Introducing UAE
The United Arab Emirates, or UAE for short, is located on the eastern Arabian Peninsula, bordering the Persian Gulf to the north with a 734-kilometer coastline. Bordered by Saudi Arabia to the west and south and Oman to the east and northeast, the UAE is a federation of seven emirates: Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Ras Al Khaimah, Fujairah, Umm Al Quwain, and Ajman.
The United Arab Emirates (UAE), an Arab nation located on the eastern Arabian Peninsula, is a Middle Eastern desert nation renowned for its oil production. Dubai, exemplified by the region, is a transit point and shopping destination. Enjoy sunbathing and cocktails on pristine white sand beaches, cozy up in the Abu Dhabi desert at night to gaze at the stars, haggle with the savvy Arab merchants in Sharjah's old souks, and admire the urban landscape of world-class architecture. In the UAE, there's no limit to what you can imagine.
Climate and best time to travel
The UAE has a typical tropical desert climate. November to March is winter, with a cool and comfortable climate, making it the best time to travel to the UAE; January to February is the rainy season; May to October is summer, which is humid and hot, with temperatures above 40°C.
Recommended number of days and locations for visiting
Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque
Also known as the Abu Dhabi Grand Mosque, it was built in honor of Sheikh Zayed, the first president of the UAE. It is one of the few mosques open to non-Muslims. It is the third largest mosque in the world and also the most luxurious, boasting an imposing and magnificent architecture. Its exterior is constructed entirely of white marble imported from Greece, with shells and gemstones inlaid into the marble for decorative purposes. Tons of gold were used throughout the mosque, and its interior is filled with ornate crystal chandeliers, each costing $800,000. The entire mosque is said to have cost $5.5 billion to construct.
Burj Khalifa
The world's tallest building, a landmark in Dubai, stands 828 meters tall and boasts 162 floors. Take the world's fastest sightseeing elevator from the ground floor to the tower in just 60 seconds. From the 124th-floor observation deck, you'll enjoy a spectacular 360-degree bird's-eye view of Dubai, including the Palm Island and the Burj Al Arab. The best time to visit is at sunset, when you can see the distinct beauty of Dubai by day and by night.
Ferrari World Abu Dhabi
The world's only Ferrari theme park, also the world's largest indoor theme park, is a near-recreation of Ferrari's headquarters in Maranello. From the air, the building resembles an alien flying saucer, and the interior design pushes entertainment space design to the extreme. It also features the world's fastest roller coaster, reaching speeds of up to 240 km/h, a thrilling experience.
Most Popular FAQs for United Arab Emirates
What is the history and significance of this attraction/city?
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) was formed in 1971, uniting seven emirates with Abu Dhabi as the capital. It transformed from a desert region with a pearl-diving economy into a global hub for trade, tourism, finance, and innovation. Its significance lies in its modern architecture, luxury tourism, and cultural heritage blending traditional Arab customs with futuristic urban development.
Where is it located and how do I get there (metro, bus, taxi, walking)?
- The UAE is located in the Arabian Peninsula in Western Asia, bordering Saudi Arabia and Oman, with coastlines along the Persian Gulf and Gulf of Oman.
- Major airports include Dubai International Airport (DXB) and Abu Dhabi International Airport (AUH).
- Within cities, transportation options include metro (Dubai Metro), taxis, ride-sharing apps, buses, and walking in urban districts.
What are the opening hours and best times to visit?
- Most attractions in Dubai and Abu Dhabi operate from 9:00 AM to 10:00 PM, though some malls and entertainment venues stay open later.
- Best visiting months are November to March when temperatures are cooler and outdoor activities are comfortable.
What is the entrance fee/ticket price, and how to buy tickets (online/offline)?
- Burj Khalifa: Around AED 169–379 depending on deck and time; tickets can be bought online or at the venue.
- Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque: Free entry, donations appreciated; tickets issued onsite.
- Ferrari World: AED 295–395; tickets available online or at the park.
- Desert safaris: Prices range AED 150–400 per person; book via travel agencies or online platforms.
Do I need to book tickets in advance, and how far in advance?
- Popular attractions like Burj Khalifa, Ferrari World, and desert safaris are recommended to book 1–2 weeks in advance.
- For Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque and public beaches, advance booking is not required.
How much time is needed to fully explore it?
- Dubai city highlights: 3–4 days.
- Abu Dhabi cultural and entertainment sites: 2–3 days.
- Desert safari or Palm Jumeirah visit: half to full day.
What are the must-see highlights or main areas inside?
- Burj Khalifa Observation Decks (Dubai)
- Dubai Mall and Dubai Fountain
- Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque (Abu Dhabi)
- Palm Jumeirah and Atlantis The Palm
- Al Fahidi Historical Neighborhood (Dubai)
- Yas Island attractions including Ferrari World
Are guided tours or audio guides available (and in which languages)?
- Yes, guided tours and audio guides are available in English, Arabic, Spanish, French, Chinese, and other major languages at key attractions.
- Desert safaris include multilingual guides depending on the operator.
What are the best viewpoints or photography spots?
- Burj Khalifa’s At The Top deck and Burj Khalifa park
- The Palm Jumeirah aerial view and Atlantis Hotel
- Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque exterior and reflective pools
- Dubai Marina waterfront and Ain Dubai observation wheel
- Desert dunes during sunset
What is the recommended route or itinerary inside?
- Dubai: Start with Burj Khalifa → Dubai Mall → Dubai Fountain → Dubai Marina → Palm Jumeirah → desert safari.
- Abu Dhabi: Sheikh Zayed Mosque → Qasr Al Hosn → Louvre Abu Dhabi → Yas Island theme parks.
Are night visits, light shows, or special tours available?
- Dubai Fountain light shows: Evening shows every 30 minutes.
- Burj Khalifa night views are spectacular and available until late night.
- Desert safaris often include evening barbecues and traditional performances.
Is it crowded, and when are the least crowded times/days to visit?
- Major attractions are crowded on weekends (Friday-Saturday) and holidays.
- Least crowded times: Weekdays, early mornings, or late evenings.
What facilities are available (toilets, food, water, rest areas, shops)?
- All major attractions have toilets, cafes, restaurants, water stations, rest areas, and souvenir shops.
- Malls provide extensive shopping and dining facilities.
Is the attraction accessible for elderly, children, or disabled visitors?
- Most attractions are wheelchair accessible, with elevators, ramps, and family-friendly facilities.
- Children-friendly areas include aquariums, theme parks, and interactive museums.
Is cash needed or are cards/mobile payments accepted?
- Credit/debit cards and mobile payments (Apple Pay, Samsung Pay) are widely accepted.
- Some smaller souks or street vendors may prefer cash (AED).
What restaurants or cafes are available inside or nearby?
- Dubai Mall: At.mosphere (Burj Khalifa), Social House, Cheesecake Factory
- Dubai Marina: Pier 7 restaurants, The Observatory
- Abu Dhabi: Emirates Palace restaurants, Yas Marina eateries
Are there vegetarian/vegan/halal food options?
Yes, halal options are standard; vegetarian and vegan-friendly restaurants are widely available in malls and hotels.
What hotels or accommodations are close to the site?
- Dubai: Armani Hotel (Burj Khalifa), Address Downtown, Atlantis The Palm
- Abu Dhabi: Emirates Palace, Jumeirah at Etihad Towers, Yas Hotel
What other attractions or landmarks are nearby and easy to combine in a day trip?
- Dubai: Dubai Opera, Souk Madinat Jumeirah, La Mer Beach
- Abu Dhabi: Louvre Abu Dhabi, Qasr Al Hosn, Corniche Beach
Are there souvenir shops and what are the typical souvenirs?
- Yes, typical souvenirs include traditional Arabic perfumes, gold jewelry, camel-themed items, pashminas, and spices.
- Mall souvenir shops and airport stores offer a wide selection.
What are the best transportation options to continue the trip after visiting?
- Taxis, ride-sharing apps, and metro (Dubai) or buses are convenient for city travel.
- Car rentals are common for intercity trips, such as Dubai to Abu Dhabi.
- Domestic flights connect to other emirates or neighboring countries.
