Summary: The UAE has diverse attractions and stunning landscapes, offering an unforgettable experience for every type of traveler. Whether you are seeking adventure, relaxation, or cultural immersion, the UAE has it all. No trip to the UAE is complete without visiting these amazing places!
For Indian travelers, Dubai is one of the most popular international travel destinations, and for a good reason. In my opinion, it is because of its strong connectivity with major cities and Tier 2 locations in India that has significantly eased out leisure travel from India to UAE, throughout the year. With direct flights lasting only three to five hours and direct flight connections to and from 23 Indian cities, Dubai continues to rank high among both leisure and business destinations for Indians.
Top 10 Places to Visit in UAE
Since the pandemic, Dubai has seen a consistent increase in Indian visitors, with various measures implemented to ease travel, including direct flights. Between January and August 2023, Dubai received 11.10 million overnight visitors, with the largest international arrivals coming from India, totaling 1.6 million. I think the cultural similarities between Dubai and India play a crucial role in creating memorable experiences and encouraging Indian travelers to visit the UAE again and again. This trend is continuing and is expected to become a permanent aspect of the tourism scene.
Here are the top 10 places you can visit on your next UAE trip:
Dubai
Dubai is the shining star of the UAE. Imagine buildings that touch the sky, like the Burj Khalifa, the world’s tallest one in the world! You can shop ’til you drop at the giant Dubai Mall, or admire the Burj Al Arab Hotel, shaped like a fancy sail. But Dubai isn’t just fancy stuff! It has something for everyone.
You can also visit the Dubai Museum, or bargain for cool things on the streets of the Gold Souk market. How about feeling the thrill of a desert safari? Imagine racing across sand dunes in a jeep and sleeping under a million stars at night – unreal, right? With its lively atmosphere and endless entertainment options, Dubai is a must-visit destination for those seeking adventure and luxury alike.
Best time to visit: November to March
Major attractions: Burj Khalifa, The Museum of The Future, Dubai Mall
Abu Dhabi
The capital city, Abu Dhabi, is like a mix of old and new. For instance, you can find peaceful places such as the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, and see mind-blowing art at the Louvre Abu Dhabi Museum but if you are feeling adventurous, you can even get your heart pumping at Ferrari World, a giant theme park all about Ferraris!
Exploring the cultural heritage of the UAE at the Abu Dhabi Heritage Village and indulging in adrenaline-pumping adventures on Yas Island are experiences I cherish dearly.
Best time to visit: December to March
Major attractions: Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, Qasr Al Watan, Etihad Towers Observation Deck
Sharjah
Nicknamed the “Culture Capital,” Sharjah is a history lover’s dream come true. The Sharjah Museum has interesting old stuff, and the Sharjah Art Museum has amazing Islamic and modern art. Don’t miss the Souq Al Jubail market, which has multiple shops selling spices, perfumes, and local crafts you won’t find anywhere else.
I’d say Sharjah is a bit more conservative than Dubai, so dress a little more modestly to respect the local customs. Overall, you will have a great time soaking in the vibrant atmosphere of this charming city.
Best time to visit: October to April
Major attractions: Sharjah Art Museum, Souq Al Jubail market
Jumeirah
To put it simply, Jumeirah is like Dubai’s fancy beach area. You can relax on the soft sand at Jumeirah Beach Park, a public beach with swimming areas, water sports to keep you entertained, and playgrounds for the little ones. Or if you want something extra special then you can visit the Madinat Jumeirah, a resort that looks like an old Arabian city with beautiful architecture and even waterways!
Jumeirah is perfect for a relaxing beach vacation with a touch of luxury and one of my favorite places to visit in UAE. It is my go-to destination for luxury and relaxation.
Best time to visit: Any time of the year
Major attractions: Jumeirah Beach, Jumeirah Mosque
Saadiyat Island
This island is located near Abu Dhabi and is a hotspot for art lovers and nature lovers alike. You can visit the Kai beach on this island but there’s so much more about this island than just the beaches. For example, don’t forget to visit the amazing art at the Louvre Museum if you are planning to visit Saadiyat Island. Besides this, the quiet Mangrove National Park is a lovely place, where you can spot all sorts of birds and sea creatures.
I loved spending my day exploring the park and forests since I am a nature lover. Saadiyat Island overall is a unique mix of cool sights and natural beauty, making it one of the awesome places to explore in the UAE!
Best time to visit: November to March
Major attractions: Kai Beach, Louvre Museum, Mangrove National Park
Ajman
Dubai may be full of glitz and glamour, but one can find a more laid-back and pocket-friendly escape in Ajman, the smallest emirate. You can explore the fascinating history of the place in Ajman Museum which is actually an old fort! Or take a walk at Corniche Beach which is such a beautiful area.
There are many restaurants, cafes, and playgrounds around it by the water. The place is Ideal for Indian tourists who want to slow down, relax & enjoy life’s small pleasures on a budget!
Best time to visit: December to March
Major attractions: Etisalat Tower, Al Zorah Natural Reserve, and Ajman Corniche
Tawam
Feeling like you’re melting from desert heat? My suggestion would be to head to Tawam, hidden in the cool Hajar Mountains for a refreshing break. You can walk or cycle through picturesque valleys and be amazed by breathtaking mountain vistas. Jebel Hafeet, Abu Dhabi’s tallest mountain is located there and is a favorite spot for adventure enthusiasts.
You can go hiking, biking or even driving up there to see amazing scenery. Nature lovers like me – especially during summer months when it gets very hot – should go to Tawam if they want to have cooler weather.
Best time to visit: October to March
Major attractions: Hajar Mountains, Jebel Hafeet
Liwa Desert
Trust me, Liwa Desert is going to offer you an unforgettable adventure experience. Just prepare for the ride of your life when you visit the golden sand dunes of the Liwa desert. Imagine being a desert explorer and experiencing the thrilling desert safari in a jeep! Amazing, right? As the sun sets, you experience the magic of a desert camp under the sky full of stars.
It is a place where time stands still and the beauty of nature surrounds us. Spending the night under the stars at a traditional desert camp is an experience I’ll never forget.
Best time to visit: November to March
Major attractions: Oasis, safari
Khor Fakkan
Khor Fakkan is for those who want to lie on sandy beaches, be involved in outdoor activities, or just get some sense of local culture there. It is located on the UAE’s east coast and is a beautiful place with picturesque mountains and beautiful beaches. For divers and snorkelers, crystal-clear waters offer an opportunity to explore magnificent coral reefs that are full of different types of fish.
Besides this, you can explore the markets, try some delicious Emirati food, and enjoy the laid-back vibes of this coastal town.
Best time to visit: November to February
Major attractions: Khor Fakkan Beach
Al Fujairah City
Al Fujairah City is the capital of Fujairah emirate and has a relaxed atmosphere. You can visit the Fujairah Fort, a 16th-century fort built by the Portuguese that has amazing ocean views, or travel back in time with the Fujairah Museum, which has interesting old artifacts and shows how people used to live in the emirate.
Al Fujairah City also has mountains, waterfalls, and beautiful beaches. I have not been there but I have heard that it’s an amazing spot where one can hike through lush valleys, find hidden waterfalls, and enjoy to the fullest.
Best time to visit: October to March
Major attractions: Fujairah Fort, Fujairah Museum
Travel Tips to Know Before Visiting UAE
Here’s a comprehensive guide with the top travel tips so that your visit to UAE is an amazing one:
1. The best time to visit UAE is between November and March when the temperature ranges between 30°C and 12°C, and the weather is reasonably pleasant.
2. Visiting UAE during the months of April-October would be a bad decision, as the hot and humid weather would make it nearly impossible to go outside and you would be restricted to air-conditioned malls and luxury spas.
3. UAE’s weather is harsh, so carry sunscreen with the highest SPF you can find. Make sure to also carry deodorants, body/face wipes, sunglasses, hats, water bottles, mosquito repellant, etc.
4. Be sure to double and triple-check your documents, make photocopies of them, and carry the photocopies with you at all times while keeping the originals at the hotel.
5. The country’s official currency is the United Arab Emirates Dirham, or DH. Instead of taking INR to UAE, you can exchange your currency online beforehand to get a better exchange rate. Forex cards are widely accepted too. BookMyForex offers both Dirham currency notes and zero-markup forex cards with same-day delivery.
6. It is important that you do not simply book an expensive hotel without first researching your options, especially if you have a tight budget. UAE has something to offer every type of traveler.
7. UAE is an Islamic country where locals are respectful of their cultures and traditional values. As long as you do not hurt the sentiments of your host city, you are free to dress up as you like. However, most of the time, the temperature is scorching. So, unless you would like your skin burned with harmful UV rays, it is better to cover up.
8. You will find the widest range of alcoholic drinks in restaurants, hotels, and bars, ranging from the cheapest beer to the most exquisite champagne. There are a few bars that do not allow people under 25 years of age to drink, even though the minimum age limit is 21.
9. Dubai has a zero-tolerance policy when it comes to drug abuse. Do not forget your prescription if you are taking medicines.
10. Even though many would suggest you hire a private taxi, let’s not forget how much cheaper it would be to use public transportation. You can use that money to buy food or clothes instead.
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