The United Arab Emirates is an enchanting nation positioned within the Center East, and it’s made up of seven distinct emirates. Every one has its personal distinctive panorama and points of interest whereas sharing a mutual tradition. From the cosmopolitan metropolis of Dubai to the scenic mountains of Ras Al Khaimah, this information gives an outline of all seven emirates and what makes them stand out from one another.
The UAE is a small nation that as an entire share an Emirati tradition, with comparable traditions and meals. The variation between areas is extra the pure panorama and Dubai out of all of the Emirates is exclusive as a consequence of its big expatriate inhabitants which dwarfs the native Emirati inhabitants.
We’ve included the distinctive points of interest of every emirate. For those who select to go to a museum or do a cultural expertise in one of many Emirates, one can find many similarities to different Emirates. We hope this information helps you uncover all that the United Arab Emirates has to supply!
Get pleasure from your keep and have a beautiful time exploring these superb emirates.
Overview of the United Arab Emirates
The United Arab Emirates is made up of seven emirates: Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain, Ras Al Khaimah, and Fujairah. Collectively they type a singular nation with one thing to supply everybody.
- Abu Dhabi: The capital of the UAE and the biggest Emirate by way of measurement.
- Dubai: Essentially the most well-known Emirate with the biggest inhabitants
- Sharjah: Usually known as the Cultural Capital of the UAE, Sharjah has a wealthy historical past, and its archaeological websites
- Ajman: This smallest Emirate is thought for its enjoyable ambiance and its conventional souks (markets).
- Umm Al Quwain: Umm Al Quwain is the least populated and most rural of the Emirates
- Ras Al Khaimah: This Emirate boasts a spectacular mountainous panorama with lush oases.
- Fujairah: This coastal emirate has a number of the nation’s greatest seashores and is thought for its pure magnificence.
Geographical Location
The United Arab Emirates lies within the southeast of the Arabian Peninsula and is bordered by Oman to the east and Saudi Arabia to the south. The nation’s complete space is roughly 83,600 sq. kilometers (32,300 sq mi) with a desert local weather.
Inhabitants & Tradition
The inhabitants of the UAE is estimated at 9.6 million (as of 2021), with Abu Dhabi and Dubai being essentially the most populous emirates.
The official language is Arabic, however English is broadly spoken in lots of elements of the nation. As for tradition, the UAE is a melting pot of various cultures coming collectively to type its distinctive identification. You’ll discover each Persian and Indian influences as a result of a few years of commerce together with migration.
Conventional Emirati Delicacies
The United Arab Emirates has a singular delicacies that’s influenced by Arabic, Indian, and Persian traditions. Conventional dishes embrace “machboos” (rice with spices and meat), “harees” (a dish produced from wheat and meat), and “chebab” (pancake).
Many of those dishes are shared throughout the UAE and even many dishes are comparable throughout the entire Arabian Gulf area.
Finest locations to strive Emirati meals:
Arabian Tea Home: Branches in Dubai & Sharjah, serving Emirati and Center Jap Dishes.
Al Fanar Restaurant & Café: Situated in Abu Dhabi, Dubai & Sharjah and provides a spread of Emirati dishes.
Skeek Restaurant: Situated in Ras Al Khaimah, focuses on fashionable Emirati delicacies.
Tawa Bakery: Primarily based in Abu Dhabi & Dubai this one is exclusive and provides Emirati plus different baked items gluten-free.
Native Customs & Traditions
A few of the customs and traditions discovered within the UAE embrace:
- Okayhushmak Greeting: The normal greeting within the UAE solely finished by males the place they contact noses collectively
- Khandura: Conventional gown for Emirati males that’s nonetheless worn at this time
- Abaya: The normal gown worn by ladies, can are available in many colours however is often black and like a protracted cloak.
- Eid: There are two Eids within the Islamic Calendar yr and each are massive holidays within the UAE.
Issues to concentrate on within the UAE
There are some things guests ought to take into account when visiting the UAE as it’s a Muslim nation. Resembling respecting traditions round clothes, not consuming alcohol in public, and avoiding public shows of affection.
Dubai is essentially the most liberal and westernized out of the entire Emirates so guidelines round modesty are much more relaxed right here however for different Emirates, you’ll need to be extra conscious of the foundations. Particularly Sharjah which tends to be one of many strictest, alcohol can also be unlawful in Sharjah.
In style occasions within the UAE
Abu Dhabi Grand Prix
The Abu Dhabi Grand Prix is an annual Method One race held within the capital metropolis of Abu Dhabi. Held since 2009, it has grow to be a well-liked occasion for residents and vacationers alike.
Dubai Obligation Free Tennis Championships
The Dubai Obligation-Free Tennis Championships is an annual event held in Dubai. It attracts a number of the world’s prime gamers and is likely one of the most prestigious occasions on the skilled tour.
Sharjah Gentle Pageant
The Sharjah Gentle Pageant is held yearly in December, that includes shows of sunshine artwork installations from all over the world. It has grow to be an more and more widespread occasion with guests coming from far and broad to witness the spectacular shows.
Dubai Cup
The Dubai Cup is an annual horse race that takes place within the metropolis of Dubai. It attracts a number of the world’s greatest horses and riders, making it a well-liked occasion the place everybody will get very dressed as much as attend.
New Years Eve
Dubai is thought globally for its New 12 months’s Eve celebrations the place you may witness fireworks throughout town at its many iconic points of interest reminiscent of Burj Khalifa, Burj Al Arab & Palm Jumeirah.
Abu Dhabi
The capital metropolis of the United Arab Emirates, Abu Dhabi is the biggest emirate by landmass and residential to a number of the most iconic landmarks within the nation. It options an array of contemporary points of interest reminiscent of Ferrari World and Yas Marina Circuit, in addition to conventional websites like Sheik Zayed Grand Mosque. There’s a lot to discover right here from museums to markets and from seashores to abandon safaris.
For those who fly into Dubai Airport, it’s simple to get to Abu Dhabi from Dubai. The journey takes round an hour or round an hour and a half if you happen to take the general public bus.
Key Landmarks and Sights in Abu Dhabi
- The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is likely one of the world’s largest and most spectacular mosques. Guests might be mesmerized by its majestic dome and complex particulars.
- Ferrari World Abu Dhabi is an amusement park that includes enjoyable rides and points of interest primarily based on the well-known Italian sports activities automobile producer Ferrari.
- Yas Marina Circuit is a Grand Prix racetrack, that hosts Method 1 and different worldwide motor races.
- Louvre Abu Dhabi is the primary of its variety within the area and showcases paintings from all over the world. Together with exhibitions.
- Warner Bros Abu Dhabi is an indoor theme park primarily based on the characters from the Warner Bros films.
- Qasr Al Watan is a palace that homes the places of work of the President of the UAE. Guests can discover its grand halls and be taught extra in regards to the historical past and tradition of the nation.
Dubai
Essentially the most populous emirate and the business heart of the UAE, Dubai is thought for its fashionable skyline, luxurious purchasing malls, and well-known artifical points of interest reminiscent of Palm Jumeirah, Burj Khalifa, and Dubai Mall what make it a nice vacation spot for a brief layover. It’s an very best vacation spot for expats in addition to seashore lovers with loads of sandy seashores and lodge resorts to discover.
Key Landmarks and Sights in Dubai
- Burj Khalifa is the world’s tallest constructing and provides spectacular views of town from its commentary decks on ranges 124th and a hundred and twenty fifth flooring.
- Palm Jumeirah is an iconic artifical archipelago and residential to a number of the most luxurious beachfront resorts on the planet together with the well-known Atlantis.
- Dubai Mall is the biggest shopping center on the planet and options countless purchasing choices in addition to leisure amenities.
- Wild Wadi Waterpark is an award-winning water park that includes over 30 thrilling rides and points of interest for all ages.
- Dubai Body is a formidable construction positioned in Zabeel Park that provides guests 360-degree views of town.
Additionally learn: What Dubai taught me
Sharjah
The third largest emirate and cultural capital of the UAE, Sharjah is thought for its distinctive appeal and conventional magnificence. Its shoreline is dotted with stunning seashores and there are a variety of historic websites to discover.
Key Landmarks and Sights in Sharjah
- Al Hisn Fort is a historic construction in Sharjah and a well-liked vacationer spot. It dates again to the 18th century and was used as a royal residence for a few years.
- Mleiha Archaeological Centre is an open-air museum that showcases artifacts from Bronze Age civilizations in Arabia.
- Sharjah Heritage Museum is residence to a number of the oldest artifacts within the area and provides an enchanting perception into the Emirate’s historical past.
- Sharjah Aquarium is likely one of the largest aquariums within the Center East and options greater than 100 species of marine life.
Ras Al Khaimah
Ras Al Khaimah is thought for its beautiful seashores, conventional villages, and archaeological websites. This Emirate provides loads of actions from mountain climbing to sizzling springs and from watersports to exploring the native tradition.
Key Landmarks and Sights in Ras Al Khaimah
- Jebel Jais is the best peak within the UAE and a well-liked attraction for these looking for an adrenaline rush with the world’s longest zip line.
- Ras Al Khaimah Nationwide Museum shows archaeological artifacts from all around the emirate and gives guests with an perception into its wealthy historical past.
- Khatt Springs are pure sizzling springs positioned within the village of Khatt, providing guests an opportunity to loosen up in any case day exploring.
- Suwaidi Pearls Farm is likely one of the oldest pearl farms within the area and provides guests a glimpse into the normal craft of pearl cultivation.
Umm Al Quwain
Umm Al Quwain is thought for its peaceable ambiance and conventional fishing villages. It’s residence to some beautiful landscapes and an array of wildlife making it an incredible vacation spot for outside actions reminiscent of tenting, fishing, and chicken watching. There are additionally many farms right here.
Key Landmarks and Sights in Umm Al Quwain
- Al Sinniyah Island is a nature reserve residence to quite a lot of birds very best for bird-watching fanatics.
- Dreamland Aqua Park is likely one of the hottest water parks within the nation and options over 30 thrilling rides and points of interest.
- Umm Al Quwain Fort is an 18th-century fort located on prime of a hill overlooking the ocean and provides beautiful views of town.
- Umm Al Quwain Corniche is a good looking stretch of promenade alongside the coast with stunning clear waters and a well-liked spot to have BBQs.
Ajman
The smallest emirate within the UAE, Ajman is thought for its conventional markets, historic websites, and idyllic seashores. It has actions on supply reminiscent of dune bashing, camel racing, and crusing. It may also be much more inexpensive than different Emirates if you happen to’re wanting to remain at a seashore resort or luxurious lodge.
Key Landmarks and Sights in Ajman
- Ajman Museum reveals artifacts from the Bronze Age in addition to native Islamic tradition.
- Ajman Seashore is likely one of the most stunning seashores within the nation and identified for its crystal clear waters and white sands.
- Ajman Dhow Yard is a conventional boat-building facility the place guests can watch how picket boats are made by hand.
- Al Zohah Golf Membership is a world-class golf course designed by Jack Nicklaus and provides a difficult 18-hole course.
Fujairah
Fujairah is thought for its beautiful seashores, wealthy pure aquatic life, and dramatic mountains. It has a number of the greatest diving spots within the area and provides loads of actions from trekking to fishing.
Key Landmarks and Sights in Fujairah
- Fujairah Fort is an historical fort courting again to the seventeenth century located on a hill overlooking town.
- Fujairah Heritage Village is a recreated conventional village that showcases the native customs and traditions of the emirate.
- Wadi Wurayah is a pure oasis surrounded by mountains, caves, and waterfalls and ideal for outside actions reminiscent of climbing and swimming.
- Snoopy Island is a small island accessible solely by boat and an incredible spot for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing.
- Al Bidya Mosque is the oldest mosque within the UAE and is believed to be constructed over 500 years in the past.
It’s clear that the United Arab Emirates has a lot to supply, from beautiful waters good for diving in Fujairah to conventional historic websites in Sharjah. With its wealthy historical past, various tradition, and an array of actions on supply for all ages, there’s something for everybody on this stunning nation.
Whether or not you’re on the lookout for a soothing luxurious seashore vacation in Dubai or an adventurous getaway into nature, the UAE has all of it!
So what are you ready for? Begin planning your journey at this time and uncover why the 7 emirates of the United Arab Emirates have grow to be one of many world’s hottest vacationer locations.
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