The United Arab Emirates blends futuristic skylines with vast desert landscapes, coastal resorts, and rich heritage. You experience a country that combines confident modern growth with deep-rooted Arabian traditions.
Discover the United Arab Emirates
Discover the United Arab Emirates
Why visit the United Arab Emirates?
What to expect
Expect dramatic cityscapes in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, quiet desert dunes just beyond the suburbs, and coastal towns looking out over the Arabian Gulf. Air-conditioned malls, waterfront promenades, and historic quarters sit side by side.
Plan your trip
Use the United Arab Emirates as a base to explore the wider Gulf region, with efficient highways and frequent domestic links by road. Plan extra time to adjust to the warm climate and enjoy both city and desert escapes in one itinerary.
Top experiences in the United Arab Emirates
Admire Dubai's skyline
See Dubai's iconic skyline from towering observation decks, beachside promenades, and slick rooftop terraces that highlight the city lights after dark.
Explore historic neighbourhoods
Stroll through restored heritage districts with wind-tower houses, narrow lanes, and traditional souqs that recall the Emirates' trading past.
Head into the desert
Within a short drive of the main cities, you can experience sweeping dunes, camel tracks, and star-filled skies at desert camps and resorts.
Relax on Arabian Gulf beaches
Unwind on long stretches of soft sand with calm Gulf waters, beach clubs, and family-friendly waterfronts close to the city centre.
Visit world-class museums and galleries
Spend time in striking cultural institutions that showcase regional history, global art, and innovative architecture under one roof.
Experience the United Arab Emirates's way of life
Getting around
You can move easily between key Emirati cities by modern highways, taxis, and ride-hailing services, with metro lines and trams within Dubai and extensive air-conditioned bus networks for budget-friendly travel.
Local life & culture
Daily life flows between contemporary business districts, waterfront walks, and traditional gathering places, with a social rhythm that comes alive in the cooler evenings and a strong emphasis on hospitality.
Where to unwind
You can escape the heat in landscaped parks, beachfront promenades, desert resorts, and coastal mangroves that offer calm spaces for walking, cycling, and time in nature.
A taste of the United Arab Emirates
National dishes & specialties
Across the Emirates, you find fragrant rice dishes, slow-cooked meats, and spiced stews, alongside strong coffee and dates that reflect long-standing desert and trading traditions.
Casual & modern dining hubs
In major cities, casual eateries, street-food style spots, and contemporary cafes sit beside global restaurant brands, offering everything from quick bites to relaxed waterfront meals.
Signature & scenic dining
For a memorable evening, try high-rise restaurants with sweeping views, beachfront venues by the Gulf, or elegant hotel dining rooms with refined service.
Retail therapy in the United Arab Emirates
Malls & lifestyle hubs
In Dubai and other major cities, vast malls combine international fashion, local designers, indoor attractions, and air-conditioned promenades ideal for all-day shopping.
Markets & local crafts
Traditional souqs offer gold, textiles, perfumes, and crafts, while smaller neighbourhood markets feature regional design pieces, homeware, and thoughtful gifts.
Evening retail scene
After dark, malls stay lively, waterfront promenades glow with boutique storefronts, and some outdoor markets set up stalls under the lights for a relaxed evening atmosphere.
Best time to visit the United Arab Emirates
November to March is the peak season, with warm, pleasant days around 20–28°C (68–82°F) and cooler evenings that suit sightseeing and outdoor activities. April to May and October are the shoulder season, with hotter temperatures of roughly 30–36°C (86–97°F) and lower humidity than mid-summer. June to September is the low season, when daytime temperatures can exceed 40°C (104°F) and nights remain above 30°C (86°F), so most activities are indoors in air-conditioned spaces.