United Arab Emirates
Where ambition meets Arabian tradition

About United Arab Emirates

Overview

The United Arab Emirates fuses futuristic ambition with deep-rooted Arabian heritage, from record-breaking skyscrapers and man-made islands to golden deserts and coral coastlines. Seven emirates unite a cosmopolitan playground of luxury shopping, world-class dining, and cutting-edge attractions with quiet oases, historic forts, and Bedouin traditions. Visitors move easily between the glittering energy of Dubai and Abu Dhabi and the calmer landscapes of the mountains and Empty Quarter. It is a destination where old and new sit side by side under near year-round sunshine.

On the map

Touristic sites

The landmarks that shape a journey through United Arab Emirates, explore them on the map.

  • 1
    Burj KhalifaThe world's tallest building anchors downtown Dubai with observation decks offering sweeping city, desert, and sea views.
  • 2
    Sheikh Zayed Grand MosqueAbu Dhabi's dazzling white-marble mosque is among the largest in the world, with reflective pools and intricate floral inlays.
  • 3
    Louvre Abu DhabiA domed art and civilization museum on Saadiyat Island showcasing works spanning cultures and millennia.
  • 4
    Palm JumeirahAn iconic palm-shaped artificial island lined with resorts, beaches, and waterfront dining in Dubai.
  • 5
    Ferrari World Abu DhabiA vast indoor theme park on Yas Island home to one of the world's fastest roller coasters.
  • 6
    Al Ain OasisA UNESCO-listed date-palm oasis with an ancient falaj irrigation system in the garden city of Al Ain.
  • 7
    Jebel JaisThe UAE's highest peak in Ras Al Khaimah, offering mountain vistas and the world's longest zipline.
  • 8
    Dubai FrameA giant golden picture-frame landmark bridging views of old and new Dubai.
Best time to travel

November to March

The cooler winter months from November through March are the most comfortable time to visit the UAE, with pleasant daytime temperatures perfect for sightseeing, beaches, and desert excursions. April and October act as shoulder periods that are still enjoyable but noticeably warmer. Summer, from roughly June to September, brings intense heat and high humidity, best suited to indoor attractions and resort pools. Booking around the winter high season is recommended as demand and prices rise.

November–MarchPeak season with warm, dry days and cool evenings, ideal for all outdoor activities.
April & OctoberShoulder months that remain pleasant but grow increasingly hot.
MayRising heat as summer approaches; good for early-season deals and indoor attractions.
June–SeptemberVery hot and humid; best for pools, malls, and air-conditioned experiences.
Good to know

United Arab Emirates at a glance

The practical essentials for planning your trip. Our team confirms the details for your dates and nationality.

Best time to travelNovember to March
CapitalAbu Dhabi
LanguageArabic (English widely spoken)
CurrencyUAE dirham (AED)
Entry / visaGCC citizens need no visa; many nationalities including US, UK, and EU receive visa-free entry or visa-on-arrival for 30–90 days, with a passport valid at least six months
Getting aroundModern metros, taxis, and ride-hailing in the cities; car hire or private transfers are best for reaching other emirates.
What to book

Best tours in United Arab Emirates

A taste of our most-loved journeys. Every one is a flexible starting point for your tailor-made trip.

Classic & Cultural

Two Cities, One Journey

The best of both emirates, Abu Dhabi's culture and Dubai's icons, connected in one seamless journey.

Adventure & Nature

Dubai Icons & Dunes

A compact hit of Dubai's greatest experiences, the city skyline, an Arabian dhow cruise and a premium desert safari.

Honeymoon & Romance

Arabian Nights & City Lights

A romantic week in Dubai combining the city's most photogenic experiences, from the Museum of the Future to sunset over the dunes.

Luxury

Lux-scape UAE

The Emirates at their most indulgent, private desert experiences, helicopter sightseeing, a yacht charter and bespoke dining.

See all United Arab Emirates programs
Why United Arab Emirates

The specials

Desert Safari Adventures

Dune bashing, camel rides, and Bedouin-style camps under the stars deliver the classic Arabian desert experience just outside the cities.

Sky-High City Views

From the Burj Khalifa's observation decks to rooftop lounges, the UAE offers some of the most dramatic elevated cityscapes on earth.

Cultural Landmarks

Grand mosques, heritage districts, and world-class museums reveal the Emirati story beyond the glamour.

Questions about United Arab Emirates?

Read our frequently asked questions, or tell us what you're dreaming up and we'll design it around you.

Travel facts verified from Lonely Planet, Best time to visit Abu Dhabi, u.ae Official Government Portal, visa requirements, Wikipedia, UAE dirham. Sample tours are suggested starting points; details and pricing are finalised by the Tourkom team.