Introduction
You may be considering a trip to the United Arab Emirates and wondering about the top places to visit. The UAE is home to ultra-modern cities, stunning mosques, exciting theme parks, and beautiful beaches. From the world's tallest building in Dubai to the date gardens of Al Ain, there are many incredible sights to explore in the country. Here are the ten best popular visiting places you should have on your UAE bucket list.
Burj Khalifa in Dubai
At 2,722 feet, Burj Khalifa is the tallest building you’ll ever see. You can take a high-speed elevator up to the observation decks on the 124th and 148th floors for jaw-dropping 360-degree views out over Dubai and the Arabian Gulf. If heights don’t scare you, this is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Make sure to go both during the day and at night when Dubai is all lit up.
Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi
With over 80 white domes and 1,000 pillars, the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is one of the largest mosques in the world. You’ll be awestruck by the lavish materials like gold, marble, and semi-precious stones used in its design and construction. Make sure to respectfully dress conservatively when you visit. Everyone is welcome to explore the peaceful grounds filled with fountains and pools reflecting the magnificent architecture.
Dubai Mall
If shopping is on your Dubai agenda, you can’t miss the enormous Dubai Mall. Spanning over 12 million square feet, it’s the second largest mall in the world boasting 1,300+ stores alongside restaurants, an aquarium, ice rink, and more entertainment. Visit during Dubai Shopping Festival from December to February for special discounts and entertainment like concerts and fashion shows.
Al Bastakiya in Dubai
You’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time 100 years when you wander through Al Bastakiya. This restored historic district was built in the late 19th century and holds traditional Gulf architecture with wind towers designed to funnel cooling breezes inside homes. Away from flashy modern Dubai, Al Bastakiya’s labyrinth of narrow lanes lined with quaint coffee shops and art galleries is a relaxing change of pace.
Jebel Hafeet in Al Ain
For a taste of desert mountain landscapes, drive up twisty roads carved through red rocks on Jebel Hafeet - a nearly 4,000 foot tall peak. At the top, you’re rewarded with tremendous views over Al Ain and nearby border into Oman. The Mercure Grand Hotel here has a popular Sky Lounge overlooking the city. Hikers will enjoy walking trails winding through the rocky terrain with unique flora and fauna.
Yas Waterworld in Abu Dhabi
On hot UAE days, Yas Waterworld is the perfect place to cool off with over 40 rides and attractions. Adrenaline seekers will love hair-raising drops on rides like Bandit Bomber and Liwa Loop. More relaxed visitors can float lazily around the lazy river or splash on family-friendly attractions. Little ones can play safely on kids-only rides and splash areas designed just for them. Families will easily fill an entire day enjoying the attractions together.
Al Bidya Mosque in Fujairah
The Emirate of Fujairah on the eastern UAE coast holds the oldest mosque in the country - Al Bidya Mosque. Originally built from mud and stone in 1446, this historic mosque has been lovingly restored and visitors are welcome inside to admire the intricate architecture firsthand. The original prayer hall remains largely untouched, giving you a glimpse into traditional worship from centuries ago.
Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve
Venture into the Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve for a magical evening dune safari. Most tours pick you up in late afternoon to drive out into the rolling red sand dunes as the sun sets over the landscapes. Stops include camel rides, sandboarding, desert camps to enjoy local food, and traditional shows with belly dancing under the stars. If you have time, opt for an overnight stay allowing plenty of time to experience activities plus unforgettable stargazing in the clear night skies.
The Palm Jumeirah in Dubai
Among the most iconic sights of Dubai, The Palm Jumeirah is an artificial archipelago shaped like a giant palm tree stretching into the Arabian Gulf waters. You can soak in full views from the sky on rides up the Ain Dubai observation wheel. Or visit hip restaurants and luxury hotels groundside. Many tours offer speedboat rides out to the edges giving you an up-close option to snap that perfect shot of the Palm Jumeirah for your jealous friends back home.
Sheikh Zayed Heritage Festival
Between November and April, the sprawling Sheikh Zayed Heritage Festival takes place annually in Abu Dhabi to celebrate Emirati culture and traditions. As you wander between traditional pavilions representing each emirate, you’ll discover local dance performances, artisans selling handmade crafts, camel rides, falconry displays and traditional food. It’s the best place to immerse yourself in authentic Emirati cultural experiences spanning art, music, food and more.
Conclusion
From the world’s most luxurious hotels and malls to historic mosques and stunning natural landscapes, the UAE packs numerous exciting attractions into a small country. Nature lovers will relish getting lost amid the desert scenery while city slickers can live large in Dubai and Abu Dhabi’s ultra-modern metropolises. Whether you’re a culture buff, adrenaline junkie, or excited shopper, visiting these ten top attractions around the country will introduce you to the very best of what the UAE offers visitors. The difficult decision is fitting them all into one trip!