Whether you are seeking relaxation, adventure or culture, Abu Dhabi promises an unforgettable experience with its vibrant spirit. One of the most sought-after travel destinations around the globe has gained fame in a short time. You can find this country aiming at the superlatives, like the world’s tallest building, man-made islands and a seven-star hotel. Divided into seven emirates, the country has a wide array of offerings to please its tourists, meeting their varied tastes and preferences. Check out below to gain significant insights for planning your holiday trip to this amazing country.
Basic Information on the United Arab Emirates
| Time Zone | GMT+4 |
| Language | Arabic |
| Currency | United Arab Emirates Dirham |
| Capital | Abu Dhabi |
| Population | 10.48 million (as of 2023) |
| 7 Emirates of the UAE | Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Fujairah, Ras Al Khaimah, Umm Al Quwain, Ajman and Sharjah. |
Why Visit the United Arab Emirates for a Holiday?
Gorgeous Beaches
You get pristine beaches to relax and also enjoy various water sports in the waters of the Persian Gulf.
Cultural Hotspot
Get to witness people from different religions around the UAE, who either came for tourism or are residing there.
Family-Friendly Destinations
Around the UAE, there are a number of artificial wonders developed to keep children and adults entertained.
Hyped Shopping Places
There are a number of shopping malls and souks galore that offer a variety of choices for shopping.
Astounding Attractions
The UAE houses some of the world’s most renowned attractions such as Burj Khalifa, Palm Jumeirah, Dubai Jumeirah Mosque and many more.
United Arab Emirates Seasons
Situated in the subtropical and tropical zones, the UAE offers a warm climate most of the year. The country has four seasons: Spring, Summer, Autumn, and Winter, each offering a distinct temperature and climatic condition. Check below to gain insight on the seasons and plan your trip accordingly.
Spring Season (March to May)
The spring season in the UAE is different to that of European countries due to the difference in regions, making the spring look dry and bringing the possibility of intermittent rain. The temperature keeps rising as the months pass, and by May, the temperature reaches around 34°C, bringing extreme heat.
| Months | Temperature (in °C) |
| March` | 17° to 28° |
| April | 19° to 31° |
| May | 22° to 34° |
Summer Season (June to August)
The scorching heat of the summer makes it unbearable for people to roam around the city, and it is suggested to spend time indoors. As the month passes, the temperature range starts climbing, leading to a drop in prices of flights and hotels. Budget travellers are seen to travel during this season to explore the UAE.
| Months | Temperature (in °C) |
| June | 24° to 36° |
| July | 28° to 38° |
| August | 28° to 39° |
Autumn Season (September to November)
Autumn brings both hot and humid weather, when one can expect dust storms. As months pass, the temperature starts decreasing. By the end of the season, in November, one can start experiencing a drop in temperature. Autumn is considered ideal for spending beach time and enjoying water activities.
| Months | Temperature (in °C) |
| September | 28° to 39° |
| October | 21° to 34° |
| November | 18° to 29° |
Winter Season (December to February)
The winter season is a pleasant time when the temperature starts dropping and tourists start visiting in numbers from all over the world. The pleasant climate setting allows tourists to indulge in a wide array of activities during the daytime. You can also enjoy swimming in the warm current of the Eastern Gulf of Oman.
| Months | Temperature (in °C) |
| December | 14 to 25 |
| January | 13 to 23 |
| February | 14 to 24 |
Means to Travel Around the United Arab Emirates
Around the UAE, there are a number of transport facilities that allow tourists to travel across the seven emirates as well as explore the city. One gets the option for ferry, plane, bus, monorail and metro, developing an effective network around the country. You can also hire luxury cars if you want to travel in style and enjoy exploring the cityscapes from them.
Length of Stay Needed in the United Arab Emirates
One would at least take a two-week stay in the UAE to explore the popular emirates, enjoy their iconic attractions, and indulge in various activities. There are various tourist spots dotted around the country and a plethora of activities that you can indulge in. Again, if you are a budget traveller and aiming to cover the iconic destinations, then you must plan for a 7-day itinerary.
Places to Visit in the United Arab Emirates
A trip to the UAE wouldn’t be complete without seeing its top attractions. Plan ahead, so you don’t miss out on the best sightseeing on your trip to the UAE this year.
Abu Dhabi
Abu Dhabi is the largest of the seven emirates and is also the capital of the UAE. Besides being the head of administration and business, it also offers some of the popular attractions to be visited and experiences to indulge in. The land was earlier inhabited by the Bani Yas tribe, who discovered petroleum in the 1950s and helped turn it into the current place it is today.
Popular Attractions in Abu Dhabi
- Ferrari World Yas Island
- Louvre Abu Dhabi
- Yas Waterworld
- Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque
- Warner Bros World
Best Time to Visit Abu Dhabi: Between November and March.
Ajman
The smallest of the seven emirates is Ajman, which boasts a stunning coastline and a range of value hotels. It is considered to be a perfect getaway for beach lovers, offering you scenic beaches and activities to partake in. You can also dive into the rich past of the UAE by visiting its museum, depicting the tale of the emirates.
Popular Attractions in Ajman
- City Centre Ajman
- Ajman Museum
- Ajman Beach
- Aqua Bounce Ajman
- Ajman Marina
Best Time to Visit Ajman: Between October and April.
Dubai
Dubai is the second-largest emirate of the UAE and also one of the most visited cities around the globe. The reason behind Dubai being one of the most sought-after destinations is that it offers a plethora of activities and attractions to tourists. You are bound to enjoy your holiday in Dubai, travelling to different amazing sites and marvelling at the man-made wonders.
Popular Attractions in Dubai
- Burj Khalifa
- Dubai Mall
- Dubai Miracle Garden
- The Dubai Fountain
- Dubai Frame
Best Time to Visit Dubai: Between November and March.
Fujairah
The fifth-largest emirate of the UAE, Fujairah, is an ideal destination for budget travellers as the city offers a number of affordable activities and budget-friendly accommodations. There are also a number of places to visit and spend time in the mountainous terrains, soaking up the traditions and culture. It also has the main mosque of Sheikh Zayed Mosque, the second largest mosque in the UAE.
Popular Attractions in Fujairah
- Fujairah Museum
- Kalba Corniche Park
- Fujairah Fort
- Umbrella Beach
- Al Hayl Fort
Best Time to Visit Fujairah: Between November and April.
Sharjah
Planning to experience the rich traditions and culture of the Arabs, then head to Sharjah, which may not be as developed as some other emirates, but it still serves as a historic and authentic option. You get to explore a number of museums showcasing items of the Islamic civilisation and arts.
Popular Attractions in Sharjah
- Al Noor Mosque
- Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilization
- Sharjah Aquarium
- Al Majaz Waterfront
- Al Montazah Parks
Best Time to Visit Sharjah: Between November and April.
Things to Do in the United Arab Emirates
The UAE offers abundant activities and experiences, providing a new adventure at every turn. Here is a list of things to do on your holiday in the UAE:
- Enjoy watching a camel race at the Tallah Course, which will help you witness the ancient Bedouin traditions.
- Set out on a desert adventure over the sand dunes and travel with a camel, a car or quad bikes.
- Enjoy a romantic dinner date on the Dhow cruise, and enjoy the night view of Dubai.
- Go shopping at the Dubai Mall and also partake in a number of activities.
- Enjoy a refreshing swim at the Jumeirah Beach and enjoy the spectacular view of Burj Al Arab.
- Witness a stunning world-class art collection at the Louvre Abu Dhabi, comprising 12 galleries.
- Climb to the top of Burj Khalifa to witness astounding panoramic views of Dubai.
- Take a walk at the Dubai Miracle Garden, where you can find gorgeous sights of flowers.
- Visit the largest mosque of the UAE at the Sheikh Zayed Mosque, where non-muslims are allowed entry.
- Visit the restaurants of renowned chefs to taste their specialities.
Traditional Dishes of the United Arab Emirates
The UAE offers a variety of cuisines to their guests, filled with rich taste and flavours. However, to truly appreciate its culinary depth and diversity, one would need to taste their traditional dishes. Here are some of the traditional dishes of the UAE that you must try on your trip:
- Harees
- Majboos
- Balaleet
- Lokma
- Tharid
- Quzi
- Madrouba
- Arabic Bread
- Arabic Coffee
- Shakshuka
Where to Stay in the United Arab Emirates
Planning for a visit to the UAE and worried about your stay, then you need not worry, as there are a number of accommodations present around the UAE, from standard to high-end amenities. You get a number of choices based on your budget, making it a suitable destination for both luxurious and budget travellers.
Conclusion
The UAE offers a huge diversity and welcomes all kinds of tourists throughout the year, making it a must-visit country. Take a glamorous city break from your daily chores and fly to this country to witness some of the fascinating scenery and buildings, and experience rich Islamic culture.
It will be hard to fit everything into one trip, and we guarantee you will want to return time and time again. Check out our deals and packages to the UAE and enjoy a splendid holiday. You can also customise your holiday to the UAE by contacting our travel expert, who will design your itinerary based on your budget and preferences.
FAQs
What are the best places to visit in the United Arab Emirates?
Some of the best places to visit in the UAE are Burj Khalifa, Dubai Miracle Garden, Ferrari World Yas Island, Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque and many more.
Is the United Arab Emirates expensive for enjoying a vacation?
The UAE can be expensive for enjoying a vacation, but it mainly depends on your itinerary and your choice of accommodation.
Do I need a Visa to visit the United Arab Emirates from the UK?
Yes, you need a tourist visa, which is issued for free of charge, when you enter the UAE.
What is the best time to visit the United Arab Emirates?
The best time to visit the UAE is between the months of October and April.
