Modern skylines, desert landscapes and Emirati culture
UAE Travel Guide
The United Arab Emirates combines futuristic skylines, monumental architecture, desert landscapes, beaches, traditional souks and distinctive Emirati culture. From Dubai and Abu Dhabi to Fujairah and the northern emirates, travelers can combine modern city experiences with heritage, coastline and desert adventures.
Visit the Burj Khalifa and Dubai Creek, explore Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque and Louvre Abu Dhabi, relax along the Gulf of Oman in Fujairah, or experience the resorts and engineering of Palm Jumeirah.
- Dubai
- Abu Dhabi
- Fujairah
- Palm Jumeirah
Essential travel information
All About United Arab Emirates
Practical information about the UAE’s cities, transportation, currency, language, seasons, customs and tipping.
UAE FAQLearn what the UAE is known for, where to visit, how long to stay, transportation, currency and language.
What is the UAE known for?
The United Arab Emirates is known for modern architecture, luxury hotels, desert landscapes, major cultural institutions, shopping, beaches and distinctive landmarks such as the Burj Khalifa and Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque.
Dubai is the country’s best-known tourism hub, while Abu Dhabi combines government, culture, museums and major attractions. Fujairah offers a contrasting Gulf of Oman coastline and mountain scenery, while the northern emirates provide additional beaches, heritage sites and desert experiences.
What are the best places to visit in the UAE?
How many days should I spend in the UAE?
We recommend approximately 7-10 days for travelers combining Dubai and Abu Dhabi with an additional emirate or resort area. Tripmasters itineraries are customizable by nights, hotels, transportation and activities.
What is the best way to get around the UAE?
What is the currency in the UAE?
The official currency is the United Arab Emirates dirham (AED). The dirham is pegged to the U.S. dollar at approximately AED 3.6725 to US$1.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in major cities and tourism areas. U.S. dollars may be exchanged easily, but AED is the standard currency for everyday transactions.
What language is spoken in the UAE?
Arabic is the official language. English is widely used in hotels, restaurants, shopping centers, transportation and tourism businesses throughout the country.
Best Time to Visit UAECompare the cooler winter season with the hotter shoulder months and extreme summer heat.
The UAE has a hot desert climate. November through March generally offers the most comfortable conditions for outdoor sightseeing, beaches, desert excursions and walking.
November – March
Cooler / High Season
Pleasant daytime weather and the strongest conditions for outdoor activities, city sightseeing and desert excursions.
April – May / October
Shoulder Season
Warm to hot conditions with fewer winter crowds and increasing or declining heat depending on the month.
June – September
Summer Heat
Extremely hot and often humid conditions. Indoor attractions, malls, museums and resorts become especially important during the day.
What should I know about Ramadan?
Ramadan follows the Islamic lunar calendar and shifts earlier each year. Visitors should respect local customs and expect some businesses, attractions and restaurant hours to operate differently during the holy month.
Rules and operating practices can vary by emirate and venue, so travelers should verify current guidance shortly before travel.
Tipping in UAEPractical guidance for tipping in restaurants, hotels, taxis, tours and other services in the UAE.
Tipping is appreciated in the UAE but is generally discretionary. Some restaurants and hotels may include service charges or other fees, so travelers should review the bill before leaving an additional gratuity.
Currency: Can I tip in U.S. dollars?
AED is the most practical currency for gratuities. U.S. dollars can be exchanged easily, but using dirhams avoids exchange-rate or change issues.
Restaurants and Bars
An additional gratuity may be left for good service when it is not already included in the bill.
Hotel Staff
Bell staff, valet attendants, housekeeping and other service staff may be tipped modestly for helpful service.
Taxi Drivers
Rounding up the metered fare is common, but tipping is not mandatory.
Tour Guides
Guides and drivers may be tipped when service is especially informative, helpful or well organized.
Skylines, culture, beaches and desert
Top Destinations in United Arab Emirates
Compare the UAE’s best-known cities and resort areas, then explore additional emirates and destinations across the country.
Featured destination
Dubai
Dubai combines one of the world’s most recognizable skylines with beaches, major shopping districts, heritage neighborhoods, desert excursions and ambitious modern architecture.
- Burj Khalifa
- Dubai Creek
- Dubai Marina
- Al Fahidi
Capital city
Abu Dhabi
The UAE capital combines Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, Louvre Abu Dhabi, Yas Island, the Corniche and major cultural institutions.
Explore Abu Dhabi
Gulf of Oman
Fujairah
Fujairah offers mountain scenery, Gulf of Oman beaches, historic forts, heritage sites and diving along the UAE’s eastern coast.
Explore Fujairah
Dubai waterfront
The Palm (Jumeirah)
Palm Jumeirah is Dubai’s iconic palm-shaped island, known for luxury resorts, beaches, dining and skyline views.
Explore The PalmMore Cities in UAE
Explore More Destinations
Continue across the Emirates with cultural cities, mountain escapes, desert landscapes and northern coastal destinations.
What to expect while traveling
Middle East Travel Planning Resources
Use these practical Middle East travel resources to understand flights, hotels, transfers and sightseeing tours before planning your vacation.
01Before departure
Air Travel
Review check-in, baggage, schedules, connections and practical preparations for international flights.
02Accommodations
Hotels
Understand room arrangements, hotel services and practical accommodation considerations.
03Activities and experiences
Sightseeing Tours
Review meeting points, vouchers, schedules and practical details for booked excursions.
04Local connections
Transfers
Learn how airport and hotel transfers work and what to verify before meeting your provider.
Continue exploring ancient cities, desert landscapes, modern skylines, sacred landmarks, beaches and cultural traditions across the Middle East with Tripmasters.
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