Travel Designers Just over 50 years ago the United Arab Emirates (UAE) was known as a very quiet place to visit and certainly not on the top 10 tourist destinations. Fast forward to the current day and millions of pounds of development in these countries and it is now a firm favourite.
The United Arab Emirates is firmly placed in the top 10 holiday destinations due to its all-year-round sunshine, an abundance of hotels to choose from, adventure and water parks as well as many shopping options for every budget. Popular as a winter destination and used to twin with destinations such as the Far East and the Indian Ocean, this part of the world just grows more and more popular each year.
Which would account for the many new hotels being added to the area’s portfolio of properties as well as the introduction of cruise lines adding key cities to their itineraries. Dubai remains the most popular due to the extensive options of things to do for families visiting. Waterparks, Formular one track, Lego land, the worlds tallest tower Burj Khalifa standing at Standing 828 metres high, shopping malls, the world’s largest choreographed fountain system and Dubai’s beach to name just a few.
Accommodation in the United Arab Emirates
The United Arab Emirates offers a variety of accommodation from apartment rentals with self-catering facilities to some of the most luxurious hotels in the world. All-Inclusive properties can now be found in many cities in the UAE and offer great value for winter sunshine breaks. Cruise lines have now also added to the options of where to stay in the UAE and some lovely pre and post stays in the popular city of Dubai.
Where to Visit in the United Arab Emirates
Dubai may be the popular choice of destination for the United Arab Emirates but it is not the only one. The area is made up of 7 emirates which are Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Ajman, Fujairah, Ras al Khaimah, Sharjah and Umm al Quwain.
Dubai – Shopping malls, soaring skylines, luxury hotels and family activites for every day of your holiday. It doesn’t need to be expensive in Dubai for a great experience one to do is an abra and cross the creek at just 2 dirhams (less than 50p). Cross to the old part of the town and visit the Gold and spice souks. New to Dubai is the Museum of Illusions and is worth a visit for those Instagramers of the family.
Abu Dhabi – The Grand Mosque, The Louvre are just two stunning visits to add to your must do’s. The Louvre opened in 2017 and offers 55 buildings, 23 galleries, a 1,200-seater auditorium. Warner Bros theme park opened in 2018 built undercover so perfect to escape the hot summer sun, it offers high-tech 3D simulators, rollercoasters and family rides. Finally, Ferrari world is home to a formula one track and a fun family experience.
Ajman – The smallest of the states and not as popular with tourists but as buildings are being erected this will change. Home to the Ajman Pearl and Oysters. Take a tour through the mangroves and waterways learning how these skilled divers dive for pearls and Oysters.
Fujairah On the Indian Ocean side with sandy beaches and clear sparkling waters. offering great snorkelling. This is the place for beach worshipers and water sports enthusiasts with snorkelling, diving and Para-Sailing.
Ras Al Kaihman Home to the worlds longest zipline (2.8km) that whizzes over the dramatic scenery below. This rugged area would lead you to believe that you have landed on the moon. Add to this beautiful sandy beaches and fun filled activites.
Sharjah – A quieter state and possibly due to it being a dry state (no alcohol) and stricter restrictions on conservative dress. It is a good base to access Ajman and Umm al Quwain.
Umm al Quwain – One of the lesser know Emirates and one of the smallest. This Emirate offers water sports, fishing or kayaking through the mangroves.
When to visit the United Arab Emirates for the best weather
The United Arab Emirates is year-round sunshine with hot summers and cooler winters. In the summer the temperature can be too hot and it is advisable not to stay out in the midday sun. Expect temperatures of 40 plus in the summertime and 20 plus in the winter months. The best time to visit is between October and May when it is slightly cooler.
Local currency Dirham (AED)
Time Difference: 3 hours +GMT
Flying time – just under 7 hours 6hrs 45mins
For more detailed information you can visit the Official Tourist Board UAE
