Despite being a small country sitting on the Persian Gulf, the United Arab Emirates has quickly made its way on the list of top destinations in the world. Why? Simple, because this country has some of the most opulent, diverse and iconic landmarks, tourist attractions and activities to offer. There are a ton of good reasons to travel to the United Arab Emirates. From the most luxurious hotels in the world to the highest skyscrapers in the world and a unique blend of history and modernity that is uncommon in other countries, a trip to the UAE is worth it in every aspect.
Every emirate in the UAE offers something special to visitors. And selecting which places to visit while organizing a trip to the UAE is one of the most exciting decisions. So whether you wish to explore the incredible architecture, experience the high life in an opulent beachy resort, or marvel at the stunning landscape of the sea and the desert, this list can help you decide your next UAE destination.
Read More: Reasons Why You Should Make Dubai Your Next Travel Destination
From Coast to Desert: 3 Diverse Cities to Visit in the UAE
It’s no wonder that the UAE is called the “Pearl of the Gulf”. There’s no place quite like this in the world that offers a dystopian and rustic travel experience like the UAE. With incredible locations, thrilling activities and attractions and a diverse pot of culture, these are the top three cities in the UAE:
1. Dubai
With millions of visitors each year, Dubai is without a doubt one of the most exciting travel destinations among the UAE cities. You will be amazed by the variety of sights and activities this vibrant city has to offer. With some of the best shopping centers, five-star hotels and restaurants offering delectable food globally, Dubai’s travel experience is like no other. It’s also an architectural wonder, home to the Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest structure, and the captivating Palm Jumeirah Island.
The city also has stunning parks, beaches, and deserts where tourists may learn about the history and culture of the area. Dubai is the ideal destination if you’re looking to explore a dynamic city that offers a unique combination of luxury, culture and adventure.
Top Places to Visit in Dubai
Burj Khalifa
Situated in Dubai, the Burj Khalifa is the world’s tallest structure. With 163 stories, its towering height exceeds 828 meters (2,716 ft), consisting of various hotels, restaurants, boutiques, etc. The structure was designed by an American architect named Adrian Smith which was then completed in 2010.
The Burj Khalifa has many observation decks. The most popular being “At the Top”, situated on the 124th level. This level is famous for offering a stunning panorama of the city skyline and the surrounding desert. Tourists can also find telescopes, interactive exhibits and a gift store on the observation deck.
Dubai Mall
Dubai Mall is one of the biggest retail centers in the world. In terms of total area, it is the biggest mall globally. Its 502,000-square-meter retail floor space is brimming with tourist attractions and activities to explore. It is a shopping paradise for retail lovers. With over 1,300 retail businesses, 200 restaurants and cafes, and numerous entertainment venues, including an ice rink, an aquarium, and a movie theater.
Palm Jumeirah
Off the coast of Dubai, lies a man-made island known as Palm Jumeirah. It is one of three planned palm-shaped islands that make up the Palm Islands project, together with Palm Jebel Ali and Palm Deira. With a crescent-shaped breakwater, fronds, and a trunk like a palm tree, the island resembles a stunning palm tree. A bridge connects the trunk to the mainland, where a range of residential buildings, including townhouses, flats and villas are located. Residential villas are located in the fronds, and opulent hotels, resorts, and entertainment centers may be found on the breakwater. A drive through Palm Jumeirah itself is a tourist activity on its own, with stunning vistas of the surrounding blue ocean.
Atlantis, The Palm
Located on the stunning Palm Island, Atlantis, The Palm is an iconic resort with 1,544 rooms with an ocean theme. This magnificent resort has views of the Arabian Sea and Dubai’s famous skyline, providing unique accommodation and an amazing experience. During their stay, visitors get free access to the largest waterpark in the world, Aquaventure Waterpark. They can also head to The Lost Chambers Aquarium to marvel at the 65,000 amazing aquatic creatures displayed in a labyrinth of subterranean tunnels to bring the legend of Atlantis to life. There are 32 restaurants and bars for foodies to enjoy, many of them award-winning restaurants. Visitors can also access the high-end facilities and opulent facial and massage treatments at the ShuiQi Spa for a relaxing end to their day.
Check Out: Ultimate Dubai Package (3 Days)
2. Abu Dhabi
All travelers to the United Arab Emirates should make time to see Abu Dhabi, the country’s capital. The once-desert city is now a thriving metropolis that offers tourists a unique combination of modern architecture and traditional Arabic culture. One of the best UAE cities, Abu Dhabi, is home to some of the most luxurious hotels in the world, such as the well-known Emirates Palace. The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, Ferrari World, Yas Waterworld, and the magnificent Louvre Abu Dhabi are a few of the city’s main attractions. Aside from the city’s obvious opulence and glitter, Abu Dhabi’s natural landscape is a breath-taking tapestry of deserts, mountains, beaches, parks, and exotic wildlife that will amaze tourists with its stunning beauty.
Places to Visit in Abu Dhabi
Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque
Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque was named for the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, who was the first president of the United Arab Emirates. The mosque was finished in 2007 and is currently recognized as one of the biggest in the world. The mosque’s design is an amalgam of Islamic building styles from Morocco, Egypt and Turkey. It has 1,000 columns, four 107-meter-tall minarets, and 82 domes of various sizes. Spread across 17,000 square meters, the mosque’s main prayer hall can hold up to 41,000 worshipers.
Emirates Palace Mandarin Oriental
Emirates Palace is the height of luxury in Abu Dhabi. The hotel is set on a 1.3-kilometer private beach and represents the best of Arabian hospitality. The resorts include luxurious furnishings, breathtaking vistas, and round-the-clock butler room and suite service. Visitors get to savor a range of cuisines produced by well-known chefs at a variety of eateries. The resort has two temperature-controlled swimming pools, gorgeous gardens, a luxury spa, a kids’ club, and a private marina. Water sports enthusiasts can experience jet skiing, windsurfing, flyboarding, kayaking and doughnut riding. Visitors are encouraged to explore the Bedouin tent and ride camels along the stunning beach.
Check Out: Dubai Package With Dhow Cruise & Burj Al Arab (4 Days)
3. Sharjah
Sharjah is one of the most desirable locations among the UAE cities. The city has emerged as a leading destination for travelers looking to get a true taste of Arabic culture because of its striking contemporary architecture and rich cultural legacy. It’s a real melting pot of cultures that provides an amazing blend of views, experiences, and activities. The city offers tourists a varied vacation experience with its natural parks, museums, stunning mosques, and beaches. From the Museum of Islamic Civilization to the stunning aquarium, Sharjah ought to be at the top of your travel list if you’re searching for the experience of a lifetime in the United Arab Emirates
Places to Visit in Sharjah
Al-Noor Mosque
Al Noor Mosque is situated on the Khaled lagoon along the Buhaira Corniche in Sharjah. The mosque is intricately embellished in Ottoman Turkish architecture. This is because its construction was influenced by Turkey’s Sultan Ahmed Mosque. It is one of the more than 600 mosques in Sharjah that are accessible to the public.
Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilization
Sharjah is home to one of the most sought-after historical archives in the Muslim world, the Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilization. With nearly 5,000 objects from the Islamic world, the museum opened in 2008 and highlights Islamic culture. Calligraphy, sculptures, coins, glass, metallurgy, manuscripts, and scientific apparatus are among the thousands of display items ranging from different eras.
Sharjah Aquarium
Sharjah Aquarium is one of the biggest aquariums in the UAE. It has 20 tanks that reproduce various local aquatic ecosystems, such as coral reefs and rock pools, as well as lagoons and mangroves. Tourists can get close-up views of marine life thanks to an inside boardwalk. There are also interactive exhibits for children to engage and learn more about marine life. If you’re looking for kid-friendly activities in Sharjah, the aquarium should be at the top of your list.
Check Out: Sharjah and Dubai City Package (4 Days)
The Best of UAE for an Unforgettable Middle Eastern Adventure
Only in UAE can you ski on actual snow in the morning, hit the dunes in the afternoon and top off your night with a dinner at one of the many luxurious skyrises. It’s quite impossible to experience everything the UAE has to offer in one visit, which is why tourists save each emirate for their next trip.
Are you planning a vacation to the UAE? Do you want to explore the country’s stunning beauty with pre-booked accommodations, guided tours, and the opportunity to skip the lines?
iLinkTurkey offers a diverse range of UAE cities and destinations. Head over to our packages and book one of our top-rated UAE packages now.
