United Arab Emirates
The United Arab Emirates pairs futuristic, ultramodern cities with deep Bedouin desert heritage. Dubai dazzles with the world’s tallest building, artificial islands and some of the best shopping and dining anywhere, while the capital Abu Dhabi balances striking architecture like the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque and Louvre Abu Dhabi with a calmer, more traditional pace. Emirati cuisine draws on Arabian, Persian and South Asian influences, though visitors will find an extraordinary range of international dining in both cities. Beyond the skylines, desert safaris, dune bashing and traditional souks offer a glimpse of the region’s heritage.
Explore United Arab Emirates Destinations: Abu Dhabi, Dubai.
Capital
Abu Dhabi
Main Gateway Airports
Dubai International Airport (DXB) and Abu Dhabi International Airport (AUH)
Currency
UAE Dirham (AED)
Languages Spoken
Arabic (official), English widely used in business and tourism
Climate & Weather
Desert climate; extremely hot summers (May-September), warm, pleasant winters
Best Time to Visit
November to March, cooler and more comfortable for sightseeing and outdoor activities
Popular Cities to Fly To
Dubai and Abu Dhabi are the two main gateways, both major long-haul connecting hubs
Popular Attractions
Burj Khalifa, Dubai Mall, Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, Louvre Abu Dhabi, Palm Jumeirah, desert safaris
Food & Culture
Emirati dishes like machboos and luqaimat, vast international dining scene, traditional souks and Bedouin desert heritage
