The United Arab Emirates (UAE) offers an array of unique experiences for travelers of all kinds. From the shimmering Dubai skyline to the serene desert landscape, the UAE is a country of boundless beauty and culture. Its cities boast luxury hotels, world-class shopping and dining, and many attractions.
Whether you’re looking to explore the country’s history, relax on its beautiful beaches, or savor its delicious food, the UAE has something for everyone. This guide will find all the information you need to plan the perfect trip to the United Arab Emirates.
Overview of the United Arab Emirates
The United Arab Emirates is a country located in the southeastern region of the Arabian Peninsula. It comprises seven distinct Emirates: Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm al-Quwain, Ras Al Khaimah, and Fujairah. It borders Oman to the east and Saudi Arabia to the south. The UAE’s official language is Arabic, and its currency is the UAE Dirham (AED).
Tourism plays a major role in this nation’s economy, being renowned for its modern infrastructure and luxury lifestyle. There are hundreds of beautiful beaches to explore, awe-inspiring desert-scapes that make up much of the landscape, and various recreational activities available throughout the year, such as dune bashing and fishing trips in Abu Dhabi or camel riding or safari tours in Dubai.
The capital city of Abu Dhabi is home to some of the most luxurious hotels in existence; if you’re looking for world-class dining options or dynamic nightlife destinations, then this bustling city should be on your list! In addition to this metropolitan city’s many offerings – cultural experiences such as museums and attractions like Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque make it ideal for a visit any time during the year. Finally, for those looking for a more laid-back desert experience, Dubai should be your go-to with its even warmer climate! From luxury shopping corridors off Sheikh Zayed Road to its many desert excursions – there’s something for everyone here, no matter what time of year you choose to visit!
Whether it’s an immersive cultural experience or maximized relaxation time you seek – The United Arab Emirates has something that will leave you wanting more after each unforgettable visit.
Best Time to Visit
If you plan to visit a destination, the best time to do so largely depends on the climate and the year’s season. It is important to consider weather and temperature when planning a trip because some regions of the world can be much hotter or cooler than others. For example, wintertime in the northern hemisphere may mean cold temperatures, snowfall, and short days, whereas southern areas can be relatively warm with extended daylight hours.
Generally speaking, selecting an off-season time to travel will often result in discounted fares and fewer crowds.
Spring or autumn provides comfortable temperatures for sightseeing or recreation for most outdoor activities, such as exploring a city on foot or hiking in a park. Summer may be ideal for beach trips with family or friends; however, heat waves can make playing outdoors uncomfortable during this time of year. In contrast, winter may offer colder temperatures that require more layers of clothing. Yet, it also provides occasions for cozy indoor entertainment, such as sipping cocoa by the fire or catching up on reading by candlelight.
In conclusion, understanding regional climate variations is important when planning your journey; however, individual preferences should be considered before booking tickets!
Accommodation
When traveling to the United Arab Emirates, accommodation options range from luxurious 5-star hotels to budget-friendly hostels in all major cities. Hotels can be found almost anywhere and cater to travelers and locals. Additionally, many serviced apartments are available, providing more space and privacy than hotels.
Let’s explore the various accommodation options in the United Arab Emirates:
Hotels
The United Arab Emirates boasts some of the world’s finest hotels, luxurious amenities, and superb guest services. From five-star resorts to budget-friendly accommodations and everything in between, UAE has it all for holiday seekers. Every city offers options for all preferences, from upscale beachfront enclaves to downtown city hotels.
Whether you’re looking for a luxurious and romantic honeymoon or the perfect family getaway, the United Arab Emirates has it all. Accommodations in the UAE offer luxury on a grand scale, from shaded suites nestled among lush landscaped gardens of traditional wind towers to sleek and contemporary penthouses perched high above dynamic cities.
For budget travelers, there is an array of excellent value inns, cheap dens, and mid-range hotels with clean facilities that provide good service and amenities at reasonable rates. For those wishing for more privacy or splurge living, villas can be rented with hotel services such as meals included.
It’s important to note that alcohol consumption is strictly regulated in the United Arab Emirates; therefore, most hotels are dry except for those in surrounding tourist areas where permissible. Select restaurants within most establishments serve drinks, and licensed bars with enchanting entertainment venues hosting live bands and DJs on certain nights of the week under strict observation in designated areas only.
Hostels
Hostels provide an informed and convenient type of accommodation for travelers, combining the best of all worlds: cost-effective pricing and a social environment. Many hostels are rentable on a nightly or long-term basis, offering dormitory-style rooms and private bedrooms. As well as providing rest, hostels in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) also offer cultural experiences, activities, and excursions that cater to visitors from many different cultural backgrounds.
Most UAE hostel guests – or ‘hostellers’ – enjoy the opportunity to feel at home in the community and make friends with like-minded travelers of all ages. A communal atmosphere typically encourages guests to interact with each other over coffee or meals. Some facilities even include bars, movie nights, game nights, and other social events, while larger hostel chains may also have access to sports facilities, theatre shows, and more.
On arrival at a UAE hostel, guests can expect amenities such as:
- Laundry facilities – often free or low-cost
- WiFi access throughout the building
- onsite security
- fully equipped kitchens with cooking utensils
- shared bathrooms
- common seating areas
- optional meals
- individual lockers
- Some locations have comfier features such as temperature control systems, private TV options, and cafe societies.
More adventurously minded visitors will enjoy many outdoor activities near UAE cities like Dubai – from water sports opportunities such as surfing and wakeboarding to desert excursions for dune-bashing adventure experiences in a 4×4 car safari.
Hostel accommodation can be cheaper than hotel alternatives but provide excellent value for money with the bonus of making connections with fellow travelers from all over the globe!
Airbnb
Airbnb is a peer-to-peer online marketplace that lets people list their extra space or an entire home on the platform and rent it out to travelers.
The Airbnb platform assists in hosting, property management, booking, payments, and communication between guests and hosts. In addition, hosts can offer additional services such as meals or transportation at additional cost.
Booking with Airbnb is convenient – travelers can select from a wide variety of accommodation types, including entire apartments and houses, private rooms, shared rooms, and single beds in dormitories. In addition, hosts can set different rates based on seasonality, occupancy, and more.
When you travel with Airbnb, you are provided with your private quarters with amenities that allow you to enjoy your trip on your terms. You can also experience local hospitality through interactive conversations carefully built by the Airbnb community of hosts.
Attractions
The United Arab Emirates is home to some of the world’s most fascinating attractions. From the glittering skyscrapers of Dubai to the lush oases of the Liwa desert, the UAE has something for everyone. So whether you are looking for a relaxing holiday or an adventurous getaway, you’ll find plenty of exciting activities and sights to explore here.
Let’s take a look at some of the must-see attractions in the UAE:
Shopping
Shoppers have plenty of options in the United Arab Emirates, no matter their tastes or preferences. From designer stores to bustling souks (markets), the UAE offers a variety of shopping opportunities.
Those looking for high-end fashion and luxury goods should visit The Dubai Mall, considered by many to be one of the largest malls in the world. This fantastic mall features popular international designer brands like Balenciaga, Cartier, Gucci, and Versace. The mall also features KidZania, an entire world designed just for kids!
Would-be hagglers should check out Saudi Market in Deira and Al Khor Souk in Sharjah, both overflowing with quality goods at great prices. From locally produced goods to international imports, these souks are great for finding unique gifts for family members and friends back home.
For souvenirs and memorabilia, head to Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding located in Bur Dubai or flew to Abu Dhabi’s souk, where visitors can purchase items from Bedouin traders. Here you can find classic items like incense burners, traditional Bedouin jewelry, and hand-woven carpets from Iran or Syria.
The UAE also has unique experiences for shoppers interested in doing more than just buying things. For example, in recent years, local art galleries have opened around the country, offering paintings, drawings, and sculptural works by regional artists—a perfect addition to any home decor!
Sightseeing
The United Arab Emirates offers awe-inspiring views, monuments, and attractions, from artificial islands and stunning beaches to legendary skyscrapers.
The UAE is home to some of the world’s most iconic buildings, such as the Burj Khalifa in Dubai, the tallest building and one of its most luxurious. Other must-see sights include Abu Dhabi’s Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque and Dubai’s Miracle Garden.
Additionally, many visitors come for an unparalleled shopping experience – from extravagant malls filled with designer labels to vibrant souks brimming with Arabian charm. You can even find modernized art galleries featuring stunning works by international and local artists.
The outdoor attractions in the UAE range from picturesque palaces in forests to rolling dunes that provide a home for unique wildlife species such as gazelles and oryxes. There’s also a plethora of activities offered at resorts along the coastline, ranging from snorkeling to desert safaris.
Finally, partaking in heritage activities allow travelers an insight into local customs, such as traditional handicraft making and camel safaris. In addition, visitors should attend one of the various cultural events held throughout the emirates throughout the year, such as the Dubai Shopping Festival or Sharjah Light Festival, for a truly unforgettable experience.
Adventure Activities
Adventure activities come in many forms, from low-thrill pursuits to extreme stunts. No matter what you enjoy or the level of energy you possess, there is likely an adventure activity to suit your interests. From air tours to coastlines and rainforest hikes, these experiences offer exciting opportunities for exploration, physical exertion, and cultural appreciation.
Popular adventure activities may include:
- Whitewater rafting
- Mountain biking tours
- Sea kayak explorations
- Hot air ballooning
- Depending on the area you are traveling to, ziplining through treetops and horseback riding along trails can also be great ways to slash through waterfalls and explore caves.
- For more adrenaline-seeking travelers, skydiving and bungee jumping may be options for taking flight over stunning landscapes or diving into deep waters from dizzying heights.
Planning is essential if your chosen activity has certain age restrictions or constraints that must be met before participating. Many outdoor activity companies offer group trips and tailored itineraries depending on individual preferences or interests; always inquire about what arrangements are needed before confirming a booking. With various sights to see across thrilling terrains or structures to climb over uncertain surroundings – adventure activities provide something unique for every traveler!
Food
The United Arab Emirates is home to a diverse landscape of food options, drawing on influences from worldwide. So whether you’re looking to try traditional Middle Eastern specialties or seek out delicious international cuisine, the UAE has something for everyone.
Let’s take a look at some of the unique dishes the UAE has to offer:
Local Dishes
Local dishes are an essential part of experiencing culture, and many countries around the globe have an array of delicious cuisine to explore. From street food to restaurant-style dishes passed down through generations, local cuisine often tells a story about the land, the people that live there, religious beliefs, and other cultural practices.
When traveling or living in a new region, exploring the diverse and unique flavors of local dishes can offer insights into customs and traditions that would otherwise be difficult to access. Furthermore, indulging in food experiences gives you a greater appreciation of various cultures and cuisines.
Local favorites vary greatly worldwide, like Ethiopia’s Injera flatbread with Wat sauce or Italy’s favorite dish, pesto alla Genovese, served with trofie pasta. While these flavorful dishes bring together families and communities over sharing meals – due to their regional availability – they cannot be found everywhere. Therefore visiting markets and restaurants specializing in regional recipes can add new experiences to traditional travel practices.
Street Food
Street food is an integral part of life in the United Arab Emirates. Whether in a modern metropolis or a small town, it is easy to find traditional snacks, fast food, and specialties like kebabs and shawarma. In some parts of the country, street food has been passed down for generations, while new items have become staples in other areas.
The offerings provide something for every taste – from savory quick meals to healthy snacks or sweet treats. Popular street foods include:
- Fataet (deep-fried dough)
- Falafel sandwiches with hummus and tahini sauce
- Kebab sandwiches stuffed with beef or lamb.
- Spicy Shawarma platters (dish of spit-grilled meat)
- Various types of pastries
- Local specialties include Manakish (a flatbread topped with cheese and herbs) and Boorla (deep-fried balls of doughy croquet).
In addition to traditional items, many street vendors sell regional takes on international fast-food dishes such as pizzas, French fries, and doners. There’s something for everyone’s menus! So regardless if you’re looking for a quick bite or a full meal, you can enjoy these delicious treats any time you’re exploring the UAE.
Restaurants
The United Arab Emirates (‘UAE’) is a popular destination with visitors from all over the world, and restaurants here have something to offer everyone. From traditional Middle Eastern dishes such as falafel and hummus to popular international cuisines like classic Italian fare and Indian curries, there is something available to suit every taste.
In urban areas, the most prominent restaurants are those serving food from around the world. Dubai is known for its fine-dining options. If you prefer something more low-key, there are plenty of casual eateries in the city’s malls, along Dubai Creek, and nearby residential areas like Deira and Al Satwa.
Elsewhere in the UAE, restaurant choices are mostly more basic, with kebab diners, fast-food outlets serving burgers and pizzas, casual cafés for sandwiches or salads on the go, neighborhood shawarma spots for a quick meal on the way home from work or school—the list goes on! In coastal towns like Abu Dhabi or Ajman, you can expect plenty of seafood from beachside restaurants. At the same time, traditional Arabic cuisine, such as mansaf, is served in Bedouin tents in nearby deserts such as Liwa Oasis. With so many different types of cuisine available throughout this fascinating part of the world, be sure to explore your options before settling for an enjoyable meal!
Transportation
The United Arab Emirates is a great place to travel and explore, offering many opportunities to experience the rich culture and history of the region. When it comes to transportation, the country offers a variety of options for getting around, from public transport to taxis.
Here, we’ll give you an overview of the different types of transportation available in the UAE and how to get the most out of your journey:
Air
Air is the most popular form of transportation in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), and its airports are among the busiest in the world, connecting the UAE and Dubai with countries across all six continents.
The leading international commercial gateway to the UAE is Dubai International Airport, a hub for over 140 airlines. Abu Dhabi International Airport is another primary gateway, although numerous other airports throughout the country facilitate domestic and international travel.
Most international flights land in Abu Dhabi or Dubai, while domestic flights may service smaller cities like Sharjah and Fujairah. Air travel options include budget carriers such as FlyDubai and luxury airlines like Etihad Airways and Emirates Airlines. In addition, self-service kiosks are available at all major airports for easy ticket purchases anytime or at night.
Various layover programs allow travelers to benefit from hefty discounts if they spend time between flights in either Abu Dhabi or Dubai. In addition, free shuttle services link many airport terminals to city centers where travelers can stay for up to 2 days without going through the immigration and customs process required for entry into the country.
Bus
The United Arab Emirates, or UAE, is home to a wide variety of transportation options for those wishing to explore and travel the region. However, buses are often the preferred option for visitors requiring a low-cost yet efficient form of public transport within municipalities.
In the UAE, buses travel on designated routes and stop at scheduled pick-up/drop-off points throughout metropolitan areas and between towns and cities, much like any other bus service worldwide. While services largely adhere to a structured timetable, exact timings may vary according to traffic or other external factors on certain days or locations; it is best practice to double-check the latest details at information kiosks or with local authorities before travel.
Bus fares can be paid in cash at an information kiosk or directly before boarding, while discounted tickets and passes may also be available depending upon individual preference/circumstance – it is often generally less expensive when booking in bulk and paying upfront for longer duration tickets compared with paying single ride fares for shorter journeys; transport companies will typically provide further details about what discounts/packages are available upon request.
Anybody wanting further information regarding bus services throughout UAE is encouraged to visit government websites/information kiosks at tourist centers where maps and timetables can be explicitly consulted related to intended destinations along with necessary routes – alternatively, many smartphone applications allow users to book tickets with most significant public transport providers in advance before travel if required.
Taxi
Taxis are the most popular mode of transportation in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), providing a convenient and cost-effective way to get around. Taxis in the UAE usually come in two types – regular taxis, operated by national taxi companies, and limousine taxis, operated by hotels.
Regular Taxi: These are usually silver or white sedans with a red band along the side that reads “Taxi” or simply TAXI. The fare meter shows highlights in red when running. It is important to remember that fares do not include tips – be sure to factor this into your overall cost. Additionally, normal taxi drivers expect you to pay an extra charge of 10% on top of the fare if you use their services after midnight or on Friday mornings and evenings – a practice known as tahderat (a surcharge for public services at certain times).
Limousine Taxi: Limousine taxis should be reserved through your hotel concierge and often feature a chauffeur who will take you from place to place. These limo cabs generally serve larger groups traveling together as it allows people to split the overall cost. The fare for limousine taxis tends to vary more than average taxi fares but isn’t too expensive, especially given the luxury these vehicles typically offer.
Safety
The United Arab Emirates is a relatively safe destination for travelers, with a low crime rate. The government has taken major steps to ensure the safety and security of travelers. However, there are still specific measures that should be taken to make sure that your time in the UAE is safe and secure.
Let’s explore some of the safety considerations travelers should keep in mind while traveling in the UAE:
Laws and Regulations
When visiting the UAE, it is essential to be mindful of the rules and regulations that will help you stay safe and abide by local laws. Visitors in the United Arab Emirates are subject to local criminal laws, which may differ from those in other countries.
UAE law prohibits sex outside marriage and homosexual acts, which are punishable by prison sentences or deportation. It is also a crime to insult “religious values,” which can include teaching or promoting religious principles without permission from the government.
Public displays of affection between men and women are frowned upon and can result in detention or fines. It is illegal to bring narcotics into the country or even consume them on Emirati soil. The possession, sale, distribution, and consumption of alcohol is prohibited for Muslim nationals but permitted for non-Muslims (provided they have a valid license).
In addition, visitors should be aware that defamation laws exist throughout the UAE; appropriate respect for Islamic traditions and traditional cultural values must be observed at all times, including refraining from deriding any aspect of UAE culture and history aloud. One should never criticize the royal family publicly, either verbally or on social media sites, as this could lead to legal repercussions and imprisonment.
Tips for Staying Safe
The United Arab Emirates is a popular destination for tourists visiting the Middle East region. While it is generally considered a safe destination, visitors should exercise caution when traveling in unfamiliar environments. It includes awareness of local laws, customs, and situations that may impact their safety or well-being.
Generally, visitors should follow the same safety precautions that one would utilize in any unfamiliar environment: stay alert to your surroundings and trust your gut instinct. For example, only use licensed taxis or vetted car services authorized by the hotel or major retailer; follow good public safety practices like being aware of your belongings, keeping valuables tucked away, and not leaving an item unattended, even if it seems safe.
Other best practice tips include:
- Avoid carrying large amounts of cash around;
- Avoid isolated areas at night;
- Stay in touch with family and friends through email/text/phone back home to ensure everyone knows you’re safe;
- Be respectful at holy sites;
- Keep copies of essential documents on you—passport, travel itinerary, and contact information—as well as back home with family/friends;
- Follow common sense safety precautions when out in public (keep pocketbook closed, only wear clothing that is not too revealing); and
- In a large city or metropolitan area such as Dubai, be mindful of cultural sensitivities, especially during holidays when alcohol on the street may offend.
Safety ultimately comes down to common sense:
- Know where you are going.
- Stay vigilant about your surroundings.
- Trust your gut instincts.
- Don’t be afraid to ask for help from local law enforcement or hotel staff.