17 Best Places To Visit In United Arab Emirates - Updated 2024

best places to visit in u.a.e
Manjiri
Manjiri 
Updated
| 7 min read

The United Arab Emirates is a country in Western Asia that is known for its phenomenal development, legendary beach resorts, iconic high-rises, and outstanding shopping venues. Tourists flock to this fascinating destination for city breaks and family holidays. Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, and Ras al-Khaimah are only some of the famous places that greet travelers worldwide. Besides skyscrapers, sandy shores, and shopping venues, UAE has many cultural landmarks that may interest you. History buffs can learn about Bedouin history and explore noteworthy forts. Nature lovers would love exploring the desert as the cities end and trekking to the jagged peaks of Hajar Mountains. So, if you can’t wait planning your upcoming holidays, learning about some worth-visiting places here will add charm to your excursion. Read on to find out about the best places to visit in the United Arab Emirates.

1. Dubai (from USD 47.2)

best places to visit in u.a.e | dubai

Widely popular for luxury shopping, ultramodern architecture, and lavish resorts, Dubai is a world-famous city and emirate in the UAE. Make sure you visit Burj Khalifa, a soaring 830-meter (2,723-foot) tower dominating the skyline. Watch the spectacular Dubai Fountain at its foot. Offshore, you can find artificial islands. Among them are the Palm Islands, where Atlantis The Palm is nestled, an amazing resort with a marine park.

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Dubai: Half-Day City Tour with Blue Mosque, Creek and Souks

Duration: 4.0 to 4.5 hour

2249 reviews

2. Ajman

Ajman corniche mosque. - panoramio
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Mahmoud Farrag used under CC BY 3.0

Nestled on the fringe of the Arabian Gulf, with 16 kilometers (9.94 miles) of sprawling shoreline, Ajman is the smallest of the seven emirates. It is famous for its enchanting beaches and picturesque beauty. Ajman is a rapidly growing business hub and is also known for several options, such as museums, shopping complexes, a fort, and beaches. Tourists look forward to visiting for a sunny vacation. Al Zorah Nature Reserve, Ajman Museum, and Ajman’s Corniche are some of the landmarks that you should not miss while you’re here.

Ajman

Address: United Arab Emirates

Website: Ajman

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3. Sharjah (from USD 58.0)

Famous as the nation’s cultural capital and the Pearl of the Gulf, Sharjah is on the Arabian Gulf. This city is known to be more conservative and traditional than Dubai. Sharjah is home to 19th-century Sharjah Fort, which is a former royal residence that has been turned into a local history museum. Do not miss viewing the magnificent King Faisal Mosque as well.

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Sharjah City Sightseeing Tour - The Pearl of the Gulf

Duration: 4 hours 30 minutes

66 reviews

4. Sir Bani Yas

Sir Bani Yas -Sandgasell o strut
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Losttraveller used under CC BY-SA 3.0

If you are a wildlife enthusiast, do not miss visiting Sir Bani Yas Island, which is a part of the UAE’s Al Gharbia region. It is home to the Arabian Wildlife Park, where you can find several cheetahs, gazelles, and giraffes roaming. In addition to this, you can find several archaeological sites here, which include the ruins of a Christian monastery dating back to ancient times. Sir Bani Yas Island’s interiors are defined by salt dome hills. Explore beautiful beaches, a shipwreck, and sea kayak routes along its coast.

Sir Bani Yas

Address: Abu Dhabi - United Arab Emirates

Website: Sir Bani Yas

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5. Al Ain (from USD 165.0)

best places to visit in u.a.e | al ain

An inland oasis located on the eastern border, Al Ain is a wonderful place to explore during your sabbatical in the UAE. It is famous as the Garden City, as it is home to pleasant groves and natural springs. Watch interesting artifacts at the Al Ain National Museum while here. If you are a history buff, visit Bronze Age remains, which include tombs on the soaring Jebel Hafeet, a breathtaking mountain to the south. Also, plan to visit Al Hili Archaeological Park.

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From Dubai: Al Ain City Tour

Duration: 8.0 hour

1 review

6. Kalba

Kalba Vishnu q
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Vishnu9934 used under CC BY-SA 4.0

Are you a nature lover visiting the UAE? If yes, make sure you visit Kalba, a wonderful city in the Emirate of Sharjah. It is home to Khor Kalba, a prominent nature reserve and the oldest mangrove swamp in Arabia, which is also home to two of the rarest birds in the world. Plan to visit a restored “hisn” (fort), which is a historic former royal residence. Stroll along the serene seaside promenade. Do not miss visiting the Kalba Bird of Prey Center and watch beautiful falcons in flight.

Kalba

Address: United Arab Emirates

Website: Kalba

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7. Umm al-Quwain (from USD 93.65)

best places to visit in u.a.e | umm al-quwain
Source: www.klook.com

Sitting on the Arabian Gulf, Umm al-Quwain is one of the emirates. Plan to visit the UAQ National Museum, which is present in a centuries-old fort in the old town area of the peninsula. Close by, you can find Al Sinniyah Island, which is a haven for amazing seabirds and sits in a protected lagoon. Take your kids to Dreamland Aqua Park to glide down the waterslides and splash water in the pools.

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Umm Al Quwain Night Trip & Crab Hunting from Dubai - Klook

Duration: 6hrsDuration

8. Palm Islands

Palm Island Resort
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Commander Leroy C... used under PUBLIC DOMAIN

Situated on the coast of Dubai, Palm Islands are three incredible artificial islands, namely, Palm Jumeirah, Palm Jebel Ali, and Deira Island. The creation of these unique islands commenced in 2001. Palm Jumeirah has only been completed, and it resembles a palm tree adorned by a crescent on the top. It is home to lavish resorts, such as Jumeirah Zabeel Saray, Atlantis The Palm, and many more. You can also sail around this island in a speedboat or yacht, or go for the thrilling experience of skydiving.

Palm Islands

Address: Dubai - United Arab Emirates

Website: Palm Islands

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9. Mina Jebel Ali

Jebel Ali Sailing Club 2012 - panoramio
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Валерий Дед used under CC BY 3.0

Famous as a big business hub and commercial port, Mina Jebel Ali is a prominent town in the UAE, located on the southern outskirts of Dubai. Explore Sandy Jebel Ali Beach, which you can find near the bustling harbor. The Arabian Gulf’s waters are abundant in marine life and also have submerged wrecks. Enjoy the fun of diving and playing golf, as this area is home to dive centers and a golf resort. Ghantoot Racing and Polo Club, close by in Abu Dhabi, hosts events and tournaments that are open to the public.

Mina Jebel Ali

Address: Dubai - United Arab Emirates

Website: Mina Jebel Ali

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10. Masdar City


A famous planned city, Masdar City in Abu Dhabi is one of the most sustainable urban communities on the globe. It is also known as Green Oasis or Green Ghost Town. This outstanding city is made up of a speedily progressing clean-tech cluster; a residential neighborhood comprising shops, public green areas, and restaurants; and a business-free zone. Spend a relaxing time in its public green spaces and shop for your favorite things at shopping venues here.

Masdar City

Address: Abu Dhabi - United Arab Emirates

Website: Masdar City

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11. Hatta (from USD 29.95)

hatta
Source: www.klook.com

Include Hatta, a spectacular exclave of Dubai, in your itinerary during your holidays to the UAE. It’s presently high in the incredible Hajar Mountains. Visit centuries-old Hatta Heritage Village, which features stone houses having palm-frond roofs, a defensive tower, and a noteworthy traditional water system. Among the other exhibits you can view are traditional weapons, crockery, and furniture. In the vicinity of Hatta Dam, you can find Hatta Reservoir Visitor Point, which overlooks green water-filled pools.

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Hatta Heritage Village and Desert Tour from Dubai - Klook

Duration: 6hrsDuration

12. Khor Fakkan

The View on the Khor Fakkan Container Port
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Iwona Rege used under CC BY-SA 4.0

Well-known as one of the leading container transshipment ports in the world, Khor Fakkan is in the Gulf of Oman in the UAE. This port town centers on Khor Fakkan Bay and is home to a deep-sea port and the famous Khor Fakkan Beach. Go for walking along the promenade, which runs along the seafront, with the marvelous Hajar Mountains in the backdrop. If you are a history buff, visit the archaeological sites here, such as a ruined Portuguese fort and ancient graves. In the west of this town, you can find Wadi Wurayah, which is a biodiverse mountain area adorned by natural pools and waterfalls.

Khor Fakkan

Address: Sharjah - United Arab Emirates

Website: Khor Fakkan

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13. Al Jazirah Al Hamra

Al Jazirah Al Hamra Fort
Source: Photo by Wikimedia Commons user Marko used under CC BY-SA 4.0

Based in the south of Ras al-Khaimah City, Al Jazirah Al Hamra is the last authentic traditional town still rooted in the UAE. It is famous for its abandoned houses and other structures. This town depicts an undisturbed picture of settlement, before the outstanding discovery of oil, which is preserved till date. You can find traditional landmarks here, such as a fortress for defense purposes, a variety of houses, a small market, and mosques.

Al Jazirah Al Hamra

Address: Ras al-Khaimah - United Arab Emirates

Website: Al Jazirah Al Hamra

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14. Al Dhaid


Situated in the center of Sharjah’s hinterland, Al Dhaid is a city in the UAE that is quite popular for its date plantations and fruit farms. It is abundant in vegetables and fruits, such as strawberries, mangoes, guavas, and limes. In the south, you can find a rugged outcrop of Fossil Rock amid spectacular ochre dunes of sand. Do not miss watching races at Camel Race Track, and shop till you drop at the Friday market near the village of Masafi.

Al Dhaid

Address: Sharjah - United Arab Emirates

Website: Al Dhaid

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15. Ras al-Khaimah (from USD 155.0)

ras al-khaimah

Recognized for its beautiful Arabian Gulf beaches, Ras al-Khaimah is an emirate located in the northeast of the UAE. This emirate’s capital city is famous by the same name, and it is popular for the National Museum of Ras al-Khaimah in a centuries-old fort. Watch archaeological exhibits and learn about regional history in the museum. Visit the mountaintop Dhayah Fort of the 19th century. In the vicinity, you can also find the big traditional Mohammed bin Salem Mosque.

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Ras al Khaimah 5-Hour City Tour

Duration: 5 hour

18 reviews

16. Fujairah (from USD 199.0)

Situated on the east coast of the UAE, Fujairah is a spectacular emirate that you should include in your travel schedule. It is popular for its beautiful beaches and the jaw-dropping Hajar Mountains, a mountain range that runs through most of this location. Fujairah Fort, which is a remodeled 17th-century fortress known for its round and square towers, overlooks this scenic city. Shop for wonderful things in the market of Fujairah. Then see to it that you visit Fujairah Museum too.

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Full day Fujairah city Tour

Duration: 8 hours

1 review

17. Abu Dhabi (from USD 63.0)

World-famous as the capital of the UAE, Abu Dhabi is a worth-visiting city during your vacations. It is home to the vast Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, which is the third biggest mosque on the globe. Make sure you visit the contemporary parts of this amazing city, including Ferrari World and Yas Island. Shop till you drop at outstanding shopping mega centers here, such as Marina Mall and Abu Dhabi Mall.

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Abu Dhabi Full Day City with Grand Mosque Visit , Ferrari World Stop

Duration: 8 hours

Enrich your travel experience exploring the UAE

UAE is an incredible destination to visit during your holidays. Ranging from museums, historic and archaeological sites, artificial islands, adventurous activities, water parks, theme parks, to luxurious shopping venues, the UAE has everything that any traveler would look for in a splendid vacation. So hurry up, pack your bags, and set out to explore these best places to visit in the United Arab Emirates.

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Any must-sees we missed? Tell us about them in the comments section or write a post here to help out fellow travelers!
Disclosure: Trip101 selects the listings in our articles independently. Some of the listings in this article contain affiliate links.

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Manjiri Kochrekar is a travel blogger from India. She loves exploring and learning various destinations, their history, culture, and peculiarities. Writing is her passion, which means she enjoys...Read more

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