20 Most Extraordinary Tourist Places in the UAE

One of the hottest tourist destinations today, the United Arab Emirates (UAE), has surpassed the benchmarks of glamour and leisure. Although a small country, tourist places in UAE are abundant, extravagant, and enough to leave you flabbergasted. From the magnificent high-rise skylines in Dubai to the picture-perfect beaches of Fujairah and the rich Emirati culture of Sharjah, the UAE is a coalescence of eccentric Arabic culture.

This article has been designed for those who desire to experience a bit of everything and are looking for the most phenomenal places to visit in the UAE.

Burj Khalifa

Burj Khalifa or the Burj Dubai is the tallest structure and one of the largest skyscrapers in the whole wide world. This immaculate building is one of the most renowned tourist places in UAE and a true representation of Dubai’s opulent persona. With established records of being the tallest standalone structure, an observation deck with the highest altitude, and an elevator covering the highest distance travelled from bottom to top, Burj Khalifa soars high with mind-numbing views of Dubai.

Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque

The showstopper Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi represents Islamic architecture in a unique interpretation. The harmonious craftsmanship is evident from the blend of ancient and modern styles, which together create a stunning mammoth of this structure. The world’s largest hand-knit carpet, huge chandeliers, crystals, and 24k carat gold adorn the interiors of one of the biggest mosques worldwide. The floral semi-precious stone floors invite one into a paradise.

Ferrari World

Ferrari World is a one-stop destination for those who like to feel the adrenaline rush. Home to the fastest roller coaster in the world, this Ferrari-themed park is jaw-droppingly exciting and alluring. Apart from Formula Rossa, which can speed up to 240 km/hr within seconds, this park flaunts Ferrari car expositions, a racing simulator, and a ride that describes how to put together a Ferrari.

Jebel Jais

Jebel Jais is a haven for those who like to explore. The highest peak in the UAE, this jewel surrounds itself with numerous activities like zip-lining through the Jebel Jais Flight (the world’s longest zip line) or climbing the Jebel Jais’s Via Ferrata, which allows hikers to choose from 6 different trails. For those who want to relax, you can just enjoy the views of the Hajar Mountains peaks if you do not want to experience the exciting activities.

Ski Dubai

Skiing in a desert. Sounds insane, right? Juxtaposing the “polar” opposites, UAE’s Ski Dubai is one place that ski enthusiasts do not miss. It not only offers a full skiing and snowboarding experience but also houses adorable penguins, usually found in the Artics. It also has an ice park, a wonderful delight for those who are accompanied by children. The clothes and other accessories are provided at the venue, so you do not need to stress over the luggage.

Snoopy Island

A paradise in disguise, Snoopy Island is UAE’s underdog. It is perfect for those looking for an idyllic gateway. The peaceful island is surrounded by crystal clear waters, which have a lot of activities to offer. For those who crave adventures, gear up for snorkelling to explore the abundant varieties of fish and an exotic underwater experience. One can also head for kayaking or go paddleboarding through the island to witness some majestic sharks and other killers.

The Dubai Fountain

Sprawling over an area of 8 acres, the Dubai Fountain is one of the most anticipated places to visit in the UAE. It is the largest choreographed fountain show worldwide. Visible from 20 miles away, the fountain creates around 1000 light and water patterns which will leave you spellbound. You can also stroll around on the wooden structure ‘Dubai Fountain Boardwalk’.

The Louvre Abu Dhabi

This architectural marvel is the latest addition to the UAE’s collection of spectacular edifices. It has been designed by the award-winning French architect Jean Nouvel, so a visit is worth it. The Louvre Abu Dhabi displays a collection that has been sourced from various corners of the world across various periods. Hop on this journey which takes you through human history and connects the dots between civilisations and cultures that have helped form the human narrative.

Dubai Mall

Add another feather to Dubai’s cap because the Dubai Mall has entered the list. Isn’t sauntering around in the biggest shopping mall in the world a dream for all shopaholics? Entailing the most luxurious brands in the world, from Cartier to Chanel, the Dubai Mall is one of the favourite tourist places to visit in the UAE. 1200 retail outlets and dozens of jewellery shops, beverage, and food stores offer the best luxury experience to all its visitors.

Sharjah Art Museum

Sharjah Art Museum is popular for possessing the most renowned art collections created by Arab artists and inspiring art from the Middle East. The works of the famous artists span over the 18th, 19th, and 20th centuries and are a delight to sore eyes. The museum organises a lot of exhibitions which display the art of the young and aspiring artists.

Burj Al Arab

The only 7-star hotel in Dubai, this boat-shaped property is magnificent in its true sense. You can enjoy the view of the hotel from the beach, explore the hotel during a visit at sunset, or just go for an afternoon tea. Believe us, the experience will be unforgettable. The sunrise and sunset views from the hotel are spectacular as the sky elucidates the property’s outline.

The Palm Jumeirah

One of the most high-end tourist places in UAE, the Palm Jumeirah is, again, the biggest artificial island in the world. The property consists of the most sophisticated, chic, and cosmopolitan bars and restaurants in the city. You can even experience the glamour by staying for a night in the famous Atlantis or Anantara hotels. The views from the hotel are phenomenal and will be a perfect addition to your vacation.

Emirates Palace

Emirates Palace is synonymous with opulence, grandeur, and any other word you can think of on this line. The construction of the Emirates Palace took around 3 billion dollars which makes it the most expensive hotel to be built in the world. Alas, the only way to enter the building is by making prior reservations. You should not miss out on the gold cappuccino in their world-famous Le Café. True to their name, the coffee and the ice cream has real gold in them.

Blue Souk

Blue Souk is a heavenly amalgamation of architecture and shopping arenas. Constructed in 1978, this attraction is now one of the most famous landmarks in the whole Sharjah Emirate. With over 600 shops, this bazaar-like environment offers everything from jewellery to souvenirs, making it one of the must-visit tourist places in UAE.

Dubai Creek

No doubt, Burj Khalifa provides a breathtaking view of Dubai way up from the sky, but the actual scenery of Dubai’s skyline has to be absorbed through the waters of Dubai Creek. The best way to experience Dubai Creek is by hopping onto one of the dhows (traditional Arabic boats). The sunset cruises are the most popular among tourists as the last glimmers of the sun leave the evening sky a masterpiece of purple and fiery tangerine.

Aquaventure Waterpark

Bow down to the most famous waterparks in the world and the largest in Dubai. The Aquaventure Waterpark is renowned for over 20 water slides, some of them being the world’s longest, offering the deserved thrill to its adventurers. Also, pay a visit to the 65,000 exotic and beautiful marine creatures in the Lost Chamber Aquarium, the largest open aquarium in the world.

CLYMB Abu Dhabi

Revolutionising indoor skydiving, CLYMB Abu Dhabi is the world’s largest skydiving chamber and the tallest indoor climbing wall in the world. It offers out-of-the-world sporting facilities for those who seek adventure. CLYMB specialises in providing an enthralling experience with 2 to 4 skydiving flights. Apart from being a must-visit destination for thrill chasers, its party space, food and beverage outlets, leisure and entertainment activities make this a one-stop destination to relax and enjoy.

Hajar Mountains

Ideal for a weekend road trip, the Hajar Mountains are a bedrock of barren, rugged mountains which cut through the Northern area of the UAE. The wadis of this region are perfect for those who want to hike, climb or enjoy bird watching. You can explore the small forts and watchtowers that represent the history of the place. The town of Hatta has become a famous base for tourists to go kayaking in Hatta Lake or enjoy mountain biking around the mountains.

Gold and Spice Souk

If you want to experience the real Dubai with all its traditions and rich old-world charms, the Spice Souk and Gold Souk should be your first choice. Souk is the Arabic word for market. By crossing the Dubai Creek on an Abra (a water taxi), tourists can explore the souks to find the most authentic spices used all over the region and astonishing pieces of jewellery at the Gold Souk.

Dubai Miracle Garden

Dubai Miracle Garden is the seventh heaven for those who love flowers more than anything. This flower wonderland sprawls over an area of 72,000 sq. ft. and is embraced by a staggering variety of 50 million flowers. A butterfly garden accentuates the charm of this place, where 15,000 free-flying butterflies welcome you with their majestic appeal to this unique tourist place in the UAE.

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