UAE, the United Arab Emirates, is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world, especially Dubai and Abu Dhabi. Travelers would be well advised to read this UAE travel guide and carry a UAE tourist map to find out all that they need to know about the country. The story of UAE’s rise to power and stardom is an interesting one. From being a small backwaters country, with fishing villages like Dubai, it has now become one of the most influential countries of Asia. The country is a federation of seven emirates, namely Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, Fujairah, Ras al-Khaimah and Umm al-Quwain. Abu Dhabi is the capital of UAE and a major focal point for UAE tourism.
The country is bordered by Oman on the east, Qatar on the west, Iran on the north and Saudi Arabia on the south. A unique fact about UAE is that the country is home to a mere 1.4 million Emirati citizens, whereas the number of expatriates is around 8 million. Emirates such as Dubai and Abu Dhabi are well known for their modern man-made marvels and advanced technology. One of the top tourist attractions in UAE, Dubai is also known for its myriad shopping opportunities in terms of fairs and festivals, where people from all over the world gather to purchase the latest gadgets at the lowest prices.
Tourism in UAE takes you to many attractions, such as the Burj Khalifa, from the observation deck of which one can allegedly see entire Dubai. It is the tallest building in the world and has a dozen other such epithets assigned to it. The Atlantis, another must visit, is also a man-made marvel that is worth a visit, being an artificial island that was created on land reclaimed from the sea. But that is not all that the UAE is famed for man-made marvels! Instead, there are hundreds of natural wonders in the country as well as, such as the sun-kissed beaches, the exotic deserts, the towering mountains and so much more.
From the souks of Dubai that still carry the old world charm of an ancient civilization to the modern day shopping malls and multiplexes of Sharjah that leave little to the imagination, UAE should be a must on every traveler’s list. The best time to visit UAE is spring and fall seasons i.e. April-May and September-October. However, December through March, when the temperatures are lower, is the most popular time to visit the United Arab Emirates.
Although a small country, the UAE has a number of unique places, be it natural or man-made, that make it one of the most interesting places to visit in the world. It doesn’t matter if you are on a honeymoon, a family vacation or a solo trip, this country has something or the other to offer for people of all preferences and budget. Make sure to read this UAE tour guide thoroughly to find out exactly how to explore the country to its full potential.
Whether you’re standing in the shadow of towering Burj Khalifa in Dubai or modern Sheikh Zayed Mosque in Abu Dhabi, the UAE attractions draw in all kind of tourists. Be it a romantic getaway with your better half or a family vacation, the UAE is a wonderful holiday destination. So wait no more and apply for a UAE visa to visit this glamorous gulf country. Dubai International Airport (DXB), Abu Dhabi International Airport (AUH), and Sharjah International Airport (SHJ) are major international airports in the UAE.
About Abu Dhabi Attractions
Abu Dhabi – the sprawling capital of the United Arab Emirates and also of the Emirate of Abu Dhabi, sits off the mainland along the seashore. Abu Dhabi is the city where the age-old Emirati culture meets the sky-high reaps of oil exports and commerce, and as a result, the ambiance created is a perfect balance between the two worlds. Here on your Abu Dhabi tour, you will find the world’s largest hand-loomed carpets and the smokiest shisha cafes, and also the leanest towers and fastest roller coasters. The story of UAE’s and Abu Dhabi’s past is told through the Abu Dhabi museums and mosques here, while the beaches, malls, and other recreational centers weave the future here by the shore of Persian Gulf.
Architectural Wonders of Abu Dhabi
Abu Dhabi city, as a modern hub and representation of the uber-development of the Middle East, is home to some good many architectural wonders. With 82 white domes and materials collected from over a dozen countries, the primary worship center of Abu Dhabi, Sheikh Zayed Mosque leads the list with pride as high as its minarets. Many other contemporary and vintage architectural pieces follow suit. The Emirates Palace, Yas Viceroy and Etihad Towers are prime examples of the same, and must-visits on your Abu Dhabi trip.
Beach Destinations of Abu Dhabi
The lukewarm water of the Gulf laps up the shores of Abu Dhabi and breaks the coast into numerous small beaches along the line. Corniche Beach and Yas Beach should definitely be among the top destinations of your Abu Dhabi city tour itinerary. Saadiyat Beach and Al Bateen Beach are not very far behind either. Other than that, there are a plethora of private Abu Dhabi beaches offered by the seaside hotels, which the guests of the hotel can access along with a string of services.
Here are five of the best destinations of Abu Dhabi, UAE.
1. Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque
Perhaps the greatest architectural landmark of modern UAE, Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque’s white domes and minarets can be seen dominating the skyline of Abu Dhabi from far and wide. Built-in Badhshahi, Persian, Mughal and Moorish styles put together with contemporary flairs, the mosque is said to unite the world’s architecture. The materials used were from countries like India, Turkey, China, Germany, Morocco, Pakistan, China, UK, Iran, Italy, and Greece. Quench the architectural-art buff within you with the marble, stone, gold, crystal and ceramics interior of the mosque.
2. Sir Bani Yas Island
This attraction is the most impressive one among the other off-shore islands in the city. Being dominated by the Arabian Wildlife Park, this is where you can explore some wilderness as hundreds of animals run free and wild. Stay at one of the luxury hotels, who will arrange for exciting activities as well, like archery, horse riding, kayaking, and shipwreck diving.
However, this is not to be confused with Yas Island, the venue to the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix and loads of shopping opportunities.
3. Emirates Palace
Other than being one of the most luxurious hotels of Abu Dhabi, Emirates Palace is also a staggering architecture that needs nothing to prove its grandeur. Because of its magnificence, it becomes must to go here on your visit to Abu Dhabi. Non-resident guests can gain easy access by reserving tables at the many restaurants inside.
4. Heritage Village
Just because Abu Dhabi is dotted with skyscrapers does not mean it has forgotten its roots. For those seeking to better understand Emirati culture and old traditions can visit Heritage Village. With an open museum, Heritage Village upholds the true local identity for you. There are occasional workshops held here as well.
5. Ferrari World
One of the best thrills on your tour of Abu Dhabi is the Ferrari World. Formula Rossa, the world’s fastest roller coaster with a speed of 240 km/hr in only 5 seconds is stationed here. Other than that, there are numerous other attractions as well, from expositions to kid’s rides.
Dubai Travel Guide
Dubai tourism is all about the futuristic charm of modern skyscrapers, legendary nightlife, exotic landscapes, and desert safaris. Lying on the Persian Gulf’s South-East coast, a tour to this largest and the most popular city of the UAE (United Arab Emirates) with our Dubai tour guide is going to be an experiential one. Being the Emirate of Dubai’s capital, it’s a city bustling with life. Burj Khalifa, Dubai Mall, Dubai Fort, and Palm Islands are top tourist places in Dubai. To plan your excursion well in advance, get a Dubai tourist map for yourself, and start exploring the city at your own pace!
History of Dubai
Dubai was only a sleepy fishing village and became a separate Sheikhdom in 1833. It was later established as an important trade location with its geographical proximity to Iran. During the Oil Era, the city’s population grew more than 300% between 1968 and 1975. Over the next decades, the city’s growth remained unaffected by the Gulf War. Today, the city is considered a great center of free trade, entertainment, and tourism.
To enjoy tourism in Dubai, it’s recommended to stop by a few of the major attractions that may leave you spellbound. You may get on a Dubai private tour or take assistance of a local guide to explore these famous places.
1. Burj Khalifa
Being a landmark for Dubai, it is one of the tallest building, which is 829.8 meters. People often come here to visit the 14th floor and take a captivating look at the city. The building has high-speed elevators and provides a panoramic view of the city. To get a booking in here, you will have to wait for a long time.
2. Dubai Mall
As per any Dubai travel guide, Dubai Mall is a must as it is a premier mall of the city with Dubai Aquarium. There are ice-skating rinks, cinema zones, and gaming zones. This mall also hosts many fashion shows and festivals.
The best time to visit is from January to February and July to August.
3. Dubai Museum
Housed in Al-Fahidi Fort, the museum of Dubai was built in 1787. The purpose of building this museum was to protect Dubai Creek and defend it. The fort’s construction is traditional with coral walls held by lime and wooden poles to support them. The entrance of museum attracts the visitors’ eye with a display of old maps, mentioning the geography of Dubai and Emirates. The overall architecture of the museum amazes you when you see it. So, with a proper Dubai tour guide, one must visit this place.
According to the travel guide for Dubai, the best time to visit is between October and April because Dubai has only two seasons; hot and hotter. The months between October and April, known as the winter season, bring the blue skies and perfect beach weather to the city. It’s also the rainy season, but typically these showers don’t last too long, so don’t let this factor affect your travel dates.
Main Food in Dubai
Emirati Cuisine or the traditional food of the UAE is influenced by Middle Eastern and Asian food. Local dishes are mostly prepared of meat, grain, and dairy products. Most dishes are cooked in a single pot with lots of vegetables and spices like saffron, turmeric, and cardamom. Lamb kebab, kuboos, khabeesa, and Harees, and Falafel are common local dishes to try in Dubai.
Honeymoon Places in Dubai
Dubai’s exotic charm brings a lot of honeymooners to the UAE. Palm Islands are a wonderful spot to explore the unique architecture and night safaris in the Arabian Desert are perfect for honeymooners. Camel safaris, night camping, dune bashing, etc. are some of the popular things to do in Dubai for the newlyweds and couples on vacation.
Nightlife in Dubai
When it comes to partying after the sunset, Dubai can rival the top destinations in Europe. From pulsating nightclubs to rooftop parties at ocean-facing hotels, Dubai is the ultimate place to be after dark. Zero Gravity, Vault Bar, Skyview Bar, Buhayra Lounge, and Sensation Club are famous haunts to raise the roof.
Dubai has become a must visit for on every tourists list, a hotspot for holidays because of its luxurious lifestyle, the glitz and the glamour. The city, indeed, has built a reputation as it has really transformed itself from a desert to a dazzling station for holidays and vacationing.
The main thing to do is to look at the flights six months ahead because international airlines generally release their cheapest seats about six months prior to departure. This doesn’t mean you necessarily need to buy your tickets that far ahead of time, but it’s a good idea to start looking and comparing the price. Plan Dubai tours from India with the help of our best-priced holiday packages listed below.
If properly planned and executed Dubai Tourism will give you a glimpse of sunshine, the nomadic lifestyle, the luxurious lifestyle, and exuberant architecture at one place. The Dubai Mall is the live example of this contradiction. Do not forget to shop from some of the best outlets when in Dubai.
Main Festivals in Dubai
Dubai Food Festival is held every year for food lovers in February or March. Dubai Shopping Festival is great event to enjoy food-related events, parades, ramp walks, and much more. It is held every year in late January and early February. Organized in December, Dubai International Film Festival screens important films from the Arab World and outside. Dubai Marathon and Dubai International Jazz Festival are other notable events in Dubai.
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