United Arab Emirates

In just over 50 years, the UAE’s seven emirates have undergone an astounding transformation from arid desert towns to the most forward-looking cities. The largest, Dubai and Abu Dhabi, are known for their ultramodern architecture, glitzy restaurants, and art powerhouses like the Louvre Abu Dhabi. Across the country, though, you’ll also find Persian Gulf and Gulf of Oman beaches with white sand and warm water safe for swimming; preserved structures like the small, mud-brick 15th-century Al Bidyah Mosque in Fujairah and Dubai’s Emirati-style Al Fahidi Fort, built in 1787 of coral and mud bricks; and Bedouin traditions such as falconry alive and well.

the sheikh zayed grand mosque in Abu Dhabi

Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi

Katerina Kerdi/Unsplash

Overview

Planning your trip

Use these articles, resources, and guides to plan and inspire your next trip to the United Arab Emirates.

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READ BEFORE YOU GO
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RESOURCES TO HELP PLAN YOUR TRIP
From a world-class museum to a kayak excursion through mangroves, this Middle Eastern capital city has something for every traveler.
From historic palaces to lively markets and stylish hotels, this lush garden city is an oasis of calm outside Abu Dhabi city.
Journeys: Africa + Middle East
From Dubai to Abu Dhabi, this nine-day trip offers an incredible introduction to the Middle Eastern country.
Journeys: Africa + Middle East
Focus on the best of Abu Dhabi design and culture, from its epic skyscrapers to its avant-garde museums, on this adventure for all the senses.
Journeys: Africa + Middle East
Travel to Abu Dhabi in style on a vacation tailored to suit everyone’s interests.
Journeys: Africa + Middle East
Visiting the United Arab Emirates has never been easier than with this itinerary filled with rich experiences to enjoy.
Journeys: Africa + Middle East
Experience the ultimate in flexibility on a vacation that lets you pursue your bliss in the United Arab Emirates.
Journeys: Africa + Middle East
Enjoy the absolute freedom to customize a trip featuring the capital’s most elegant experiences with Emirates Vacations.
Representing the pinnacle of design, engineering, and innovation, Sky Vacations’ six-day tour provides an enriching look at the modern marvels of the capital of the United Arab Emirates.
Godubai’s fascinating, detail-oriented tours allow for an unforgettable voyage into the past, present, and future of the United Arab Emirates.