United Arab Emirates

United Arab Emirates Highlights

The United Arab Emirates, a federation of seven emirates on the Arabian Peninsula, is known for its opulence, modern architecture, and vibrant cultural scene. Dubai, the most populous city, is home to the world`s tallest building, Burj Khalifa, the luxurious Burj Al Arab, and the expansive Dubai Mall. Don`t miss the historic Dubai Creek or the bustling souks selling spices, gold, and textiles. Abu Dhabi, the capital, houses the stunning Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, the contemporary Louvre Abu Dhabi, and the thrilling Ferrari World. Sharjah, named the Cultural Capital of the Arab World, offers a rich tapestry of arts and heritage. The UAE also offers unique desert experiences, from camel treks to dune bashing. Emirati cuisine, with dishes like machboos and luqaimat, adds a flavorful touch to your journey. From the glittering skyline of Dubai to the tranquil oases of Al Ain, the UAE presents a captivating blend of the old and the new.

Top 10 Attractions

Abu Dhabi Corniche

The Corniche in Abu Dhabi is an impressive 8-kilometer-long waterfront with pedestrian pathways, cycling lanes, and pristine beaches. It provides stunning views of the city`s skyline and the Arabian Gulf. The Corniche is packed with activities, inclu... more

The Corniche in Abu Dhabi is an impressive 8-kilometer-long waterfront with pedestrian pathways, cycling lanes, and pristine beaches. It provides stunning views of the city`s skyline and the Arabian Gulf. The Corniche is packed with activities, including children`s play areas, separate cycle and pedestrian pathways, cafés and restaurants, and the Corniche Beach. This beautiful beachfront is a lovely place to relax, enjoy a picnic, or simply watch the world go by.

Al Fahidi Historic District

The Al Fahidi Historic District offers a nostalgic view of a bygone era with traditional wind towers and a maze of winding alleyways. Visit the Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding (SMCCU) where guests can partake in Arabic classes, heri... more

The Al Fahidi Historic District offers a nostalgic view of a bygone era with traditional wind towers and a maze of winding alleyways. Visit the Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding (SMCCU) where guests can partake in Arabic classes, heritage tours, and guided mosque visits. Take a leisurely stroll through the narrow lanes and explore the art galleries, speciality shops, and cafes in this historical neighborhood.

Al Hadheerah

Nestled in the Bab Al Shams resort, Al Hadheerah is far more than a restaurant. It`s an incredible, unique dining experience that offers a taste of Arabian culture. Here, you can enjoy traditional Middle Eastern cuisine while watching live shows incl... more

Nestled in the Bab Al Shams resort, Al Hadheerah is far more than a restaurant. It`s an incredible, unique dining experience that offers a taste of Arabian culture. Here, you can enjoy traditional Middle Eastern cuisine while watching live shows including horse and camel riding, henna artists, and traditional dance performances. With its mouthwatering cuisine and vibrant entertainment, Al Hadheerah offers a slice of the Middle Eastern culture in its most authentic form.

Buddha-Bar

Located in the luxurious Grosvenor House, the Buddha-Bar is famed for its unique food, eclectic atmosphere, and ambient music. The sumptuous restaurant serves a fusion of sushi, Chinese and Thai food, and the bar is renowned for its expertly mixed co... more

Located in the luxurious Grosvenor House, the Buddha-Bar is famed for its unique food, eclectic atmosphere, and ambient music. The sumptuous restaurant serves a fusion of sushi, Chinese and Thai food, and the bar is renowned for its expertly mixed cocktails. The place is adorned with lavish decor and a gigantic Buddha statue, making it a must-visit destination for food lovers and partygoers.

Burj Khalifa

The Burj Khalifa is a testament to human ingenuity and ambition. Standing at 828 meters, it`s the tallest structure and building in the world. Its architecture and engineering marvel captures Dubai`s progressive spirit. Visitors can take a high-speed... more

The Burj Khalifa is a testament to human ingenuity and ambition. Standing at 828 meters, it`s the tallest structure and building in the world. Its architecture and engineering marvel captures Dubai`s progressive spirit. Visitors can take a high-speed elevator to the observation decks on the 124th and 148th floors, offering panoramic views of the cityscape, the desert, and the Persian Gulf. Dining experiences are also available, allowing visitors to enjoy a meal with an unparalleled vista.

Desert Safari

A desert safari in the UAE is an adrenaline-pumping experience. Embark on a thrilling dune bashing ride, enjoy a serene camel trek, or try sandboarding on the endless golden sand dunes. As the sun sets, relax at a traditional Bedouin camp with cultur... more

A desert safari in the UAE is an adrenaline-pumping experience. Embark on a thrilling dune bashing ride, enjoy a serene camel trek, or try sandboarding on the endless golden sand dunes. As the sun sets, relax at a traditional Bedouin camp with cultural activities like henna painting and belly dancing. The experience culminates with a sumptuous Arabic BBQ dinner under the starlit sky, making it an unforgettable UAE highlight.

Dubai Museum

Located in the Al Fahidi Fort, the oldest existing building in Dubai, the Dubai Museum offers a glimpse into the emirate`s past. Exhibits display local antiquities and artifacts from African and Asian countries that traded with Dubai. Life-size diora... more

Located in the Al Fahidi Fort, the oldest existing building in Dubai, the Dubai Museum offers a glimpse into the emirate`s past. Exhibits display local antiquities and artifacts from African and Asian countries that traded with Dubai. Life-size dioramas depicting traditional Emirati life, including pearl fishing, date farming, and local souks, offer insights into Dubai`s transformation from a small fishing village to a global city.

Dubai Museum

Located in the Al Fahidi Fort, the oldest building in Dubai, the Dubai Museum offers a glimpse into the city`s past. The museum presents the traditional way of life in the Emirate of Dubai with exhibits showcasing local antiquities as well as artifac... more

Located in the Al Fahidi Fort, the oldest building in Dubai, the Dubai Museum offers a glimpse into the city`s past. The museum presents the traditional way of life in the Emirate of Dubai with exhibits showcasing local antiquities as well as artifacts from African and Asian countries that traded with Dubai. The underground section uses technology effectively to depict scenes from the Creek, traditional Arab houses, mosques, the souk, date farms, desert, and marine life.

Dune Bashing

Dune bashing in the UAE is an exhilarating activity, providing an adrenaline-filled adventure. 4x4 vehicles, usually Land Cruisers or Fortuners, are used to navigate the towering sand dunes, moving in a rapid, thrilling manner. It`s an iconic desert... more

Dune bashing in the UAE is an exhilarating activity, providing an adrenaline-filled adventure. 4x4 vehicles, usually Land Cruisers or Fortuners, are used to navigate the towering sand dunes, moving in a rapid, thrilling manner. It`s an iconic desert experience where you can enjoy the beauty of the Arabian landscapes while having a bit of an adventure.

Em Sherif Restaurant

Em Sherif Restaurant in Dubai is a distinctive dining destination that offers a unique experience of authentic Lebanese cuisine. The ambience reflects the Arabic heritage and tradition, and the menu is carefully designed to give you a taste of the be... more

Em Sherif Restaurant in Dubai is a distinctive dining destination that offers a unique experience of authentic Lebanese cuisine. The ambience reflects the Arabic heritage and tradition, and the menu is carefully designed to give you a taste of the best dishes from the Levant region. It is a set menu with a variety of cold and hot mezze, followed by a selection of grills and ending with delectable Arabic sweets.

Etihad Towers Observation Deck

Located on the 74th floor of the Jumeirah at Etihad Towers hotel, the Observation Deck offers skyline views from the highest point in the city. Enjoy high tea, snacks, or just a cup of coffee as you gaze out over the city below. From this height, you... more

Located on the 74th floor of the Jumeirah at Etihad Towers hotel, the Observation Deck offers skyline views from the highest point in the city. Enjoy high tea, snacks, or just a cup of coffee as you gaze out over the city below. From this height, you can see the Corniche, Emirates Palace, and across to the Arabian Gulf.

Gold Souk

Dubai`s Gold Souk is a traditional market that specializes in gold and other precious metals. Located in the heart of Dubai`s commercial district, the Gold Souk showcases an array of gold, silver, and precious stone embellished jewelry in its narrow... more

Dubai`s Gold Souk is a traditional market that specializes in gold and other precious metals. Located in the heart of Dubai`s commercial district, the Gold Souk showcases an array of gold, silver, and precious stone embellished jewelry in its narrow lanes. With its extensive variety, competitive pricing, and superb quality, it`s a paradise for jewelry enthusiasts. Remember, haggling is part of the experience and can lead to considerable bargains.

Gold Souk

The Gold Souk in Dubai is one of the most popular shopping destinations in the world. Here, you`ll find alleyways filled with hundreds of shops selling gold, silver, and precious gemstone jewelry. It`s not just a place for those wanting to buy jewelr... more

The Gold Souk in Dubai is one of the most popular shopping destinations in the world. Here, you`ll find alleyways filled with hundreds of shops selling gold, silver, and precious gemstone jewelry. It`s not just a place for those wanting to buy jewelry, but a historic market offering a fascinating glimpse of Dubai`s traditions related to gold trade. Be ready to bargain and take home a beautiful piece of Dubai with you.

Hatta Dam

Hatta Dam is a great escape from the city`s hustle and bustle. The turquoise waters of the dam nestled among the mountains create a serene environment perfect for relaxation. For the more adventurous, kayaking on the dam is a popular activity. It`s a... more

Hatta Dam is a great escape from the city`s hustle and bustle. The turquoise waters of the dam nestled among the mountains create a serene environment perfect for relaxation. For the more adventurous, kayaking on the dam is a popular activity. It`s also a great spot for a picnic or a scenic walk. Hatta Dam`s beautiful scenery makes it an ideal place for nature lovers and photographers.

Hot Air Balloon Ride over the Desert

Imagine floating over the vast expanse of the Arabian Desert, seeing the sunrise over the golden dunes. This can be experienced in a hot air balloon ride in Dubai. It`s an early morning activity but worth every bit of the early wake-up call. The tran... more

Imagine floating over the vast expanse of the Arabian Desert, seeing the sunrise over the golden dunes. This can be experienced in a hot air balloon ride in Dubai. It`s an early morning activity but worth every bit of the early wake-up call. The tranquility of the desert morning, the beautiful play of light, and the sight of gazelles and camels running below make it a mesmerizing experience.

Jumeirah Mosque

Recognized as one of the most beautiful mosques in Dubai, Jumeirah Mosque offers a unique opportunity to learn about Emirati culture and religion. Built in the medieval Fatimid style, the mosque is particularly stunning when lit up against the night... more

Recognized as one of the most beautiful mosques in Dubai, Jumeirah Mosque offers a unique opportunity to learn about Emirati culture and religion. Built in the medieval Fatimid style, the mosque is particularly stunning when lit up against the night sky. It is one of the few mosques in Dubai open to non-Muslims, offering a `Open doors. Open minds.` program for those interested in learning about Islam.

Louvre Abu Dhabi

The Louvre Abu Dhabi is an art and civilization museum, located in Abu Dhabi, UAE. Designed by French architect Jean Nouvel, the museum features a stunning floating dome of light and shadows. It brings the Louvre`s tradition of art and cultural excha... more

The Louvre Abu Dhabi is an art and civilization museum, located in Abu Dhabi, UAE. Designed by French architect Jean Nouvel, the museum features a stunning floating dome of light and shadows. It brings the Louvre`s tradition of art and cultural exchange to the Middle East. The museum houses a multitude of artworks and objects of historical, cultural, and sociological significance from various time periods and civilizations, making it a cultural beacon in the UAE.

Louvre Abu Dhabi

An art and civilization museum, the Louvre Abu Dhabi is an architectural marvel and cultural beacon. The museum hosts an intriguing mix of ancient and modern works from around the world, mirroring the diverse population of the UAE itself. The museum`... more

An art and civilization museum, the Louvre Abu Dhabi is an architectural marvel and cultural beacon. The museum hosts an intriguing mix of ancient and modern works from around the world, mirroring the diverse population of the UAE itself. The museum`s stunning structure, designed by Jean Nouvel, features a metallic dome with intricate geometric patterns, allowing sun to filter through and create a moving `rain of light`, inspired by the shadows of palm trees in the UAE.

Mall of the Emirates

With more than 630 international brands, including department, fashion, lifestyle, sports, electronics and home furnishing stores, the Mall of the Emirates is a shopping, entertainment, and dining hub. Aside from its extensive retail space, the mall... more

With more than 630 international brands, including department, fashion, lifestyle, sports, electronics and home furnishing stores, the Mall of the Emirates is a shopping, entertainment, and dining hub. Aside from its extensive retail space, the mall also houses the Dubai Community Theatre & Arts Centre (DUCTAC), the thrilling Ski Dubai facility, and more than 90 global dining options. This isn`t just a mall, it`s a complete entertainment experience.

Palm Jumeirah

Palm Jumeirah is a man-made island, shaped like a palm tree, extending into the Persian Gulf. This architectural wonder is packed with luxury resorts, upscale restaurants, and high-end shopping outlets. A monorail runs along the `trunk` connecting th... more

Palm Jumeirah is a man-made island, shaped like a palm tree, extending into the Persian Gulf. This architectural wonder is packed with luxury resorts, upscale restaurants, and high-end shopping outlets. A monorail runs along the `trunk` connecting the island to the mainland. Attractions include the Atlantis The Palm hotel with its water and marine animal parks. A visit here offers not just beach relaxation but also a peek into Dubai`s opulence and extravagance.

Pierchic

Located on a pier jutting into the Arabian Gulf, Pierchic offers some of Dubai`s finest seafood. The restaurant is renowned for its stunning views of the Burj Al Arab and the Gulf`s blue waters. The romantic, chic setting coupled with its gourmet cui... more

Located on a pier jutting into the Arabian Gulf, Pierchic offers some of Dubai`s finest seafood. The restaurant is renowned for its stunning views of the Burj Al Arab and the Gulf`s blue waters. The romantic, chic setting coupled with its gourmet cuisine makes Pierchic an award-winning dining destination. The menu, curated by Michelin-starred chefs, features ethically-sourced seafood prepared with a Mediterranean twist. Pierchic is a perfect place for a romantic dinner or a special celebration.

Saadiyat Public Beach

Located on the Saadiyat Island`s natural shores, the Saadiyat Public Beach offers clean, white sands and clear waters teeming with local wildlife. For those seeking relaxation, you can rent a lounge chair and spend the day soaking up the sun. More ac... more

Located on the Saadiyat Island`s natural shores, the Saadiyat Public Beach offers clean, white sands and clear waters teeming with local wildlife. For those seeking relaxation, you can rent a lounge chair and spend the day soaking up the sun. More active beach-goers can take advantage of the sport facilities and water sports on offer. This serene beach is a great place for a peaceful getaway.

Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque

The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi is a significant symbol of contemporary Islamic architecture. It features 82 domes, over 1,000 columns, 24-carat gold-plated chandeliers, and the world`s largest hand-knotted carpet. With the capacity to acc... more

The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi is a significant symbol of contemporary Islamic architecture. It features 82 domes, over 1,000 columns, 24-carat gold-plated chandeliers, and the world`s largest hand-knotted carpet. With the capacity to accommodate over 40,000 worshippers, it is one of the world`s largest mosques. Its magnificent design, which fuses Mameluke, Ottoman, and Fatimid styles, and its serene environment, create a profound spiritual experience.

Ski Dubai

Dubai surprises with its ingenuity and Ski Dubai is a perfect example of this. Nestled in the Mall of the Emirates, Ski Dubai is an indoor ski resort with 22,500 square meters of indoor ski area. It features a 60-meter high indoor mountain with 5 slo... more

Dubai surprises with its ingenuity and Ski Dubai is a perfect example of this. Nestled in the Mall of the Emirates, Ski Dubai is an indoor ski resort with 22,500 square meters of indoor ski area. It features a 60-meter high indoor mountain with 5 slopes of varying steepness and difficulty. Visitors can enjoy skiing, snowboarding, tobogganing, or just playing in the snow. It`s also home to a number of penguins who come out for regular shows.

Souk Madinat Jumeirah

Combining traditional Middle Eastern shopping culture of stands, barrows, and stalls with a mix of boutique brands, home accessory stores, souvenir gift shops, luxury fashion, and jewellery, the Souk Madinat Jumeirah is a beautiful and bustling marke... more

Combining traditional Middle Eastern shopping culture of stands, barrows, and stalls with a mix of boutique brands, home accessory stores, souvenir gift shops, luxury fashion, and jewellery, the Souk Madinat Jumeirah is a beautiful and bustling market. Nestled within the Madinat Jumeirah Resort, it offers a unique shopping, dining, and entertainment experience. Navigate the meandering paths and discover the eclectic variety it offers.

Stand Up Paddle Boarding at Palm Jumeirah

Stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) is a popular pastime in Dubai and the calm waters of the Palm Jumeirah are the perfect place to learn. Aside from being a fun activity, it offers a different perspective on the city`s skyline. Many providers offer SUP le... more

Stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) is a popular pastime in Dubai and the calm waters of the Palm Jumeirah are the perfect place to learn. Aside from being a fun activity, it offers a different perspective on the city`s skyline. Many providers offer SUP lessons and board rental. Whether you`re a seasoned pro or a beginner, paddleboarding at the Palm Jumeirah is a fun and exciting way to enjoy the water.

The Dubai Fountain

Located at the base of the iconic Burj Khalifa and right outside the doors of the famous Dubai Mall, the Dubai Fountain features the world`s largest choreographed fountain system. It`s a spectacle of lights, color, and movement, with water surging as... more

Located at the base of the iconic Burj Khalifa and right outside the doors of the famous Dubai Mall, the Dubai Fountain features the world`s largest choreographed fountain system. It`s a spectacle of lights, color, and movement, with water surging as high as 150 meters in harmony with the music. The shows occur daily and are a magical experience not to be missed.

The Dubai Mall

The Dubai Mall isn`t just a shopping destination; it`s a small city. As one of the world`s largest malls, it houses more than 1,200 shops, a 250-room luxury hotel, 120 restaurants and cafes, and around 22 cinema screens. Additionally, it is home to a... more

The Dubai Mall isn`t just a shopping destination; it`s a small city. As one of the world`s largest malls, it houses more than 1,200 shops, a 250-room luxury hotel, 120 restaurants and cafes, and around 22 cinema screens. Additionally, it is home to an indoor theme park, an ice rink, a huge indoor waterfall, a choreographed fountain, and the giant Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo. It offers an unparalleled retail and leisure experience.

Yas Island

Yas Island is a multi-purpose leisure, shopping, and entertainment center in Abu Dhabi. It is home to the Yas Marina Circuit, where the Formula One Abu Dhabi Grand Prix is held, the Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi, the Yas Waterworld, and the Ferrari Wo... more

Yas Island is a multi-purpose leisure, shopping, and entertainment center in Abu Dhabi. It is home to the Yas Marina Circuit, where the Formula One Abu Dhabi Grand Prix is held, the Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi, the Yas Waterworld, and the Ferrari World Abu Dhabi, the world`s first Ferrari-branded theme park. With concerts, dining, and shopping, it is a destination on its own and caters to the whole family.

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