United Arab Emirates

Top destinations to visit in the UAE

1. Dubai: As one of the world's most renowned cities, Dubai is a vibrant metropolis known for its futuristic skyline, luxurious shopping malls, and iconic landmarks like the Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world. Visitors can enjoy various attractions, including the Dubai Mall, Dubai Marina, Palm Jumeirah, and thrilling desert safaris.
2. Abu Dhabi: The UAE's capital city, Abu Dhabi, offers a perfect blend of tradition and modernity. The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is a stunning architectural masterpiece that attracts visitors from all over the world. The city also boasts the Louvre Abu Dhabi, Ferrari World, and the beautiful Corniche beach.
3. Sharjah: Often referred to as the "Cultural Capital of the Arab World," Sharjah is a treasure trove of museums, art galleries, and historical sites. The Sharjah Arts Museum, Al Noor Mosque, and Sharjah Heritage Area are among the top attractions here.
4. Fujairah: This emirate is known for its beautiful coastline, where visitors can relax on pristine beaches and enjoy water sports activities. Fujairah is also home to the impressive Fujairah Fort and Al-Bidyah Mosque, the oldest mosque in the UAE.
5. Ras Al Khaimah: This emirate offers a diverse range of activities, including outdoor adventures in the Hajar Mountains, relaxing beach resorts, and cultural experiences at places like the National Museum of Ras Al Khaimah and Dhayah Fort.
6. Ajman: Ajman is the smallest emirate in the UAE and is famous for its laid-back vibe and beautiful beaches. Visitors can explore the Ajman Museum, relax at Ajman Beach, and enjoy the Ajman Corniche for a peaceful waterfront experience.
7. Umm Al Quwain: This emirate is known for its natural beauty, including scenic lagoons and mangroves, making it a popular spot for birdwatching and eco-tourism.
8. Al Ain: Located near the UAE-Oman border, Al Ain is an oasis city known for its traditional charm and heritage. The Al Ain Oasis, Al Jahili Fort, and the Hili Archaeological Park are some of the highlights.

Best time to visit the UAE

The ideal time to visit the UAE is from October to February when the temperatures are cooler, and a light jacket or sweater would be suitable. For those interested in beach visits, the best months are October, March, and April when the weather is hot but pleasant enough for beach activities.

Experiences you should not miss in the UAE

1. Enjoy a road trip to Jebel Hafeet
Jebel Hafeet, located on the outskirts of the oasis city of Al Ain, is a highly favored destination for a quick and rejuvenating nature escape from Abu Dhabi city.
The summit's cool mountain air provides a welcome relief from the coastal heat, particularly during the summer months.
As the second-highest peak in the United Arab Emirates, Jebel Hafeet offers expansive and breathtaking panoramas, extending across the mountainous terrain and down to Al Ain, all along the winding road leading to the top.
Upon reaching the summit via the twisting switchback mountain road, visitors are rewarded with awe-inspiring views that span the vast expanse of the surrounding desert, stretching out in every direction.

2. Explore the Arab world in Sharjah
Sharjah stands apart from the glitz and glamour of Dubai and Abu Dhabi, offering a unique and more traditional experience. Unlike Dubai, Sharjah is a dry Emirate, which means alcohol is not permitted. One of the notable attractions in Sharjah is the Sharjah Art Museum, the largest museum in the UAE, housing valuable artworks from the Arab world. Exploring the historical architecture in Sharjah provides a glimpse into the roots of Islamic religion and Arabic culture.
There are several popular attractions in Sharjah, such as the Heritage Museum, Al Midfa House, and Al Hisn Sharjah. For those interested in science and technology, the Sharjah Science Museum is an intriguing place to visit. A tour of this museum is considered one of the most enjoyable activities to do in the UAE.

3. Enjoy a Dhow cruise in Dubai
While the Burj Khalifa offers a famous skyline view from above, the most iconic vistas of Dubai can be captured from the water.
Dubai Creek gracefully cuts through the city, and the best way to experience Dubai's charm is aboard one of the beautiful dhows, traditional Arabic boats, that gracefully sail along the creek.
Among visitors, sunset cruises are particularly popular as they offer not just a scenic view but also come with entertainment and dinner options, making the experience truly memorable. Watching the city's high-rise buildings light up in the dusk creates a magical ambiance.
For those on a budget, an alternative option is to hop on one of the ablas, local ferries that traverse the waters between Bur Dubai and Deira, providing an affordable yet enjoyable cruise experience.

4. Bask in the views from Burj Khalifa
The Burj Khalifa stands as one of the most renowned buildings in the United Arab Emirates, symbolizing Dubai's soaring skyline.
With a staggering height of 828 meters, it holds several world records, including being the tallest freestanding structure, boasting the highest observation deck globally, and featuring an elevator with the longest travel distance.
Visiting the observation deck is a must-do for most visitors, as it offers panoramic views that span across Dubai. It's an opportunity to marvel at the incredible engineering and architectural achievement of this modern marvel while relishing the awe-inspiring vistas of Dubai unfolding below. So, make sure you add visiting Burj Khalifa to your UAE tours to enjoy the endless city views.

5. Admire the beauty of Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque
Abu Dhabi's Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is an extraordinary modern marvel that showcases remarkable beauty.
By seamlessly fusing contemporary design with traditional craftsmanship, the mosque achieves a harmonious blend of modern and ancient styles, presenting a fresh interpretation of Islamic architecture.
Both the exterior and interior are adorned with opulence, featuring lavish amounts of gold, mosaic tiles, and glasswork intricately decorating the mosque's pristine white marble stonework. The architectural design ingeniously combines elements from various mosque styles of multiple Islamic empires.
Inside the mosque's prayer hall, visitors are greeted by the world's largest hand-knotted carpet, sprawling over 5,700 square meters. Illuminating the space are exquisite chandeliers crafted from 24-karat gold and adorned with crystals. Outside, the vast marble courtyard mesmerizes with a mammoth swirling floral floor mosaic composed of semi-precious stones.

6. Go for desert adventures
For adventurous souls seeking excitement, the UAE's expansive desert terrain in the southern interior beckons.
A plethora of thrilling activities await, ranging from exhilarating 4WD trips across the desert dunes to the classic charm of camel trekking, the adrenaline rush of sandboarding, and the exhilarating experience of dune buggy trips.
For visitors in Dubai or Abu Dhabi, popular desert day trips often include a 4WD journey into the dunes, followed by a delectable dinner at a desert camp. At the camp, opportunities for sandboarding and short camel rides add to the excitement.
For those keen on wildlife spotting, some desert tours allow for a closer encounter with the desert's fauna, and specialized desert operators even offer overnight camping experiences amid the enchanting dunes.
Moreover, the desert interiors of Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Ras Al-Khaimah boast a selection of luxury desert resorts. Staying at these resorts is an immersive experience, allowing guests to bask in the stunning dune scenery and indulge in an array of desert activities.

Things to know before traveling to the UAE

1. Visa Requirements: Check the visa requirements for your country before traveling to the UAE. Depending on your nationality, you may need to apply for a visa in advance.
2. Cultural Etiquette: The UAE is a Muslim country with conservative cultural values. Respect local customs, dress modestly in public areas, and be mindful of local traditions and practices.
3. Dress Code: In public areas, especially in Sharjah and Abu Dhabi, it's essential to dress modestly. Women should cover their shoulders and wear dresses or skirts that cover their knees. Men should avoid wearing sleeveless shirts in public.
4. Ramadan: If you are visiting during Ramadan, the holy month of fasting, be aware that eating, drinking, and smoking in public during daylight hours is prohibited. Many restaurants and cafes remain closed during the day, but hotels usually have designated areas for non-fasting visitors.
5. Alcohol Regulations: Alcohol consumption is allowed in licensed venues like hotels, bars, and restaurants in Dubai and Abu Dhabi. However, public intoxication and drinking alcohol in public places are strictly prohibited.
6. Friday Prayer: On Fridays, the holy day for Muslims, many shops and businesses may close for a few hours during the midday prayer. It's essential to plan your activities accordingly.
7. Currency: The UAE's currency is the UAE Dirham (AED). Ensure you have enough local currency or access to ATMs for your expenses.
8. Language: Arabic is the official language, but English is widely spoken and understood, especially in urban areas and tourist hotspots.
9. Weather: The UAE has a hot desert climate, so be prepared for high temperatures, especially during the summer months. Dress appropriately and stay hydrated.
10. Photography: Avoid taking pictures of government buildings, military installations, and local people without their permission. Always ask before taking photographs to show respect for local customs.

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