Burj Khalifa
Region: Dubai
Modern architecture
World's tallest skyscraper. 124th floor observatory and LED light show are highlights
Tourism in UAE
Explore notable sights and destinations in this country
Tourist attractions
Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque
Region: Abu Dhabi
Cultural heritage
Iconic mosque with white marble and world's largest Persian carpet
Louvre Abu Dhabi
Region: Saadiyat Island
Modern architecture
International art museum with impressive floating honeycomb dome
Palm Jumeirah
Region: Dubai
Modern architecture
Palm tree-shaped artificial island. Famous for luxury resorts and Aquaventure aquarium
Dubai Mall & Dubai Fountain
Region: Dubai
Modern architecture
Massive commercial facility with over 1,200 stores and musical fountain show
Al Ain Oasis
Region: Al Ain
Cultural heritage
UNESCO World Heritage 'Cultural Oasis' where traditional irrigation falaj can be viewed
Jebel Jais Zipline
Region: Ras Al Khaimah
Nature
World's longest 2.83km zipline experiencing speeds over 150km/h
Hatta Heritage Village
Region: Hatta, Dubai outskirts
Cultural heritage
Outdoor museum reconstructing 16th century mountain fortress and traditional houses
Desert Safari (Liwa Oasis)
Region: Southern Abu Dhabi
Nature
Popular tour racing through red dunes of Rub al Khali desert by 4WD
Qasr Al Watan
Region: Abu Dhabi
Modern architecture
Magnificent white palace with presidential palace open to public
Dubai Miracle Garden
Region: Dubai
Nature
Seasonal outdoor garden made with 150 million flowers
Sharjah Historical District
Region: Sharjah
Cultural heritage
Souq Al Arsah and museum complex preserving Gulf traditions
Sir Bani Yas Island
Region: Western Abu Dhabi
Nature
Conservation resort where wild Arabian oryx and cheetahs can be seen
Suggested itineraries
Golden Triangle 3 Nights 4 Days
Duration (days): 4
Highlights: Dubai modern architecture, Desert safari, Abu Dhabi Grand Mosque
Dubai sightseeing after arrival, desert camp next day, Abu Dhabi day trip on 3rd day, shopping on final day
Culture and Great Nature 7 Days Tour
Duration (days): 7
Highlights: Al Ain World Heritage, Jebel Jais mountain activities, Louvre Abu Dhabi
Tour connecting capital and inland oasis, balancing cultural heritage and outdoor activities
Travel tips
- Summer (June-September) has near 50°C high heat and humidity so indoor-focused itinerary recommended
- Friday morning shops may close for mosque prayers
- Clothing covering shoulders and knees is safe. Women must wear scarf when visiting mosques
- Public transport convenient with Dubai Metro and long-distance buses but taxi fares also relatively cheap
- Credit cards widely used for payment. Prepare dirhams cash for small stores
- Drinking only allowed at hotels and licensed restaurants. Public intoxication is legally punishable
- Desert tours comfortable early morning or evening with good photo lighting
- Be aware of photography-prohibited areas (military facilities, government buildings, some mosques)
- UAE weekend is Friday afternoon and Saturday-Sunday, check public institution hours
- Mobile SIM short-term tourist packages available at arrival airport