Search Holidays in the UAE Online
The United Arab Emirates is a federation on the eastern edge of the Arabian Peninsula, made up of seven emirates, each ruled by its own emir. Its capital is Abu Dhabi. The population stands at around 9.5 million, three-quarters of whom are migrant workers from across Asia. The official language is Arabic.
Climate in the UAE
The UAE has a very hot climate. In summer, temperatures of +40 to +45°C in the shade are normal, sometimes higher, which is why every building and car has air conditioning. Winter is far more comfortable, at +17 to +23°C, though nights get noticeably colder and frost is rare. Rainfall is scarce, usually no more than 100mm a year, most of it falling in the winter months. If you're planning a trip, spring and autumn are the best times to visit the Emirates.
Sights and Attractions in the UAE
Abu Dhabi is often called the Manhattan of the East, with striking skyscrapers and bustling souks. Despite the desert climate, the country is home to the world's largest flower park, a truly unforgettable sight. Dubai has the tallest building on earth, the Burj Khalifa (828m), as well as the world's largest shopping mall, the Dubai Mall, which you could easily spend several days exploring. The Emirates has an enormous number of shopping centres in general, which is why shopping-focused holidays have become so popular in recent years.
It's impossible to list every attraction in the UAE. As recently as 50 years ago, the country was known for little more than its sand dunes, with pearl diving and fishing as the main sources of income. Today this once-barren desert is full of parks, tourist and shopping centres, and extraordinary buildings — not to mention its famous man-made palm-shaped islands!
Food in the UAE
The cuisine is typical of the Arab world: roasted or braised lamb, lula kebabs and shawarma. Alongside this, you'll find a huge number of international restaurants serving Italian, Indian and even Japanese food.
Visas and Currency in the UAE
Whether you get a visa on arrival at the border depends on your nationality — check the rules for your passport before you book. If you do, you'll need a passport valid for at least 6 months beyond your arrival date. Every visitor needs a passport, including young children. The national currency is the dirham (AED), pegged at 1 USD = 3.67 AED. US dollars are accepted everywhere, and Visa and Mastercard work without any issues. Exchange rates for other currencies can be less favourable, so it's best to have dollars loaded on your card.
What to Know Before You Go
The UAE is a Muslim country, and being visibly drunk in public can land you in jail. Dress modestly — this applies to men as well as women, and breaking the dress code can mean a fine or arrest. Never photograph local residents without their permission. This isn't a country for a cheap, unplanned trip, so it pays to book your holiday online, where you can compare prices and find the option that suits you best.
