Positioned somewhere between the east and west in terms of culture and geography, the United Arab Emirates is enjoying a rapid rise in tourism as more travellers become aware of this fascinating region. Made up of seven emirates, each has its own character and charm. With year-round sunshine, endless white sand beaches, luxurious resorts and hotels, theme parks, soft adventure and shopping aplenty; there is something for everyone in the UAE.
Perhaps the best-known of all the emirates is Dubai, famous for its opulence, indulgence, luxury and iconic structures. Its main source of income is tourism, so the city goes above and beyond to ensure visitors to the area have reason to return.
Dubai has a worthy opponent vying for the tourism spotlight in the UAE’s capital city of Abu Dhabi. With lavish hotels and resorts, theme parks, championship-standard golf courses, captivating desert and luxurious malls; this futuristic city built between the sea and desert is developing a reputation as a place to see.
Sharjah has one of the oldest souks in the UAE and the country’s best museum with a fascinating display over five galleries depicting different aspects of local life and culture throughout the country’s history.
Ajman and Unm al-Quwain offer small glimpses of pre-oil life in the UAE. Ajman features the serene Al Zorah Nature Reserve – a peaceful waterfront oasis with lagoons, creeks and a natural mangrove forest that inhabits 58 species of birds including pink flamingos. Ras Al-Khaimah is the northern most emirate and also the most picturesque with local archaeological sites dating back since 5,000 BC. Unlike most of the cities in the UAE, this up and coming area is surrounded by sea, rugged mountains, red desert dunes, fertile plains and thermal springs.
On the east coast, backed by the imposing and barren slopes of the Hajar Mountains you’ll find the emirate of Fujairah. On offer are stunning turquoise beaches and spectacular diving, abundant with marine life in the deep waters of the Gulf of Oman. Mountains plunging directly into the sea provide impressive cave systems for the more experienced diver to enjoy. Other popular sights include the Fujairah Fort, Fujairah Museum with archaeological finds revealing more than 3,500 years of settlement in the area and the spectator sport of bull butting, a popular event that has been held in the area for centuries.
