There’s so many amazing sights and sounds to discover in the United Arab Emirates. Here’s our guide to this dazzling destination. You may already know the answer to the question what are the United Arab Emirates? But do you know just how diverse the region is, or all the amazing things you can get up to? We’re not just talking about Dubai here either. The seven Emirates which make up the famous UAE: Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, Fujairah, Ras Al Khaimah & Umm Al Quwain offer a miasma of activities between them.   More than just big cities You’ve probably seen all the images of opulence that come with the territory in places like Abu Dhabi and Dubai. But that says nothing about the natural beauty and sheer diversity of the UAE. Which is why we thought we’d knock up another Tropical Warehouse Ultimate Guide to… for the United Arab Emirates. We know you’re discerning and want more than just shops and beaches on your break. Which is why we’re going to tell you all about this amazing region. From why you should go through to where you to lay your head. So let’s get into it…  Why Go? Why not? Due to its unique geography, you can indulge in so many amazing activities. Six of the seven Emirates feature stretches of stunning Persian Gulf coastline.   But where you can find idyllic beaches you can also find examples of more extreme natural landscapes. From the largest sand desert in the world right through to the Hajar Mountain range.  Your days in this Middle Eastern haven can range so dramatically. From adventures in the desert, to lounging on paradise-like beaches. Live it up in a modern city before heading off on mountain hikes.  Another great thing about the United Arab Emirates is its synergy with the old and the new. The region constantly juxtaposes modern aesthetics with the rich heritage of the Arabian Peninsula.   Culture Predominantly a Muslim country, much of the heritage and culture of the UAE is shaped by its connection to Islam. This rich heritage and bond to faith can be seen no better than in Abu Dhabi. The impressive Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque pulls in visitors from all over the world.   Of the seven Emirates, though, Sharjah seeks to deliver the most authentic of experiences for visitors to the UAE. Having been named ‘The Cultural Capital of the Arab World’ by UNESCO. As well as the Capital of Islamic Culture by the Organisation of Islamic Countries in past.  It’s also worth mentioning, for all you culture vultures out there, the UAE is completely awash with museums. Learn all about the history of the country at the UAQ National Museum in Umm Al Quwain. The museum occupies the beautiful Al Ali Fort building. The elegant citadel was first established way back in 1768 as a residence for the Emirate’s ruling family. Cuisine  One huge part of the culture in any country is the cuisine. As you might expect from a country with 650km of coastline, seafood features heavily on UAE menus.   But there’s more depth to Emirati cuisine than just fish. Being in the Middle East, chicken and lamb also make up a decent proportion of the local diet’s meat section. Vibrant herbs and spices like cardamom, saffron, thyme and turmeric help to drive those sumptuous flavours. Hearty sides like rice and potatoes feature heavily too.  This indulgent mix of grains and spices has formed as a result of the country’s centuries old meeting place reputation. Links with places like India, Persia, and Zanzibar meant that these strong flavour roots came as a matter of course.   The national dish of the UAE is Kabsa. A fragrant, rice heavy, dish which mixes lamb or poultry with mixed vegetables and all those amazing herbs and spices.  Things to do in the United Arab Emirates Many countries market themselves as a place where your possibilities for adventure are endless. However, in the UAE’s case its you really can! But when you come across a country with such diverse geography fun is bound to follow.   Each of the seven Emirates offer different characteristics and landmarks to explore. As we’ve said, Sharjah is the place to go for history and culture.   In addition to Sharjah, evidence of a rich cultural tapestry is also available in the more contemporary cities of Dubai and Abu Dhabi. The latter of which boasts sights like the spectacular Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque.   Many will know about the famous attractions in Dubai, the place is littered with special sights. For example, the Burj Khalifa and Dubai water fountains top most people’s sightseeing lists. However, Dubai Creek is also an amazing day. Take a float along the meandering water to Ras al Khor bird sanctuary at the city limits, before the desert takes over again. Family fun? The first thing you think about the United Arab Emirates might not be fun for the whole family. However, you can certainly have an awesome family break in the Emirates, if you know where to look.   Some great places to start in your search for family fun in the UAE are Ras Al Khaimah and Umm Al Quwain. These two Emirates aren’t the biggest, but they do offer a wide range of activities to help keep travellers of all ages occupied.  From amazing beaches to help you relax through to exciting amusement parks. Ice Land Water Park, Al Khaimah and Dreamland Aqua Park in Umm Al Quwain are some of the country’s biggest. It’s also worth mentioning these two Emirates are reasonably close to Dubai. So a day trip to take in the sights and sounds of the city could be on the cards.  Nature Another thing that may not spring to mind when you bring up images of the UAE is thriving nature. But this couldn’t be further from the truth.   Attractions like Wasit Wetlands Centre and Al Zorah Natural Reserve are perfect for spotting amazing indigenous natural life in Ajman.  Those who prefer to get their sightseeing done under the waves should definitely check out Fujairah and Al Aqah Beach. A rocky outcrop dubbed “Snoopy Island” delivers some of the finest diving conditions around.   Where to stay Whether you’re thinking a beach escape, city break, natural oasis or an adventure filled experience for your next break. You can do it all in the UAE.   Let’s be honest, after the year we’ve all had, we think it would be positively unhealthy not to get out and do some more exploring as soon as we possibly can. […]

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What are the United Arab Emirates? Well, chances are if you’ve seen a beautiful person adorned in the latest swimwear posing on a beach on Instagram, you’ve probably already seen them.  Have you ever wondered what country celebrities are in when they’re pictured partying in Abu Dhabi and Dubai? Well, the answer is the United Arab Emirates or UAE.   You‘ve probably heard lots about these glamourous locations or seen shots of influencers in the sun all over Instagram. But did you know those influencers were actually posing it up in the UAE?  Well, it’s true! Both Dubai and Abu Dhabi are part of the UAE. If you already knew that, did you also know they’re two of seven Emirates which make up the country? Now you do! But what are the seven Emirates:   Abu Dhabi Dubai Sharjah Ajman Ras Al Khaimah Umm Al Quwain Fujairah So, let’s dive a little deeper into what those seven emirates are. Also, what to expect if you head there to grab some Insta snaps of your own!   Abu Dhabi  Widely known as the playground of the rich and famous, and with good reason! Abu Dhabi is the capital of the UAE and, along with Dubai, one of the wealthiest cities in the world. In fact, Gulf Business reported recently over 270,000 households in Abu Dhabi earn over £250,000 annually. Experience shimmering urban cityscapes just metres away from paradise-like beaches. The financial development of Abu Dhabi has come from the focus on oil exports and commerce. It’s this continued improvement that has seen the city become the vision of opulence we see today.   With stunning resorts, shopping megacentres, shimmering landmarks, and even nods to the past like the beautiful Sheikh Zayed Mosque. There’s plenty to keep any snap happy traveller content.   Dubai If it’s happy camera travels that get your motor running, then you’ll like Dubai too. Much the same as Abu Dhabi, Dubai also plays host to the getaways of the world’s great and the good.   Whilst Abu Dhabi is the capital of the United Arab Emirates, Dubai is maybe more of an influential city. Regarded as one of the world’s Alpha Cities and in the top ten most connected cities in the world according to studies by the Globalization and World Cities (GaWC) Research Network. Dubai is the largest of the seven Emirates, with a population swelling over the 2.5 million mark. Originally developed as a port, Dubai sits beautifully on the edge of the Persian Gulf and offers a more elegant escape for those looking to immerse themselves in city life. Landmarks like the Burj Khalifa as the world tallest building keep wide-eyed tourists flocking every year.    Find out more about the experiences you can only have in Dubai Sharjah The third largest of the seven Emirates Sharjah, again, comes to life as a thriving city. However, while Sharjah does welcome millions of tourists every year and has developed greatly as a result of foreign visitors, it really performs more as a base for workers commuting into Dubai.  Almost playing a pseudo little brother-like role to Dubai, Sharjah’s lower cost of living and proximity to the larger city mean that many people live in Sharjah and commute to their day jobs in Dubai.   Ajman  If you feel like Dubai or Abu Dhabi would be great more as a day trip than a standalone holiday, then Ajman will be perfect. The smallest Emirate still boasts the fourth largest population of the seven and offers superb resorts with breath-taking beaches.   In some ways Ajman is maybe more akin to the resort holidays we know and love. Because of its less urbanized environment you can discover those amazing stretches of coastline or stunning natural sights that you possibly wouldn’t be treated to in the busier & bigger Emirates. In terms of things to do in Ajman, activities like kayaking among mangroves, desert safaris and picturesque hiking trails deliver memorable moments on the Arabian Gulf.  Ras Al Khaimah Much the same as Ajman, Ras Al Khaimah is more centred around delivering beautiful beach resort breaks to its visitors. More of an industrial member of the United Arab Emirates, Al Khaimah developed through providing building resources to metropolises like Dubai and Abu Dhabi.   But what can you expect if you decide to stay there? Well, in a sentence; beaches, deserts, nature, amusement parks and shopping. What else could you want, right?  Find out more about the things to do in Ras al Khaimah Umm Al Quwain The smallest Emirate in terms of populous, just 68,000 people call Umm Al Quwain home. In stark contrast to the likes of Dubai and Abu Dhabi, this Emirate is perfect for those seeking a slower pace to their stay on the Arabian Gulf.   Stunning Al Sinniyah Island is a nearby pearl of natural beauty for Umm Al Quwain. Lovers of tropical birds might like to take a trip to the island as the lagoon there is something of a honeypot for dazzling Aviarian visitors.   Fujairah  The last stop on our trip around the amazing emirates. Fujairah isn’t likely to be top of your list of must-see places if you like the more of the hustle and bustle of the bigger Emirates.  However, that doesn’t mean there aren’t incredible sights & sounds to experience here. If you want to get to know more about the rich Arabian heritage of the United Arab Emirates then Fujairah’s stunning landmarks like Fujairah Fort and Al Bidya Mosque will give you a taste. Find out more about amazing things to do in Fujairah There really is something for everyone in the United Arab Emirates. Far from just being a desert land with spots of shimmering opulence, teeming with people trying to become “Insta-famous”.   As we said, it certainly is a country of contrasts. From the modern cityscapes of Dubai and Abu Dhabi through to the natural wonders of Fujairah and Umm Al Quwain. Wherever you roam in these fascinating lands you’ll be greeted by a smiling face, first-rate service and undoubtedly beautiful beaches.   The United Arab Emirates is a vibrant country filled with adventures for any type of traveller. Seriously, if you can’t find something you love in these seven places then there’s no hope! 

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