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United Arab Emirates
Sustainability Politics
✈️ Travel Guide

United Arab Emirates

United Arab Emirates' Futuristic Desert Oasis

Capital
Abu Dhabi
Currency
UAE Dirham (AED)
Language
Arabic
Best Time
Nov–Mar
Time Zone
GST (UTC+4)
Flag of United Arab Emirates
👋 Overview

Welcome to United Arab Emirates

Welcome to the United Arab Emirates, a Gulf nation where record-breaking modern architecture rises dramatically from the desert sands. Dubai's Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world, anchors a city of futuristic skyscrapers and man-made islands. Abu Dhabi's Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque showcases stunning Islamic architecture and intricate marble artistry. The UAE's desert offers dramatic dune bashing, camel treks, and luxurious desert camps beneath star-filled skies.

Traditional souks in Dubai and Sharjah offer a glimpse into the region's gold, spice, and textile trading heritage. World-class shopping, dining, and entertainment reflect the country's rapid transformation into a global destination. Traditional Emirati hospitality remains deeply rooted despite the country's ultramodern ambitions. The UAE invites travelers to experience a striking blend of futuristic innovation and Arabian tradition.

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📍 Where to go

Popular Cities

01

Dubai

Dubai’s Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world, offers an observation deck with views stretching across the city and out toward the Persian Gulf. The Dubai Mall, one of the largest in the world, sits at its base alongside an aquarium and an indoor ice rink, with the Dubai Fountain performing choreographed shows on the lake outside.

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The historic Al Fahidi district preserves wind-tower architecture and narrow lanes reflecting the city’s pearling-era past, a striking contrast to the futuristic skyline nearby. A traditional abra boat ride across Dubai Creek connects the gold and spice souks, still trading much as they have for generations. The Palm Jumeirah, an artificial island shaped like a palm tree, and the Dubai Frame, a giant golden picture-frame structure, add further striking modern landmarks. Dubai’s blend of futuristic ambition and preserved heritage make it one of the most rapidly evolving cities in the world.

02

Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi’s Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, one of the largest in the world, dazzles with its white marble domes, gold-accented chandeliers, and the world’s largest hand-knotted carpet covering its main prayer hall. The Louvre Abu Dhabi, designed with a vast perforated dome that creates a rain of light effect below, houses art spanning global civilizations.

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Qasr Al Watan, the presidential palace, opens select areas to the public, showcasing intricate Arabesque design and a vast library. Yas Island offers Ferrari World, home to the world’s fastest roller coaster, alongside Yas Waterworld and a Formula One circuit. The Corniche, a long waterfront promenade, offers views over the Gulf and easy access to the city’s public beaches. Abu Dhabi’s blend of cultural landmarks and family entertainment make it a fitting capital for the UAE.

03

Sharjah

Sharjah, known as the cultural capital of the UAE, holds the largest concentration of museums in the country, including the Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilization, showcasing centuries of Islamic art, science, and culture. The Blue Souq’s twin buildings, decorated with intricate blue tilework, offer traditional goods without Dubai’s crowds.

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Al Noor Mosque, illuminated at night along the Khalid Lagoon waterfront, offers a striking evening photo opportunity. Sharjah’s Heart of Sharjah district preserves restored traditional buildings reflecting the emirate’s pre-oil history as a trading port. As the only emirate to enforce a strict alcohol ban, Sharjah offers a more traditional, culturally focused visit than its neighboring emirates. Its museums and preserved heritage architecture make Sharjah a worthwhile, quieter addition to a UAE itinerary.

🍴 On the menu

Local Food to Try

Discover some of United Arab Emirates's most popular flavors, traditional dishes and memorable local treats during your visit.

Al Machboos

Al Machboos is a well-known part of United Arab Emirates's cuisine and offers visitors a flavorful introduction to the country's food traditions.

Harees

Harees is a well-known part of United Arab Emirates's cuisine and offers visitors a flavorful introduction to the country's food traditions.

Thareed

Thareed is a well-known part of United Arab Emirates's cuisine and offers visitors a flavorful introduction to the country's food traditions.

Madrouba

Madrouba is a well-known part of United Arab Emirates's cuisine and offers visitors a flavorful introduction to the country's food traditions.

Balaleet

Balaleet is a well-known part of United Arab Emirates's cuisine and offers visitors a flavorful introduction to the country's food traditions.

Luqaimat

Luqaimat is a well-known part of United Arab Emirates's cuisine and offers visitors a flavorful introduction to the country's food traditions.

Regag Bread

Regag Bread is a well-known part of United Arab Emirates's cuisine and offers visitors a flavorful introduction to the country's food traditions.

Chebab

Chebab is a well-known part of United Arab Emirates's cuisine and offers visitors a flavorful introduction to the country's food traditions.

Camel Meat Stew

Camel Meat Stew is a well-known part of United Arab Emirates's cuisine and offers visitors a flavorful introduction to the country's food traditions.

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💡 Did you know?

Little-Known Facts

1

The United Arab Emirates is a federation of seven separate emirates, each historically ruled by its own royal family, with Abu Dhabi and Dubai serving as the most prominent and wealthiest members of the union, which was formally established only in 1971. Dubai is home to the Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world by a significant margin, and the city transformed from a modest fishing and pearl-diving settlement into a global center of finance, tourism, and architecture within just a few decades.

2

The UAE has built the Palm Jumeirah and other artificial archipelagos off Dubai's coast, among the largest man-made islands in the world, constructed from dredged sand and visible even from space. The country also created the Museum of the Future in Dubai, an architecturally striking, torus-shaped building covered in Arabic calligraphy that has become one of the most photographed modern structures in the Middle East.

3

The UAE has aggressively pursued diversification away from oil dependency in recent decades, and it became the first Arab nation to launch a successful mission to Mars, with its Hope probe entering Mars orbit in 2021, a milestone that placed the country among a small handful of nations to have reached the Red Planet.

🧳 Before & during your trip

Travel Tips

Tap a topic to open it.

Before You Go
  • Confirm passport validity and entry requirements.
  • Check whether a tourist visa is required.
  • Keep digital copies of important documents.
  • Consider purchasing travel insurance.
Money & Payments
  • Review the local currency and exchange rate.
  • Carry some cash for small businesses and markets.
  • Check for international bank transaction fees.
  • Learn the country's customary tipping practices.
Stay Connected
  • Review your mobile carrier's international plan.
  • Consider purchasing a local SIM or eSIM.
  • Download maps for offline use before traveling.
  • Avoid sensitive transactions on unsecured Wi-Fi.
Transportation
  • Research public transportation before arrival.
  • Use licensed taxis or reputable rideshare services.
  • Check which side of the road vehicles use.
  • Confirm whether an international permit is needed.
Electricity
  • Check the country's voltage and outlet type.
  • Bring the correct plug adapter for your devices.
  • Use a voltage converter when required.
  • Pack a portable charger for longer excursions.
Weather & Clothing
  • Review the seasonal weather before packing.
  • Bring layers for changing temperatures.
  • Pack rain protection when appropriate.
  • Use sunscreen even on cool or cloudy days.
Food & Water
  • Research whether tap water is safe to drink.
  • Communicate food allergies clearly.
  • Try traditional dishes from reputable vendors.
  • Observe local dining customs and meal times.
Safety
  • Secure valuables in crowded tourist areas.
  • Avoid displaying large amounts of cash.
  • Share your itinerary with someone you trust.
  • Review current government travel advisories.
Language & Etiquette
  • Learn a few polite words in the local language.
  • Respect dress requirements at religious sites.
  • Ask permission before photographing people.
  • Follow local traditions, laws and social customs.
Emergency Planning
  • Save the country's emergency telephone number.
  • Locate your nearest embassy or consulate.
  • Keep medication in its original packaging.
  • Store emergency contacts offline and on paper.
Smart Packing
  • Pack comfortable shoes for walking and tours.
  • Keep essential medication in your carry-on.
  • Bring a reusable bottle where appropriate.
  • Leave room for locally purchased items.
Local Research
  • Check attraction hours and reservation policies.
  • Review national holidays and local closures.
  • Download important addresses before departure.
  • Leave flexibility for unexpected discoveries.

Important: Entry requirements, transportation rules, weather conditions and safety guidance can change. Verify important information with official sources before traveling.

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