The United Arab Emirates
Welcome to the dazzling United Arab Emirates, a land where tradition and innovation coexist in spectacular fashion. From the towering skyscrapers of Dubai to the modern marvels of Abu Dhabi, this desert kingdom has transformed into a playground of luxury. Wander through historic streets, cruise along Dubai Creek, or simply take in the sweeping desert landscapes and futuristic skylines. Here, golden sands meet modern marvels, creating a captivating destination for both the world’s elite and the everyday traveler seeking adventure and luxury.
Tours & Packages
- Destinations: The United Arab Emirates
- including closed packages
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Highlights
- Burj Khalifa
Standing high above the city at over 2,700 feet, the Burj Khalifa is a 7-star hotel in Dubai that holds the world record for the tallest building in the world! This incredible structure is three times the height of the Eiffel Tower, and almost twice that of the Empire State Building. In addition to holding the record for the world's tallest building, it is the world's tallest free-standing structure, and has the highest number of stories (over 160!) and occupied floors. Look out in awe from the observation deck after riding the tallest service elevator in the world. This hotel is incredibly eye-catching from the inside out. It's entire interior is covered in 24 gold leaf, illustrating the luxury of the hotel as well as the entire city.
- Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque
A true architectural marvel, the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque stands as a symbol of peace, tolerance, and unity in the heart of Abu Dhabi. Commissioned by the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, it seamlessly blends traditional Islamic design with modern craftsmanship. The mosque’s gleaming white marble, intricate floral mosaics, and 82 domes create a breathtaking first impression, while the world’s largest hand-knotted carpet and magnificent chandeliers sparkle inside its vast prayer halls. Open to visitors of all faiths, the mosque invites travelers to experience the UAE’s spiritual heritage and appreciate its dedication to beauty, harmony, and cultural connection.
- Souks
From shining gold jewelry and colorful textiles to exotic spices and aromatic perfumes, the souks of Dubai and Abu Dhabi offer a sensory journey through Arabian tradition. Wander through bustling alleyways lined with merchants selling treasures that reflect the UAE’s deep cultural roots. In Dubai, the famed Gold Souk dazzles with intricate jewelry and luxurious gold pieces, while the nearby Spice and Perfume Souks overflow with bold flavors, fragrant oils, and handmade scents. Abu Dhabi’s souks offer a more relaxed experience, where visitors can browse traditional handicrafts, local dates, and fine fabrics. Whether you’re shopping for souvenirs or simply enjoying the atmosphere, these markets provide an authentic glimpse into the country’s everyday life.
- Dubai Creek
Once referred to as the "River Zara" by the Ancient Greeks, Dubai Creek is a saltwater creek that serves as a busy waterway in modern day Dubai. The Bani Yas tribe first settled along its banks, and the river later served as a port for ships that had traveled from as far as India and Africa. The creek flows through the heart of Dubai, dividing the country into two main parts: Deira on the north, and Bur Dubai to the south. Back in the early 1900s, the ruler of Dubai created a free-trade zone, resulting in Dubai Creek becoming part of a major trading hub. Two main industries that were based along its waterways were fishing and pearling. Before Al Maktoum Bridge was constructed, the only way to transport across the creek was by taking an abra. Today, the Abra water taxi is still used as one of Dubai's most reliable and inexpensive forms of transportation, allowing visitors to hop in and absorb the city's breathtaking skyline.
- Modern Architecture & Skylines
The United Arab Emirates is home to some of the most striking skylines in the world, where futuristic design meets desert landscapes. In Dubai and Abu Dhabi, gleaming towers of glass and steel rise toward the clouds, showcasing the country’s bold vision for innovation and progress. From record-breaking skyscrapers to creatively designed cultural landmarks, each building tells a story of ambition and artistry. By day, the cities glimmer under the desert sun; by night, they transform into dazzling displays of light and color. Together, these architectural marvels capture the UAE’s dynamic spirit and its seamless blend of modernity and tradition.
- International Hub
Dubai’s strategic location makes it one of the world’s premier travel hubs, connecting East and West with ease. From this glamorous city, travelers can explore the glittering skyline, luxury shopping, and vibrant culture of Dubai, then jet off to destinations around the globe. In just a few hours, you could be wandering the bustling streets of Bangkok, exploring ancient pyramids in Cairo, experiencing the colorful markets of India, or going on a safari in Kenya. With Abu Dhabi just a short hop away, the UAE offers the perfect balance of modern luxury and access to the wider world, truly making it a gateway to endless adventures.
Standing high above the city at over 2,700 feet, the Burj Khalifa is a 7-star hotel in Dubai that holds the world record for the tallest building in the world! This incredible structure is three times the height of the Eiffel Tower, and almost twice that of the Empire State Building. In addition to holding the record for the world's tallest building, it is the world's tallest free-standing structure, and has the highest number of stories (over 160!) and occupied floors. Look out in awe from the observation deck after riding the tallest service elevator in the world. This hotel is incredibly eye-catching from the inside out. It's entire interior is covered in 24 gold leaf, illustrating the luxury of the hotel as well as the entire city.
A true architectural marvel, the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque stands as a symbol of peace, tolerance, and unity in the heart of Abu Dhabi. Commissioned by the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, it seamlessly blends traditional Islamic design with modern craftsmanship. The mosque’s gleaming white marble, intricate floral mosaics, and 82 domes create a breathtaking first impression, while the world’s largest hand-knotted carpet and magnificent chandeliers sparkle inside its vast prayer halls. Open to visitors of all faiths, the mosque invites travelers to experience the UAE’s spiritual heritage and appreciate its dedication to beauty, harmony, and cultural connection.
From shining gold jewelry and colorful textiles to exotic spices and aromatic perfumes, the souks of Dubai and Abu Dhabi offer a sensory journey through Arabian tradition. Wander through bustling alleyways lined with merchants selling treasures that reflect the UAE’s deep cultural roots. In Dubai, the famed Gold Souk dazzles with intricate jewelry and luxurious gold pieces, while the nearby Spice and Perfume Souks overflow with bold flavors, fragrant oils, and handmade scents. Abu Dhabi’s souks offer a more relaxed experience, where visitors can browse traditional handicrafts, local dates, and fine fabrics. Whether you’re shopping for souvenirs or simply enjoying the atmosphere, these markets provide an authentic glimpse into the country’s everyday life.
Once referred to as the "River Zara" by the Ancient Greeks, Dubai Creek is a saltwater creek that serves as a busy waterway in modern day Dubai. The Bani Yas tribe first settled along its banks, and the river later served as a port for ships that had traveled from as far as India and Africa. The creek flows through the heart of Dubai, dividing the country into two main parts: Deira on the north, and Bur Dubai to the south. Back in the early 1900s, the ruler of Dubai created a free-trade zone, resulting in Dubai Creek becoming part of a major trading hub. Two main industries that were based along its waterways were fishing and pearling. Before Al Maktoum Bridge was constructed, the only way to transport across the creek was by taking an abra. Today, the Abra water taxi is still used as one of Dubai's most reliable and inexpensive forms of transportation, allowing visitors to hop in and absorb the city's breathtaking skyline.
The United Arab Emirates is home to some of the most striking skylines in the world, where futuristic design meets desert landscapes. In Dubai and Abu Dhabi, gleaming towers of glass and steel rise toward the clouds, showcasing the country’s bold vision for innovation and progress. From record-breaking skyscrapers to creatively designed cultural landmarks, each building tells a story of ambition and artistry. By day, the cities glimmer under the desert sun; by night, they transform into dazzling displays of light and color. Together, these architectural marvels capture the UAE’s dynamic spirit and its seamless blend of modernity and tradition.
Dubai’s strategic location makes it one of the world’s premier travel hubs, connecting East and West with ease. From this glamorous city, travelers can explore the glittering skyline, luxury shopping, and vibrant culture of Dubai, then jet off to destinations around the globe. In just a few hours, you could be wandering the bustling streets of Bangkok, exploring ancient pyramids in Cairo, experiencing the colorful markets of India, or going on a safari in Kenya. With Abu Dhabi just a short hop away, the UAE offers the perfect balance of modern luxury and access to the wider world, truly making it a gateway to endless adventures.Fast Facts
Already booked on one of our packages to the United Arab Emirates? See everything you need to know before you go.
| Overview | Population: 2.789 million |
| Entry requirements | Please see our Entry Requirements page. |
| Staying Healthy | While there are no required vaccinations for entry into the UAE, consult your doctor about vaccinations and other preventative medicine recommended by the Center for Disease Control. Make sure your food and drinking water are safe as food and waterborne diseases are the primary cause of illness in travelers. There is no risk of malaria or yellow fever in the UAE. |
| Weather | Dubai enjoys almost year-round sunshine and what little rainfall there is usually occurs during the months of December through April. Temperatures from October to May make Dubai a popular winter sun resort for European visitors. Average temperatures will be in the 80’s and 90’s during this period. |
| What to wear | Light, breathable fabrics are ideal for the UAE’s warm climate, where daytime temperatures can be high year-round. Visitors should dress modestly out of respect for local customs, especially when exploring traditional areas, mosques, and public spaces. Women are advised to cover shoulders and knees, while men should avoid sleeveless shirts and very short shorts in public. Beachwear is appropriate only at pools, resorts, and private beaches. In more cosmopolitan cities like Dubai and Abu Dhabi, attire can be contemporary and stylish, but modesty remains appreciated. Air-conditioning in hotels and malls can be strong, so a light sweater or shawl may come in handy. For desert excursions, comfortable closed shoes, sunglasses, and a hat or scarf for sun protection are recommended. |
| Dining | Dining in the United Arab Emirates is an experience that reflects the nation’s cosmopolitan spirit and deep-rooted Arabian traditions. Emirati cuisine blends Middle Eastern and South Asian influences, offering flavorful dishes such as machboos (spiced rice with meat or seafood), harees (slow-cooked wheat and meat), and luqaimat (sweet dumplings drizzled with date syrup). Across the cities, you’ll find everything from traditional Bedouin-inspired meals served in desert camps to world-class restaurants helmed by international chefs. In Dubai and Abu Dhabi especially, dining is both a social and cultural affair, with a thriving scene of rooftop lounges, seaside cafés, and open-air markets showcasing the UAE’s dynamic blend of old and new. |
| Tipping | Where service charges are not included in a bill, a 10% tip for hotel bellhops and restaurant waitstaff is adequate. It is also appropriate to tip taxi drivers a few dirhams. |
| Money & Credit Cards | ATMs are found all over major cities. Always notify your bank prior to departure to avoid any problems using your credit or debit card while traveling. |
| Shopping | In general, there are three main places to shop: shopping malls, souks and the shopping streets or areas. Souks are very common in the UAE and tend to be good places to buy gold, fabrics, electronics, and traditional Arabic art. Other items to shop for include clothes and fabrics, Persian carpets and rugs, Arabic coffee pots, silver and brass swords and khanjars (curved daggers), ancient rifles, shisha pipes, porcelain prayer beads, antique silver jewelry, brass trinkets, and silver and wooden miniature dhows. Bargaining is acceptable everywhere, even in the malls. |
| Electricity & Power Adapters | 220/240 volts. You will most likely need a voltage converter and plug adapter in order to use U.S. appliances, even though some outlets will correspond to American plug types and voltages. We recommend getting a universal adapter and converter kit. Learn more about electrical standards around the world. |
| Cell Phones & Internet | Want to take your cell phone, tablet or laptop, but not sure how to get cell service or wifi? Read up on using your cell phone abroad and the top 5 ways to get Internet abroad. |
| Did you know? |
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