10 Best Places to Visit in the UAE Beyond Dubai
Dubai may dominate conversations about the United Arab Emirates, but it represents only one part of the country. Beyond its skyscrapers and shopping malls are mountain roads, historic forts, mangroves, archaeological sites, quiet beaches and vast desert landscapes. The UAE's seven emirates each have their own character, and travelling beyond Dubai can reveal a surprisingly different side of the country. From Abu Dhabi's cultural landmarks to Fujairah's rugged coastline and Ras Al Khaimah's mountains, these destinations offer plenty for travellers who want something more varied than a conventional city break.
Its appeal is that visitors can combine major cultural attractions with quieter outdoor experiences.
The oasis has been inhabited for thousands of years and forms part of the Al Ain cultural sites recognised by UNESCO.
The emirate's tourism authorities describe its landscape as a combination of deserts, mountains, palm plantations and archaeological sites.
Fujairah Fort, built in the sixteenth century, is another reminder that the UAE's history predates its modern skyscrapers.
Its heritage district reflects the city's earlier role as a merchant centre and offers a slower, more intimate experience than Dubai's modern districts.
The area also works well for desert camping and stargazing.
For visitors willing to look beyond Dubai, the UAE becomes much more interesting. The country is not simply a collection of futuristic skylines. It is also a place of mountains, deserts, heritage and wildlife.
Abu Dhabi for Culture and Architecture
Abu Dhabi is the UAE's capital and offers a broader mix of culture, nature and modern attractions. The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is an obvious highlight, but the emirate also has Saadiyat Island, Qasr Al Hosn and extensive mangrove areas.Its appeal is that visitors can combine major cultural attractions with quieter outdoor experiences.
Al Ain for Oasis Landscapes
Al Ain provides a striking contrast to the modern skyline associated with the UAE. Its oasis contains thousands of date palms and traditional falaj irrigation channels.The oasis has been inhabited for thousands of years and forms part of the Al Ain cultural sites recognised by UNESCO.
Ras Al Khaimah for Mountains
Ras Al Khaimah is one of the country's best options for travellers who prefer mountains and outdoor adventure. Jebel Jais rises dramatically above the surrounding landscape, while the emirate also has desert areas and historic sites.The emirate's tourism authorities describe its landscape as a combination of deserts, mountains, palm plantations and archaeological sites.
Fujairah for the Coast
Fujairah sits on the Gulf of Oman rather than the Arabian Gulf, giving it a noticeably different geographical character. The Hajar Mountains meet the coast here, creating dramatic scenery.Fujairah Fort, built in the sixteenth century, is another reminder that the UAE's history predates its modern skyscrapers.
Sharjah for Heritage and Art
Sharjah is particularly rewarding for travellers interested in culture. The Heart of Sharjah contains restored traditional buildings, museums, galleries and old souks.Its heritage district reflects the city's earlier role as a merchant centre and offers a slower, more intimate experience than Dubai's modern districts.
Khorfakkan for Mountains and Sea
Khorfakkan combines a coastline with the Hajar Mountains and is increasingly popular for outdoor activities. Hiking, diving and coastal excursions make it a useful choice for an active weekend.Mleiha for Desert History
Mleiha in Sharjah offers more than sand dunes. Fossil Rock and surrounding archaeological landscapes reveal traces of the region's ancient geological and human history.The area also works well for desert camping and stargazing.
Al Dhafra for Wide Open Spaces
Western Abu Dhabi, known as Al Dhafra, is ideal for travellers who want solitude. It stretches from the Liwa Desert towards the western coast and includes Sir Bani Yas Island.Sir Bani Yas Island for Wildlife
Sir Bani Yas is unusual in the UAE because it offers a wildlife-focused experience. More than 17,000 free-roaming animals inhabit the island, making it possible to experience the country's natural side in an unexpected setting.Umm Al Quwain for a Quieter Break
Umm Al Quwain has mangroves, islands and archaeological attractions and is less associated with large-scale tourism.For visitors willing to look beyond Dubai, the UAE becomes much more interesting. The country is not simply a collection of futuristic skylines. It is also a place of mountains, deserts, heritage and wildlife.
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