Today, we will discuss the elements of tourism in the UAE, the ancient Arab country that has managed to emerge from isolation and become one of the most important economies in the Arab East. It has become a global commercial hub, accommodating all nationalities and religions with a great sense of understanding, tolerance, and freedom. Despite its conservative nature, it is one of the most liberal countries in the Gulf.
In addition to its unique geographical location on the eastern part of the Arabian Peninsula and its coastline on the Arabian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman, the UAE enjoys a moderate desert climate most of the time.
You will find a fantastic variety of tourist attractions in the seven emirates of the UAE, encompassing historical, entertainment, commercial, and beach destinations. They offer all the ingredients of international tourism combined with an authentic Arab heritage that has never been forsaken, providing you with endless opportunities for entertainment, enjoyment, and cultural experiences. Undoubtedly, the UAE is a regional hub for integrated global tourism.
Important tourist cities in the UAE
Dubai
Dubai is a marvel of tourism, a pearl of the Gulf, and a treasure trove of cultural and historical heritage that attracts millions of tourists from all over the world. When you visit Dubai, you will find a blend of modern architecture, hotels, markets, commercial centers, mosques, and unique landmarks.
Tourism in Dubai starts from the sky, descending to the ground to marvel at its iconic landmarks specially designed to make it the capital of Asian and global tourism. It has become a tourist advertisement for many famous American cinema movies. Dubai's tourist attractions have developed remarkably, combining the old and the new to suit all your tourism preferences. Whatever you aspire to experience, you will find it in Dubai.
Top 3 attractions in Dubai
1. Burj Khalifa
Opened in 2010, Burj Khalifa is a global inspiration for visitors due to its unique combination of art, innovative design, and architectural brilliance. It is the tallest building in the world, reaching a height of 828 meters and was designed with a three-part base inspired by the lily flower.
2. The Dubai Mall and the Dancing Fountain
The Dubai Mall offers a shopping experience like no other, with an area of 2 million square meters and 200 stores selling both local and international brands. It also houses various entertainment facilities, including an ice rink, Dubai Aquarium, cinemas, and the KidZania entertainment center for children. Outside the mall is the iconic Dancing Fountain, one of the longest choreographed fountains in the world.
3. Palm Jumeirah
Palm Jumeirah, a unique architectural icon, is the first human-made island and houses several houses, restaurants, malls, hotels, and luxurious tourist resorts in Dubai.
Abu Dhabi
Abu Dhabi is truly distinctive among the seven emirates, each having its own unique character. Abu Dhabi, being the capital and largest emirate, plays a key role in the economic development of the UAE. Its tourism is characterized by a rich mix of modern and traditional landmarks and a wide range of highly distinctive recreational facilities.
With a coastline stretching 700 kilometers, Abu Dhabi offers numerous safe beaches and entertainment islands, along with an 8-kilometer-long Corniche, lined with restaurants, cafes, bike lanes, historical sites, and museums that serve as cultural platforms.
Top 3 attractions in Abu Dhabi
1- Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque
Not only one of Abu Dhabi's most important landmarks but also one of the most famous tourist attractions in the UAE in general, Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is an architectural masterpiece both inside and out. It is one of the largest religious architectural structures, blending various Islamic architectural styles. The mosque boasts 80 domes, 1,000 columns, and four minarets, each about 106 meters tall, with a capacity to accommodate around 40,000 worshipers, making it one of the largest mosques in the world.
Inside the mosque, you'll find the world's largest hand-woven carpet, along with luxurious decorations featuring natural marble, glass artworks, and 24-carat gold-plated chandeliers, including one of the largest chandeliers in the world hanging in the main prayer hall.
2- Yas Island
One of the most famous tourist islands in the UAE and a key destination for families, Yas Island offers joy and inspiration for all ages, whether seeking adventure and excitement or peace and relaxation. The island is a world of diverse activities and events, including music concerts, theater performances, and thrilling sports events.
Yas Island is home to several entertainment cities, including Ferrari World Abu Dhabi, Yas Waterworld, Yas Marina, Yas Links, and more, as well as hotels, beach activities, malls, and restaurants.
3- Louvre Abu Dhabi
A prominent tourist spot in the UAE for history and culture enthusiasts, Louvre Abu Dhabi is a world-class museum in the Arab world and a leading cultural destination. It reflects universal human values through a partnership between the UAE and France. The museum, inaugurated in 2007, is located on Saadiyat Island and features an impressive architectural design, particularly its dome with an approximately 180-meter width and 8 floors with perforations that create a beautiful interplay of sunlight.
Louvre Abu Dhabi offers breathtaking views of the Gulf and houses around 23 permanent galleries displaying unique Islamic and global artifacts spanning various historical eras. The museum also includes a research center, a children's museum, special exhibition spaces, restaurants, and shops.
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Sharjah
In Sharjah, tourist attractions revolve around culture and beach tourism. The city's history dates back over 6,000 years, and it boasts numerous museums and heritage sites. Being situated along the Arabian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman, Sharjah also features stunning beaches, making it an enjoyable destination for culture and leisure combined.
Top 3 landmarks in Sharjah
1- Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilization
Located across from the Sharjah Corniche, this cultural landmark covers an area of 6,000 square meters. The museum was built in 1987 with stones brought from Britain, and it houses nearly 5,000 unique Islamic artifacts from various Islamic countries, displayed in six main exhibition halls.
2- Central Souq
Also known as the Islamic Souq, this renowned shopping destination maintains its traditional and Islamic design. It consists of two buildings with two floors each, connected by an internal passage. The souq offers a variety of merchandise, including antiques, carpets, clothing, and gold, making it an ideal place to buy souvenirs.
3- Sharjah Aquarium
A prominent recreational attraction, Sharjah Aquarium attracts marine life enthusiasts with its impressive display of marine creatures in water tanks, highlighting the mysterious marine environment of the UAE. The aquarium is located in the Al Khan area, adjacent to the Sharjah Maritime Museum, and offers additional facilities like a cafe, shops, a prayer room, and free Wi-Fi.
