Highlights
Burj Khalifa and Downtown Dubai
The tallest building in the world has observation decks high above the city. At its foot, the Dubai Fountain performs in the evening beside one of the world's largest shopping malls.
Old Dubai and the Creek
Cross Dubai Creek by abra, a traditional wooden water taxi, between the gold and spice souks of Deira and the restored wind-tower houses of the Al Fahidi historical district.
Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque
A vast white marble mosque in Abu Dhabi, open to visitors of all faiths outside prayer times, with one of the world's largest hand-knotted carpets and huge chandeliers. Modest dress is required.
Louvre Abu Dhabi
A museum on Saadiyat Island under a huge latticed dome that scatters light like sun through palm fronds, with art and artefacts from around the world arranged across civilisations and time.
The desert
Dune drives, camel rides and desert camps are a short drive from Dubai and Abu Dhabi. For bigger dunes and real solitude, head to the Liwa Oasis on the edge of the Empty Quarter.
Al Ain
A garden city on the border with Oman, with a UNESCO-listed date-palm oasis watered by ancient falaj irrigation channels, Al Jahili Fort and Jebel Hafeet mountain.
Hajar Mountains and Jebel Jais
In Ras Al Khaimah, a winding road climbs Jebel Jais, home of a very long zipline and cooler air. Hatta, in the mountains of Dubai emirate, offers kayaking, hiking and mountain biking.
Sharjah
The UAE's cultural capital, with the Museum of Islamic Civilization, a restored heritage area and a large Arts Foundation programme. It is close to Dubai but more traditional.
Interesting facts about United Arab Emirates
- The UAE is made up of seven emirates: Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain, Ras Al Khaimah and Fujairah.
- The Burj Khalifa has been the world's tallest building since it opened in 2010.
- In 2022 the UAE moved its official weekend to Saturday and Sunday, with a half day on Friday for government offices.
- The Dubai Metro runs without drivers, and its first lines opened in 2009.
- Foreign residents make up the large majority of the UAE's population.
Best time to visit
November to March is the best time to visit, with warm, sunny days and pleasant evenings, ideal for beaches and desert trips. This is also peak season, with major events in the cities. April, May and October are hot, and from June to September temperatures and humidity are extreme, so outdoor activity is limited to early morning and evening, though indoor attractions and hotels are air-conditioned. During Ramadan, eating and drinking in public during daylight hours is discouraged.
Practical information
| Capital | Abu Dhabi |
|---|---|
| Currency | UAE dirham (AED) |
| Languages | Arabic, English (widely used) |
| Plugs | Type G |
| Voltage | 230 V, 50 Hz |
| Emergency | 999 police, 998 ambulance, 997 fire |
| Driving | On the right |
| Tipping | Around 10 to 15 percent in restaurants if service is not already included; small tips for drivers and hotel staff. |
Getting around
In Dubai, the Metro, tram and buses are clean and air-conditioned, paid for with a rechargeable Nol card. Taxis are metered and plentiful, and ride-hailing is widely used. Buses link Dubai with Abu Dhabi, Sharjah and the other emirates, and the national rail network is expanding to carry passengers. Hiring a car makes sense for the mountains, Al Ain and the desert; roads are excellent, but speed cameras are everywhere. Walking between attractions can be impractical in summer heat.
Staying connected in United Arab Emirates
Mobile coverage is excellent in cities and along highways, with fast 4G and 5G widely available. Coverage is also generally good in the desert near main roads, but can weaken deep in the dunes and in mountain wadis. Free Wi-Fi is available in malls, Metro stations and many public places. Some internet voice and video calling services are restricted in the UAE, so check which apps work before relying on them. Install an eSIM before you fly and switch it on when you land.
See United Arab Emirates eSIM plans · How to install an eSIM
Useful apps for United Arab Emirates
- Careem: Ride-hailing and taxis across the UAE, also used for food delivery.
- Uber: Ride-hailing in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, including booking regular taxis.
- RTA Dubai: Dubai's transport authority app for journey planning, Nol card top-ups and parking.
- Google Maps: Driving and public transport directions across the emirates.