The United Arab Emirates is a country where ancient Arabian traditions meet extraordinary modern ambition, combining futuristic cities, vast deserts, pristine coastlines and rich cultural heritage. Best known for its spectacular architecture and luxurious resorts, the UAE offers far more than its iconic skylines, with traditional souks, historic communities and dramatic desert landscapes providing a fascinating contrast.
Community Tips For the UAE
The UAE has an extremely hot desert climate, particularly during summer, so plan outdoor activities for the cooler months and avoid prolonged exposure to the midday heat.
The UAE is a Muslim country, and visitors should dress respectfully, particularly when visiting mosques and more traditional areas.
The emirates are relatively close together, making it possible to combine several destinations during one trip, although traffic can make journeys longer than expected.
Alcohol is available in licensed hotels, restaurants and venues, but public drinking and intoxication are prohibited, so familiarise yourself with local laws before visiting.
Explore the UAE
Dubai
Dubai is renowned for its extraordinary skyline, luxury shopping and ambitious architecture, including the Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest building.
The Dubai Metro provides an efficient way to travel between many of the city’s major attractions while avoiding heavy road traffic.
Beyond the skyscrapers, explore traditional areas such as Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood and the city’s historic souks.
Dubai also provides easy access to the surrounding desert, where visitors can experience dunes, wildlife and traditional Emirati activities.
Abu Dhabi
Abu Dhabi is the capital of the UAE and combines grand modern architecture with rich Emirati culture and extensive waterfronts.
The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is one of the country’s most spectacular landmarks and a highlight of any visit.
The Louvre Abu Dhabi offers an impressive collection within an extraordinary waterfront building on Saadiyat Island.
The city is surrounded by beaches, islands and desert landscapes, providing plenty of opportunities to escape the urban environment.
Sharjah
Sharjah is widely regarded as the UAE’s cultural capital, with a strong emphasis on museums, traditional architecture and the arts.
The city’s heritage areas provide a fascinating contrast to the futuristic skylines of neighbouring Dubai.
The Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilization offers an extensive collection covering Islamic art, history and culture.
Sharjah’s proximity to Dubai makes it easy to visit both emirates during the same trip.
Al Ain
Known as the ‘Garden City’, Al Ain is famous for its lush oases, palm plantations and historic forts.
Jebel Hafeet rises dramatically above the city and offers spectacular views across the surrounding desert.
The Al Ain Oasis provides a peaceful contrast to the UAE’s larger, modern cities.
Al Ain offers visitors a glimpse of traditional Emirati life and is particularly worthwhile for travellers looking to experience a different side of the country.
