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United Arab Emirates
The UAE is famous for its modern cities and iconic landmarks. Visitors can explore Dubai’s Burj Khalifa, Abu Dhabi’s Grand Mosque, and enjoy luxury shopping and entertainment. Its blend of innovation and tradition makes it a dynamic destination.
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Summary
Overview
Months
04. April, 02. February, 12. December, 01. January, 03. March, 11. November, 10. October
Vacation type
Beach, Family, Couple, Nature, Sightseeing
Expenses
<150€, <200€, Over 200€
Temperature
25-30°C, Over 30°C
Rainfall
0-50mm
Safety
Medium
Continent
Middle East, Asia
Currency
UAE dirham
Languages
Arabic, English
Currency Converter
When to visit
The best time to visit the UAE is during the cooler months from November to April. During this period, the weather is mild and pleasant, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
- November to April: Features cooler temperatures, lower humidity, and more comfortable conditions for exploring cities like Dubai and Abu Dhabi, as well as enjoying outdoor activities such as desert safaris, beach visits, and sightseeing.
The summer months (May to October) can be extremely hot, with temperatures often exceeding 40°C (104°F) and high humidity, particularly in coastal areas. This makes outdoor activities less comfortable, although it's a good time for indoor attractions and shopping in air-conditioned environments.
- Winter (December to February) is peak tourist season, with many events and festivals taking place, but it’s also when prices can be higher and attractions more crowded.
Weather, Crowds and Costs
Per one person
Tourist Season: November-April (Winter)
Budget Vacation ($60-150/day)
Accommodation: $30-70/night (budget hotels, hostels).
Food: $10-25/day (local restaurants, fast food).
Activities: $20-40/day (malls, beaches, free attractions).
Transportation: $10-15/day (public transport).
Other Costs: $5-10/day (souvenirs).
Mid-Range Vacation ($150-300/day)
Accommodation: $70-150/night (mid-range hotels).
Food: $25-50/day (casual dining, mid-range restaurants).
Activities: $30-70/day (tourist attractions, desert safaris).
Transportation: $15-25/day (local taxis, public transport).
Other Costs: $10-20/day (souvenirs, activities).
Luxury Vacation ($300+/day)
Accommodation: $150+/night (luxury hotels, resorts).
Food: $40+/day (fine dining).
Activities: $50+/day (exclusive tours, shopping experiences).
Transportation: $30+/day (private transport, luxury cars).
Other Costs: $20+/day (high-end shopping, experiences).
Off-Peak Season: May-October (Summer Heat)
Budget Vacation ($50-120/day)
Accommodation: $20-60/night (budget hotels).
Food: $5-20/day (local food, street food).
Activities: $15-30/day (shopping malls, beaches).
Transportation: $5-15/day (local transit, taxis).
Other Costs: $5-10/day (souvenirs).
Mid-Range Vacation ($120-250/day)
Accommodation: $50-100/night (mid-range hotels).
Food: $15-30/day (casual dining).
Activities: $20-40/day (sightseeing, desert excursions).
Transportation: $10-20/day (public transport, taxis).
Other Costs: $10-15/day (souvenirs).
Luxury Vacation ($250+/day)
Accommodation: $100+/night (luxury hotels, resorts).
Food: $30+/day (fine dining).
Activities: $30+/day (exclusive experiences, tours).
Transportation: $20+/day (private cars, high-end taxis).
Other Costs: $15+/day (luxury shopping, activities).
Best Regions to visit
Cities
1. Dubai
- Known for its iconic skyline, luxury shopping, and vibrant nightlife. Key attractions include the Burj Khalifa, Dubai Mall, and Palm Jumeirah.
2. Abu Dhabi
- The capital city, famous for its modern architecture, cultural sites like the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, and attractions such as Ferrari World and Yas Marina Circuit.
3. Sharjah
- Renowned for its rich cultural heritage and museums, including the Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilization and the Sharjah Art Foundation.
4. Ajman
- Offers beautiful beaches and a more relaxed atmosphere compared to its larger neighbors, with attractions like Ajman Beach and the Ajman Museum.
5. Ras Al Khaimah
- Known for its natural beauty, including mountains and beaches, as well as outdoor activities like hiking and off-roading. The Jebel Jais mountain range is a notable highlight.
6. Fujairah
- Located on the eastern coast, Fujairah is known for its stunning coastline, historical forts, and opportunities for diving and snorkeling.
Dubai
Islands
1. Palm Jumeirah
- An artificial archipelago in Dubai known for its luxury resorts, including Atlantis The Palm, and its distinctive palm tree shape.
2. Al Maryah Island
- Located in Abu Dhabi, it features upscale shopping, dining, and the Cleveland Clinic Abu Dhabi.
3. Yas Island
- A major entertainment hub in Abu Dhabi, home to Yas Marina Circuit, Ferrari World, Yas Waterworld, and Warner Bros. World.
4. Saadiyat Island
- Known for its cultural landmarks, including the Louvre Abu Dhabi, and luxury resorts like the St. Regis Saadiyat Island Resort.
5. Bluewaters Island
- Located off the coast of Dubai, it features the Ain Dubai (Dubai Eye) observation wheel and a range of dining and entertainment options.
6. Sir Bani Yas Island
- A natural island in Abu Dhabi, renowned for its wildlife reserve, luxury resorts, and historical sites.
Things to see
Natural Attractions
1. Jebel Jais (Ras Al Khaimah)
- Visit the highest peak in the UAE for breathtaking mountain views, hiking trails, and the world’s longest zipline.
2. Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve (Dubai)
- Experience the vast dunes of the Arabian Desert with activities such as dune bashing, camel rides, and traditional desert camping.
3. Hatta Mountains (Dubai)
- Explore this mountainous region known for its scenic beauty, outdoor activities, and the Hatta Dam, offering opportunities for kayaking and hiking.
4. Liwa Oasis (Abu Dhabi)
- Discover this large oasis in the Rub' al Khali (Empty Quarter), known for its vast sand dunes and traditional camel racing.
5. Al Marmoom Desert Conservation Reserve (Dubai)
- Enjoy the natural beauty of this reserve with its diverse wildlife, including Arabian oryx, and cultural activities like falconry and desert safaris.
6. Fujairah’s East Coast Beaches
- Relax on the beautiful beaches along the Gulf of Oman, offering clear waters, snorkeling, and diving opportunities.
Cultural Attractions
1. Burj Khalifa (Dubai)
- Visit the world’s tallest building for panoramic views of Dubai from its observation decks and experience its architectural marvel.
2. Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque (Abu Dhabi)
- Explore this stunning mosque, known for its grandeur, intricate design, and large prayer hall with impressive chandeliers and marble.
3. Dubai Museum (Dubai)
- Discover the history and culture of Dubai through exhibits housed in the Al Fahidi Fort, including traditional artifacts and dioramas.
4. Louvre Abu Dhabi (Abu Dhabi)
- Enjoy this art and civilization museum with its diverse collection of artworks, ranging from ancient to contemporary, housed in a striking architectural space.
5. Al Ain Oasis (Al Ain)
- Explore this UNESCO World Heritage site featuring traditional falaj irrigation systems, lush palm groves, and historical cultural heritage.
6. Qasr Al Hosn (Abu Dhabi)
- Visit this historic fort and cultural center to learn about Abu Dhabi’s history and heritage through exhibits and restored structures.
7. Dubai Opera (Dubai)
- Attend performances or explore the striking architecture of this cultural venue, known for its world-class opera, ballet, and concerts.
8. Sharjah Art Museum (Sharjah)
- Discover a diverse collection of contemporary and traditional art from regional and international artists at this prominent museum.
9. Global Village (Dubai)
- Experience a unique cultural festival with pavilions from around the world, offering international cuisine, crafts, and entertainment.
10. Saadiyat Island Cultural District (Abu Dhabi)
- Visit this cultural hub that includes the Louvre Abu Dhabi, the upcoming Guggenheim Abu Dhabi, and other cultural institutions under development.
How to get around
1. Domestic Flights
- Domestic flights are the fastest way to travel between major cities. Emirates, Etihad, and Flydubai offer flights connecting cities like Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, and Al Ain. This is especially useful for covering longer distances quickly.
2. Trains
- The Dubai Metro is a modern and efficient way to travel within Dubai. It connects key areas including the airport, downtown, and major attractions. A Light Rail system is also planned to connect Dubai and Abu Dhabi in the future, but currently, train options are limited to Dubai.
3. Buses
- Public buses operated by the Dubai Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) and Abu Dhabi Department of Transport offer extensive coverage within and between cities. Buses are a cost-effective way to travel and cover many areas that are not accessible by metro.
4. Car Rentals
- Renting a car is a popular option for exploring the UAE, especially if you plan to travel between cities or visit attractions like the Dubai Desert or Fujairah. Major highways like Sheikh Zayed Road connect key cities, and car rentals provide flexibility and ease of travel.
5. Taxis and Ride-Sharing
- Taxis are widely available in major cities and can be hailed on the street or booked via phone. Ride-sharing services like Uber and Careem operate throughout the UAE and offer a convenient alternative to traditional taxis.
6. Water Taxis and Ferries
- In cities like Dubai, water taxis (abras) and ferries offer scenic routes along the Dubai Creek and Dubai Marina. They provide a unique and enjoyable way to see the city from the water and connect some waterfront areas.
7. Cycling
- Cycling is becoming more popular in urban areas. Dubai has dedicated bike lanes and rental services, especially in areas like Dubai Marina and Downtown Dubai. Abu Dhabi also has cycling paths around Yas Marina Circuit and Corniche.
8. Walking
- Walking is ideal for exploring city centers and attractions in urban areas. Cities like Dubai and Abu Dhabi have pedestrian-friendly areas and promenades where you can visit landmarks, parks, and shopping areas.
For the best experience, use domestic flights for long distances between cities, the metro system in Dubai for efficient urban travel, and buses for broader city coverage. Renting a car offers flexibility for road trips and exploring various emirates. Taxis and ride-sharing services are convenient for local travel, while water taxis provide a scenic way to travel in cities with waterways. Cycling and walking are great for exploring urban areas and enjoying local attractions.
What to eat
1. Shawarma
- Marinated meat wrapped in pita bread with vegetables and sauces.
2. Al Harees
- A dish made with wheat and meat, often enjoyed during Ramadan.
3. Machboos
- A spiced rice dish cooked with meat and vegetables, showcasing local flavors.
4. Tabbouleh
- A fresh salad made with parsley, tomatoes, and bulgur wheat.
5. Kunafa
- A sweet pastry made with thin noodle-like dough and syrup, enjoyed as a dessert.
Flights
Flight prices are approximate and vary by departure city, airline, and booking time. Check airlines or travel platforms for the latest details.
Main Airport: Dubai International Airport (DXB)
Flight Prices and Seasons:
From Europe
- Average Round-Trip Cost: €250 to €600.
- Cheapest Months: January to March, and September to November.
- Peak Prices: December holidays and summer months (June to August).
From North America
- Average Round-Trip Cost: $500 to $1,200.
- Cheapest Months: January to March, and September to November.
- Peak Prices: December holidays and summer months (June to August).
From Asia
- Average Round-Trip Cost: $200 to $600.
- Cheapest Months: January to March, and September to November.
- Peak Prices: December holidays and summer months (June to August).
From Australia
- Average Round-Trip Cost: $700 to $1,200.
- Cheapest Months: January to March, and September to November.
- Peak Prices: December holidays and summer months (June to August).
From Africa
- Average Round-Trip Cost: $300 to $700.
- Cheapest Months: January to March, and September to November.
- Peak Prices: December holidays and summer months (June to August).
Visa
1. Visa Requirement
- Citizens of the U.S., Canada, the U.K., Australia, and many other countries do not need a visa for stays of up to 30 days or 90 days, depending on nationality.
2. Visa-Free Entry
- Many travelers can enter visa-free for short stays, typically up to 30 or 90 days, depending on nationality.
3. Visa Application
- Travelers from countries that require a visa must apply for a UAE visa through a UAE embassy or consulate, or obtain a visa on arrival in some cases.
4. Types of Visa
- Common visa types include a Tourist Visa: Valid for tourism, with options for 30 days or 90 days.
5. Processing Time
- Visa processing can take a few days to a couple of weeks, so it’s advisable to apply well in advance if required.
6. Duration of Stay
- Visa-free visitors can stay for up to 30 or 90 days, depending on the visa type.
7. Health Requirements
- No specific vaccinations are generally required for entry, but travel insurance is recommended.
8. COVID-19 Regulations
- Check for any current COVID-19 entry requirements before traveling, as regulations may change.
Important things to know
1. Payments
- The local currency is the United Arab Emirates Dirham (AED). Credit cards are widely accepted.
2. Tap Water
- Tap water is generally safe to drink.
3. Electricity
- The voltage is 230V, and plug types G (three rectangular pins) are used.
4. Tipping in Restaurants
- Tipping is appreciated, usually around 10-15%.
5. SIM Cards
- Local SIM cards are available from providers like Etisalat and du.
6. Driving Side
- In the UAE, people drive on the right side of the road.