United Arab Emirates travel guide
United Arab Emirates Tourism | United Arab Emirates Guide
You're Going to Love United Arab Emirates
United Arab Emirates, situated within the sand dunes of the Arabian Peninsula, consists of seven Emirates. The country offers a glimpse into the past, with ancient fishing villages and forts, as well as an opportunity to become immersed in modern luxury.
What to do in the United Arab Emirates
1. Enjoy Luxury Shopping
The United Arab Emirates, especially Dubai, lends itself to shopping sprees that are difficult to replicate elsewhere. The malls are modern and boast brands from all over the world.
2. Go on a Beach Vacation
The country has beautiful sandy beaches where it is possible to enjoy activities such as snorkeling, diving and relaxing in the sun.
3. Go on a Desert Safari
This can include 4x4 trips over the dunes, the opportunity to ride on a camel, and sitting down at sunset to an Arabic buffet to sample the foods of the region.
4. Discover the Traditional Markets
Visit a Souk and enter another world with the smell of incense permeating the atmosphere and various stalls selling gold, jewelry and other trinkets typical of the region.
5. Explore the Natural Beauty
Emirates, such as Ras al-Khamiah, offers opportunities to explore the more rugged areas of the country.Venture into the Hajar Mountains or visit some of the wadis (dry river beds) in the region.
When to visit the United Arab Emirates
It is advisable to visit between October and April, as temperatures are milder and touring around will be more pleasant than in the summer months when temperatures are frequently higher than 113°F.
How to Get to the United Arab Emirates
Entry Requirements
Canadian, US, UK, Australian and EU passport holders will be issued a 30-day visa (free of charge) upon entering the country. EU passport holders will be issued a multiple entry visa that is valid for 90 days.
Plane
The main airports into United Arab Emirates are Dubai International Airport and Abu Dhabi International Airport, both of which operate a number of international flights to and from major destinations.
Car
It's possible to enter the United Arab Emirates by car from Sila, in Saudi Arabia, and Hatta, or Hili in Al Ain, in Oman. These neighboring countries may have different entry requirements, so make sure to research in advance.
Boat
Cruise ships stop at both Abu Dhabi and Dubai and passengers can disembark here to visit the cities. There is also the option to travel on one of the dhows (a traditional sailing vessel) that travel around the Gulf.
Popular airlines serving the United Arab Emirates
Where to stay in the United Arab Emirates
United Arab Emirates has a broad range of accommodation for visitors, ranging from super luxury hotels, such as the Burj al-Arab and the Jumeirah Al Qasr, to plenty of budget-friendly options. The United Arab Emirates Youth Hostel Association has hostels in Dubai, Sharjah and Fujairah.
Where to stay in popular areas of the United Arab Emirates
Most booked hotels in the United Arab Emirates
How to Get Around the United Arab Emirates
Public Transportation
Dubai has a growing metro and tram network, but in other emirates, such as Abu Dhabi, the main form of public transport is by bus, with trips starting at around AED 2 (0.54 USD). Taxis are widely used and are relatively inexpensive in Abu Dhabi and Sharjah with fares calculated by distance. A taxi ride in Abu Dhabi should cost approximately AED 77 (21 USD).
Car
An international driver's license is required to drive in the United Arab Emirates. The road network is modern, with the main roads displaying signs in English as well as Arabic.
Best car hire deals in the United Arab Emirates
Intermediate SUV
5 Adults, 3 Bags
AED 71/day
Intermediate SUV
5 Adults, 3 Bags
AED 91/day
The Cost of Living in the United Arab Emirates
Hotel stays can be pricey as occupancy is always high. Grocery shopping can cost around AED 6.26 (1.70 USD) for a quart of milk and approximately AED 9.30 (2.50 USD) for a dozen eggs. Eating out can cost anywhere from AED 30-200 (8-54 USD), depending on if you choose an inexpensive restaurant or a middle-range restaurant.
All major debit cards are accepted in the United Arab Emirates and ATMs are easy to find. Credit cards are also accepted; however, accepting the "dynamic currency conversion" option on the card machine will cost more. Cash can be exchanged at foreign exchange bureaus in airports and shopping malls.