The United Arab Emirates blends futuristic skylines with desert landscapes and historic waterfront districts. You can expect polished cities, warm hospitality, and a strong focus on comfort and service.
Discover the United Arab Emirates
Discover the United Arab Emirates
Why visit the United Arab Emirates?
What to expect
From Dubai’s soaring towers and beach resorts to Abu Dhabi’s cultural institutions and desert escapes, the UAE offers year-round sun, modern attractions, and family-friendly activities.
Plan your trip
Use the UAE as both a holiday destination and a base to explore the wider Gulf region. Allow time for city sightseeing, beach downtime, and a journey into the desert for contrasting experiences.
Top experiences in the United Arab Emirates
Admire Dubai’s skyline
Take in sweeping views from one of Dubai’s iconic observation decks, then stroll around glittering waterfront districts lined with restaurants and promenades.
Explore traditional neighbourhoods
Wander through restored historic quarters with wind towers, courtyards, and museums that tell the story of the UAE’s trading and maritime past.
Head into the desert
Venture out of the city for rolling dunes, sunset views, and starry skies, with options ranging from gentle excursions to more active adventures.
Relax by the Arabian Gulf
Unwind on sandy beaches and waterfront promenades, where calm seas, warm temperatures, and resort facilities make it easy to slow down.
Visit cultural landmarks and museums
Spend time in world-class museums and striking cultural venues that showcase art, design, and the UAE’s heritage in dramatic architectural settings.
Enjoy family attractions
Plan days out at indoor theme parks, aquariums, and interactive centres designed to keep children entertained in a climate-controlled environment.
Experience waterfront nightlife
In the evening, head to marina or creekside districts for illuminated skylines, relaxed lounges, and dining terraces overlooking the water.
Experience the United Arab Emirates’s way of life
Getting around
In the UAE, modern highways and taxis make it simple to travel between city districts and neighbouring emirates, while metro and tram networks in major cities help you avoid traffic in busy areas.
Local life & culture
Daily life brings together long-time residents and people from around the world, creating a cosmopolitan atmosphere where traditional architecture, coastal trade history, and contemporary design sit side by side.
Where to unwind
Across the country you will find landscaped corniches, beachfront parks, desert resorts, and waterfront promenades that offer calm spaces to walk, cycle, or simply watch the sun set over the sea or sand.
A taste of the United Arab Emirates
National dishes & specialties
Emirati cuisine often highlights rice, slow-cooked meats, and aromatic spices, with coastal areas putting a focus on fresh seafood and traditional Gulf flavours.
Casual & modern dining hubs
In major UAE cities you can dine in casual cafes, food halls, and neighbourhood spots offering everything from Middle Eastern grills to international comfort food, reflecting the country’s global communities.
Signature & scenic dining
For special occasions, choose restaurants with skyline, desert, or waterfront views, where creative menus are paired with striking architecture and atmospheric settings.
Retail therapy in the United Arab Emirates
Malls & lifestyle hubs
The UAE is known for expansive malls that combine designer labels, high-street brands, and entertainment, giving you a one-stop destination for shopping and leisure.
Markets & local crafts
Traditional-style markets and smaller boutiques showcase textiles, perfumes, and handicrafts, allowing you to pick up souvenirs that reflect the region’s coastal and desert heritage.
Evening retail scene
After dark, air-conditioned malls, waterfront promenades, and busy shopping streets stay lively, with illuminated facades and extended opening hours creating an energetic night-time atmosphere.
Best time to visit the United Arab Emirates
Peak season (November to March) brings warm, pleasant days around 20–28°C (68–82°F), ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. Shoulder season (April to early May, late October) sees rising heat, with 30–35°C (86–95°F) days that are manageable with indoor breaks. Low season (late May to September) is very hot, often 38–45°C (100–113°F) with high humidity, when most activities shift to air-conditioned indoor venues.