug is definitely an investment souvenir as, authentic, Persian rugs are expensive. For the best variety of styles head to the National Iranian Carpets or Persian Carpet House. If you have your heart set on a Persian rug, but can’t find one that suits your taste, then you can have one specially designed and made.
When it comes to Persian rugs remember that you need to check their authenticity before purchasing, and you need to get it on the plane somehow.
You look after the souvenirs whilst we look after your laundry. To book your UAE laundry service head to the Laundryheap website or download the free Laundryheap app.
Dubai is a city known for being technologically and architecturally advanced, yet it is incredibly traditional and religious. That is why we have made this guide of Do’s and Do Not’s for your visit to Dubai.
Do
Dubai is a traditional Islamic city so dressing conservatively is highly advised. It’s suggested that women wear loose-fitting dresses and skirts, and men trousers and jeans coupled with long sleeve tops. However, just because you have to dress conservatively, it doesn’t mean you can’t dress fashionably. Dubai is one of the capital cities of fashion, where men and women alike love to experiment with colours, fabrics, and patterns. So, be fashion-forward with your conservative attire.
Taxi services in Dubai are reasonably priced and a great way to escape the heat and travel around the city. Additionally, if you are planning a wild Dubai night out, it’s best to plan to get to the club via taxi. It’s an offence in Dubai to be seen on the street intoxicated and could lead to a fine or even a month in prison. Better to be safe and book your taxi to and from the club than risk a prison sentence.
Despite popular debate, it is safe to drink tap water in Dubai, so give it a taste. If you are still dubious, there are hotels that will import bottled water from Europe, however, due to the lack of environmental sustainability importation promotes, drinking imported water should be avoided. Instead, ask for locally sourced bottled water to avoid the harm to the environment and avoid the tap.
Dubai is a beautiful cosmopolitan city, but there is a lot to explore just outside the city walls. Take a trip to the desert one day and experience life beyond the city of Dubai. Desert safari experiences can be bought at a range of prices, and often involve a camel ride. Go wild for a day and return to the civilisation of the city later on.
No Dubai trip is complete without seeing the Burj Kalifa. Standing 829 meters tall, the Burj Kalifa is the tallest building in the world and an architectural sight to behold. You can pay to see Dubai from the buildings viewing platform 555 meters up, or be shadowed by the building as you observe it, for free, from below. Either way, your trip to Dubai will not be complete without visiting this spectacular structure.
Don’t
As previously discussed, Dubai has a conservative dress code; this code also applies to swimwear. When at the beach or a pool it is completely acceptable to wear any form of swimwear that you desire. However, as soon as you step out of the water, you must be conscious of your clothing and consider throwing on a dress or shirt over your swimwear.
Regardless of where you go on holiday you always want to take a few snaps for the memories. Dubai is home to some of the most extraordinary modern-day buildings that, undoubtedly, need to be caught on camera. This being said, be mindful not to capture any government buildings as, for security reasons, this is strictly prohibited.
During the 9th month of the Islamic calendar, Muslims will take part in Ramadan where they will fast during daylight hours. If you are visiting Dubai during Ramadan the locals won’t expect you to take part in the festival, however, you must be respectful towards those who are. If you want to eat and drink during daylight hours there are a handful of cafes and restaurants that stay open, however, you’re options will be limited. Alternatively, you can eat and drink in your room until the sun goes down.
Public Displays of Affection (PDA) are a strong offense in Dubai. Everything from a kiss on the cheek to hugging in public is considered indecent. At a push, a married couple may hold hands, but even that is pushing the boundaries of acceptability. To avoid causing offense, it’s best to save showering your other half in affection until you return to your hotel room.
Friday is considered a holy day in Dubai and is therefore not for working. Don’t worry, the whole city doesn’t grind to a halt, but you should expect there to be a limited number of amenities open. Bear this in mind when planning your Dubai trip and consider having a beach day on Friday.
Whatever you’re plans are in Dubai, do make sure that you use Laundryheap for all your holiday laundering needs and do not miss out on the opportunity to enjoy your trip in the freshest smelling clothes.
