United Arab Emirates Sightseeing

Mosques and forts
Don't miss the many historic mosques and forts dotted around the older parts of Abu Dhabi and Dubai, notably the former's massive Grand Mosque and White Fort, and Dubai's Al-Fahidi Fort, which houses the Dubai Museum.

Al-Ain
Head east through spectacular scenery from Abu Dhabi or Dubai to the resort and former caravan stop of Al-Ain. The resort includes a camel market, zoo and museum containing old and new artefacts and Mesopotamian pottery.

Abu Dhabi's islands
Explore the 200 islands of Abu Dhabi, including Qarn Island, Belghilam Island (famous for its gazelle breeding) near Sadiyat Island, and Abul-Abyadh Island. Numerous boat operators offer trips from the city (www.visitabudhabi.ae).

Ras al-Khaimah
Take a trip to Ras al-Khaimah (www.raktourism.com), where there is an old seaport with views over the coast and the Hajar Mountains; and also to the Dhaid and Khatt oases, the latter with mineral springs.

Remote beaches
Discover the more remote stretches of coastline: there are trips available to the natural harbour at Dibba and the beautiful Khor Kalba, one of the most famous shell beaches in the world.

Palm Islands
Marvel at Dubai's Palm Islands, said to be visible from the moon and forming the largest manmade islands in the world. New bridges connect the islands to the mainland in one of the largest construction projects ever undertaken.

Archaeological sites
Explore the important archaeological digs at Hili, 10km (6 miles) from Al Ain. The stone tombs, including the famous Great Sepulchre, date back 5,000 years.

Hafit Mountain
Head for the Hafit Mountain, south of Al Ain, containing ancient tombs, pottery and swords.

Ancient Hatta
Discover the ancient fortressed villages of Hatta and Wadi Hatta, a lush and attractive valley in the foothills of the Hajar Mountains with superb desert scenery, in eastern UAE.

Bastakiya, Dubai
Stroll through historic Bastakiya and explore the local houses alongside Dubai Creek as well as a modest museum, a sprinkling of cafés, some small art galleries and a new street market every Saturday in this quiet and Bohemian quarter of Dubai's city centre.
© 2010 Columbus Travel Media Ltd. All rights reserved. No part of this site may be reproduced without our written permission, click here for information on Content Licensing
Flight Search
Advertisement
 

Travel Deals

Advertising features
temp-thumb
temp-thumb
temp-thumb
temp-thumb
temp-thumb
temp-thumb
Travel Partners
 
Advertisement
 
Advertisement
Holiday Ideas
Tired of the same holiday destination?
Fresh ideas are just one click away...
Sign up for our newsletter
Signup for our weekly newsletter packed with travel features, competitions, holiday inspiration and travel deals.
# Cartrawler API config script, must be loaded after openx ads!