The United Arab Emirates (UAE), in the eastern part of the Arabian Peninsula, extends along part of the Gulf of Oman and the southern coast of the Persian Gulf. From glittering first-world cities to rich cultural history and breathtaking nature, the UAE provides something for every type of traveller. Chic, fast-paced Dubai provides every modern (and futuristic) comfort; Abu Dhabi is a capital of culture with its galleries, museums and traditional food; and Ajman and Fujairah offer incredible swimming, diving and watersports in their clear, warm waters. The country boasts many world records: the world’s fastest roller coaster, the tower with the greatest lean, and the largest cluster of 21st-century cultural buildings. The green Mangrove National Park, sprawling orange Dubai desert, and dramatic cliff faces of the Snoopy Islands plunging into turquoise water are only a few of the spectacular natural wonders of this abundant country.
On a wedge-shaped island in the Arab Sea, lies the capital of the United Arab Emirates. The wide end of the wedge forms the city centre, with the picturesque corniche and its family-friendly beaches running along the coast. Despite being more conservative than its neighbouring city of Dubai, Abu Dhabi can’t seem to resist a bit of excessively flashy extravagance. Characterised by extreme opulence and unfathomable wealth, it inspires a slew of rather ridiculous superlatives. It is home to the world’s furthest leaning building, the largest indoor theme park, the fastest roller-coaster in the world, and even the largest hand-loomed carpet! What was little more than an obscure fishing village 30 years ago, is now miraculously one of the world’s most modern, state-of-the-art cities featuring rows of glitzy skyscrapers, incredibly upmarket shopping malls and world-class luxury hotels many of which offer pristine private beaches. If over-the-top attractions are what you are seeking, look no further than this mind-blowingly lavish city-state.
The capital of the Emirate of Dubai, the city of Dubai is located on the coast of the Persian Gulf, and is synonymous with size and pushing the limits – first, largest, tallest. Aside from this, the attraction of the metropolis is a dreamy world of sites and unheard-of luxuries; shopping centres, nightlife, and cutting-edge hotels. Famous constructions include Burj Khalifa, The Palm, Burj Al Arab, The World Island. Although Dubai strictly safeguards its traditional practices, it allows space for other religions to breathe, a rare quality amongst the conservative Arab world. The combination of all this means Dubai has emerged as a cosmopolitan mega power, a global city, and travel, business, and cultural hub of the Middle East.
