Discovering the Emirates: Your Comprehensive UAE Travel Guide for 2024

People have lived on the Emirates’ territory for countless years. The severe desert climate ushered in the “versatile tribesman,” nomadic communities that survived through a range of economic pursuits, such as farming, hunting, and animal husbandry. These groups’ seasonal migrations brought about regular conflicts among them and the development of seasonal and semi-seasonal centres and communities. These gave rise to tribal communities whose names are still used by contemporary Emiratis.

Parts of the United Arab Emirates were ruled by the Ottoman Empire by the sixteenth century, while British, Dutch, and Portuguese imperial forces first came in the seventeenth century. The UAE’s population made money from the pearling industry in the 19th and 20th centuries. The First World War greatly impacted the economy.

A development office established by the British assisted with a few minor developments in the Emirates. After deciding to establish a council to handle disputes among themselves, the seven sheikhs of the Emirates assumed control of the development office. They established the Trucial States Council in 1952. Oil was discovered in 1958, and exports started in 1962

By 1966, it was evident that the British government could no longer afford to maintain the administration of the United Arab Emirates. On December 1, 1971, the nine emirates—Kuwait and Bahrain among them—were awarded independence. The Federal National Council was established by the seven sultans of the emirates. The UAE then designated Abu Dhabi as its capital.

Even though the United Arab Emirates is a small nation with excellent road connectivity, you should choose your lodging based on the locations you intend to see. With the most things to see and do, Dubai is the biggest and most well-liked of the Emirates. It is home to the biggest airport and well-known landmarks, including the Dubai Mall, the Burj Khalifa Tower, traditional souks, beaches, water sports, and family-friendly activities.

The second-largest Emirati city is Abu Dhabi. With fantastic hotels and resorts, beaches, shopping, museums, and sporting events like the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, it’s a well-liked destination for blending culture with leisure. Suppose you’re looking for a more sedate vacation. In that case, the Emirate of Ras Al Khaimah offers all the creature pleasures you could want, such as excellent hotels and restaurants, shopping, and beautiful beaches. It’s also much quieter than its neighbours and has a more pristine, traditional vibe.

Dubai is the most visited location in the United Arab Emirates. Once a sleepy pearl fishing village, it is today a contemporary city with giant skyscrapers and many attractions. It comprises several districts, including the business centre, the Jumeirah beaches, and the mediaeval Bastakia neighbourhood and old town, which are home to its souks. Visit the world’s tallest structure, the Burj Khalifa, in Dubai, and indulge in leisurely shopping, skydiving, water sports, and stays at any of the city’s magnificent hotels.

In the UAE, there are plenty of untamed places to explore after you leave the city. Hiking and off-roading are popular activities in the Hajar Mountains, which are a nature lover’s delight with plenty of animals and bird viewing. Ras Al Khaimah’s mountains are well-liked particularly Jebel JJais’s incredible vistas and zip line. Alternatively, take in the calmer beaches of this northern Emirate, which isn’t as well-known as Dubai yet.

Abu Dhabi’s capital is a contemporary metropolis with intriguing landmarks, shops, beaches, and opulent hotels. Popular day trips from Abu Dhabi include visiting traditional villages, the peak of Jebel Hafeet, and deserts with views of dunes. Exploring the less-travelled Emirates, such as Umm Al Quwain, Sharjah, and Fujairah, is essential, particularly if you want to learn about the local history and culture. Historical artefacts such as old forts have been restored in each area, and museums have been used to depict the nation’s history. For the ideal vacation, each has its beaches, resorts, and other attractions.

Because of its location, the United Arab Emirates experiences sweltering and humid summers, making it hard to spend any time outside. Therefore, September through May are the ideal months to arrange a trip because they are more relaxed. Even December and January are rather lovely, with plenty of warm sunshine and little humidity. Consequently, the winter months represent the UAE’s busiest travel period, with increased hotel occupancy and pricing. The spring and autumn/fall seasons are ideal for beach vacations.

Traveling to Dubai by air is the most convenient way. Dubai International Airport (DXB) is one of the busiest airports in the world, receiving thousands of aircraft every week. Because it is situated in the northern part of the city, it is the best choice for visitors who plan to stay and play in the northern region of Dubai.

Travellers began using the more recent Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC), also called Dubai World Central, in 2013, even though it is still under construction. The airport makes access to the expanding southern part of the city possible. When it’s finished, it will be the biggest airport in the world.