The UAE passport has long been considered one of the most powerful in the world, granting its holders visa-free access to over 160 destinations.
Now, Emirati citizens can visit Russia without applying for a visa beforehand. Instead, nationals can obtain a visa-on-arrival when visiting the transcontinental country.
This comes following an agreement between the two countries. Last year, Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi, met with Russia leader Vladimir Putin in Moscow.
Emiratis may now be considering adding Russia to their bucket list. Before you book a flight and start packing, here are some things you should know:
1. How to get there from the UAE
Check out Emirates Airlines, flydubai, and Etihad Airways - all of which have direct flights to various Russian cities including Moscow and St. Petersburg.
Flight time on these airlines is between five to six hours, depending on whether you're going from Dubai or Abu Dhabi.
Note that the UAE is one hour ahead of Russia.
2. Where to go & what to see
Without question, the Russian cities of Moscow and St. Petersburg are a must-see. Aside from the fact that these two destinations are pretty accessible to non-Russian speakers, there are so many historical and cultural sites to explore. To name a few, there's the St. Basil's Cathedral & Red Square in Moscow and Boyd Hill Nature Preserve & Mariinsky Theater in St. Petersburg.
It's also preferable to visit these cities when there aren't any major holidays, as they "empty out," as Lonely Planet puts it.
But, there are a number of hidden gems in the country including the Golden Ring of Russia, Sochi, and Lake Baikal.
To save some money, buy the tourist pass which offers free admissions to museums and excursions, discounts for taxis and restaurants, and many other benefits.
3. What to be wary of
On photography:
If you're an avid photographer, you better watch out. It's advisable to avoid snapping photographs of officials, police, or government buildings.
In the past, many people have been detained for doing so, including one author at Lonely Planet.
On smoking:
Also, if you're a smoker, you should be wary of where you light up your cigarette. In Russia, smoking is prohibited indoors - be it in restaurants, bars or nightclubs. It is also banned in a few public areas including universities, hospitals, government buildings, theaters, museums, stadiums, and stations for public transport.
On visiting churches:
If you're planning to visit any cathedral or Orthodox church in the country, be sure to dress respectfully. That includes covering the legs and shoulders. Also, women must cover their hair, while men must take off their hats.
4. Basics to keep in mind
First things first: the electricity!
The standard voltage in Russia is 220 V, and electric sockets are two-round shaped plugs. So, if your plugs are UAE standard, make sure to take a two-prong adapter with you to ensure your electronics will fit the sockets during your trip.
Secondly, travelers are warned not to drink tap water. Mineral water is widely drunk in the country.
5. Sample the taste of Russia
It's not an experience without food. So, if you're wondering what the country serves your taste buds, here are a few things you have to try:
- Pelmeni (pastry dumpling typically filled with meat)
- Blini (thin pancakes, resembling crepe)
- Pierogi (sweet/savory pies)
- Alenka chocolate
6. Getting around the country
Russia has "people's taxi" which allows travelers to stop almost any car on the road and get around. The prices on these rides are negotiable.
There is also a number of different public transport options to choose from, such as the metro, bus, and tram.
If you're in Moscow, make sure to buy a card called Troika, which will allow you to automatically pay for your commutes. In St. Petersburg, purchase a similar card called Podorozhnik.
If you prefer commuting via taxi, you can always opt for Uber and a local app called Yandex.Taxi.