The United Arab Emirates

The United Arab Emirates, an Arabian peninsula nation uniting a federation of 7 emirates, sits at the bottom of the Persian Gulf. As a land renowned all over the world for its extravagance and wonders, the UAE flaunts the tallest building in the world (Burj Khalifa), the first 7-star hotel (Burj Al Arab), the largest artificial island (Palm Jumeirah), the largest choreographed fountain (Dubai Fountain), the palace from Aladdin (Sheikh Zayed Mosque), and an amalgam of other outrageously extravagant attractions.

Some of my fondest memories were formed in the United Arab Emirates. I lived here, worked here, adventured here, and made lifelong friends here. Even in this foreign world of sand, skyscrapers, and stunning sites, you can find many kindred spirits hailing from all corners of the globe. Welcome to the land of oil, money, and kings.

Click for some interesting facts about the UAE

Each of the 7 emirates (Abu Dhabi, Ajman, Fujairah, Sharjah, Dubai, Ras Al Khaimah, and Umm Al Quwain) is presided over by an emir—the ruler of the land. One emir from one of the 7 emirates is elected to be president.
Islam is the official (and widely practiced) religion.
Adultery, premarital sex, pregnancy outside of marriage, and consumption of alcohol are punishable offenses. The penalty varies from the imprisonment of up to one year, deportation, or even flogging^[1]. Tourists tend to have an easier time, but the rules apply strictly to citizens and expatriates.
As of 2019, polygamy is completely legal, allowing a man to have up to four wives at one time (provided he has the financial and physical means to treat them equally)^[2] .
There is a zero-tolerance policy towards drugs, whether you are a tourist or resident. Punishment will be severe. Be extra careful with prescription drugs—some, while legal in your country, might not be legal in the UAE.
Arabic is the official language. However, due to heavy Western influence, English is widely spoken as well.
Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque (the one that looks like Aladdin’s palace) is named after the first president.
It took over three years to build the Burj Al Arab hotel, but it took less time to build the hotel itself.
To encourage Emirati marriages, a “marriage fund” of approximately 70,000 AED is bestowed on the newlyweds (if both partners are UAE citizens and of sufficiently low income). It is encouraged that the couple invests in their future—or a kickass honeymoon.
Less than 20% of the population are Emiratis. There are more Indians than there are Emiratis^[3].

Destination Overview: Quick Summary

Destinations

(Click the buttons below)

Dubai Abu Dhabi World Expo 2020

Top Attractions

Burj Khalifa
Dubai Fountain
Palm Jumeirah
Sheikh Zayed Mosque

Adventurous Activities

Skydive Dubai
Exotic Water Activities
Desert Safari
Al Forsan Sports Resort

Cost	Food	Popularity
$$$$$	★★★★★	♥ ♥ ♥ ♥ ♥
Unique Considerations
1) 2020 World Expo 2) Culture 3) Airlines

Note: The quick summary lists the top or major attractions/activities. Click on the respective city to see even more attractions specific to that city. The “Related Content” section at the very bottom of the page provides additional information as well.

Currency
The country’s currency is the United Arab Emirates Dirham (AED).

Currency Converter

Dirham (AED)
Communication
Arabic is the common tongue in the UAE, but English is widely spoken as well.

Arabic and English
Climate
The climate in the UAE is basically variations of heat—with the summers being the hottest, and the winter being the least hot.

Hot with a chance of more heat

Reasons to Go

There is a diverse range of entertainment options, from the familiar and banal to the exotic and adventurous
The luxuries are abundant and oftentimes outrageous.
World-renowned attractions are interspersed throughout the country.
Click the link above for more specific reasons to go.

Reasons NOT to Go

The country is expensive and not accommodating to backpackers^[1].
It’s hot as fuck during the summer and hot in general^[2].
You think you might have a problem with this country’s culturally conservative code of conduct.

[1] Although there are free attractions, many others still cost some money. Hostels are also very uncommon.

[2] No, seriously. Summer is the best time to go, but it’s fucking hot. This country is literally in a desert.

Destination Overview: Detailed Information

Cost ($$$$) — The UAE flaunts some of the most extravagant attractions and luxuries that are known all over the world. And you get to experience all of it—for the low price of an arm (and maybe a leg).

Country’s currency: United Arab Emirates Dirham (AED).
Currency Converter

All kidding aside, there is a massive misconception that the UAE is an exorbitantly expensive destination. To clarify, the luxurious attractions are expensive—and this is where the expensive image comes from. But ludicrous luxuries are what the country is known for, so they would obviously be expensive. One can still have a very good time, but careful saving and planning are required for this destination. It is still above average in terms of expense. This is mostly due to the wide assortment of incredible attractions, activities, and adventures that you should check out. As an added bonus, shopping is tax-free.

Transportation

In general, transportation is inexpensive since a large portion of the world’s oil is from here. The government also subsidizes most fuel costs. Even if this policy was to be discontinued, gas prices would still be lower here overall.

Walking to places is difficult since Dubai is built around major highways. Furthermore, it’s hot outside.
Uber operates in Dubai but it does not operate in Abu Dhabi. I recommend using Uber whenever you can (especially when you have a group).
Benchmark: A taxi ride would cost about 350-400 AED from Abu Dhabi to Dubai—a distance of 140 km or 87.5.
Public Transportation: 8—10x cheaper. Naturally, public transportation is significantly less costly.

Accomodation

For a notoriously expensive country such as this, the accommodation costs are rather reasonable—both in Abu Dhabi and Dubai (even in peak months like July).

Rooms: Rooms with double beds realistically cost around 140 AED upwards while rooms with single beds are only slightly cheaper. Hostels are not that common here.
Atlantis’s Underwater Suites: If you have fat stacks or mad cash, you can certainly book some outrageously extravagant accommodations. Atlantis, for example, has underwater suites for 15,000+ AED.

Food

Although you can definitely get quality meals for lower price tags, food can be reasonably or exorbitantly priced depending on your taste. Finding places to cook can also be difficult, especially when hostels (that usually provide a kitchen) are rare.

The food will likely cost you 100 AED per day (assuming you eat three meals) when you are planning to eat out often. Naturally, fast food options will be even cheaper.
Alcohol is very expensive in this country. A simple beer can easily cost 30 AED, while a fancy drink can cost as much as your hotel stay. Do not forget that alcohol is illegal once taken outside of their designated premises.

Attractions/Activities

This is where most of the cost is. Go big or go home. Either you sleep in Atlantis’s Neptune Underwater Suite or you sleep outside. Just kidding. The attractions are covered in a detailed attraction section below. This is not a comprehensive list of attractions, but it does cover most of what the country is known for. These are attractions that you should not miss.

Important: Make sure to check out the specific city within the UAE (by clicking the respective button in the Destinations section) or the specific posts. You will find even more specific details on attractions, activities, and adventures there.

General Advice

Although I rarely ever say this, I do not recommend solo traveling in this country for the following reasons:

Transportation and accommodation costs cannot be significantly reduced enough to warrant solo travel.
As mentioned, hostels are not very common—and, even then, they are not that much cheaper.

I can honestly say that, despite the best of efforts, you will likely run over budget. This is mainly due to surprise factors. You may come across an amazing attraction, remarkable restaurant, or spectacular site that you did not account for—and you will likely break your budget because of it. This is alright. Such surprises are very common in the United Arab Emirates. Do not feel guilty about it, because it very well could be the experience of a lifetime. They really do go all out here when it comes to attractions, adventures, and all-around fun.

Food (★★★★) — The justification for a four-star rating is dependent on the following main criteria:

Quality/Cost – Even though the food is often delicious, the cost is higher than average. The quality/cost for the UAE is, therefore, average—mostly due to cost. As a result, this warrants a 3-star rating on its own—average.

Diversity – The diversity of the food is quite exceptional—representative of many cultures and countries—so you are likely to find a great meal to your liking. This criterion gives the rating 1 extra star—for a total of four stars.

Food Safety – There is no concern regarding food safety (although the usual caution is advised for street vendors). Since safe to eat food is obviously expected anywhere, a star is not awarded and can only be deducted.

Popularity (♥♥) — Relative to other countries, the UAE is not a very popular destination. Many people still think that Dubai is a country, so the two hearts rating is justified. Furthermore, most of the visitors arrive via layovers, so their stays are relatively short.

Unique Considerations — There are a couple of specific things to consider before heading to the United Arab Emirates.

2020 World Expo
The 2020 World Expo—a large international exhibition designed to showcase the achievement of nations—will be hosted in Dubai, UAE (the first Middle Eastern country to host). It is scheduled to open on 10/20/2020 and expected to last 6 months. With about 190 countries participating in one of the most incredible destinations in the world, this is the event of a lifetime.
Conservative Culture
The UAE is still quite conservative by most Western standards. Do not take alcohol outside of established zones—hotels, bars, restaurants, and clubs. Do not spit on the ground, swear, or make rude gestures at others in public. Do not dress inappropriately in or near places of worship (i.e no booty shorts, ripped jeans, or sexy attire that reveal a lot of skin). Refrain from performing acts of extreme sexiness in public (although public displays of affection are generally ok for tourists, I’d limit or avoid it). Do not get caught with drugs (unless you enjoy spending time in prison, of course).
UAE’s Unique Airlines
The three Gulf Carriers—Etihad, Qatar Airways, and Emirates—are some of the best airlines in the world. Not only do these airlines benefit from the low fuel prices of the region, but they also receive federal subsidies. As a result, they provide top quality service at a reasonable price. Consider flying with them when given the chance.

Attractions

For many of the attractions, reservations and/or tours can be booked at getyourguide.com. However, the buttons (within the Quick Summary section above) will direct you to specific destination guides where you will obtain comprehensive and more specific information.

Attractions

For many of the attractions, reservations and/or tours can be booked at getyourguide.com. However, the buttons (within the Quick Summary section above) will direct you to specific destination guides where you will obtain comprehensive and more specific information.

Burj Khalifa

Burj Khalifa, Dubai, United Arab Emirates The Burj Khalifa, as it stands, is the tallest building in the world at 2722 feet (829.8 meters). As the most famous attraction of the UAE, this skyscraper is a pinnacle of architectural achievement. The views are incredible—day or night. Costs vary from 140 AED to several times that depending on whether or not you want to go higher (124th & 125th vs 148th floor). You can make Burj Khalifa reservations here.

Dubai Fountain

The Dubai Fountain, inaugurated in 2009 and situated near the Burj Khalifa, is the largest choreographed fountain system in the world. With over 6000 lights and 50 color projectors, it can shoot 22,000 gallons (83,000 liters) of water up to 500 feet (152.4 meters) while playing a combination of classical and contemporary music (Example: Thriller and I Will Always Love You). Seeing it is free.

Palm Jumeirah

The Palm Jumeirah—an island resembling a palm tree on the Jumeirah coast—is the world’s largest artificial island. It is approximately 3.1 miles (5 km) from base to tip. Known for its glamorous hotels, extravagant restaurants, beautiful beaches, wild nightclubs, and infinity pools, the Palm Jumeirah is a top destination in Dubai. Visiting the island itself is free, but everything else will cost quite a bit.

Burj Al Arab

The Burj Al Arab—a building resembling a sail of a ship—is the world’s first 7-star hotel, standing on an artificial island connected to the mainland by a bridge. While the hotel has received acclaim for its state-of-the-art construction and technology, it also drew criticism labeling the monument a triumph of money over practicality. Admission requires a reservation for a room, restaurant, bar, or café.

Sheikh Zayed Mosque

Sheikh Zayed Mosque—named after the UAE’s first president—is the largest mosque in the country and a key place of worship. It also resembles Aladdin’s palace. Visitors should wear appropriate attire when visiting the mosque. Basically, try to show the least amount of skin possible (i.e. lay off the booty shorts, crop tops, ripped jeans, and sexy attire).

Adventurous Activities

For many activities, reservations and/or tours can be booked at getyourguide.com. However, the buttons (within the Quick Summary section above) will direct you to specific destination guides where you will obtain comprehensive and more specific information.

Skydive Dubai
1699 AED+
Experience the thrill of a lifetime by participating in a tandem skydive over the Desert Campus or Palm Dropzone.
Exotic Water Activities
Variable
Engage in a variety of exotic water activities such as flyboarding, kite surfing, and yatch riding, among others.
Al Forsan International Sports Resort
50-400+ AED
Explore a world class facility while partaking in a variety of sports (go-kart racing, wakeboarding, and paintballing, among others).
Desert Safari
250 AED+
Immerse yourself into the world of sand and ride off into the sunset on a camel or vehicle during a desert safari adventure.

Adventurous Activities

For many activities, reservations and/or tours can be booked at getyourguide.com. However, the buttons (within the Quick Summary section above) will direct you to specific destination guides where you will obtain comprehensive and more specific information.

Skydive Dubai

Experience the thrill of a lifetime by participating in a tandem skydive over the Desert Campus or Palm Dropzone.

Exotic Water Activities

Engage in a variety of exotic water activities such as flyboarding, kite surfing, and yatch riding, among others.

Al Forsan International Sports Resort

Explore a world class facility while partaking in a variety of sports (go-kart racing, wakeboarding, and paintballing, among others).

Desert Safari

Immerse yourself into the world of sand and ride off into the sunset on a camel or vehicle during a desert safari adventure.

Final Comments

Although I am not against visiting the UAE as a stopover/layover trip, I still recommend taking some time to enjoy the view. Many of the country’s attractions rank among the greatest in the world—and those are just the most famous attractions.

Instead of rushing and trying to check off items from some bucket list, take your time. Be in the moment. Many of these attractions might not hold their titles forever. At least you can tell others that you were truly there during a time when these attractions reigned as the kings of their kind.

And even though the UAE is not as expensive as it’s made out to be, I highly recommend that you visit this country with a flexible budget and an open mind. There might be something wonderful but slightly costly that you did not account for.

As one example, a tandem jump over the Palm Jumeirah will cost about 2199 AED. That amount could possibly cover hotels for one to two weeks in Dubai. But there is a reason why the experience commands that price—it’s completely worth it. Your full experience will include the jump, video, photos (stored in an “adrenaline drive”), and the view of a lifetime. My first skydive was in Dubai, and I loved the experience so much that I decided to pursue a license.

Perhaps you will fall in love with kite surfing, swimming with dolphins, going on desert safaris, or any other adventurous activities. Maybe you might even enjoy a few yacht rides—whatever floats your boat.

On a final note, make sure to share this page so others will know about the incredible United Arab Emirates!

The United Arab Emirates

Destination Overview: Quick Summary

Destinations

Top Attractions

Adventurous Activities

Currency

Dirham (AED)

Communication

Arabic and English

Climate

Hot with a chance of more heat

Reasons to Go

Reasons NOT to Go

Destination Overview: Detailed Information

2020 World Expo

Conservative Culture

UAE’s Unique Airlines

Attractions

Attractions

Adventurous Activities

Adventurous Activities

Final Comments

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