\
United Arab Emirates

United Arab Emirates

Continent

Asia

Best States to Visit

  • Abu Dhabi
  • Ajman
  • Dubai
  • Sharjah
  • Fujairah

Best Cities to Visit

  • Ajman
  • Dubai
  • Sharjah
  • Abu Dhabi
  • Al Ain

Size

83,600 KM2

Population

9,770,529

GDP

$421,100,000,000

Spending Budget

$198 - $2,774

Famous For

  • The UAE is known for its two largest cities, Dubai and Abu Dhabi, which draw millions of tourists each year. Dubai, a regional business hub known for its sleek skyscrapers, is home to the largest building in the world – the Burj Khalifa.

Best Time to Visit

  • January
  • February
  • March
  • April
  • November
  • December

History

The history of the UAE considerably precedes the beginning of the Union of Seven (Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, Fujairah, Umm Al Quwain and Ras Al Khaimah) and the formation of the United Arab Emirates. However, the Emirates’ union was a turning point in the history of the Trucial Coast region. The success of this Union gave the United Arab Emirates its rightful place in the international community as a modern state. In fact, the UAE has a rich history and culture as demonstrated by many studies based on ancient documents and artifacts discovered in this land. In addition to its history and civilization, the Gulf region enjoyed a strategic geographical location as well. Therefore, conflicts, to seize control of India and the Gulf region, broke out between the European powers (Portuguese, French and British) since the 16th century. The Portuguese were the first to wreak havoc across the Arabian Gulf, led by such commanders as da Gama and Albuquerque, and followed by many others, who have committed heinous massacres against the Arabs and Muslims and destroyed Muscat and Khor Fakkan. Portuguese colonialization of the Arabian Gulf continued for most of the 16th century. In the beginning of the 19th century, two Arab powers emerged in the region. The first was the Bani Yas tribe, which controlled the lower Arabian Gulf (Abu Dhabi and Dubai), and the second was Al Qawasim tribe with its capital in Ras Al Khaimah. Al Qawasim established a remarkable maritime power by which they were able to fight the British fleets and ships in the Arabian Gulf and further afield in the Indian Ocean. Britain continued to control the region by various means, until it concluded in 1820 a treaty with the sheikhs of the Oman Coast, which gave its existence a legal treaty basis. By signing this treaty, the British called the western coast of the Gulf the Trucial Coast.

Present Day

United Arab Emirates, federation of seven emirates along the eastern coast of the Arabian Peninsula. The largest of these emirates, Abu Dhabi, which comprises more than three-fourths of the federation’s total land area, is the centre of its oil industry and borders Saudi Arabia on the federation’s southern and eastern borders. The port city of Dubai, located at the base of the mountainous Musandam Peninsula, is the capital of the emirate of Dubai and is one of the region’s most vital commercial and financial centres, housing hundreds of multinational corporations in a forest of skyscrapers. The smaller emirates of Sharjah, Ajmān, Umm al-Qaywayn, and Raʾs al-Khaymah also occupy the peninsula, whose protrusion north toward Iran forms the Strait of Hormuz linking the Persian Gulf to the Gulf of Oman. The emirates comprise a mixed environment of rocky desert, coastal plains and wetlands, and waterless mountains. The seashore is a haven for migratory waterfowl and draws birdwatchers from all over the world; the country’s unspoiled beaches and opulent resorts also have drawn international travelers. Standing at a historic and geographic crossroads and made up of diverse nationalities and ethnic groups, the United Arab Emirates present a striking blend of ancient customs and modern technology, of cosmopolitanism and insularity, and of wealth and want.

Future

The UAE is planning to establish the first inhabitable human settlement on Mars by 2117. The UAE Centennial Plan 2071 offers a clear map for the long-term government work to fortify the country's reputation and its soft power. Dubai Clean Energy Strategy, under this strategy, Dubai aims to produce 75 per cent of its energy requirements from clean sources by 2050. The strategy also aims to make Dubai a global centre of clean energy and green economy. It consists of five main pillars: infrastructure, legislation, funding, building capacities and skills, and environment-friendly energy mix. The UAE will also have achieved Fujairah 2040 Plan. Fujairah 2040 Plan focuses on enhancing the housing and transportation infrastructure facilities. The municipality has begun work on road improvements, building water barriers, ports and residential complexes and expanding healthcare facilities at the cost of AED 1.5 billion. The Fujairah seaport would have new terminals for oil, marine services, dry bulk and containers with an anchorage area. By 2036, the UAE aims to reduce the total demand for water resources by 21 per cent, increase the water productivity index to USD 110 per cubic metre, reduce the water scarcity index by a ratio of three points, increase the reuse of treated water to 95 per cent and increase the national water storage capacity up to two days. Sustainable water supplies will be ensured in various circumstances through three main programmes: The Water Demand Management Program, the Water Supply Management Program and the Emergency Production and Distribution Programme. The UAE will have achieved Abu Dhabi Economic Vision 2030, Environment Vision 2030 (Abu Dhabi), Plan Abu Dhabi 2030, Abu Dhabi Transportation Mobility Management Strategy, Surface Transport Master Plan (Abu Dhabi), Dubai Autonomous Transportation Strategy, Dubai Industrial Strategy 2030, Dubai 3D Printing Strategy and UN’s 2030 Agenda. The Government of Abu Dhabi announced a long-term plan for the transformation of the emirate's economy, including a reduced reliance on the oil sector as a source of economic activity over time and a greater focus on knowledge-based industries in the future. Entitled 'Abu Dhabi Economic Vision 2030', it identifies seven immediate economic priorities. Environment Vision 2030 for the emirate of Abu Dhabi was developed to ensure integration among the three pillars of sustainability: environmental, economic and social vision. It aims to preserve and enhance Abu Dhabi's natural heritage in the efficient use of resources and contributing to a better quality of life for all.
Must Visit Places ------------

Buried Village of Al Madam

On a strip of desert, behind the town of Al Madam lies a tiny ghost village lost in sand. It consists of two rows of colorful houses and a mosque at one end, all long-deserted and engulfed by the dunes. There is something poetic in the way nature has taken over these old abandoned buildings, and something eerie as well. The small houses have rusty iron gates, and inside are colorful blue and green rooms decorated with ceramic tiles and wallpapers. Each room is filled with piles of sand, sometimes stretching halfway up the walls, pocked with scorpion footprints all over.

Dubai Miracle Garden

The miraculous growing project is especially impressive in that it exists in Dubai’s harsh desert climate. The caretakers of the garden claim that the growth is possible through the careful re-use of wastewater and irrigation that uses the drip method as opposed to a more wasteful spray method. No matter how it is achieved, the staggeringly colorful fields of blooms, shaped like hearts and igloos, and built up trellises constructed to look like famous building, seem like something out of a fairy tale.

Sir Bani Yas

Sir Bani Yas is popular for being the largest natural island in UAE. While it was amongst the top natural reserves in Arabia, it is, as of today too, home to a large variety of flora and fauna. Activities like wildlife viewing, bird watching, and safaris, as well as mountain biking, snorkeling, and kayaking, can be enjoyed here.

Hatta city

One of the biggest draws of Hatta city is Hatta Heritage Village which is a restored museum housing relics and documents of a true Emirati life in the earliest times. The museum comprises 30 buildings including huts, houses, a mosque and a fort that you can get to see in a walking tour round the village. Hatta offers a fair range of activities that include kayaking in the tranquil waters of Lake Hatta, trying a hand in archery or axe throwing, freefall jumps, downhill carting and trekking. After a whole day of sightseeing and activities, put up a tent under the starry sky and enjoy overnight camping along with a sumptuous barbeque dinner.

Ajman

The smallest of the seven emirates, Ajman is a favourite of nature loving tourists for its pristine beaches, scenic charm and an overall tranquil setting. Tucked on the Arabian Gulf with a staggering 16 km long sandy beach Ajman offers plentiful options of sightseeing, activities, shopping and historical excursions. Dotted with some of the bustling shopping complexes, grandest forts, poshest resorts, significant museums and best sandy beaches, this small nation is growing into a booming business and tourist hub of the Arabian world.

Umm Al Quwain

Slipped between the Ras-Al-Khaimah and Ajman along the western bank of the UAE, this lesser-known emirate is a bird watchers’ paradise in the true sense. Covering an area of 800 sq. km Umm Al Quwain is an offbeat destination and its consummate natural bounty will take your breath away. Probably it is the quirkiest of all the emirates of the UAE with very low population, which does not bear the footprints of tourists in the high season and where you will barely come across a skyscraper. But if you want to add richness to your travel experience, this quiet city is one of the worthiest places to visit in the UAE.

Musandam

Located strategically along the eastern coast of the UAE, the Musandam Peninsula is well worth a visit in your UAE trip if you want to have a taste of wilderness after a lot of museum and city tours. The peninsula is a blissful haven with its beautiful ‘kors’ (rocky bays), village idylls, dramatic landscapes and mountains roads. Spending a couple of days in this isolated cape, you can explore the cultural eccentricity and feast your eyes on its beautifully reticulated coastline and the mountains around Jebel Harim. With mountains standing above 2,000 metres and lulled by the emerald sea waters, Musandam is home to some of the best landscapes in the UAE. It also features one of the best g diving and snorkelling destinations of the world.

Khor Fakkan

Tucked between the banks of the Gulf of Oman and the Bay of Khor Fakkan, the city of Khor Fakkan promises you a fulfilling beach vacation in the land of castles, mosques, museums and forts. With clusters of thriving coral reefs and a plethora of thrilling activities, Khor Fakkan beach is a favourite of the marine sports lovers. On a day trip you can take a leisurely walk along the Khorfakkan corniche, take a relaxing spa or participate in adventurous water sports such as kayaking, sailing and scuba diving.

Dibba Al-Hisn

The town of Dibba Al-Hisn got its name derived from the ‘hisn’ or port which stands tall in fame and glory as the landmark of the historical enclave. Built by the Portuguese in 1694, the fort is a must visit attraction in the town which allows you to learn about the war chronicles of the emirates. Set against the crystal waters of the Gulf and lined up with palm groves, the postcard perfect cape offers a wealth of marine activities such as snorkelling, deep sea fishing and scuba diving.

Burj Khalifa

The Burj Khalifa, a renowned skyscraper in Dubai, United Arab Emirates is the tallest structure and building in the whole wide world. It boasts a height of 2722 feet with the roof soaring up to an elevation of 2717 feet. It was developed for Dubai to gain recognition on an international level. It was originally given the name of Burj Dubai but was later renamed in the honour of Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan, United Arab Emirates’ President and the ruler of Abu Dhabi.

Dubai Creek

Nestling in the heart of Dubai is a saltwater creek called Dubai Creek. Being one of the best places to visit in Dubai it greets thousands of onlookers daily. Those who have marked their presence here were successful in discovering both the traditional and modern culture of Dubai. Today, the Dubai Creek is under a massive expansion project which will loop its water to flow through the city and make its way to the Gulf in Jumeirah. The main Dubai Creek’s site and all its subordinate attractions are still preserved in their natural state.

Wild Wadi Water Park

Wild Wadi Water Park is an internationally renowned water park located in the Jumeirah area of Dubai near the famous Burj Al Arab. Owned and operated by the world-renowned hotel group, Jumeirah International, Wild Wadi Water Park is listed amongst the 20 best water parks in the world. This exciting park offers over 30 odd rides and activities for the entire family to enjoy. Built-in 1999 the park aimed at giving its visitors a boost of adrenaline rush that can’t be experienced anywhere else. Besides the adrenaline pumping activities, this water park in Dubai also has many relaxing and fun rides.

Dubai Dolphinarium

Located in the Creek Park, Dubai Dolphinarium gives you complete liberty to spend some rejuvenating time with the marvelous dolphins and seals. From a unique family entertainment zone to now being one of the most adored places to visit in Dubai, this Dolphinarium offers you an incredible adventure with these water mammals. These beautiful creatures are professionally trained to exhibit the brilliance of their skills and water stunts.

Ferrari World

Lovers of red, fast and shiny Ferrari get ready to rock on for some more entertainment with the Ferrari World. Yes, you heard it right. Ferrari World of Abu Dhabi gives you complete liberty to bring in your family for some thrilling fun and entertainment. Ferrari World of Abu Dhabi is one of the biggest amusement parks in the world. Locals love to take rejoicing off from all their hectic schedules at this Abu Dhabi’s popular getaway location. Ferrari World offers you a chance to smash on your own land speed records. Right from rides to attractions to events, Ferrari World has got everything to engage you throughout your visit.

Dhow Wharfage

There is no doubt in that Dubai is definitely touching the chord of the people around the world. With its beauty and the luxuries it attracts tourist. While you are in this favorite city there is one place which you can’t afford to miss Dhow Wharfage. For those of you who are looking for some sightseeing option there you have the perfect place for you. Extending along the Deira creekside east of the Grand Souk between Deira Old Souk and Al Sabkha abra stations, the Dhow Wharfage offers an interesting look into the sea customs of old Dubai that have survived supernaturally in place at the heart of the twenty-first-century city.

Atlantis Palm

The 5-star Atlantis is located on Palm Jumeirah and is the first hotel in Dubai to be built on the Island. It is based on the myth of Atlantis and the décor is distinctly Arabian. There are 1548 rooms in the hotel, and they are divided into two accommodation wings – the East Tower and the West Tower. The two towers are joined together by the Royal Bridge Suite.

Jumeirah Beach

Jumeirah Beach is one of the most popular and most visited public beaches in Dubai. The white sandy beach stretches along the coastal area of the city and has many large resorts and hotels close to its frontage area. Jumeirah Beach has been named after Jumeirah district from where the beach originates. The stunning views of Jumeirah Beach provide the much-needed respite from stress. Lounging here provides a complete entertainment site and visitors will enjoy everything here.

Sharjah Archaeology Museum

One of the best ways to discover the history of Sharjah is through its well-preserved records which are present at the Sharjah Archaeology Museum. Travel to this amazing place and go back in time with the museum’s various sections namely the Bronze age, Stone age, Iron Age, and Greater Arabia. There are a variety of exhibits that display different artifacts, weaponry, Jewellery, pottery, and more from different ages and also the growing industrial skills of the native people during their shift into the Bronze and Iron age.

Al Noor Mosque

Dominating the main Sharjah skyline, Al Noor Mosque is one of the beautiful mosques in the city. The beautiful Mosque is designed in classical Oatman design and has calligraphic inscriptions from the Quran which are breathtaking to the eyes of visitors. It is the first Mosque in Sharjah that allowed non-muslim residents and tourists to enter its premises.

Louvre Museum

Louvre Abu Dhabi, iconic as well as a universal museum is renowned as a premier cultural institution built in the heart of Saadiyat Cultural District. The museum opened its doors on 11th November 2017. This museum is different from other museums in Abu Dhabi as it has some extraordinary collection of masterpieces in paintings, sculptures by renowned artists. It has all the works of ancient and contemporary works hailing from different countries.

Fujairah fort

Fujairah fort is one of the architectural gems which is easily accessible from most of the central locations in the emirate. Being located atop a hill, the fort offers sweeping views of the surrounding landscape. Built in 1670, Fujairah Fort holds a glorious history of surviving the Wahhabist invasion and bombardment by the British Royal Navy to its credit. It also served as a military base, a royal palace, a prison and execution chamber. At present the property is used as a wedding venue for the high-profile marriage ceremonies.

Snoopy Island

Located off the coast of Fujairah, Snoopy Island is one of the best kept secrets of the UAE when compared with its giant rivals like Dubai or Sharjah that boast of their superlatives in all feats. With the Hajar mountains as a backdrop, the island offers a perfectly idyllic gateway with an abundance of activities in the crystal waters surrounding the island.

Ajman City Centre

Shopaholics should not miss a chance to visit Ajman City Centre which is the largest shopping mall of the UAE. Covering a whopping 35,000 square metres the property houses a 9-screen cinema hall, 15 dining outlets and other options for untainted recreation. One of the highly recommended places to visit in UAE.

Sheikh Zayed Mosque

Popularly known as the Grand Mosque, this is the largest mosque in the UAE and is named after Sheikh Zyed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the first president of the emirates. The extravagant piece of architecture took about 12 years for its completion while its intricate layout was inspired by the designs of renowned mosques across the world. The unique features that keep Sheikh Zayed Mosque apart from the others are a Swarovski Crystal Chandelier moulded in 24 carat gold, 96 interior jewel studded columns, 1096 external columns and 82 domes carved out of white marble. The mosque fairly boasts of including its name in the Guinness Book of World records for the largest carpet and the second largest chandelier ever used in a mosque.