What to see in the UAE? Among the huge number of objects of architecture, art and nature, it is necessary to highlight some of the attractions of the UAE. It is absolutely impossible for a tourist to ignore them. Among this list there are both man-made and natural objects, places of entertainment, recreation and relaxation.
What to see in the UAE first of all
Given the number of interesting places, excursions to the UAE can be very diverse: exciting, exotic, fun, informative, mystical, etc. Travelers can only choose what they like and can afford, but whatever you choose, you will not be disappointed!
1. Burj Khalifa (Dubai)
Panorama of the city from the Burj Khalifa in the center
What is the first thing that comes to mind when talking about the sights of the UAE? Of course, the grandiose Burj Khalifa. According to the project, this building was originally planned as the tallest in the world, its height was kept secret until the end so that it could be adjusted if a building higher was designed. The height of this truly huge skyscraper is 828 m (163 floors), which is 196 m higher than the Shanghai Tower, whose height is 632 m.
At the time of design, the building was named Burj Dubai, but later it was renamed, dedicating it to the President of the Arab Emirates.
Inside this huge building, in addition to the hotel, there are apartments, a huge number of shopping centers and offices. The highest observation deck is located at an altitude of 472 m. The air inside the Dubai Tower, in addition to cooling, is additionally flavored. Not far from the skyscraper there are the world’s tallest singing fountains, which are an extremely beautiful sight.
If you want to visit the observation deck on the 124th floor of the Burj Khalifa, then tickets must be purchased in advance to save your time and money.
Official website: https://www.burjkhalifa.ae
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2. Palm Islands (Dubai)
Artificial archipelago of Palm Island
The Palm Islands can rightfully be considered the eighth wonder of the world. Of all that has been built by man, only this artificial archipelago and the Great Wall of China are visible from space. This place is a business center, today it is the center of tourism of the entire Persian Gulf.
The archipelago consists of three attractions of the UAE – islands, which in appearance are date palms. This plant is especially revered in Islam. The largest of the artificial islands is the island of Palm Deira, the Palm Trees of Jebel Ali and Jumeirah are slightly more modest in size. Following the terminology, Palm trees would be more correct to call peninsulas, since they are connected to the coastline by their “trunks”. The crown of each island is a crescent moon, a symbol of the Islamic religion. The islands are protected from the water by barrier reefs, on which quotes from the poems of the Sheikh of Dubai are carved.
On the Palm Islands, you can always find entertainment to your taste: here you can go diving, yachting or windsurfing. Stunning architectural structures such as the underwater bridge, Aquaventure Water Park and the famous Atlantis Hotel complete the picture.
You should definitely use the monorail to explore the Palm Jumeirah Island from a low altitude. Amazing impressions are waiting for you, and when your friends ask you what to visit in the UAE, you can safely answer the Palm Islands.
3. Gold Market (Dubai)
Gold products of the market
Apart from the fact that Dubai can rightfully be considered the city of the future, it also holds a leading position in gold sales in the world. Millions of tourists come here to see the famous Dubai Gold Market live, not to mention businessmen and avid shopaholics. Dubai guides will help you get to this place, or you can get there yourself using local transport.
The total area of this market is amazing, it is not for nothing that it surpasses any of the gold markets in the world in terms of the number of jewelry sold. If you approach the purchase of jewelry wisely and know the current prices for gold, you can save a significant amount. The main thing is to bargain with sellers. You should not be afraid of deception, because all jewelry is carefully checked.
The range of gold products is huge, there are decorations for every taste: from small elegant rings to massive heavy pendants. In addition to gold, silver jewelry, diamonds, pearls and other semi-precious and precious stones are also presented here. You can buy unique products of famous brands on the Gold Market. If you decide to buy a copy of the original jewelry, you can be sure that it will be of very high quality.
4. Singing fountains (Dubai)
Singing fountains are a composition of water. light and music
The singing fountains in Dubai are a symbol of the wealth and prosperity of the country. The complex is located in the center of a 12-hectare swimming pool. The pool is decorated with mosaics and is located next to the Burj Khalifa, the tallest skyscraper. The reservoir is illuminated by a huge number of spotlights. The height of the jet during the performance reaches 150 meters. Such power is provided by water cannons, which emit a sound similar to a shot.
The guns, pumps and music are controlled by a program that was developed specifically when creating the fountain. Powerful acoustic systems are located around the entire pool. They accompany the water dance with various songs in Arabic and English. In total, about 20 songs are performed per day without repetitions. Only at the very beginning of the performance is a song in honor of the capital.
Attractions in the UAE are distinguished by huge financial investments. Singing fountains are no exception. The enchanting project cost $217 million, and it is the most expensive fountain in the world. It is not for nothing that they call it the “8th wonder of the world” – the energy of water, light and music makes you forget about everything and completely dissolve into an amazing sight.
Official website: https://www.emaar.com
5. Wild Wadi Water Park (Dubai)
The water park is like the Wadi River
What to see in the UAE, besides the world-famous attractions? Wild Wadi Water Park, which is located in Jumeirah in Dubai, fully answers the question.
The area of the water park is 5 hectares. The technical equipment is the most modern, which is why the institution is considered one of the most expensive in the world.
The park was created in the likeness of the Wadi River, which flows among the mountain rocks. All the attractions have their own legend associated with the adventures of Sinbad. There are 24 attractions in total. They are connected by various water slides, the length of which is more than one and a half kilometers.
The following entertainments stand out in particular:
- The slide is 33 meters high. Driving down it, you develop a speed of up to 80 km / h. The complex is in the form of a pipe, including 8 slides. An attraction for rafts. A reservoir with a low water level. There is an imitation of a sunken ship with various slides, swings and fountains. It is intended for the youngest visitors. Pools for beginner surfers with an artificial wave.
The water temperature is comfortable – 28 degrees. There is a well-developed catering infrastructure on the territory of the water park. Everything you need for swimming can be purchased on site. The park is equipped with a modern water purification system. More than 50 rescuers are constantly on duty around the perimeter.
Official website: https://www.jumeirah.com
Feel the atmosphere of the UAE in this beautiful video!
6. Al Jahili Fortress (Al Ain)
The Exterior of the Old Fort
The Al Jahili Fortress, a wartime monument, is an example of Arabic architecture. It was built at the end of the 19th century. It is located in the central part of Al Ain, surrounded by a park. Special attention should be paid to this UAE landmark.
The fortress was built by order of Sheikh Al Nahyan. It was intended both to protect the city and to shelter citizens during the period of internecine strife. The building also served as a holiday residence for the sheikh and his family. In its original form, the fortress had a watchtower and a fort in the shape of a square. Now the appearance has undergone some changes, but the Old Fort is almost completely preserved.
The tower consists of four tiers. The first two are open to the public. There are soldiers’ barracks in the western part of the fortress. These buildings are new. An exhibition hall with photographs by Wilfrid Thesiger is located in one of the barracks. The Arabs have a deep respect for this Englishman with a difficult fate, who loved Arabia and the mores of the Bedouins very much. He is also famous for his research conducted during countless travels.
Excursions to Al Ain begin with the fortress and the park located around it. Palm trees, fountains, playgrounds are located on its territory. All this allows you to relax in the midst of tranquility and tranquility.
7. Flower Park in Al Ain (Al Ain)
A replica of the Eiffel Tower in the flower park
Not far from Dubai there is a “piece of paradise” – a large flower park with amazing compositions of fresh flowers brought from around the world.
For tourists, the attractions of the UAE are an endless stream, but such a flower park is the only one in the world. There is a man-made stream with a closed contour in the middle of the desert area, which feeds all these unique compositions with unusual colors from hanging containers. The park is famous for a path with arches in the form of large hearts entwined with flowers. Couples in love make their wishes here. The variety of colors does not irritate the eye, but only pleases.
In the center of all this floral splendor is a twelve-meter replica of the Eiffel Tower, assembled from a thousand (or maybe much more) flowers. In the evening, it is illuminated so that this beauty can be seen from afar. Words cannot convey the fragrance floating and fragrant in the park. The flowers are chosen so that when some bloom, others open in the same place. Admission is free for tourists.
8. Sheikh Zayed Mosque (Abu Dhabi)
The snow-white mosque of Sheikh Zayed
The most famous and majestic mosque in Abu Dhabi was named as a sign of respect and love for the first president of the UAE. Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan started its construction, but did not have time to finish it. His tomb was installed in the mosque after the construction was completed.
The Zayed Grand Mosque is a combination of several architectural styles of the Arab trend. Made of snow-white stone and decorated with gold, the mosque is not only a religious building. It is always remembered when looking for which sights of the UAE to visit – not only Muslims, but also Gentiles and tourists are allowed to enter the Zayed Mosque.
The mosque occupies a large area of about 12 hectares. The majestic structure, exquisite architecture and the glitter of gold attracts those who are wondering what to visit in the UAE. Domes, many columns, four minarets over a hundred meters high, the entire complex, surrounded by blooming gardens, is perfectly visible from every bridge stretching from Abu Dhabi to the mainland (the city itself is located on islands). The Great Zayed Mosque on the golden sand looks enchanting against the background of dawn or sunset.
The interior is also only made of gold and white polished stone, which is unusual for Arabic architecture. The only exception is inlaid with precious stones and some ceramic details. They were used to decorate the tomb of the president.
Official website: https://www.szgmc.gov.ae
9. Al Jazeera Park (Sharjah)
The best family park in the country
Not only is there something to see in the UAE, but also where to relax on a grand scale! Al Jazeera Park is the best family park in the whole country. But there is one exception – men are not allowed to enter on Tuesdays, only women and children of all ages can have fun.
In the park you will find everything that your soul desires. Various attractions for children and adults – swimming pools, small waterfalls, bowling, trampolines. But the most interesting thing is the railway laid across the entire area of the park. You can view all the interesting places at once.
A special place in the park is occupied by the Ferris wheel, where you can view the entire park at a glance. A mini zoo has been created for children in the park, where you can see wild animals whose habitat is in this country. Flower alleys, reminiscent of bright oriental carpets, will not leave women indifferent. Men can have a good time riding around the lagoon on small boats. If you want to have a snack, there are many cafes at your disposal where national dishes are offered.
It is especially good to walk in the park in the evening, when the multicolored lighting creates a unique perception of the surrounding landscape. You will keep this impression for a long time.
10. Mount Jabal Hafit (Al Ain)
The landscape of the ancient Jebel Hafit Mountain
In the Emirate of Abu Dhabi, not far from Al Ain, the peak of Jebel Hafit rises regally, its height reaches 1,163 meters. Winds blowing over the mountain slopes for millions of years have created a network of unique caves that attract thousands of tourists here.
You can get to the top of the mountain by a winding road that ends near the castle of the local ruler and the five–star hotel – the Mercure Grand. It is from here, from the observation deck, that a unique overview opens at the foot of the mountain, where another attraction is located – the oasis for tourists “Green Mubazarrah”. Here, visitors are offered a variety of entertainment from riding Arabian horses to the water park. Those who wish to improve their health can swim in the pool with healing water from hot springs.
During the construction of the observation deck, workers discovered the remains of ancient marine life, which are about 700 million years old. After this discovery, scientists were able to assume that the waves of the ancient sea once rolled at this place.
All these attractions of the UAE, created by nature and the local population, have made Mount Jebel Hafit an attractive and unforgettable vacation destination for millions of tourists.
UAE Attractions: what else to see while in the Emirates
It can be difficult to choose where to go on your own, and even more so to organize a trip taking into account local realities, but guides in the UAE are always ready to help. You will learn much more with them than if you travel alone, although even without an escort, the country will seem amazing and will remain in your memory forever! Let’s tell you a few more options where to go.
11. Jumeirah (Dubai)
The architectural beauty and elegance of the Jumeirah Mosque
If you ask what to visit in the UAE, then you will definitely be advised that the Jumeirah Mosque, located in the center of Dubai, near the zoo, is a modern building made in medieval traditions. In the center of this white-stone building there is a huge dome supported by numerous columns, and at the edges it is framed by two majestic minarets. Among the religious buildings, the mosque is considered the largest structure – it can accommodate more than 1,300 people at the same time, and was honored to be depicted on one of the local banknotes in denominations of 500 dirhams.
The UAE is a multinational country striving to establish close ties with representatives of any cultural groups, therefore, for the first time, people of a different religion were allowed to enter the mosque to popularize Islam. During regular tours of this UAE landmark, visitors are told about the history of Islam, the rules of communication with Allah and the meaning of prayer. It is forbidden to take children under 5 years old with them, and everyone else can visit the temple, having previously put on clothes covering the bare parts of the body and taking off their shoes before entering.
At dusk, the mosque is especially fascinating for its majestic beauty and elegant outlines of architectural forms.
12. Al-Mamzar Park (Dubai)
The beach oasis of Al-Mamzar Park
When planning what to see in the UAE, be sure to visit Al-Mamzar Park. This grandiose entertainment center, which cost 14 million euros to build, with numerous beaches and pools, occupies almost the entire area of an artificial peninsula, 100 hectares in size, located on the border of Dubai and Sharjah.
Almost all the beaches are located on the shores of the Persian Gulf and only one, attracting numerous fans of extreme water sports, opens into the strait on the other side of the peninsula. It has all the beach infrastructure necessary for a good rest – changing rooms, showers, retail outlets and equipped lifeguard stations.
Another attraction is the green spaces that occupy more than half of the park. The variety of plants is amazing – hundreds of palm and coconut trees, numerous flower beds.
Among this oasis there are swimming pools, for the use of which you need to pay a separate fee. For outdoor enthusiasts, there is a wide range of entertainment – from skateboarding and roller skating grounds to places to play football and basketball.
Visiting the UAE’s most important attraction, Al–Mamzar Park, is possible without restrictions on any day of the week, except Wednesday, since only women with young children rest here at this time.
13. Historical and ethnographic village in Abu Dhabi (Abu Dhabi)
Abu Dhabi Village Gate
The capital of the Arab Emirates is one of the most developed cities in the world, but Abu Dhabi preserves the memory of its past carefully and carefully. Once it was an ordinary village on the shores of the Persian Gulf. And in 1997, a historical and ethnic center appeared, recreating those times. A real deserted village in the middle of the city is currently considered one of the most important attractions of the country.
All the main historical attractions of the UAE are gathered in this place. The houses are built of date palm, coral limestone or clay. On-site employees produce handicrafts using ancient techniques. You can see firsthand how the works were created by potters, weavers or blacksmiths. Tortillas made according to ancient Bedouin recipes will be offered to tourists to refresh themselves.
The Archaeological Museum displays gold jewelry and weapons. The Museum of Pearl Fishermen offers to explore different types of boats of all times.
To fully immerse yourself in the culture of the country, it is worth watching performances by ethnic musicians and dancers. A camel ride will be a great family vacation. Sometimes falconry takes place – the occupation of the chiefs.
14. Aquarium in Dubai Mall (Dubai)
The life of marine life in the Dubai Mall Aquarium
Many people have heard about the world’s largest shopping mall, but not everyone knows that it is there that the largest aquarium on the globe is located. In search of what to see in the UAE, you should definitely look here. The entrance is located on the ground floor.
The size of the aquarium is 51x20x11 meters. It contains more than thirty thousand species of marine life. 400 of them are sharks and rays. To hold such a mass of water and strong marine animals, the walls are 75 cm thick.
Animals can be viewed from the inside and outside. For the first option, you can try diving in a cage, equipped with flippers, mask and snorkel. The pleasure time is 30 minutes. Not everyone will choose such an extreme option. Many people like 15 minutes in a boat with a transparent bottom. There is an opportunity to feed the animals. The capacity is 10 passengers. You can just take a walk among the riot of marine life. To do this, it is enough to tunnel through the aquarium. Its length is 48m. Divers can frolic with sharks. For beginners, training is carried out.
On the third floor there is an underwater zoo, representing three zones – the ocean, the rainforest and the rocks. Depending on the choice, you can observe the life of the corresponding inhabitants. There are huge crocodiles, colorful tree frogs, creepy but cute piranhas, cute penguins, lazy seals and much more.
Official website: https://www.thedubaiaquarium.com
15. Ski Dubai Ski Resort (Dubai)
Snow trails under the roof of the Ski Dubai complex
Can a year-round ski resort appear in the middle of the desert? Anything is possible in the United Arab Emirates. One of a kind, it awaits vacationers at the Mall of Emirates.
Snow trails under the roof occupy 25,000 sq. m. m and are able to accommodate about 1,500 people in one day. The real winter was created artificially, but this does not prevent the residents and guests of the desert from rejoicing, who managed to plunge into the winter cold for at least an hour. And it doesn’t matter if you didn’t have your skis with you, because the rental points will provide you with all the equipment, including warm clothes.
There are 5 slopes of varying difficulty for skiing, and a separate track for snowboarding enthusiasts. It is especially convenient for beginners there, since they can work out in special groups or pay for the services of a separate coach. Recruitment into groups is carried out taking into account the level of initial training.
There is something for kids to do in the “Polar Bear Club”, where funny animators will occupy the mind and body of little tomboys. And tourists tired of entertainment are provided with comfort in a small cafe. Wrapped in a blanket near the fireplace, you can watch snowball games through the window. There is a separate menu for children. Hungry athletes can refresh themselves on the outdoor terrace among the slopes.
16. Bastakia district (Dubai)
Classical Arabic architecture in the old Bastakia district of Dubai
Dubai deserves the status of the best city in the UAE — the center of one of the Emirates, a true oasis created by man in the endless deserts. And among the forest of high-rise ultramodern buildings of the city, the historical district of Bastakia still lives its unique life. The history of this area dates back to the end of the 19th century, when pearl fishermen settled here. In the second half of the last century, some of the buildings of that period were demolished, but the rest has been preserved to this day. A characteristic feature of these structures are wind towers, which perform the function of cooling houses on hot days. It was believed that the more similar structures there were in a house, the wealthier the family living there. The main part of the buildings of the old district is decorated in Arabic style and skillfully restored while preserving their original beauty.
Official website: https://www.dubai-online.com
17. Ferrari World Theme Park (Abu Dhabi)
Ferrari World Indoor Theme Park on Yas Island in Abu Dhabi in the UAE Aziz J.Hayat
The Emirates likes to create the very best, and one of the striking examples is the Ferrari World park in Abu Dhabi. This unusual-shaped structure, created in 2010, is the world’s largest theme park located in the building. Its area is 22 thousand square meters, and the dome has a height of 45 meters. The complex is entirely dedicated to the legendary Formula 1 races and everything that has anything to do with it. The main attraction of the park is the impressive sights that visitors get by studying the bright design of the complex and looking at interesting cars. But besides this, there are also attractions, from visiting which you can get a charge of vivid emotions. For example, here you can ride an extreme roller coaster at a speed of more than 200 km / h, fly up in a special capsule or fly in the cockpit.
Official website: https://www.ferrariworldabudhabi.com
18. Louvre Abu Dhabi Museum
The eastern facade of the Louvre Abu Dhabi Art Museum Wikiemirati
Cultural attractions of the UAE have also found their place in the expanses of the Emirates — for example, the Louvre Abu Dhabi Museum, which, although it bears the name of a Parisian institution, is not its subdivision. The Association of Museums of France acted as a partner in this project, which provided exhibits for rent. But perhaps the main exhibit is the building itself, consisting of 55 structures united under a single openwork dome with a diameter of 180 meters made of multilayer aluminum structures. This extraordinary dome deserves special attention: all its 8 layers are decorated in the form of patterned ornaments that let in light and leave different patterns on the walls and floor. The 23 galleries located in the museum’s premises are presented in chronological order — artistic creations from prehistoric to modern art are exhibited here.
Official website: https://www.louvreabudhabi.ae
19. Motiongate Park (Dubai)
Huge entertainment area at Motiongate Park in Dubai DPR 2016
Attractions at Motiongate Entertainment Park in Dubai Jeremy Thompson
The largest entertainment park dedicated to beloved children’s films and cartoons has become a kind of Dubai copy of the world-famous Disneyland. This is a great place for families with children, divided into a number of themed areas and decorated based on famous Hollywood bestsellers. Entertainment of various subjects has found its place here — attractions based on the cartoons “Shrek”, “Kung Fu Panda”, “Madagascar” and others. In the park you can visit fabulous Smurf mushroom houses, playgrounds where you can participate in berry picking and visit the Smurf Village, and whole Smurf shows. There is also an entertainment area based on two acclaimed films — “Step Forward” and “The Hunger Games”, and the main area where the real set is located and you can see the real process of the birth of cinema, as well as become the main character of a mini-movie.
Official website: https://www.motiongatedubai.com
20. Dubai Mall
Dubai Mall at the foot of the famous Burj Khalifa Tower
Inside the largest shopping and entertainment center in the world – Dubai Mall neekoh.fi
Shopping fans flock to Dubai for many reasons. Firstly, this is a huge number of shops, supermarkets, malls, which you will not often find. Secondly, this country boasts very favorable prices — the fact is that Dubai has an open port with low import duties. Thirdly, the high level of service allows every visitor to the store to feel like the most important person. Among the most famous shopping centers is the huge Dubai Mall shopping and entertainment center, whose area is equal to the area of 50 football fields. It is located in a prestigious quarter, next to the tallest skyscraper Burj Khalifa. In addition to exploring 1200 shops, you can have fun here — for example, visit a computer game park, Kidzania children’s playground, a giant aquarium or an ice rink.
Official website: https://thedubaimall.com
21. Capital Gate Skyscraper (Abu Dhabi)
160-meter Capital Gate skyscraper in the UAE FritzDaCat
If we consider the most modern and extraordinary sights of the UAE, the presentation will not do without a structure that has no analogues in the whole world. This is the 160-meter Capital Gate skyscraper, which is unique not in height, but in its angle of inclination — 18 degrees. This is the largest angle of inclination among all structures in the world — for example, it exceeds the slope of the Leaning Tower of Pisa by four times. Another feature of the skyscraper is the design of its facade — it is covered with 7 hundred glass panels mounted on a steel “skeleton”. To make it more unusual, the developers gave the glasses the shape of faceted diamonds, and each of these glass structures weighs 5 tons. The offices are located on the lower 18 floors of the unusual building, and above there are rooms of one of the most expensive hotels in the world.
22. Parus Hotel (Burj Al Arab)
The Parus Hotel (Burj el Arab) stands in the sea on an artificial island
The list of the most amazing buildings in the world is supplemented by another unique creation in Dubai — the Burj el Arab Hotel, which has become a real symbol of the city. This luxury hotel in the form of a sail of a sea vessel is included in the list of the most expensive hotels on the planet. The level of its service is so high and impeccable that in many sources Burj el Arab is referred to as a seven-star hotel – in fact, officially it belongs to the category of five—star deluxe. As an example, the list of hotel services includes airport delivery by helicopter, 4 swimming pools, 2-storey rooms, a team of butlers, a private beach, relaxation treatments at a local spa, etc. The interior of the hotel is based on the contrasts of blue and white colors, as well as an abundance of gilded decorations. Its lobby breaks all world records — its height is 180 meters.
Official website: https://www.jumeirah.com
23. Emirates Palace Hotel
The 5-star Emirates Palace Hotel is surrounded by green lawns and gardens
Emirates Palace Hotel on the shores of the Persian Gulf in the UAE
The UAE residents’ love of luxury is unprecedented — another luxury hotel is located in Abu Dhabi on the Persian Gulf coast. The adjacent 1.3 km long private beach offers magnificent views of the bay, which also belongs to the hotel. The building itself resembles a palace rather than a hotel — its luxurious facade is decorated in traditional Arabic style, and the interior of the rooms is richly decorated with marble details, mosaics of glass, gold and silver — traditional Arabic motifs make an amazing contrast with modern technical equipment. The hotel has 14 restaurants with a huge selection of the most delicious dishes, two large swimming pools, a full-service spa, and a children’s club. The palace hotel is surrounded by numerous palm trees, dozens of fountains, and in the evening a fascinating illumination lights up throughout the territory.
Official website: https://www.kempinski.com
24. Atlantis The Palm Resort
Atlantis The Palm Resort complex on the artificial Palm Jumeirah Island in Dubai
The Persian Gulf in the UAE conceals another Arab treasure in the coastal waters — the man-made Palm Island. It is the largest artificial island in the world, with its outlines resembling a palm tree. It is here that one of the luxury hotels of the Emirates, Atlantis The Palm, is located, on the territory of which there are numerous entertainment facilities. The unique location of the hotel rooms allows absolutely all vacationers to contemplate the magnificent expanses of the sea. Everyone who is housed in this complex has unlimited access to the underwater museum with tens of thousands of marine inhabitants, as well as to the exciting Aquaventure water amusement park. In addition, on the territory of the complex you can visit the dolphinarium and swim with dolphins, “chat” with cute sea creatures in the sea lion observation center, and finally relax and have fun on the cleanest equipped beach.
Official website: https://www.atlantisthepalm.com
25. Sheikh Said’s House-Palace
Sheikh Saeed’s House-Palace of the late 19th century is a historical landmark of the UAE
One of the few historical buildings in the UAE, the Sheikh Said Palace, was built at the end of the 19th century right on the seashore, from where the ruler could watch the passing ships. The building, decorated in the best traditions of Arabic architecture, impresses with its monumentality. Its powerful walls were built of corals covered with a layer of lime — a similar wall material made it possible to keep the interior cool on the hottest days. Corner wind towers complement the air conditioning system in the house. Today, the palace houses a famous museum, whose exhibitions are dedicated to the history of Dubai. For example, there are halls dedicated to pearl mining, the history of the Maktoum dynasty, Bedouin life and the beginning of the oil era.
26. Fort Al Fahidi (Dubai)
Fort Al Fahidi is the oldest surviving architectural structure in the center of Dubai
Al Fahidi Fort is considered one of the oldest structures in Dubai. It began to be built at the end of the 18th century from a mixture of corals, clay and shell rock, and its purpose was to protect the city from enemy attacks from the sea. Later, a prison was located in the fortress, weapons were stored, and only many years later it was decided to open a historical museum within these walls. Today, the expositions of the national museum are dedicated to the fate of the country and its rich history. The collections feature everyday objects of Bedouins, merchants, and pearl fishermen who have lived in the UAE for thousands of years. There are expositions dedicated to traditional music, the process of pearl mining, and the life of fishermen. The vast dungeons of the fortress are equipped with the latest technology, and all tours of the museum take place interactively.
27. Fort Al-Husn (Abu Dhabi)
Northeast Tower of Al-Husn Aeroid Fort
Fort Al-Husn against the backdrop of the city skyscrapers of Abu Dhabi Aeroid
Abu Dhabi also keeps interesting places related to the history of the state. For example, the oldest building, the White Fort, or Al-Husn Palace, was built in the early 17th century and served as a starting point in the formation of the emirate. Originally built as a defensive fortification, the fort eventually began to serve as a living archive, and a museum of the history of the UAE appeared within its walls. For a long time, the fort served as the residence of the rulers of Abu Dhabi. The reconstruction of the building was carried out in the 70s and 80s of the last century, and only in 2007 it became part of the museum complex and opened its doors to the general public. Today, these walls house the country’s Cultural Fund, a repository of documents, a library, and a book fair and a film festival are held annually in March.
Official website: https://qasralhosn.ae
28. Sir Bani Yas Island
Panorama of the island of Sir Bani Yas Ismail.algussein
The best sandy beaches of the UAE and a variety of leisure opportunities are concentrated on the extraordinary island of Sir Bani Yas. It is located in the Persian Gulf, 250 kilometers from the coast, and an incredible variety of plants grows on its lands, many representatives of fauna live. It’s hard to believe that once there were only rocks and sand here – about 40 years ago a “green” project was launched, as a result of which the lifeless lands of the island turned into a paradise. The main attraction of the island is the Arabian Wildlife Park. Therefore, today you can relax on the island in many ways — for example, take part in a safari, spend a day on one of the beautiful beaches, visit archaeological sites where objects that are several thousand years old are discovered, as well as relax in one of the luxury hotels.
29. Spice Market (Dubai)
Traditional Spice Market in Deira (Dubai) Stzeman
Exploring the sights of the UAE on the map, you can also see that the spice market is located right in the center of Dubai. This picturesque place has its own unique exotic aroma: an incredible abundance of spices packed in bags, amazes with the richness of smells and is full of a variety of colors. But contrary to the name, not only spices are sold here, but also all kinds of herbs, roots, dried fruits, tea, handmade souvenirs and even carpets. Despite the atmosphere of the market, sellers are very competent and friendly — they are always ready to tell in detail about the features and application of each of the spices, and in the auction they easily make concessions, sometimes yielding two or even three times the original price, especially if a large volume of spices is purchased.
30. Al-Kasbah Canal (Sharjah)
Dancing fountains near the Eye of the Emirates on the Al-Kasbah embankment in Sharjah Farrah Zakir
The embankment of the Al-Kasbah Canal is a favorite place of entertainment in Sharjah by Dr. Norbert Heidenbluth
When considering what to see in Sharjah, be sure to pay attention to the place for family holidays – the Al-Kasbah canal. It is an excellent hiking area with an abundance of entertainment, restaurants, cafes, playgrounds and sports grounds and other fascinating places. There is a 9D cinema, light shows are projected on the wall of one of the buildings, singing fountains with unusual illumination are beating. Along the canal stretching along the walking area, walks on traditional arba boats are organized, which are very popular in the Emirates. From the water, you can view the picturesque panoramas of the local embankments and the entire city. But perhaps the main attraction of this zone is the 60-meter Ferris wheel, which will open the most spectacular views of Sharjah and the surrounding area. Read also about the best sights of Jordan and be inspired for your further journey through the Arab countries!
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