Things To Do In The UAE
Popular Beaches in UAE
Jumeirah Beach, Dubai
Located in the heart of Dubai’s picturesque Jumeirah district, the renowned Jumeirah Beach is a testament to the city’s commitment to luxury and leisure. As one of the most beautiful beaches in Dubai, its pristine white sands stretch along the scenic Al Faihidi coast, offering a haven for relaxation and adventure. The beachfront is adorned with upscale resorts, providing a perfect blend of opulence and coastal charm. Adventure seekers can revel in the thrill of kitesurfing, jet skiing, and various water adventures, while sun loungers offer a tranquil escape from the bustling crowds.
With iconic landmarks like the Burj Al Arab and Wild Wadi Water Park in the backdrop, the Jumeirah Public Beach holds a special place among the UAE’s coastal gems. Boasting international standards, this beach is free to enter and features amenities like lifeguards, showers, and bathrooms. Visitors can enjoy a day of sunbathing and swimming or partake in activities such as cycling and jogging, making Jumeirah Beach a quintessential Dubai experience. Whether savouring a meal at a beachfront restaurant or opting for an overnight stay at the nearby Jumeirah Beach Hotel, every moment at Jumeirah Beach promises luxury and relaxation in a captivating coastal setting.
Saadiyat Public Beach, Saadiyat Island
Located on the western edge of Saadiyat Island, Abu Dhabi’s picturesque Saadiyat Public Beach beckons with its stunning views of the serene Arabian Gulf and a vast expanse of warm golden sand, making it an ideal retreat to bask in the city’s glorious sunshine. This tropical haven spans over 4 kilometres, boasting white coral sand reminiscent of the Maldives and inviting turquoise waters. Whether you’re a honeymooner seeking a tranquil escape, a family searching for quality time, or a wildlife enthusiast eager to spot turtles and dolphins, this beach offers diverse experiences.
Divided between luxury resorts, a high-end beach club, and two public areas, Saadiyat Public Beach is perfect for strolls, seashell collecting, sunbathing, and swimming. With the potential to witness baby hawksbill turtles hatching or dolphins playfully swimming, every moment is a marvel.
Facilities include lounge chairs, umbrellas, and watersports activities like kayaking and windsurfing. Lifeguards ensure safety, and for those driving, the beach provides ample parking for up to 200 vehicles, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable visit to this Abu Dhabi gem.
Khorfakkan Beach, Khorfakkan
Khor Fakkan Beach, stands as an unparalleled gem offering a 3-kilometer crescent-shaped shoreline with endless aquatic adventures. This beach, a favourite among Sharjah locals, invites travellers to experience its diverse offerings. Lined with palm trees and blessed with glittering waters, it provides a picturesque playground for all, featuring swing sets and football goalposts for both adults and children. Khorfakkan’s ideal weather makes it perfect for a day trip to escape the bustling Sharjah city life.
Dive into the azure waters for a swim, or explore further with boat and jet ski rentals along the corniche. Fishing enthusiasts and thrill-seekers can opt for sailing, scuba diving, or snorkelling near Shark Island. At one end of the beach lies the Oceanic Resort and Spa, offering tailored experiences with a full range of water sports and pampering packages. Spending the night here after a day of sun-soaked activities ensures waking up to a breath taking sunrise over the tranquil waters.
Khor Fakkan Beach is more than just a scenic delight—it’s a haven for various activities. Explore marine life, unwind to the gentle ocean sounds, or simply relax with a book and a virgin mojito. The beach’s strategic location, surrounded by small islands, makes it ideal for diving and snorkelling.
Kite Beach, Dubai
Kite Beach, nestled in Dubai’s vibrant Jumeirah neighbourhood, is a haven for sun-seekers, food enthusiasts, and sports aficionados alike. This popular destination offers a perfect blend of adrenaline and serenity, making it an ideal spot for various beach activities. From challenging watersports like kitesurfing, wakeboarding, and stand-up paddleboarding to beach volleyball and strolls along the 14km track with stunning views of Burj Al Arab Jumeirah, Kite Beach caters to diverse preferences.
For those seeking a more relaxed vibe, the beachfront has shops and food trucks offering casual bites, including the renowned SALT with its tasty sliders and lotus shakes. To elevate your beach experience, consider a beach day pass from Sole Mio, which provides access to comfortable sun loungers and convenient food delivery from nearby eateries.
The possibilities are endless at Kite Beach, whether bask in the sun, ride the waves, or enjoy a serene evening on the white sandy shore. As the first-ever certified kitesurfing school in the UAE, Kite Beach Center ensures a safe and thrilling experience for enthusiasts of all levels, with certified instructors and state-of-the-art facilities.
Al Mamzar Beach, Dubai
Al Mamzar Beach in Dubai not only offers pristine sands and azure waters but also provides an array of amenities and recreational spaces for a memorable beach experience. Covering a sprawling 106 hectares, the beach features five pristine shores, and as you approach, you’ll traverse lush lawns and winding paths amid swaying palm trees. Families can cool off in three stunning pools, and for those who prefer a sandy escape, there are around 28 well-furnished areas for grilling and barbecuing, each exuding a modern yet ethnic charm.
Facing beach number 5, these spots include umbrellas and seats for a relaxing experience. The park goes beyond just sun and sea, offering special areas dedicated to leisure games, football, basketball, a park train, bicycle rental, and even designated ladies’ days. For those seeking a more luxurious experience, there are spacious, modern, air-conditioned bungalows available for daily use or showers, complete with barbecue facilities, with around 15 bungalows for rent situated on beach number 4.
There are also around 28 specific areas for grill and barbecuing. These are well-indicated and easily accessible.
Unique Attractions - Discovering Destinations
Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, Abu Dhabi
Welcome to the breathtaking Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi, a testament to the vision of Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the Founding Father of the UAE. As one of the world’s largest mosques, it is a magnificent architectural marvel and a symbol of cultural unity. Crafted over 12 years, the mosque is a collaborative masterpiece, drawing inspiration from Mamluk, Ottoman, and Fatimid styles. Its intricate details, from gold-plated Swarovski chandeliers to the world’s largest hand-knotted carpet, reflect the craftsmanship of artisans worldwide.
Step into the marbled halls to discover treasures like the vast marble mosaic courtyard and reflective pools mirroring amethyst-and-jasper-embedded columns. Outside, the four towering minarets, reaching 106 meters, add to the grandeur. The mosque is not just an architectural wonder; it embodies an open-door policy, inviting people from diverse backgrounds to appreciate its beauty and embrace the Emirate’s culture of open dialogue.
While the mosque warmly welcomes visitors, it remains an active place of worship for up to 50,000 people daily. Remember to dress respectfully and be mindful of Friday prayer times. The lighting system, reflecting lunar phases, transforms the exterior nightly, creating a mesmerizing spectacle. The mosque opens its doors with free guided tours from Saturday to Thursday (09:00 – 22:00) and Friday (16:30 – 22:00).
Burj Al Arab's, Dubai
Perched on its island, the Burj Al Arab Jumeirah epitomises luxury and opulence, proudly standing as one of Dubai’s most iconic landmarks. Inspired by a traditional wooden dhow, its distinctive sail-shaped structure is a symbol of the city’s grandeur, much like the Eiffel Tower is to Paris. Stepping into the lobby, adorned with gold-leaf extravagance and a captivating fountain, sets the tone for the lavish experience. Boasting a ‘seven-star status,’ the hotel features 202 suites, each embodying indulgence and adorned with more luxury than one could imagine.
Beyond its architectural grandeur, the Burj Al Arab is a culinary haven, offering eight signature restaurants, including the exquisite Al Muntaha, which serves contemporary European cuisine. The Sky View Bar, suspended 200 meters above sea level, invites guests to savour afternoon tea and cocktails with breathtaking views. The expansive terrace boasts two swimming pools, 32 luxury cabanas, a restaurant, and a bar, providing an exclusive retreat for guests.
From chauffeur-driven Rolls Royce limousines to a dedicated helicopter transfer service, every detail exudes extravagance, with floor-to-ceiling windows offering panoramic views of the Arabian Gulf.
Gold Souq , Deira
Welcome to the glittering world of Gold Souq Deira, where the charm of old-world trading meets the opulence of authentic gold, diamonds, and precious gems. Nestled on the Deira side of Dubai Creek, this historic marketplace traces back to the 1940s when visionary traders from India and Iran pitched their stalls. Today, it boasts over 300 retailers, making it one of the world’s largest gold markets, offering a dazzling array of jewellery. As you stroll through the narrow lanes, each store window sparkles with gold bangles, necklaces, rings, and more.
The Deira Gold Souk is a haven for seasoned collectors and those seeking a unique piece of jewellery. Regulated by the Dubai government to ensure authenticity and quality, your purchases are guaranteed genuine. While the primary focus is on gold, the souk also showcases diamond-encrusted ornaments, strings of pearls, platinum, and silver, all available at negotiable prices. As you explore the covered arcade, immerse yourself in the lively street theatre, where hardworking traders and vibrant shoppers create a captivating atmosphere.
Whether you’re a serious buyer or simply soaking in the rich tradition, the Deira Gold Souk offers an unrivalled experience. Don’t forget to haggle—the making charges are negotiable, making your gold shopping in Deira a cultural adventure and a smart investment.
The Falcon Hospital, Abu Dhabi
Hidden in the heart of Abu Dhabi, the Abu Dhabi Falcon Hospital (ADFH) stands as a testament to the cultural significance of falcons in the United Arab Emirates. Established in 1999 as the world’s first and largest hospital dedicated solely to falcons, this unique facility has treated a staggering 100,000 falcons, symbolizing the nation’s deep-rooted connection to these majestic birds. Falcons, revered as the UAE’s national bird, have long played a crucial role in Emirati culture, with falconry being a cherished tradition spanning centuries.
A visit to the ADFH is a journey into the fascinating world of falconry, where 6,000 birds pass through its doors annually. Under the guidance of a prominent German veterinary surgeon, the hospital boasts 200 air-conditioned treatment rooms equipped with cutting-edge technology. The facility offers a comprehensive experience, from witnessing the falconry techniques described by the late UAE founder, Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan, to exploring the falconry museum with its rich collection of artefacts.
Beyond its medical prowess, the ADFH also serves as an educational hub, enlightening visitors about falcons’ vital role in Bedouin life and contemporary sports.
Louvre, Abu Dhabi
Welcome to the Louvre Abu Dhabi, an architectural marvel and a treasure trove of human creativity. Designed by Pritzker Prize-winning architect Jean Nouvel, this masterpiece on Saadiyat Island offers a captivating journey through 12 galleries, defying traditional museum norms by grouping artworks thematically and chronologically rather than by country or civilization. From the First Villages to A Global Stage, the exhibits seamlessly traverse cultures and periods, fostering unexpected yet beautiful juxtapositions.
Marvel at the 7th-millennium-BC Ain Ghazal statue, the Bactrian princess from the 3rd millennium BC, and a 15th-century ceramic bust of St Peter of Verona. The museum’s geometric star-designed filigree dome, weighing 7500 tons, casts a mesmerizing ‘rain of light’ over the central plaza. Beyond its permanent collection, the Louvre Abu Dhabi hosts temporary exhibitions, a children’s museum, and an excellent café, all contributing to an immersive cultural experience.
With its 600 masterpieces, this museum city stands as a testament to human creativity and the universal threads that bind us all. Immerse yourself in art, architecture, and culture at Louvre Abu Dhabi, a true gem on the global stage.
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