Places to Visit in UAE

Flaunting an idyllic blend of traditional Arabian charm and modern infrastructure, Dubai is one of the vibrant places to visit in the UAE. This cosmopolitan city, which was once a barren land, is now a global hub filled with towering skyscrapers, luxurious hotels and plush shopping malls. It is the home to several architectural marvels like Burj Khalifa which is the tallest building in the world, Burj Al Arab, and Palm Jumeirah Island. If you wish to explore the historic past of Dubai, visit the neighbourhoods of Al Fahidi, Dubai Creek, Deira and Bur Dubai.

Abu Dhabi, the capital city of the UAE, is a sophisticated destination that is the largest of the seven emirates. It is a beautiful confluence of culture and modernity while maintaining its natural appeal. There are numerous historic sites like Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, Heritage Village, Qasr Al Watan, Qasr Al Hosn and Louvre Museum in Abu Dhabi. You can also take a day trip to the nearby Liwa Oasis, go for a desert safari, watch races in Formula 1 race track and visit Ferrari World amusement park.

Nature lovers looking for tourist attractions in the UAE away from the bustle of the cities must visit Al Ain. The Garden City of the Emirates, Al Ain is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that is the home to several gorgeous forts and museums like Al Jahili Fort and Al Ain Museum. The major highlight of the city is the Al Ain Oasis which is a peaceful retreat with 147,000 date palms, 100 different vegetations and shaded pathways. Another exciting thing to do while at Al Ain is drive to the top of Jebel Hafeet peak and witness the breathtaking view of the city.

Far away from the fast-paced city life is Fujairah, which is a serene beach town on the east coast along the Gulf of Oman. It is a humble destination flanked by the lofty mountains of the Hajar Range, and portrays the rich history and culture of the Emiratis. Fujairah Fort, Bithnah Fort, Snoopy Island, Al Bidyah Mosque and Kalba Corniche Park at Fujairah are some famous tourist attractions in UAE. You can go snorkelling, sailing, rowing, fishing, surfing, yachting and swimming in the pristine beaches of Fujairah.

Aptly named as the cultural capital of UAE, Sharjah is a lovely city that focuses on the local heritage and tradition without any glitz and glam. It is the home to numerous museums and mosques like Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilization, Science Museum, Archaeology Museum, and Al Noor Mosque. If you are wondering what to see in UAE with kids, you can visit Desert Park, Sharjah Aquarium, Al Majaz Waterfront and Al Noor Island. The city is also famous for its souks where you can buy Arabic rugs, gold, silver and precious stone jewellery.

Ajman, the smallest city of the Emirates, is one among the best places to visit in UAE if you are looking for a respite along the coast. It is located on the western coast of Arabian Gulf and has a beautiful coastline with white sand and palm trees stretching for 16 kilometres. You can go swimming at the beach, indulge in dolphin-spotting, walk along The Corniche, or simply bask in the sun. If you wish to explore the city, visit the Sheikh Zayed Ajman Mosque, Al Jarah Cultural Centre and Ajman National Museum.

Enveloped between the mighty Hajar Mountains, Hatta is a small town that is a perfect blend of rural culture and adventure. It is an exclave of the UAE that is surrounded by Oman, Ajman and Ras-Al-Khaimah. Hatta is a popular hub for adventure sports like biking, hiking, camping, mountain safari and kayaking. You can witness the rural lifestyle of the Emiratis during olden days and their folk culture at Hatta Heritage Village, enjoy a small picnic at Hatta Hill Park and visit the Hatta Dam.

Located on the southwest coast of Dubai, Jebel Ali is the largest manmade harbour and the ninth busiest port in the world. It is an undervalued tourist destination as it is best known as a commercial hub that is surrounded by an industrial-free zone. The city is the home to Palm Jebel Ali, which is an artificial island shaped like a palm tree, the plush Jebel Ali Resort and JA Recreational Club. You can also visit the nearby attractions like Ibn Battuta Mall, Festival Plaza and Jebel Ali Recreational Village.

Ras Al Khaimah is one of the picturesque places to visit in UAE thanks to its diverse landscape featuring deserts, mountains, beaches and lagoons. It offers a plethora of experiences between its miles of white sandy beaches, majestic Hajar Mountains and stunning desert sand dunes. The city is also popular for adventure activities like camping, biking, zip lining, shooting and watching a camel race. You can also visit the Ras Al Khaimah National Museum, Dhayah Fort, Pearl Museum, Iceland Water Park and Saqr Park.

Umm Al Quwain is a quaint village wrapped around an island-dotted lagoon that has not been impacted by modernisation unlike its neighbouring cities. It is still a traditional fishing village that features dhows carved out on the beach, lush mangroves and a huge turtle population. The retro ambience of Umm Al Quwain, without any flashy resorts and malls, is a depiction of what the UAE was before getting its wealth and luxury. UAQ National Museum, Falaj Al Mualla and Dreamland Aqua Park are some important attractions in Umm Al Quwain.

Khor Fakka, an enclave of Sharjah tucked into the city of Fujairah, is a charming city that is no less than a paradise on earth. It is located on the east coast on the Gulf of Oman, centred on Khor Fakkan Bay and surrounded by the Hajar Mountains on the western end. The Khor Fakkan Beach permits water sports like snorkelling, scuba diving, jet skiing, windsurfing and diving. The city also has historical attractions like Salem Al Mutawa Mosque, remains of Portuguese Fort and Fakkan Al Hisn Museum.

Located on the western end of Abu Dhabi, Madinat Zayed is a cosmopolitan community that is a prime destination for buying gold. The city is best known for its Al Dhafra Festival which features camel beauty pageant, camel race and traditional markets. While at Madinat Zayed, you must visit the Mantiqa-al-Sirra which is the remains of a mud-brick fort, Madinat Zayed Mall and Fun City. Further south of the city is Liwa Oasis which is a lush retreat with cultivated palm forests and scenic views.