The UAE is a Middle Eastern country that seamlessly blends its charming culture and rich heritage with its uber-contemporary present. It’s also a land of striking contrasts where untouched nature and vibrant urbanscape coexist in harmony. While Abu Dhabi, its capital, and Dubai, the second-largest emirate, are must-visits, the country’s other five emirates have so much to offer. Now if you don’t want to miss out on the best places to visit in the UAE, keep this compact list handy to plan your upcoming Arabian getaway.
12 Best Places to Visit in the UAE:
1. Jebel Jais
Towering over 1935 meters above the northern emirate, Ras Al Khaimah, Jebel Jais is the country’s highest mountain peak. Its location in the Hajjar Mountain’s north-western range makes it stand out for its incredible biodiversity with unique rock formations, fossils, and flora and fauna. Apart from these, it is a hub for heart-racing amusement and thrill, being home to the world’s longest zipline and other exciting experiences like Jais Sledder, Bear Grylls Explorers Camp, Jais Robes Course, and Jais Viewing Deck Park.
2. Burj Khalifa
Built more than a decade ago, Burj Khalifa continues to reign as the world’s tallest man-made structure, at over 828 meters. It is a part of the pulsating Downtown Dubai, which also hosts Dubai’s other top claims to fame, including the Dubai Mall, the Dubai Fountain (renowned for its choreographed aquatic show on the Burj Lake), and Souk Al Bahar, to name a few. By securing the right Burj Khalifa tickets online, you can enter its observation decks (on the 124th, 125th, and 148th levels) and even relax and dine in its diverse lounges and dining venues.
3. Sheikh Zayed Mosque
With its breathtaking architecture reflecting the various Islamic themes and styles, this place of worship is a must-experience while visiting Abu Dhabi. It is so vast that it can accommodate over 40,000 worshippers at a time. Wander its sprawling, tranquil grounds with towering minarets, decorative columns, extensive hallways, magnificent pools, and interiors featuring the longest hand-knotted carpet and massive chandeliers with Swarovski crystals. And the best part is that entry is free here, and both Muslims and non-Muslims are permitted on its premises.
4. Louvre Abu Dhabi
Take any list of UAE attractions; this museum on Abu Dhabi’s Saadiyat Island secures a top spot for many reasons! It’s the Arab world’s first-of-its-kind museum and the only Louvre Museum outside Paris, France. More than that, it’s striking for its both contemporary and classic art masterpieces, as well as the floating structure dominated by a colossal dome with perforations (reminiscent of the region’s date palm fronds), allowing for the phenomenal rain of light effect.
5. Jubail Mangrove Park
Abu Dhabi is a pulsating city, and you don’t have to travel any far if you want to disconnect it from all! A quick drive of a little over an hour will take you to the region’s only self-contained leisure and educational nature attraction. Walking through its winding boardwalk lets you soak in the mangrove’s untouched allure and its indigenous inhabitants, including various marine and plant species. You can also go on a kayaking trip or sign up for an eco-friendly scenic car tour or a dragon boat ride for a hassle-free and up-close look at this fascinating park.
6. Al Ain Oasis
There is no shortage of attractions of boundless natural beauty in the UAE. But, none probably rivals the verdant splendor and significance of Al Ain Oasis, as it is the nation’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site. Located in the UAE’s greenest city (Al Ain), this 1200-hectare oasis boasts about 150,000 date palms, besides other fruit trees like olives, bananas, mangoes, pomegranates, and figs, to name a few. One of its most captivating aspects is that its water source continues to be the 3,000-year-old falaj irrigation system.
7. Desert Safari Dubai
The desert safari Dubai tours, ranging from morning and evening safaris to overnight safaris, are an inevitable staple of any UAE holiday program. But if you want to take your Arabian Desert exploration to the next level in the UAE, you should definitely visit the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve (DDCR)! This protected area, occupying over 225 square kilometers, showcases the pristine desert landscape and its outstanding natural habitat, with over 100 birds, 50 plants, and 40 mammals. Embark on a relaxed hot air balloon ride or an exhilarating paramotor adventure to absorb this conserved area’s unparalleled beauty in its entire splendor.
8. Yas Island
Every emirate in the UAE, mainly Abu Dhabi and Dubai, has its share of leisure and recreation choices. But did you know the country has an entire island dedicated to unparalleled fun and thrill? Head to the capital city’s Yas Island to feel it for yourself. From the world’s first Ferrari-themed park (Ferrari World Abu Dhabi) and the region’s largest water park, Yas Waterworld to CLYMB Dubai, Warner Bros. Abu Dhabi (with six exciting lands), and the richest-of-its-kind Yas Marina Circuit, thrill-seekers are in for non-stop action and entertainment on this man-made island.
9. Palm Jumeirah
One can’t come to the UAE without admiring Dubai’s man-made islands, especially the legendary Palm Jumeirah. It’s instantly identifiable for its exceptional palm-tree design with a crescent on the top. The most recommended way to admire this panoramic sight is on an aerial adventure like skydiving or a helicopter or seaplane tour. But if soaring through the skies is not your cup of tea, the safest and most affordable alternative is to catch this view from the dedicated observation, the View at the Palm, on the Palm Tower’s 52nd floor.
10. Fossil Rock
A short drive from Dubai lies the culturally rich emirate of Sharjah, celebrated for its mix of heritage attractions, museums, art galleries, and atmospheric souks. But things to see and experience extend beyond its cultural offerings. Yes, you shouldn’t miss out on its immaculately preserved natural attractions, mainly Fossil Rock. Located on the Sharjah-Kalba road, this rare geological marvel gets its name from the expansive dunes with the fragments of invertebrate marine life dating back to over 80 million years.
11. Mangrove Beach
Umm Al Quwain may be the UAE’s lesser-known emirate, but don’t overlook its marvelous attractions, in particular the Mangrove Beach! Located less than an hour’s drive from Dubai, the mangrove forest surrounding this public beach harbors several plant, animal, and marine species. These make it a peaceful retreat to escape from the daily grind and a haven for activities like kayaking and camping.
12. Snoopy Island
As the only emirate lying along the Gulf of Oman on the country’s eastern side, Fujairah deserves a visit in its own right. Unlike other emirates along the Arabian Gulf, you can instantly experience the shift in terrain. Apart from its charming cultural and historical attractions, immerse yourself in its blend of refreshing beaches, crystal-clear waters, and unspoiled islands. And one of the must-experiences among them is Snoopy Island, a snorkeling spot endowed with exuberant marine life, colorful reefs, etc.
Conclusion
If you’re seeking a holiday bursting with nature, culture, leisure, adventure, and unequaled modernity, a holiday in the UAE promises you the experience of a lifetime. And as we wrap up this read, we anticipate that this exclusive guide to the top tourist attractions in the UAE has given you the much-needed inspiration and information to learn where to go in the country to appreciate its distinct attractions and experiences.