Travel Guide: The United Arab Emirates (UAE)
I spent half a year in Abu Dhabi; it was one of the best experiences of my life.
When I was preparing for this extended stay in the capital city of Abu Dhabi, most of the information I came across in search engine results on life in the UAE was either 1) not helpful or 2) complete misinformation.
This year, the vast amounts of propaganda and misinformation regarding the Arab world has inspired me to put together this travel guide to help prepare people for their time in the UAE; whether they are visiting for work or as a tourist. These are my recommendations and tips to make the most of your experience.
This guide contains the following:
- An overview of the UAE
- An overview of Emirati culture
- Logistics to consider when traveling to the UAE
- Recommendations and tips on activities and things to do in all seven emirates: Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain, Ras al Khaimah, and Fujairah
The United Arab Emirates (UAE)
As mentioned above, the UAE comprised of seven emirates: Abu Dhabi (the largest), Dubai (the most well known), Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain, Ras al Khaimah, and Fujairah. The country was founded in 1971 and its founding is celebrated every year on December 2 (known as National Day).
The UAE is located on the gulf coast (Arabian/Persian Gulf) of the Arabian peninsula in West Asia.
Islam (Sunni) is the official religion of the UAE. As a result, the holidays of Eid-ul-Fitr, Eid-ul-Adha, the Islamic New Year, and Prophet Muhammad’s birthday (peace be upon him) are all public holidays. Islam is governed by a lunar calendar and these dates shift forward a bit each year.
Governance. The UAE is a federal constitutional monarchy. The national government that governs the country is based in Abu Dhabi, and each emirate has its own local government and ruling family. Each emirate operates as a sheikhdom, and the seven emirates constitute the United Arab Emirates.
The current President of the UAE is Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the third son of the founder of the country, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan. The ruling family of the emirate of Abu Dhabi is the Al Nahyan family.
One thing you will notice in each hotel you check into is that there are always 3–4 photos up somewhere in the reception area. These are typically photos of the country’s founder, Sheikh Zayed, the current President of the country, Sheikh Mohamed, and/or Sheikhs of the local ruling family. The lineup of photos will vary emirate to emirate.
Additionally, images of Sheikh Zayed, Sheikh Mohamed, and other sheikhs are prevalent in other places throughout the country.
Summer vs. Winter Months. Given that the temperatures are harsh in the summertime, there are many experiences, activities, and places that are only available in what’s known as the “winter” months (October-March) — I note these below.
Mall Culture. Relatedly, shopping malls are large and there are many of them that feature a diverse array of stores, restaurants, and activities even in the boiling summer months. Mall culture in the emirates is definitely a thing and although I didn’t embrace it the first time I visited the country, it was a treat to slow down and enjoy it for my extended stay.
Choosing a Western vs. Cultural Experience in the UAE
The majority of people living in the country are expats. In 2022, the population of the country was 9.44 million people. The locals, Emiratis, are the native people of the UAE and represent roughly 10% of the current population.
The “Khaleej” are collectively known as the people of the Gulf which represents the UAE, Bahrain, Oman, Kuwait, Yemen, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia. The emirates are part of the Khaleej and a Khaleeji culture.
When I lived in Abu Dhabi, I often saw Westerners come in and opt into Western experiences instead of learning about the local culture in any meaningful way. What’s the point of coming all the way to the UAE to have the same experience you would in Europe or America?
There are readily available options to have western experiences in the UAE; I encourage you to opt into a Gulf/Emirati/Khaleeji experience.
The Khaleej: Emirati Culture
Hospitality: Emiratis are known for their hospitality. Every meeting features Qahwa (Arabian coffee) with dates. Good luck trying to pay for your bill at a meal — your Emirati friend will never let you. And meals you share with Emiratis will be curated to be a feast.
Food: Some traditional dishes include Balaleet, Hareeth, Machboos, Luqaimat, among other dishes. I highly recommend visiting Meylas when you are in Abu Dhabi to try some authentic Emirati food.
Dates are a core part of Emirati food culture, and you can see the date palms full of dates in the summer months, beginning around May.
Dress: the traditional dress of Emiratis are the Kundara, Gutra, and Agal for men, and the Abaya and Shehla for women.
The Desert: Emirati culture is Bedouin Gulf culture and the desert is a big part of it. In the present day, specifically, in the “winter” months — generally, October — March, the weather is less hot (most ideal in November — February, in my opinion). Desert activities include dune bashing, falconry, horse riding (Arabian horses), and more.
Sailing: Maritime culture is another component of Emirati culture that has evolved over the years but remains a core feature. Before oil, pearling and fishing were core to trade.
But First, Logistics: Planning to Travel to the UAE
Navigating the Airport: Although you do not need any special service to navigate the very straight forward Abu Dhabi and Dubai airports, you can secure Pearl Assist services to get you through the airports speedily from gate to taxi. Please note that Pearl Assist must be booked at least 24 hours in advance. All you need is “Golden Class Meet & Assist.” They will meet you at your flight and take you through the airport.
Mobile Phone Calling Plans — Visitor Calling Plans: You can visit the Etisalat desk at the airport to purchase a visitor plan (ask for an e-Sim, not a physical Sim) for in-country calling and data, or you can visit a mall nearby once you check into your hotel.
Beware Speed Cameras: There are automated speed cameras throughout the emirates. Should you drive a rental car, which is essential for traveling to other emirates and for specific experiences, be sure to be aware that you will get a ticket if you’re even a kilometer over the speed limit in the emirate of Abu Dhabi. You have a bit more leeway in Dubai. But there are speed cameras everywhere.
Abu Dhabi: The Crown Jewel of the Gulf
While people are hyper fixated on Dubai, Abu Dhabi is the crown jewel of the UAE.
A Cosmopolitan City: Most everyone you will come across will be polite and accepting. It’s easy to get around if you speak English as most, if not all, the people you come across speak the language.
Places of Interest in Abu Dhabi:
- Downtown Abu Dhabi — visit the World Trade Center area, Gold Souk, and Qasr al Hosn at night.
- Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque — the crown jewel of Abu Dhabi. You will need to be dressed appropriately to go inside but you can purchase the required garments for minimal cost at the shopping center beneath the mosque compound (adjacent to the parking garage).
- Presidential Palace. Qasr al Watan is magnificent and you will need to purchase tickets in advance.
- Emirates Palace — Check out Emirates Palace hotel for tea or a meal at one of the restaurants.
- Al Reem and Al Maryah islands — lots of restaurants and shopping. The Galleria mall is an Emirati hub for shopping.
- YAS Island — a bunch of theme parks and shopping; not essential but part of the future of Abu Dhabi tourism.
- Learn about the father of the country, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, at the Zayed Center.
- Sign up for a desert safari.
- Check out the Louvre Abu Dhabi.
- Get tickets to the Falcon Hospital. The falcon is the official bird of the UAE.
- Visit Jubail Mangrove Park — ideally in the winter months (check water levels before you go).
- Abu Dhabi Aquarium. This was a really cool experience and you will learn a lot about the sea life in the seas and ocean in this part of the world.
You can find additional cultural resources for Abu Dhabi here.
Dress code: While you’re advised to dress modestly and avoid using profanity in public or professional settings, your standard clothes will likely be fine. Generally, people in the UAE are very stylish so pack accordingly.
- Tourist: Check the dress code of where you are going before leaving your hotel to make sure you are not turned away; most nice restaurants have a dress code. Avoid shorts and wear closed shoes for going out for dinner — my friends were turned away from specific restaurants and cafes for wearing shorts and sandals. Also, you’ll need closed toed shoes for any desert activities (snakes and scorpions).
- Business: Generally, it will depend on where you are working. On the most professional and conservative side of the spectrum, wear suits and/or business professional attire, and make sure your legs are covered.
Getting Around Abu Dhabi — Transportation
Generally, although there is public transportation in Abu Dhabi, transportation within the Emirates is largely car-centered. The easiest way to get around is via taxi, and you can easily grab taxis from a hotel and/or most places in the city. Taxis are the least expensive form of transportation and cheaper than Ubers.
From the Abu Dhabi airport, it’s easy enough to get a taxi into the city. If you are traveling to Abu Dhabi from DXB airport, it will cost around $100-$120 USD (2022 pricing), and you’ll need AED (Dirhams — the local currency) to pay.
Alternatively, you can download the Careem app which is the UAE ridesharing service and better priced than Uber.
Please note that there aren’t sidewalks everywhere so you won’t necessarily be able to walk everywhere, although parts of each of the cities have more urban areas with sidewalks.
Abu Dhabi Restaurants & Cafés
- Tasha’s Cafe — delicious food and a hotspot for locals.
- Mina Fish Market — a fun experience. You can just eat at one of the restaurants and/or buy fresh seafood inside and then take it to one of the restaurants to cook.
- Coya — Peruvian cuisine.
- Hakkasan at Emirates Palace
- Derwandi — Lebanese cuisine.
- Meylas — Emirati cuisine.
- Cafe Bateel — Arab inspired cafe food.
- Flame and Bake — the best shawarma.
- Asha’s — Indian cuisine.
- Saudi Kitchen — a fun experience with Saudi dining.
- 99 Sushi — Japanese cuisine.
- Zuma — Japanese cuisine.
- Mirzam — coffee and one-of-a-kind chocolate.
- Theory — coffee.
- Bateel — gourmet dates.
Abu Dhabi: The Emirate Beyond the City
Al Ain Oasis — the Al Ain Oasis is a must see. I learned a ton about Khaleeji culture and life and agriculture in the desert from my visit. Rent a bike and explore the oasis with a friend.
Jebel Hafeet Desert Park — Jebel Hafeet is on the border with Oman. You can sign up for a number of activities at the park — I opted into the offroading and took a short hike. There are burial sites in the park that date back to 3000–3200 BC.
Qasr Al Sarab Resort — one of the best experiences I had in the UAE was spending a weekend at this resort with friends. I recommend going in the “winter” months (October — March) to make the most of the desert activities and to enjoy the experience of dinner in the desert.
Dubai: The Las Vegas of the Gulf
I visited Dubai many times during my time in Abu Dhabi. My favorite parts of Dubai are the older parts of the city although the newer parts are very glamorous.
You can choose the experience you want to have in Dubai.
Dress Code: You will generally be fine in whatever you choose to wear in Dubai, but some places do have a dress code, especially restaurants, bars and higher end coffee places, so check the dress code before showing up in shorts and/or sandals, especially for men.
Hotels: I’d try to stay close to the Dubai Mall area since it’s quite central or the Dubai Creek area since it is closer to the airport.
Transportation:
- There is a metro line for public transportation which works well if you’re looking to stay central.
- You can taxi everywhere and taxis are quite cheap. Cheaper than Ubers or Careem which are also available.
- I wouldn’t recommend getting a rental car in Dubai. Some of the roads are confusing and it’s less stressful to let someone else who knows the quirks drive.
Sights to See + Activities: Dubai
Old Dubai:
- Take an Abra (similar to a gondola boat) from Bur Dubai to Deira (1 Dirham each) to visit the Gold Souk, Spice Souk, and Old Souk.
- Al Shindagha Museum — an interactive museum that chronicles Dubai’s history. The Perfume House is very popular and is a place you can learn about the role of scent in Emirati culture and history.
Downtown/Financial District:
- Burj Khalifa — the tallest building in the world. Check out the view from Coffee in the Clouds (and yes, there is a dress code).
- Dubai Mall — there is so much to do in one mall: lots of shopping, a stellar aquarium with sharks and all kinds of sea life; an indoor fountain wall that is very Instagrammable; lots of food options, and an indoor ice skating rink.
- Dubai Mall Fountains — think the Bellagio fountains except x10 — they are VERY impressive. Shows start at 6PM each evening (look up the timings before you go).
- Timeout Market — this is a great location to watch the Dubai Mall fountains and have a great meal.
- Dubai Frame — check out views of new and old Dubai. Interesting but not a must see.
- Museum of the Future — really beautiful to check out but don’t recommend buying a ticket.
Jumeirah/Palm Area:
- Burj al Arab — the only seven star hotel in the world; it is VERY fancy. I recommend making a reservation for high tea. One the highlights of my memories of Dubai. A local icon.
- Jumeirah beach — a good place to get some beach time.
- Mall of the Emirates — the home of Ski Dubai.
Must Do:
- Emirati Heritage Tour — learn about Khaleeji culture and the emirates from Khaleejis at the Mohammed Bin Rashed Center for Cultural Understanding.
Farther Away:
- Global Village — a traveler who loves shopping’s dream. Think Epcot with lots of good food and shopping that takes you on a tour of the world. I recommend the Pakistan, Palestine, and the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia pavilions. Only open in the winter months (October-March).
- Hatta — a getaway in the mountains that is relatively close to Dubai. Head here for hiking and kayaking.
Places to Eat in Dubai (By Neighborhood)
- Brunch & Cake (Jumeirah)
- Friends Avenue Cafe (Jumeirah)
- Sante Ria (Jumeirah Village)
- Timeout Market Dubai — Souk al Bahar (Dubai Mall)
- Karma Kafe (Dubai Mall)
- Din Tai Fung (Dubai Mall)
- FireLake (Dubai Waterfront)
- Arabian Tea House (Multiple locations)
The Other Emirates: Sharjah, Fujairah, Ras al Khaimah, Ajman, and Umm al Quwain
I made it a point to visit and experience all seven emirates during my time in the UAE. Here are the highlights of what I did in each one.
Sharjah: Artistic, Charming, Cultural
Museum of Islamic Civilization — even as someone who was born into Islam, I learned so much from visiting this museum. From Islamic contributions to the arts and sciences, and both the history of the faith and about specific hallmarks (they have an entire exhibit on the Hajj pilgrimage, for example). Highly recommended.
Desert Cafe — definitely stop by a desert cafe if you find yourself in the Sharjah desert.
Mleiha Archeological Centre — a fascinating archeological experience that includes sites you can visit and a visitor center. The site provides evidence that anatomically modern humans were in this area ~120,000 years ago, and the Umm Al Nar tomb which dates back to the Bronze Age (2300 BC).
Fujairah: Snorkeling, Mosques & Forts
Fujairah Beach Resorts & Snorkeling — I stayed at Address and snorkeled in the Gulf of Oman through an activity at the hotel. Great snorkeling and you might even see a sea turtle!
The Oldest Mosque in the Emirates — Al Bidya Mosque is a 1,000 year old mosque that dates back to the Islamic Golden Age.
Sheikh Zayed Mosque in Fujairah — Not to be confused with the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi. This mosque is a beautiful and expansive Ottoman style mosque that is similar to the Blue Mosque in Istanbul.
Fujairah Fort — one of the oldest forts in the UAE, it dates back to the 16th century. This particular fort played a big role in fighting against colonialism.
Ras al Khaimah: Home of the Tallest Peak in the UAE
Suwaidi Pearls — Pearling was a core pillar of the emirates economy and trade before oil. This tour takes you out on a boat and educates you about Emirati pearling. You can also buy Emirati pearls here.
Jebel Jais — the tallest peak in the UAE. There are a number of outdoor activities to do here, including the UAE’s longest zipline. Grab a meal at 1484 by Puro and enjoy the views.
Ajman: Murals & Forts
Ajman Fort — check out this museum to learn about Ajman’s past and culture. The fort is surrounded by boutiques and restaurants and very beautiful murals.
Umm al Quwain: Beaches & Mangroves
I didn’t do much here except stay at a beach resort to check this emirate off my list. Umm al Quwain is known for its mangroves and beaches.
In Closing: The Experience Will Be What You Make of It
I treasure the memories I have from my time in the UAE. It will always remain a very special time in my life and on my own personal journey.
I hope that you also have a great experience when you visit.
