The United Arab Emirates has become a tourist hotspot in recent years, thanks to its warm climate, long coastline and premium hotels. Once upon a time it was less popular with visitors outside the region due to its perception as a conservative country with limited tourist infrastructure. However, the UAE has put some serious oomph into its tourism industry with accommodation ranging from hyper-luxury offerings to boutique spots and basic bargains.
Here, you’ll find everything from traditional desert feasts and camel racing to souks, beach bars, concert venues, bubbly brunches and designer shopping. As the UAE’s infrastructure has developed, many of its stricter rules have relaxed somewhat (although you’ll still need to be aware of local laws) and its reputation as a tourist destination has been well and truly solidified. This is everything you need to know about planning your first visit to the UAE.
When is the best time to visit the UAE?
The winter season is the busiest tourist period in the UAE. While it’s easy to get drawn in by cheap flights during the summer months, the temperature is so hot that many outdoor activities are shut down (you’ll also want to avoid the scorching beach and soup-like sea in the summer). There are, of course, more crowds in the winter (November to March), when temperatures get as low as 20C, and there are plenty of outdoor excursions available. If you’re looking to save money and avoid the major crowds, the shoulder season (April/May) offers good deals although slightly warmer weather.
Where should I stay in the UAE?
The most popular emirate for tourists is Dubai, closely followed by Abu Dhabi. Both offer numerous hotel options to suit all budgets, as well as world-class cuisine, beaches and plenty of entertainment for kids. Abu Dhabi is traditionally more conservative than Dubai, which has slightly more on offer in the way of tourist activities. Outside of the better known emirates, there’s still plenty to see; don’t write off smaller (and often cheaper) emirates such as Ras Al Khaimah, where you can kayak among a mangrove forest or speed down the world’s longest zipline (away from the crowds of the bigger cities).
Is it easy to get to and around the UAE?
The flight connections to the UAE are fantastic, with the majority of international flights coming into Dubai and Abu Dhabi (and many connecting to smaller airports in other emirates). The majority of travellers can pick up a visa on arrival. Once you’re in the country, you may find it easiest to hire a car or get taxis for smaller journeys as the UAE is well serviced by roads (although you should be aware that driving can be something of an extreme sport given the multi-lane highways and myriad driving styles). You’ll find the usual rideshare apps available here, as well as RTA taxis that also offer women-only and family cabs (driven by women), which you can usually find in abundance at the airport.
In Dubai, there is an extensive metro system, as well as a more recently developed tram network and buses (again you will find women-only carriages on trains). You’ll also find public and shuttle buses in Abu Dhabi.
In between emirates, you can catch various buses, however there are plans to roll out a national rail network for passengers, which will dramatically improve emirate-to-emirate travel.
Top things to do in the UAE
Go on a desert safari
It wouldn’t be a trip to the UAE without a desert adventure. Book onto a day tour that includes dune bashing, sand boarding and a traditional feast under the stars. Many operators offer desert excursions, but it’s worth booking one that includes evening entertainment and dinner to extend your time out of the city and take in some local culture.
Take a trip to the top of the world
Put aside that vertigo and hop in a lift to the top of the world’s tallest building – the Burj Khalifa. Standing at 828 metres tall, the Burj has held the title of tallest building since 2009. The world’s fastest elevator will take you to the observation deck on the 148th floor (there are also lower observation decks you can access with various tickets). From up here, you can see the whole of Dubai, look down on the famous Dubai Fountains and even take afternoon tea in the lounge on floor 152.
Hit the mall(s)
The UAE is well known for its malls and with good reason. From the Mall of the Emirates, featuring its very own ski slope and the sprawling Dubai Mall to Yas Mall where you can hop in a Ferrari and take it for a spin round the track, there’s something for everyone. It’s also a top shopping destination, with many people bringing a spare suitcase to pack full of tax-free shopping from luxury retailers.
How much money will I need for a trip to the UAE?
The UAE isn’t a budget destination and you should plan accordingly. Hyper-luxury hotels can top £1000 per night, while other smart hotels tally around the £300-400 mark, depending on the season. Upscale restaurants can set you back up to £500 for a meal for two with drinks, while brunch tops £100 per person. Experiences from skydiving (from £250 upwards) to skiing (£54) will also take a bite out of the budget, while the cost of getting taxis around town can add up.
That said, it is possible to manage the UAE on a budget. Take public transport, stay at motel-style accommodation (which you can find for as little as £40 a night in low season if you’re not fussy about location or style), and eat at local joints and buffet-style lunch places. Alcohol can be expensive, but many places offer bottomless options or discounted ladies’ nights events.
Frequently asked questions about the UAE
What can unmarried couples expect in the UAE?
A new law in the UAE, which came into force in 2023, allows non-Muslim unmarried couples to live together, so you should be fine travelling to the country as an unmarried couple (and sharing a hotel room). That said, be aware of local rules when it comes to public displays of affection (excessive PDAs continue to be a no-no).
What can solo women travellers expect in the UAE?
Many areas of the UAE are very modern, and solo women travellers shouldn’t stand out (although you will find women-only taxis and metro carriages available, should you wish to use them). However, in more remote, less touristy areas of the country, you may be something of an anomaly. As with the rest of the UAE, dress modestly, pay attention to local laws and customs, and take all the usual precautions you would in any big city.
Can I visit a mosque?
Yes. There are open mosques in Abu Dhabi and Dubai, where you can take a tour and learn more about the religion and culture of the UAE. Check ahead of time whether the Jumeirah Mosque in Dubai and Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi are open for visitors and be sure to dress appropriately (cover shoulders, legs and arms) and follow the rules of the mosques.
