United Arab Emirates
Seven emirates stitched together across 83,600 km² of Gulf coastline and interior desert, where glass-and-steel skylines rise from dunes and the call to prayer marks time in cities that barely existed fifty years ago.
Overview
The United Arab Emirates occupies the southeastern corner of the Arabian Peninsula, bordering Saudi Arabia and Oman, with coastlines on both the Persian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman. Abu Dhabi is the capital; Dubai is the most populous and internationally recognised city. Arabic is the official language, and the dirham (AED) is the currency. The country is a federation of seven emirates — Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain, Ras Al Khaimah, and Fujairah — each governed by its own ruler within a federal structure that has made the UAE a significant commercial and financial hub.
Visa Requirements
Citizens of many countries — including EU member states, the United States, the United Kingdom, and Australia — receive a visa on arrival or are granted entry without a prior visa for stays typically up to 30 or 90 days. Travellers who do not qualify for visa-free access can apply through the UAE's official ICA Smart Services eVisa portal before departure. Requirements and durations vary by nationality, so checking with the official UAE authorities before travel is advisable.
Airports in United Arab Emirates
7 airportsAirlines based in United Arab Emirates
9 airlines
Famous Attractions in United Arab Emirates
The Burj Khalifa in Dubai stands at 828 metres, currently the world's tallest building, with observation decks on the 124th and 148th floors. The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi accommodates over 40,000 worshippers beneath 82 domes. Al Ain Oasis, a UNESCO-listed network of ancient falaj irrigation channels, offers a quieter counterpoint to urban spectacle. The Louvre Abu Dhabi, opened in 2017, sits beneath a perforated steel dome designed by Jean Nouvel. Wadi Shawka in Ras Al Khaimah provides accessible canyon hiking through the Hajar Mountains.
Weather & Climate
The UAE has a hot desert climate. Summers (June–September) are intensely hot and humid along the coast, with temperatures regularly reaching 42–46 °C. Winters (December–February) are mild and generally pleasant, ranging from 14–24 °C, and represent the most comfortable period to visit. The interior desert sees more extreme daily temperature swings year-round. Rainfall is sparse and largely confined to winter months. Light, breathable clothing is essential in summer; a layer for air-conditioned interiors is practical throughout the year.
Interesting Facts About United Arab Emirates
- UAE was founded as a federation in December 1971.
- Falconry is a UNESCO-recognised intangible cultural heritage.
- Arabic coffee, or qahwa, is a customary welcoming gesture.
- UAE holds roughly 6% of global proven oil reserves.
- Friday and Saturday form the official weekend, not Saturday–Sunday.
Official Resources
- visituae.ae — official national tourism authority portal
- icp.gov.ae — Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship, visa information
- ncm.ae — National Centre of Meteorology, weather and climate data
- rta.ae — Roads and Transport Authority, Dubai public transport information