United Arab Emirates
The United Arab Emirates pairs futuristic skylines with deep Arabian heritage. Dubai is the region's dazzling global city — home to the Burj Khalifa, vast malls, and desert adventures on its doorstep — while Abu Dhabi, the capital, offers the majestic Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, the Louvre Abu Dhabi, and the mangrove-fringed Corniche. Beyond the cities lie the Empty Quarter's…
Country overview
The United Arab Emirates pairs futuristic skylines with deep Arabian heritage. Dubai is the region's dazzling global city — home to the Burj Khalifa, vast malls, and desert adventures on its doorstep — while Abu Dhabi, the capital, offers the majestic Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, the Louvre Abu Dhabi, and the mangrove-fringed Corniche. Beyond the cities lie the Empty Quarter's dunes, Hajar Mountain forts, and old pearling ports like Sharjah. With year-round sunshine, tax-free shopping, and superb infrastructure, the UAE is one of the world's easiest luxury and family destinations. English is widely spoken, the metro and taxis make Dubai effortless, and the country is renowned for safety and cleanliness. From dune safaris to dhow cruises and world-class shopping festivals, the UAE delivers a polished, sun-soaked Arabian experience.
- Capital
- Abu Dhabi
- Languages
- Arabic
- Currency
- UAE dirham (AED)
- Region
- Asia
- Best time to visit
- November to March
Cities in United Arab Emirates
Dubai
Dubai is the Middle East's dazzling city of superlatives: the 828-meter Burj Khalifa, the vast Dubai Mall, artificial islands, and…
Explore city
Sharjah Guide coming soon
Weather
Live conditions, straight from the forecast — never estimated.
Top attractions
Burj Khalifa
The world's tallest building at 828 meters, with observation decks on the 124th and 148th floors.
Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque
One of the world's largest mosques, a breathtaking vision of white marble domes and minarets.
Louvre Abu Dhabi
Jean Nouvel's "museum city" under a vast perforated dome on Saadiyat Island.
Dubai Creek
The historic waterway where abra boats still cross between Deira and Bur Dubai's souks.
Jebel Jais
The UAE's highest peak (1,934 m) with the world's longest zipline and mountain driving roads.
Al Ain Oasis
A UNESCO-listed 3,000-year-old oasis watered by ancient falaj channels in the "Garden City".
Palm Jumeirah
The famous palm-shaped artificial island of resorts, beaches, and the Atlantis hotels.
Qasr Al Watan
The UAE's presidential palace, open to visitors for its grand halls and gardens.
Where to stay
Live pricing and availability are not connected — check the property’s official site.
Burj Al Arab Jumeirah
The sail-shaped icon of Dubai luxury on its own island offshore.
Live pricing not connected
Atlantis The Royal
The dramatic new resort on the Palm with fountains, celebrity restaurants, and beach clubs.
Live pricing not connected
Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental
Abu Dhabi's palatial beachfront landmark of domes and marble.
Live pricing not connected
Qasr Al Sarab Desert Resort
An Anantara desert resort among the towering dunes of the Empty Quarter.
Live pricing not connected
Rove Downtown
A popular lifestyle hotel facing the Burj Khalifa with a co-working vibe.
Live pricing not connected
Where to eat
Live pricing and availability are not connected — check the property’s official site.
Al Fanar Restaurant & Cafe
A beloved chain serving traditional Emirati dishes in a heritage-style setting.
Pierchic
The famous over-water pier restaurant at Al Qasr with Arabian Gulf views.
Zuma Dubai
The internationally renowned Japanese izakaya in Dubai's financial district.
Bu Qtair
The tiny, cash-only fish shack locals queue for — fried fish, curry, and rice.
Al Hadheerah
The desert-fort restaurant with live cooking stations and traditional entertainment.
Practical information
The essentials for planning — always verify time-sensitive details with official sources before you travel.
Population
Approximately 11 million
Area
83600
Time zones
UTC+4 (GST)
Driving side
right
Emergency numbers
999
Visa information
Many nationalities receive a visa on arrival; others can arrange tourist visas in advance. Check the official UAE government portal.
Good to know
The UAE is safe, modern, and easy to navigate, with English widely spoken. The weekend runs Saturday to Sunday (public sector Friday half-day). Dress modestly in public areas and malls; beachwear is fine at hotel pools and beaches. Alcohol is served in licensed hotels and bars. Taxis and the Dubai Metro are reliable; ride-hailing apps work everywhere.
Source: Editorial research · Last updated: 2026-10-10