The United Arab Emirates are located in the Middle East, on the southeastern tip of the Arabian Peninsula between Oman and Saudi Arabia. The UAE has more than seven million people with over 200 ethnicities and nationalities making up its population, yet Emiratis make up around only 11% of this number. Most Emiratis live in Abu Dhabi, Dubai and Sharjah, but there are also small communities across the other emirates. You don’t need to be an Emirati to visit the UAE, though! With so many interesting places to visit in the United Arab Emirates, anyone can find something they love in this country.
1) Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque
Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is one of the most popular tourist attractions in Dubai. The mosque is perched atop a hill and it has an intricate design that was inspired by traditional Arabic geometric patterns. It can accommodate 45,000 worshipers at any given time and has breathtaking views of the city below. Visitors are free to enter anytime.
2) Marina Mall
Marina Mall is an indoor shopping mall with more than 230 international stores and shops. It’s spread out over four floors and has a diverse selection of luxury brands, restaurants, theaters, and a ten screen cinema.
3) Dubai Museum
This museum looks at Emirati culture, society and history. It is part of the Dubai Museum Park that features a zoo, palm-tree maze and an IMAX theatre. Visitors can stroll through interactive exhibits that tell the story of UAE life.
4) Deira Souq
Deira Souq is the largest fresh produce market in Dubai. It’s a good place to buy spices, fruit, vegetables and meat for an authentic Emirati experience. Located on the coastal side of Dubai Creek at Bur Dubai, it has a maze of alleys with small shops selling every imaginable item including carpets, housewares and clothing. When visiting, be sure to bargain as this is how you will get the best deals.
5) Burj Khalifa
Located on Sheikh Zayed Road, this is the world’s tallest building. This popular tourist destination offers an excellent vantage point for taking photographs and viewing Dubai from above. Visitors can access the 154th floor with a ticket which includes a visit to the observation deck and an IMAX theatre. The tower also has one of Dubai’s best restaurants, Altitude Bistro.
6) Dragon Mart
One of the most popular and frequented places within Abu Dhabi, this modern shopping mall is home to a wide array of retailers. Whether you’re looking for international fashion brands or traditional Arabic shops, Dragon Mart is sure to have what you’re looking for.
Since there are more than 300 stores that line its malls, visitors are sure to never be bored here.
7) Jumeirah Mosque
Often considered one of the most beautiful mosques in Dubai, Jumeirah Mosque is a stunning mosque that can be found between Oud Metha and Al Karama. It features a range of beautifully illuminated domes and marbled flooring. As one of Dubai’s oldest and most sacred buildings, it has been witness to some significant historical events over the years.
8) Abu Dhabi City Center
Located on Al Reem Island, Abu Dhabi City Center is a mixed-use project that is currently being developed by Invest AD. The space will include world-class retail and food and beverage outlets, luxury hotels, offices, apartments and a mixed-use cultural destination. Abu Dhabi City Center has been designed as an extension of Sheikh Zayed Road, allowing easy access from Dubai World Trade Centre.
9) Wild Wadi Water Park
No one can resist a visit to Wild Wadi, which is one of the top places to visit in Dubai. Although not as big as other water parks around the world, this water park has some incredible attractions that you will love. The most notable is ‘the Creeks,’ where you can ride different types of slides like Mega Wedgie and Cyclone or twist your way through obstacles on Sinister Splash.
10) Yas Island
Yas Island is home to one of the most popular tourist attractions, Ferrari World Abu Dhabi. If you’re looking for a place with tons of things to do, then Yas Island might be a good choice. You can check out thrill rides like roller coasters and inverting rides at Sky Tower or get up close and personal with lions, tigers, bears…you know the drill!