Introducing UAE
Most people know the United Arab Emirates only as Dubai and Abu Dhabi, but there is a lot more to explore beyond the fancy image the cities purvey. After all, there are five more emirates, each with its own distinctive sights and character.
If you explore deeper, you will find a rich heritage and culture rooted in Arabic and Islamic values. The intense indigenous pride and focus on the regional culture make the UAE a great choice for any “culture vulture”.
The country also offers one of the most varied cuisines in the world, ranging from exquisite local and oriental cuisines, to more familiar European and American foods, to modern fusions. Whatever you fancy, chances are high you’ll find it in the UAE. The Emirates also have an impressive offering in terms of shopping, from air-conditioned malls to traditional souks where haggling is a must!
The icing on the cake is the country’s pristine coastline, which beckons travelers for a few relaxed days by the beach.
- When is the best time to visit UAE?
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) offers a diverse range of experiences throughout the year, so the best time to visit depends on your preferences and the activities you wish to pursue:
- Winter (November to March): This is the peak tourist season in the UAE due to the comfortable weather, with daytime temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C (68°F to 86°F). It’s an ideal time for outdoor activities, sightseeing, and enjoying the stunning beaches. Dubai Shopping Festival, Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, and various cultural events take place during this season.
- Spring (April and May): Spring is a pleasant time to visit, with warm temperatures and lesser crowds compared to the winter months. It’s a good time for exploring cities, visiting cultural attractions, and enjoying outdoor adventures.
- Summer (June to August): The summer months in the UAE can be extremely hot, with temperatures often exceeding 40°C (104°F). However, this is also when you can find great deals on accommodations and activities. If you’re comfortable with the heat, you can explore indoor attractions, shopping malls, and water parks.
- Shoulder Seasons (September and October): These months offer milder temperatures compared to the peak summer heat. It’s a good time for travelers who want to avoid the crowds and still enjoy outdoor activities.
Ultimately, the best time to visit the UAE depends on your tolerance for heat and your desired activities. Whether you’re seeking luxury shopping, desert adventures, or cultural exploration, the UAE has something to offer year-round.
- Where should you go in UAE?
Whether you’re interested in modern metropolises, cultural experiences, or outdoor exploration, the United Arab Emirates presents a diverse array of destinations to suit every traveler’s preferences. With its mix of urban allure and natural beauty, the UAE promises a memorable and enriching journey.
- For those seeking relaxation and luxury, the UAE boasts luxurious hotels and resorts that cater to every need, from pristine beaches to world-class spas and gourmet dining experiences. The country is also renowned for its extravagant malls, offering a paradise for shoppers with an array of international brands and entertainment options. Here are some must-visit places to include in your UAE adventure:
1- Dubai
Dubai, the showpiece city of the UAE, is a direct result of it’s visionary ruler, Sheikh Rashid. The metropolis is deeply rooted in cultural and ethnic diversity, and has come a long way from where it was in a very short time. You’ll find the world’s tallest building here, the Burj Khalifa.
Hotels with more than five stars are common here and there are always new ones joining the growing block, with brand new concepts and advancements. When visiting Dubai, you can be guaranteed the utmost comfort and luxury as you can afford. The sky’s the limit!
2- Abu Dhabi
Abu Dhabi is the capital city of the UAE, a must-see on your trip and clearly a masterpiece still under development. The capital offers a wide range of accommodation and leisure options including an island dedicated as the world’s first game park aimed at nature conservation. The numerous islands nearby and warm waters offer excellent beach holiday options.
Abu Dhabi also offers a fine insight into the roots, heritage and cultural background of the UAE. You will find early archaeological ruins that have surprised the world, and more recent images of the lifestyles of locals less than a generation ago. Culture lovers can also find the Guggenheim and the Louvre Museum here.
3- Northern Emirates
Travelling north beyond Sharjah are the Northern Emirates of Ajman, Um al Quwain and Ras al Khaimah. They are less developed than the rest of the UAE, but have attractions and charms to make a visit worthwhile. You’ll find superb golf courses, long sandy beaches, hot springs, cool mountains and a growing number of hotels and waterside developments. A wide four-lane super highway connects all of these Emirates to the rest of the UAE making a visit anywhere very straightforward and quick.
4- Al Ain
Bordering Abu Dhabi and Dubai is the city of Al Ain, also known as the gateway to the vast Rub Al Kaial desert. The name means Empty Quarter, which makes sense as it’s a huge unbroken stretch of sand desert. The border crossing to Oman is also not far.
Al Ain is a surprisingly busy and modern oasis city located at the base of the Hajar Mountains. The climb into these mountains offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding desert and the oasis city, as well as a cool retreat from the fierce desert heat.
Al Ain is also an agricultural center providing the rest of the UAE with fresh produce, most notably a wonderful selection of scrumptious dates for which the oasis is famous.
5- East Coast
The azure Arabian Sea borders a picturesque mountainous backdrop with a growing number of superb hotels taking advantage of the beautiful sandy beachside. The Emirate of Fujairah is quite possibly the best location in the UAE for a getaway beach holiday break. A modern new road system takes you across the desert, through the mountains and down onto the coast in around an hour and a half from Dubai or Sharjah.
6- Sharjah
The city of Sharjah could be described as the very close more conservative neighboring sister to Dubai, with either city being only a few minutes from the other by taxi or bus.
It is considered to be the cultural capital of the UAE, and any visitor will find an abundance of local heritage as they explore the city. Old and modern Islamic art and architecture join each other in serene unison.
Sharjah offers a number of excellent hotels, including a number with beachfronts. A little less resourced with shopping malls, Sharjah’s charm lies in its colorful souks and the vibrant hustle and bustle as haggling and trade is conducted.
Whether you choose to stay in Sharjah or just pass through on a visit, you will be sure to take away a lasting impression of the city’s beauty and roots in Islamic culture.
- Adventure enthusiasts can indulge in various activities, including dune bashing in the desert, camel riding, and exhilarating water sports along the pristine coastline. Theme parks like Ferrari World and IMG Worlds of Adventure provide thrilling experiences for visitors of all ages. Here are some must-visit places to include in your UAE adventure:
1-Jebel Hafeet
Embark on a road trip to Jebel Hafeet, the UAE’s second-highest peak. The drive offers breathtaking views, and you can relax at the luxurious Mercure Grand Hotel Jebel Hafeet.
2-Al Jahili Fort
Located in Al Ain, this historic fort is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Explore its exhibitions and learn about the UAE’s heritage.
3-Hatta
Escape to the Hatta Mountains and enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, kayaking, and mountain biking. Visit Hatta Heritage Village to experience traditional Emirati life.
4-Liwa Oasis
Journey to the heart of the Empty Quarter desert and experience the mesmerizing landscapes of towering sand dunes. Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort by Anantara offers luxury in the midst of the desert.
5-Musandam Peninsula
While technically part of Oman, this enclave is accessible from the UAE. Cruise through the dramatic fjords and enjoy activities like snorkeling and dolphin watching.
6-Dibba Al-Fujairah
Another enclave of Oman accessible from the UAE, Dibba Al-Fujairah offers stunning beaches, ancient forts, and opportunities for water adventures.
- How many days do you need?
The ideal duration for a trip to the United Arab Emirates depends on the experiences you wish to have and the places you want to explore. Here are some suggested timeframes:
- Short Trip: A short 3 to 4-day visit to the United Arab Emirates is perfect for exploring the dynamic city of Dubai. You can marvel at the world-famous Burj Khalifa, indulge in shopping at extravagant malls, and experience the luxury of Dubai’s resorts and restaurants. This timeframe allows you to capture the essence of modern UAE.
- Medium Trip: For a more immersive experience, consider spending 7 to 10 days in the UAE. This will give you the opportunity to explore not only Dubai but also venture into Abu Dhabi, the capital city. You can visit the majestic Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, explore cultural sites, and enjoy the serene beauty of the desert.
- Extended Trip: To fully embrace the UAE’s diverse offerings, a 2 to 3-week trip is recommended. This allows you to explore beyond the main cities and delve into the rich heritage of places like Sharjah and Al Ain. You can also enjoy outdoor adventures in the desert and coastal areas, and experience the traditional Emirati way of life.
Ultimately, the length of your stay depends on your interests and the level of immersion you desire. Whether it’s a short getaway or an extended adventure, the United Arab Emirates is sure to captivate you with its unique charm and delightful surprises.
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For most people, the United Arab Emirates means just one place: Dubai, the sci-fi-esque city of iconic skyscrapers, palm-shaped islands, city-sized malls, indoor ski slopes and palatial beach resorts. But beyond the glitter awaits a diverse mosaic of six more emirates, each with its own character and allure.