Top 25 Attractions in UAE

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The United Arab Emirates is a modern, rich, developed state of the Arabian Peninsula. For several decades, thanks to oil revenues, the well-being of its inhabitants has skyrocketed, and the country itself has turned into a fabulous caliphate, where colorful oriental bazaars and glass skyscrapers, Bedouin tents and villas worth tens of millions of dollars exist side by side. Sheikhs of the United Arab Emirates seem to have done everything to attract as many tourists as possible to their country. “Six-star” hotels with rare stone and wood finishes have been built here, comfortable beaches have been equipped, and collections of all world brands are presented in huge shopping malls.

What to see in the UAE?

The most interesting and beautiful places, photos and a brief description.

Burj Khalifa

The tallest skyscraper in the world, repeating the shape of a cave stalagmite. The height is more than 800 meters, the number of floors is 163. The tower houses offices, a hotel, a system of fountains, and luxurious private apartments. The building has several observation decks, from where you can enjoy a breathtaking panoramic view of Dubai.

Burj Khalifa

Address: Burj Khalifa, UAE, UAE

Phone: +971 4 888 8888

Opening hours: 08:30 - 21:30

Look → Top 30 Dubai Attractions

Palm Islands

An artificial archipelago of three islands (Deira, Jebel Ali, Jumeirah) in the form of date palms, a marvel of modern engineering. The islands were created from sand, limestone and stone mined from the coast of the Persian Gulf. This is a large-scale and grandiose project, one of the most interesting attractions in Dubai.

Palm Islands

Address: Palm Islands, UAE, UAE

Opening hours: 07:00 - 19:00

Bastakiya District (Dubai)

One of the old districts of the city, leading the history from the 19th century. In those days, pearl divers lived here (before the start of the “golden” oil rain in the UAE, this activity brought residents the main income). In Bastakiya, you can see traditional Arab houses and wind towers that acted as air conditioners.

Bastakiya District (Dubai)

Address: Bastakiya District (Dubai), UAE, UAE

Opening hours: 09:00 - 17:00

Gold Souk in Dubai

A bazaar located in the shopping district of Dubai, where visitors from all over the world buy gold jewelry at almost the lowest prices. This pricing policy is possible thanks to small taxes. White, pink and yellow gold are bought here by weight, and not by individual items.

Gold Souk in Dubai

Address: Gold Souk in Dubai, UAE, UAE

Phone: +971 4 224 2622

Opening hours: Saturday to Thursday: 10:00 - 22:00, Friday: 16:00 - 22:00

Musical fountain in Dubai

Located near the Burj Khalifa skyscraper and is another man-made miracle, built on fabulous oil revenues. This is the largest fountain in the world, which is illuminated by 6000 sources. It is capable of throwing jets of water up to 150 meters high and creating more than 1000 figured compositions from water columns.

Musical fountain in Dubai

Address: Musical fountain in Dubai, UAE, UAE

Opening hours: 17:45 - 23:30

Ferrari World Theme Park

Located near the emirate of Abu Dhabi on the artificial island of Yas. The facade of the building follows the shape of the legendary Ferrari GT model, it is painted red with the logo of the brand on the roof. The park presents all the achievements of the Italian company, all the latest and famous car models, technologies, interactive installations, copies of Italian sights.

Ferrari World Theme Park

Address: Ferrari World Theme Park, UAE, UAE

Phone: +971 2 496 8000

Opening hours: 11:00 - 20:00

Historical and ethnographic village in Abu Dhabi

This attraction was created to acquaint tourists with the past of the UAE. The village is an exact reproduction of the Bedouin settlement as it was over 100 years ago. Of great interest are the workshops, where tools for working metal, fabric and clay are presented. In the souvenir shop you can buy authentic gizmos, traditional pastries and old handicrafts.

Historical and ethnographic village in Abu Dhabi

Address: Historical and ethnographic village in Abu Dhabi, UAE, UAE

Opening hours: Every day: 9:00 - 20:00

Dubai Mall

The world's largest shopping and entertainment complex located in Dubai. In Dubai Mall, you can get lost in the miles of shops, showrooms, markets, cinemas and tourist attractions. It houses a huge Olympic skating rink and an aquarium with thousands of marine life listed in the Guinness Book of Records.

Dubai Mall

Address: Dubai Mall, UAE, UAE

Phone: +971 800 382246255

Opening hours: 10:00 - 00:00

Aquarium in the Dubai Mall

Like many other attractions in the UAE with the prefix "the largest in the world", this aquarium was created to capture the imagination of the country's guests. More than 33 thousand species of marine life swim in a giant aquarium - only sharks and rays, there are about 400 pieces. The whole structure weighs almost 250 tons and holds 10 million liters of water.

Aquarium in the Dubai Mall

Address: Aquarium in the Dubai Mall, UAE, UAE

Phone: +971 4 448 5200

Opening hours: 10:00 - 23:00

Ski Dubai

Indoor complex in Dubai, the only place of this type in the region. This is an artificial ski resort where, in the absence of real snow and winter, extreme skiers can enjoy the slopes. Sky Dubai can accommodate up to 1500 people at the same time, its infrastructure is convenient and well thought out, all conditions for snowboarding and skiing have been created.

Ski Dubai

Address: Ski Dubai, UAE, UAE

Phone: +971 800 386

Opening hours: 10:00 - 00:00

sheikh zayed mosque

The building is made of snow-white marble, an example of modern Arab architecture. The mosque was erected in honor of the first President of the United Arab Emirates, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan El Nahyan. Specialists from Germany, the USA and Italy participated in the construction and decoration of the building. The gilded chandelier of the mosque is adorned with precious stones, the carpet with an area of ​​5.6 thousand m² was woven in Iran.

Sheikh zayed mosque

Address: Sheikh zayed mosque, UAE, UAE

Phone: +971 2 441 6000

Opening hours: 09:00 - 22:00

Jumeirah Mosque

Considered one of the most beautiful Islamic temples in the country. The structure was built in 1979 from pink sandstone, elements of the traditional Fatimid style were used in the construction. The mosque is open not only for Muslims - under the supervision of a guide, anyone can get inside and listen to a tour about Islamic traditions, prayers and foundations.

Jumeirah Mosque

Address: Jumeirah Mosque, UAE, UAE

Phone: +971 4 394 3985

Opening hours: Sunday to Thursday: 9:00 - 19:00, Friday: 15:00 - 19:00, Saturday: 9:00 - 19:00.

King Faisal Mosque

It is located in the strictest, in terms of compliance with Sharia law, the emirate of Sharjah. The temple was built by the will and at the expense of King Faisal of Saudi Arabia and was given as a gift to the authorities of Sharjah. Since then, the mosque has become an important religious center of the Emirate and its main Muslim temple.

King Faisal Mosque

Address: King Faisal Mosque, UAE, UAE

Opening hours: Open 24 hours

Fort Al Jahili

A building in the emirate of Abu Dhabi on the border with Oman, located in the oasis of Al Ain (which means “green garden” in translation). The fortress was built at the end of the 19th century to protect the oasis and the city of Al Ain, over time it became the largest fort in the area. Today, Al Jahili has the status of a national monument.

Fort Al Jahili

Address: Fort Al Jahili, UAE, UAE

Opening hours: 9:00 AM - 8:00 PM

Ajman fortress

It is located in the smaller and less popular emirate of Ajman. The building was erected at the end of the 18th century. made of plaster and coral stone using African wood. The fortress served as the residence for the sheikh's family until 1970, but after the ruler moved, it began to be used as the headquarters of the Ajman police.

Ajman fortress

Address: Ajman fortress, UAE, UAE

Opening hours: 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM

House-Palace of Sheikh Said

Another historical building in Dubai, where the ruler of the emirate, Sheikh Said Al Maktoum, lived. This is a palace by the sea on the shore of the bay, from where the sheikh could observe the movement of ships. Now the building houses a museum where you can see interesting expositions and learn more about the history of the UAE.

House-Palace of Sheikh Said

Address: House-Palace of Sheikh Said, UAE, UAE

Opening hours: 9:00 - 19:00

Al Fahidi Fort

It is located in the center of Dubai and is the oldest surviving building in the city (according to sources, the fort was built at the end of the 18th century). Once upon a time, the thick walls of the fortress protected the inhabitants from the invasion of the warlike tribes of wild Bedouins and from sea raids. From Al-Fahidi, only small fragments survived, as the city walls were dismantled.

Al Fahidi Fort

Address: Al Fahidi Fort, UAE, UAE

Phone: +971 4 353 1862

Opening hours: 8:30 - 20:30

Al Hisn Fort

Previously served as the residence of the ruling family of the emirate of Sharjah Al Qasimi and at the same time a prison. This building of the beginning of the 19th century was used to protect against enemy attacks, which were not uncommon in those days. In the fort museum you can see collections of weapons, items belonging to representatives of the ruling dynasty, and other historical exhibits.

Al Hisn Fort

Address: Al Hisn Fort, UAE, UAE

Opening hours: Sat-Thu: 8:00-19:30, Fri: 15:00-19:30

Al Husn Fort (White Fort)

An iconic landmark of Abu Dhabi, one of the symbols of the history of the UAE and the former residence of the rulers of this emirate. The construction appeared at the end of the 18th century, but most of the buildings are renovated buildings no older than 30 years. Sometimes in the interior decoration there are elements of a century and a half ago, but this is rare.

Al Husn Fort (White Fort)

Address: Al Husn Fort (White Fort), UAE, UAE

Opening hours: 8:00 AM - 10:00 PM

Sir Bani Yas Island

The reserve, where representatives of the Arab fauna and flora are collected, which is also called the "Arab Wildlife Park". It was created at the behest of Sheikh Zayed Al Nahyan. 8 million trees were planted on the deserted island, rare animals and birds were brought in, restaurants and hotels were built for visitors. Within a few years, the lifeless territory turned into a lively oasis.

Sir Bani Yas Island

Address: Sir Bani Yas Island, UAE, UAE

Opening hours: 24/7

Capital Gate skyscraper

Futuristic Tower in Abu Dhabi, designed to be a symbol of the unity of the future and the past. The structure is built at an angle, so it seems that it "falls" like the famous tower in Pisa. But the architects did not seek to copy this technique, they simply used stepped structures during the construction, creating the effect of inclination.

Capital Gate skyscraper

Address: Capital Gate skyscraper, UAE, UAE

Opening hours: 09:00 - 17:00

Wild Wadi Waterpark

One of the best water parks in the East, located in one of the prestigious areas of Dubai. When decorating, fairy tales about Sinbad the Sailor were used, so visitors enter a fairy-tale land where all wishes seem to come true. The water park has attractions for children of all ages and experienced instructors.

Wild Wadi Waterpark

Address: Wild Wadi Waterpark, UAE, UAE

Phone: +971 4 348 4444

Opening hours: 10:00 - 18:00

Parus Hotel (Burj Al Arab)

A luxurious hotel whose architecture resembles a sail flying in the wind. Located in the emirate of Dubai on an artificial island. It positions itself as a "seven-star", although according to the international classification it belongs to 5 *. The skyscraper reaches a height of more than 300 meters, the maximum ceiling height of the hall is more than 180 meters.

Parus Hotel (Burj Al Arab)

Address: Parus Hotel (Burj Al Arab), UAE, UAE

Opening hours: 24/7

Emirates Palace Hotel

A luxury hotel in Abu Dhabi and a real palace with a green area and a dozen beautiful fountains. High-ranking officials and very wealthy tourists like to stay here. The interior of the hotel is decorated with gold, antique furniture in the halls and rooms.

Emirates Palace Hotel

Address: Emirates Palace Hotel, UAE, UAE

Phone: +971 2 690 9000

Opening hours: 24/7

Atlantis The Palm Resort

Luxury resort on the artificial island of Palm Jumeirah (Dubai). Rooms - more than 1500 rooms designed for VIPs and wealthy guests. A convenient infrastructure has been created for guests with children. The hotel can hold conferences and other large-scale events, as there is all the necessary equipment.

Atlantis The Palm Resort

Address: Atlantis The Palm Resort, UAE, UAE

Phone: +971 4 426 2000

Opening hours: 24 hours

FAQ – Answers to popular questions

When to go to UAE?

The best time to visit the UAE is during the cooler months. Here are some recommendations:

  • October to April: Ideal for pleasant weather.
  • December to February: Peak tourist season with various events.
  • Summer months (June to September): Extremely hot, less crowded.

What are the things to do in UAE when it rains?

When it rains in the UAE, there are still plenty of fun activities to enjoy. Here are some suggestions:

  • Visit indoor shopping malls like The Dubai Mall and Mall of the Emirates.
  • Explore the Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo.
  • Enjoy indoor entertainment at theme parks such as IMG Worlds of Adventure.
  • Relax at spas and wellness centers.
  • Discover cultural experiences at museums like the Louvre Abu Dhabi.
  • Savor delicious meals at local restaurants and cafes.

What are the things to do in UAE with family?

When visiting the UAE with family, there are plenty of exciting activities to enjoy together. Here are some top suggestions:

  • Visit the Burj Khalifa in Dubai for stunning views
  • Explore the Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo
  • Enjoy a day at the theme parks in Abu Dhabi, such as Ferrari World
  • Relax on the beautiful beaches of Jumeirah
  • Discover the rich history at the Dubai Museum
  • Go on a desert safari for an adventurous experience
  • Visit the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi
  • Take a family-friendly dhow cruise along Dubai Creek

What are the things to do in UAE in the evening?

In the UAE, particularly in cities like Dubai and Abu Dhabi, the evening offers a wide range of activities and attractions. Here are some popular things to do: Dubai

1. Dubai Marina: Take an evening stroll or a dhow cruise along the Dubai Marina. The skyline is stunning at night, and there are many restaurants and cafes by the waterfront.

2. Burj Khalifa: Visit "At the Top" observation deck at sunset for breathtaking views of the city as it lights up. You can also enjoy dinner at one of the restaurants in the Burj area.

3. Dubai Fountain Show: Watch the spectacular fountain show at the Burj Khalifa lake. The show features illuminated jets of water dancing to music and is especially beautiful in the evening.

4. Desert Safari: Book a desert safari that includes dune bashing, camel rides, and a traditional dinner under the stars with entertainment like belly dancing.

5. Global Village: Visit Global Village, a seasonal cultural and entertainment park that features pavilion from different countries, food, shopping, and entertainment options.

6. Night Markets: Explore local night markets like the Ripe Market or the Dubai Night Souk for local goods, food, and crafts. 7