Dubai
Dubai is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the United Arab Emirates, famous for its iconic skyline, luxurious shopping districts, and vibrant culture. From the desert safari to world-class restaurants, Dubai offers something for everyone.
Let’s take a look at some of the fantastic attractions you can find in the city of Dubai:
Burj Khalifa
The Burj Khalifa, known as the Burj Dubai before its inauguration in 2010, is an awe-inspiring structure located in the Emirate of Dubai, United Arab Emirates. Its iconic status and stunning architecture have made it a must-see for tourists from all around the world. Built over six years from 2004 to 2010, it stands 829.8 meters (2,722 feet) tall, making it the tallest man-made structure in the world.
Adrian Smith and Skidmore, Owings & Merrill LLP architects designed the towering building. It comprises 163 floors with apartments spread over 900 habitable levels and construction necessitating 330,000 cubic meters of concrete and 39,000 tons of steel rebar. In addition to residential apartments and corporate suites below the 125th floor, an Armani hotel occupies 11 interior levels and an At The Top observation deck on the 124th – 148th floors with 360° views of Dubai.
The building also has a beautiful exterior consisting of cladding panels from more than 26,000 individual panel sections. Reflective glazing set in bright aluminum frames helps to reduce wind speed and heat loads for better energy efficiency. As well as this, there is global artistic lighting featuring 25 color projectors illuminating every night to provide spectacular views for miles around. The Burj Khalifa has been credited with altering Arabian culture around modern skyscrapers due to its sheer magnitude and elegant design features achieved through excellent urban planning concepts making it one of the most sought-after tourist attractions in Dubai today.
Dubai Mall
Dubai Mall is an iconic shopping destination located at the iconic Burj Khalifa that offers a unique blend of retail, entertainment, and leisure. This luxurious mall provides many products and services ranging from high-end fashion to electronics, household items to jewelry, perfumes to restaurants, and more.
The mall has unmatched attractions globally, such as the Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo, with 10 million liters of water showcasing over 140 species. Also, an indoor/outdoor Roller Skating Rink, KidZania, a “city” for children’s leisure learning, and Sega Republic – an Indoors theme park; VR Park – the world’s first virtual reality park are among landmarks worth visiting. Reel Cinemas – 21 screens multiplex theatre offers movie lovers the latest films and mouth-watering snacks and beverages. Furthermore, many events are held throughout the year, such as F1-In-Schools, making it one of the most visited destinations in Dubai.
Apart from the endless shopping experiences in Dubai Mall, several fine dining restaurants are located within its premises. Some popular restaurants are TGI Fridays, La Sella Ristorante Italiano & Pizzeria, and Pretzelmaker, which offer diners exceptional food alongside live music entertainment.
The mall also hosts a spectacular fireworks display every Thursday between 9:00 pm -11:00 pm, making it one of the most loved attractions among locals and tourists alike.
Dubai Fountain
The Dubai Fountain is the mesmerizing centerpiece of Dubai, located at the base of Burj Khalifa Lake near Downtown Dubai. The Dubai Fountain is a captivating musical water display accompanied by dramatic light and music that reaches heights of more than 500 feet (150 meters). With a range of more than 75 spouts, this is the world’s largest choreographed fountain network. An AED 1 million daily water show combines lights and jets in a distinctive design to make this one of the main attractions for locals and tourists alike.
This vibrant structure symbolizes the spirit and energy of Dubai, impressing visitors with its range of colors, expression of rhythm, and movement against the backdrop of Burj Khalifa. Spectacular displays run every day between 6 pm to 11 pm and perform over 30 songs, including Arabic and international classics. The 1.5-kilometer-long boardwalk traces along both sides, allowing everyone to admire this marvelous spectacle while enjoying delicious food from nearby restaurants or cafes.
Abu Dhabi
Abu Dhabi is the capital and largest city of the United Arab Emirates. It is a modern city with skyscrapers, modern architecture, and beautiful ancient sites. Here you can enjoy the best of both worlds.
From the iconic Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque to the futuristic Louvre Abu Dhabi, there’s something to do for everyone in Abu Dhabi. So let’s have a look at some of the best attractions in the city:
Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque
Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is a must-visit for all visitors to the United Arab Emirates, located in Abu Dhabi. Featuring 82 domes of varying sizes, topped by white marbled minarets, and combines Moorish, Arab, Andalusian and Ottoman designs.
The mosque’s main prayer hall features a vast central chandelier with almost 40,000 Swarovski crystals, surrounded by intricately carved white marble and equipped with several art installations. The mosque also boasts enormous courtyards where visitors can marvel at its seven golden minarets that are believed to protect the city from evil spirits.
During weekdays, the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque offers guided tours that cover its architecture and the Islamic faith. Admission to the mosque is free, but entry during prayer times is restricted, so it’s best to check in advance. Visiting this grand attraction will be one of your most unique travel experiences in Abu Dhabi!
Yas Island
Yas Island is a man-made island located in Abu Dhabi, offering world-class hotels, attractions, and entertainment for people of all ages. From its stunning beaches and thrilling Formula 1 race track to Ferrari World and the Yas Waterworld waterpark, Yas Island is the perfect destination for family fun.
Visitors can also order fine dining experiences from popular restaurants or enjoy interactive activities like Flyover Canada or The Vault VR Park. With something to suit everybody’s preferences, it’s no wonder why Yas Island is one of the most visited places in Abu Dhabi.
Emirates Palace
The Emirates Palace is one of the most luxurious hotels and resorts in the United Arab Emirates. Located in Abu Dhabi, the UAE’s capital city, it is a perfect blend of Arabian grandeur and European luxury. This lavish hotel is adorned with fine art, marble interiors, golden trimmings, and elegant fixtures. The experience of staying at this beautiful, prestigious establishment is unparalleled.
Emirates Palace features 302 rooms and 92 suites, including exquisite Royal Suites, 40000 square meters of landscaped gardens, and nine world-class restaurants. Two bars offer captivating views, an array of recreational facilities such as pristine beaches, and an enormous pool architecture. A unique underwater observatory at Depth-5 provides more than 400 species of marine life to explore; wellness centers include Six Senses Spa & Health Club with steam and sauna facilities. Eleven meeting rooms are equipped with state-of-the-art audiovisual systems for corporate events. A shopping district called The Grand Atrium features more than 90 international boutiques for guests to browse through – sure to fulfill your every desire!
Guests can also take advantage of leisure activities provided by the resort, such as horse riding on private stables or quad biking through desert dunes.
Sharjah
Sharjah, in the United Arab Emirates, is an excellent tourist destination. It is the heart of the cultural heritage of the UAE and has many attractions, such as the Sharjah Heritage Area, the Sharjah Art Museum, and the Sharjah Islamic Museum. It is also home to some of the world’s largest shopping malls and is known for its vibrant nightlife. With so much to see and do, Sharjah makes for a great holiday destination.
Sharjah Heritage Museum
Located in the heart of Sharjah, the Heritage Museum is a must-visit for tourists and residents alike. Located in the historic Dhibi neighborhood, the museum houses important artifacts from far and wide that shed light on Sharjah’s unique cultural heritage.
Exhibits at the museum span multiple mediums – including traditional textiles, artwork, artifacts, coins, weapons, and old photographs – allowing visitors an intimate look into traditional Emirati life spanning centuries. The museum also holds unique displays throughout the year, showcasing contemporary art from local artists and rotating historical exhibits.
One of the most popular parts of the heritage museum is its collection of rare manuscripts depicting various aspects of daily life in pre-oil Dubai, including fishing and pearl diving technologies that are representative of Emirati culture. Additionally, visitors can tour one of its traditional buildings made with materials typical to early 20th-century Sharjah architecture. With interactive elements and knowledgeable staff members who provide insight into each displayed item’s relevance to Emirates history and culture, this is an excellent opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of our featured nation’s past while enjoying something unique to Sharjah.
Al Noor Island
Al Noor Island, located in Sharjah Creek, is a breathtakingly beautiful island and one of Sharjah’s most stunning attractions. Visitors to the island will discover a spectacular oasis of lush vegetation, vibrant color, interactive art installations, and cultural activities.
In addition to its unique artistic elements and tranquil atmosphere, the island has become a popular destination for family fun and educational field trips.
The island’s centerpiece is an illuminated butterfly garden with an array of flora and fauna worldwide. It features a luminous rainbow of butterflies, and this living artwork captures nature’s beauty while creating an immersive experience for visitors. The island also boasts an interactive art experience called “Advanced Urban Mindsets,” where guests can explore urban renewal, sustainability, and climate change from interactive touchscreens scattered throughout the garden area.
In addition to its lush gardens, Al Noor Island also offers cultural spaces for visitors to enjoy, such as The Mirror Maze Labyrinth Exhibition, which consists of over 3 thousand individual mirror pieces reflecting different facets of modern society. These permanent exhibits provide guests with thought-provoking lessons on conservation while simultaneously offering up endless hours of fun spent amongst family members soon to be won over by their stay in Sharjah’s incredible gem!
Al Qasba
Al Qasba is a stunning feature of Sharjah, the third-largest emirate in the United Arab Emirates. Located on the eastern side of Khalid Lagoon, it is a popular tourist spot and attracts people from all over the world. In addition, Al Qasba is an entertainment center offering various attractions, restaurants, and retail outlets.
The Flying Carpet is one of its more unique attractions, a giant travelator that gives you an aerial view of up to 10 miles around. Feel as if you are flying over Sharjah’s streets and buildings while gently sliding along the moving carpet at speeds of up to 30mph – it’s an experience you won’t forget! In addition, the Eye Of The Emirates Ferris Wheel offers panoramic views over the city, making for some stunning sunset photo opportunities.
Shoppers will find plenty here, too, with well-stocked stores selling everything from fashion apparel to electronics. Kids are well catered for, with frequent events and activities providing endless entertainment for young visitors. Plus, there’s no shortage of food venues serving delicious dishes worldwide.
Al Qasba is one of Sharjah’s must-see attractions, combining fun, adventure, and relaxation; the perfect place to create lasting memories with your friends and family!
Ras Al Khaimah
Ras Al Khaimah is one of the seven emirates that make up the United Arab Emirates. It is an exciting destination for those looking to explore ancient forts and tombs, enjoy the gorgeous beaches, and visit the many islands off the coast. Ras Al Khaimah is an exciting place to explore; many attractions will keep you entertained. Let’s take a closer look at some of the top attractions in Ras Al Khaimah:
Jebel Jais
Jebel Jais is the highest peak in the United Arab Emirates and is part of the magnificent Hajar Mountains that span from Musandam in Oman to Ras Al Khaimah. Located in the northern Emirate of Ras Al Khaimah, this majestic mountain is an ideal destination for adventure seekers and sports enthusiasts due to its thrilling activities and breathtaking views.
The panoramic views of desert landscapes and beautiful blue skies make Jebel Jais a traveler’s paradise. The mountain provides an amazing sensory experience with its natural wonders, including fascinating mountainous trails, intriguing rock formations, rustic castles, and secret caves, making it a lively archaeological site. Its features include untouched valleys, suspended bridges, scenic mountainside pathways, and winding roads through rugged terrains, making it an outdoor paradise for adrenaline-seeking adventurers.
Jebel Jais also houses countless attractions perfect for solo travelers and families. As well as hiking trails that cater to all fitness levels, activities such as zip-lining offer unforgettable experiences with stunning views at every turn! Other fun things include:
- Riding on the “Gravity Line.”
- Trying your hand at some archery.
- Climbing walls in Jebel Jais Adventure Park.
Adventurers can also embark on thrilling rides like paragliding or skydiving for a bird’s eye view of this majestic Emirati mountain range!
RAK National Museum
The RAK National Museum is an essential cultural and archaeological complex in Ras Al Khaimah, United Arab Emirates. With a range of collections spanning artifacts from antiquity to post-modern times, the RAK National Museum offers visitors the exciting opportunity to explore the history and culture of the UAE. Spread over 30,000 square meters, and the museum showcases various exhibits covering topics on geography and natural history, archaeology, maritime history, and prehistory.
RAK National Museum also has a remarkable collection of scientific instruments and exciting interactive experiences related to fossils and life sciences. Exhibits are displayed in four distinct areas: Art Gallery, History Gallery, Islamic Civilization Gallery, and Natural History Gallery.
Through guided tours intended for all ages, you can:
- Learn about the origins of the United Arab Emirates’ earliest inhabitants.
- Explore animal specimens like lizards, snakes, and birds.
- View ancient artifacts such as pottery items.
- Get acquainted with type-written documents.
- Flick through books documenting local myths while listening to enchanting Arabic music in an audiovisual room.
- Admire ancient weapons used in centuries-old clashes between warring armies.
- Journey through preserved ships dating back hundreds of years.
- Take in a range of Islamic architectural artifacts, including impressive doors taken from old forts & palaces throughout the Emirates’ soil.
- Be immersed within eight small courtyards depicting scenes from the vernacular residential architecture used by Emirati families during traditional times.
Overall, RAK National Museum provides visitors with unique insight into this region’s remarkable past that is certain to leave lifelong memories. Plus, admission is free!
Al Hamra Mall
Al Hamra Mall is one of Ras Al Khaimah’s most popular attractions and offers shoppers a unique shopping experience. Located between the Al Hamra Village Golf Club and the Palace Hotel, it has something for everyone.
The mall features many stores selling clothes, perfumes, jewelry, gifts, and more. It also includes a food court featuring international cuisines and some local options.
The facilities at Al Hamra Mall include:
- A boutique bookstore
- An ATM
- Toilets with baby-changing areas
- Movie theatres
- A playground for kids to enjoy
Al Hamra Mall is worth visiting if you’re looking for something special or want to take in some local shops. It also hosts regular events throughout the year, such as international food festivals, fun days for children, and more. Finally, Al Hamra Mall should be your first stop in Ras Al Khaimah for those looking for a traditional shopping experience and modern comforts.
Fujairah
Fujairah is a beautiful coastal emirate located in the United Arab Emirates. The city is known for its crystal clear waters and white sandy beaches, making it a perfect destination for a beach holiday. Fujairah is also home to several historical and cultural sites, including old forts and mosques.
In this section, we’ll cover all the attractions Fujairah has to offer:
Al Bidya Mosque
Al Bidya Mosque is the oldest mosque in the United Arab Emirates, located in the picturesque city of Fujairah on the east coast of UAE. The construction of the Al Bidya Mosque dates back to 150 A.H (765 CE), making it one of the oldest existing Islamic monuments on earth. Built by Salman bin Ahmad Al Qasimi, this building is an important historical landmark and cultural attraction that recreates a living connection between ancient and modern times.
The structure has considerable architectural significance and is renowned for its particular combination of mud and limestone material and breathtaking internal ceilings. Visitors can admire a stunning view inside, which leaves them in awe due to its excellent design and beauty. Furthermore, Adjacent to Al Bidya Mosque, visitors will find the Umm al Hamaam Square, where popular performances such as traditional dances depict genuine Bedouin hospitality and culture. Tourists will certainly enjoy their trip to Fujairah with a visit to this historically significant mosque!
Fujairah Fort
Fujairah Fort is one of the oldest forts in the United Arab Emirates; located in Fujairah city and is a site of historical significance. The Fort, which was once used as a guard against pirates and other intruders, overlooks the town and provides outstanding views. With its picturesque view and fascinating history, this Fort attracts local and international tourists.
The local people living in Fujairah have maintained their Fort with pride. Due to its location near numerous historical monuments like mosques, tombs, date farms, Hajar Mountains, among others. Besides visiting the Fort, visitors may participate in typical Emirati activities like camel racing and buy souvenirs from nearby markets.
The Fort is also home to beautifully decorated archways showcasing unique Islamic architectural styles. Several museums inside the Fort feature artifacts from different centuries-old coins, swords, and guns that Emiratis used to defend themselves from intruders. The Fort provides an interesting insight into Fujairah’s rich past as a trading port and its defensive history against pirates who frequented these waters 1000 years ago.
Wadi Wurayah National Park
One of the most popular attractions in the United Arab Emirates, Wadi Wurayah National Park is a UNESCO-protected nature reserve in Fujairah. Visitors who explore this park will find some genuinely unique geological features and can take part in various activities like camping, kayaking, and bird watching.
Wadi Wurayah National Park consists of 20,000 hectares (approximately 49,421 acres) of unspoiled nature with mountain peaks that reach up to 1,300 meters (about 4265 feet). Ancient rock formations dating back millions of years are one of the park’s main attractions, along with populations of rare species living among its mountains and green valleys. The pristine landscape also boasts numerous waterfalls cascading down from the hillsides.
Visitors who want to learn more about Wadi Wurayah’s ecology can join one of the guided tours by knowledgeable guides or participate in hands-on activities such as archery or exploring underground caves. In addition, kayaking experiences and camping trips provide excellent opportunities to explore this remarkable facility’s breathtaking lakes and mountain passages.
Bird lovers should count on experiencing spectacular avian encounters during their visit – many species, like grey herons and hoopoes, have made their home here!