The United Arab Emirates blends futuristic skylines with desert landscapes, coastal resorts, and rich heritage. You can move from glass towers to historic neighbourhoods, serene mosques, and the open desert in a single trip.
Discover the United Arab Emirates
Discover the United Arab Emirates
Why visit the United Arab Emirates?
What to expect
Expect year-round sunshine, air-conditioned comfort, and thoughtfully planned cities such as Dubai and Abu Dhabi. The UAE offers luxury hotels, theme parks, museums, beaches, and desert adventures, all supported by modern infrastructure and warm hospitality.
Plan your trip
Use the UAE as both a standalone destination and a convenient gateway between the Americas, Europe, Asia, and Africa. With excellent roads and short domestic transfers, you can easily combine a city break with coastal or desert escapes.
Top experiences in the United Arab Emirates
Soar above Dubai at Burj Khalifa
Ride high-speed lifts to observation decks overlooking the Dubai skyline, desert, and Gulf, then explore the surrounding Downtown district.
Journey into the desert
Head out on a desert safari for dune drives, sunset viewpoints, and star-filled skies, with options ranging from relaxed nature drives to overnight stays.
Relax on Arabian Gulf beaches
Unwind on soft-sand beaches with calm turquoise waters, beachfront promenades, and a choice of resorts suitable for couples, families, and solo travellers.
Explore historic districts and souks
Stroll through old quarters lined with wind-tower houses and step into spice, textile, and gold souks filled with colour and character.
Discover world-class museums and galleries
Visit cutting-edge cultural spaces showcasing art, history, and design, often housed in striking modern architecture.
Experience the United Arab Emirates way of life
Getting around
Once in the UAE, taxis and ride-hailing apps are widely available, and modern metro and tram systems serve key areas in major cities. Well-maintained highways make inter-city travel by private transfer, coach, or rental car straightforward.
Local life & culture
Daily life mixes modern urban living with long-held traditions, from waterfront strolls to evenings in neighbourhood cafés and majlis-style gathering spaces. You will notice a diverse international community alongside strong local customs of hospitality and courtesy.
Where to unwind
Choose from beachfront resorts, tranquil desert retreats, and landscaped urban parks where you can walk, cycle, or simply sit in the shade. Many hotels feature extensive pools, spas, and wellness centres for slow, restorative days.
A taste of the United Arab Emirates
National dishes & specialties
Look out for fragrant rice dishes with slow-cooked meats, grilled seafood from the Gulf, and spiced stews that reflect Arabian and regional influences. Traditional sweets, dates, and aromatic coffee complete many local meals.
Casual & modern dining hubs
You will find relaxed cafés, food halls, and waterfront promenades serving everything from Middle Eastern grills to Asian and European favourites. International influences sit alongside local bites, making it easy to dine well at any time of day.
Signature & scenic dining
Reserve a table at rooftop restaurants, beachfront venues, or sky-high lounges where city lights or sea views set the scene. Many hotels host refined restaurants offering tasting menus, chef-led experiences, and elegant afternoon teas.
Retail therapy in the United Arab Emirates
Malls & lifestyle hubs
Expect expansive malls that combine international fashion, electronics, and homeware with indoor attractions and dining. These climate-controlled spaces often serve as social hubs as well as shopping destinations.
Markets & local crafts
Seek out traditional souks for textiles, perfumes, and gold, alongside newer markets that spotlight regional designers and artisans. Handcrafted décor, pottery, and locally inspired gifts make thoughtful mementos.
Evening retail scene
After dark, malls stay lively and promenades fill with shoppers enjoying cooler temperatures. Illuminated storefronts, outdoor kiosks, and waterfront walks give the evening shopping scene a relaxed, sociable feel.
Best time to visit the United Arab Emirates
From November to March (peak season), days are generally warm and pleasant, around 20–28°C (68–82°F), ideal for sightseeing, outdoor dining, and beach activities. April to May and October (shoulder season) bring hotter days, typically 28–35°C (82–95°F), with plenty of sunshine and more humidity as summer approaches and recedes. June to September (low season) is very hot, often 35–42°C (95–108°F) or higher, with intense sun and high humidity, making indoor, air-conditioned attractions and early-morning or evening activities more comfortable.