The UAE: Seven Emirates – One Destination

Welcome to a land of superlatives: biggest, tallest, priciest – the UAE certainly doesn’t do things by halves. But while its soaring skyscrapers and mega malls are certainly hard to miss, there’s so much more to the Emirates than first meets the eye . . .

Dubai and Abu Dhabi are perfect for luxurious beach holidays and family holidays, and city trippers will delight in the burgeoning art and foodie scenes. Don’t overlook the other Emirates, either. For example, little-visited Sharjah is stuffed with museums (covering everything from Islamic calligraphy to classic cars) – while Ras Al Khaimah’s mountains, hiking routes and white¬knuckle adventures (including the world’s longest zip line) showcase the UAE’s striking natural beauty.

In the 1950s when the rest of the world was exploring space, the UAE was way behind. But today, its brilliantly lit up cities and roads leave most people awestruck. Not only has the country caught up with the rest of the world in a very short span of time, but it has also raced ahead of all competition.

The UAE has succeeded in creating an enviable and inimitable lifestyle of leisure, luxury and culture for both its residents and visitors.

From super yachts to traditional dhows, shopping malls to souks, Michelin–starred cuisines to Arab mezze, convertibles to camels – these amazing contrasts lend the country fascinating exoticism.

Since its formation, the UAE has only gone from strength to strength. It is one of the fastest developing nations in the world.

Culturally, the UAE is a vital focal point of the Middle East and wider region. Prominent, internationally acclaimed exhibitions are regularly held at Manarat Sa’adiyat. Outposts of the Louvre and Guggenheim will soon open their doors in the capital, Abu Dhabi.

Furthermore, the UAE presents a strong and vivid repertoire of cultural fests each year: Abu Dhabi International Film Festival, Art

Season, Dubai International Film Festival, Emirates Airline Festival of Literature, Taste of Abu Dhabi, Dubai Food Festival, Sharjah Biennial, Ajman Shahinda Festival and Fujairah International Monodrama Festival to name just a few. These regularly draw in the world’s best talents to the city.

Shopping in the UAE is a fabled experience. Think gold, designer labels, souvenirs, bargain hunting and electronics. Here visitors not only have the choice of goods but also the choice of ambience to buy them in: sophisticated malls or bustling traditional souks.

For thrill seekers, the UAE is a paradise of many pursuits. From Ferrari World Abu Dhabi to iFly and Iceland, jet skiing, white water rafting and kayaking to dune bashing and skydiving, the options are unlimited.

Whatever the budget and taste, the UAE has accommodation choices to suit every traveller. Emirates Palace Hotel, Burj Al Arab, Jumeirah Hotels and Kempinski Resorts are renowned globally for their luxurious offerings.

But apart from these stellar addresses, each Emirate has made sure to provide stays that will cater to even the most modest traveler without compromising on service.

Getting around the UAE is extremely convenient and economical, thanks to its well planned and world class infrastructure. Interactive maps, comprehensive bus routes, easily available taxis and simple car hire procedures make travel across the country absolutely hassle free.

While each of the seven Emirates is a destination in itself, a true feel of the UAE can only be had when tourists visit all seven.

Each Emirate lends its own colour to the national fabric: Abu Dhabi’s understated elegance, Dubai’s dynamism, Sharjah’s cultural ethos, Ajman’s quietude, Umm Al Quwain’s natural bounties, Ras Al Khaimah’s mountains and Fujairah’s raw rugged beauty.

Make the most of nature and technology, shopping and sightseeing, cultural exchange and contemporary living in just one holiday!