• 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.

• 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.

• 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 (website: www.visitabudhabi.ae).

• Take a trip to Ras al-Khaimah (website: 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.

• 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.

• 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.

• 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.

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

• 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.