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Abu Dhabi From Abu Dhabi city’s famous Corniche to the Oasis City of Al Ain and the massive dunes of Al Dhafra’s Empty Quarter desert, culture, history and adventure are encapsulated in the emirate. Experience the architectural prowess of the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, enjoy the peace and tranquillity of a stroll through Al Ain’s cooling oasis, learn about the ancient sport of falconry, experience an adrenaline rush on the world’s fastest roller coaster, or marvel at the history of an emirate dotted with ancient forts and historic sites – several of which have been listed as official UNESCO World Heritage Sites. And whether you’re marvelling at the always-changing views of Abu Dhabi while experiencing the emirate by land, air or sea, or experiencing the genuine feel of authentic Arabia while relaxing under the stars on a desert safari, playing golf on one of our championship-standard courses, or spending a fun day – and money – in one of our luxurious malls, you’ll discover that Abu Dhabi is a genuine leisure haven that will convince you to return again and again.
Heritage Village Run by the Emirates Heritage Club, this reconstruction of a traditional oasis village provides an interesting glimpse into the emirate’s past. Traditional aspects of the desert way of life, including a campfire with coffee pots, a goats’ hair tent, and a falaj irrigation system, are attractively displayed in the open museum. There are workshops where craftsmen demonstrate traditional skills, such as metal work and pottery, while women sit weaving and spinning. The craftsmen are happy to share their skills, and may occasionally give you the chance to try them out.
Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque This architectural work of art is one the world’s largest mosques, with a capacity for an astonishing 40,000 worshippers. It features 82 domes, over a 1,000 columns, 24 carat gold gilded chandeliers and the world’s largest hand knotted carpet. The main prayer hall is dominated by one of the world’s largest chandeliers –10 metres in diameter, 15 metres in height and weighing twelve tonnes. The mosque’s first ceremony was the funeral of its namesake, Sheikh Zayed, who is buried at the site. Reflective pools surround the mosque, amplifying its beauty. The striking white and gold colours shining in the sun are transformed at night by a unique lightning system which reflects the phases of the moon.
Emirates Palace A real iconic Abu Dhabi landmark, this luxurious hotel blends Arabian splendour with the latest technology to create a magical and memorable experience. During daytime, the hotel’s golden-sandy colour contrasts with its fresh green gardens, silvery water fountains and the blue sky. At night, the hotel’s lighting changes subtly, featuring a majestic rainbow-changing effect over the main dome. The main Palace building stretches over a kilometre from wing to wing, and its gardens and surroundings spread across 100 hectares. The hotel features 114 domes, with the central dome at an imposing 72.6 metres above ground. Gold, mother of pearl and crystals dominate the interior. The Palace has 1,002 chandeliers, the largest weighing 2.5 tonnes. Another memorable Palace feature is its two handmade wall display carpets, portraying the Palace itself and each weighing a tonne.
Al Ain A one and a half hour drive from Abu Dhabi city, Al Ain is one of the world’s oldest permanently inhabited settlements, and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The city abounds in picturesque forts. One of the UAE’s most historic buildings, Al Jahili Fort was erected in 1891 to defend the city and protect precious palm groves and is home to a permanent exhibition of the work of British adventurer Sir Wilfred Thesiger and his 1940s crossings of the Rub Al Khali (The Empty Quarter) desert. The redeveloped Al Qattara Fort is now home to a brilliant arts centre and gallery, offering hundreds of modern exhibits within its walls and with spaces for a variety of workshops – from pottery and painting to music and calligraphy.
Al Ain Oasis In the heart of the city, the Al Ain Oasis has been opened as the UAE’s first curated UNESCO World Heritage site visitor experience. Spread over 1,200 hectares (nearly 3,000 acres) and containing more than 147,000 date palms of up to 100 different varieties, this impressive oasis is filled with palm plantations, many of which are still working farms. The cool, shady walkways transport you from the heat and noise of the city to a tranquil haven; all you will hear is birdsong and the rustle of the palm fronds. The site introduces visitors to the delicate oasis eco-system and the importance it has played in the development of the emirate. The oasis landscape of Al Ain is shaped by a complex shared water supply based on both wells and ‘aflaj’, the UAE’s traditional irrigation system.
Sir Bani Yas Island A nature-based destination alive with wildlife and adventure activities, a 5-star boutique hotel, luxury villas, purpose-built stables and historical sites, Sir Bani Yas Island is one of the eight which make up the Desert Islands in Al Dhafra. Recently awarded the ‘World’s Leading Sustainable Tourism Destination’ at the 2014 World Travel Awards in Anguila, more than half the island is made up of the Arabian Wildlife Park, one of region’s largest wildlife reserves, which is home to more than 10,000 free roaming animals including Arabian Oryx, gazelles and giraffes, hyenas and cheetahs. Guests can take a 4x4 Nature & Wildlife Drive of the park in specially made vehicles accompanied by expert guides. With three Anantara Hotels Resorts & Spas’ retreats on the island, guests can enjoy five-star accommodation at Desert Islands Resort & Spa by Anantara, beach front seclusion at Anantara Al Yamm Villa Resort on the eastern shores, and marvel at the natural beauty of Sir Bani Yas Island at Anantara Al Sahel Villa Resort.
Empty Quarter The world’s largest uninterrupted sand mass, the Rub Al Khali (Empty Quarter) will blow you away with massive expanses of awesome desert and enormous dunes. It’s a landscape of ever-changing endless dunes made famous by the British explorer Wilfred Thesiger and his Emirati and Omani companions in the 1940s and 50s. Almost a fairytale from ‘1001 nights’, the magnificent Qasr Al Sarab or Mirage Palace is a luxurious oasis in the midst of the desert. Resembling an old Arabian fortress town nestled in the valley of mountainous dunes, this is actually a five-star resort letting you experience lots of desert activities – dune dawn walks, camel trekking, dune bashing, falconry shows and camp fire barbecues. Perched at the edge of the majestic Rub Al Khali, Tilal Al Liwa is a stunningly secluded desert hideaway. There are restaurants, a sparkling outdoor pool, and a full range of desert activities. Considered by many to be the world’s tallest sand dune, Tel Moreeb is over 300 metres high and the 50 degree incline to the top makes it a prime destination for motor sports enthusiasts. Every winter, the region’s most powerful four wheel drivers and quad bikers compete in the Moreeb Hill Climb event, which is part of the Liwa International Festival.
Dubai Dubai is one of the world’s most exhilarating destinations: a glittering city that offers swathes of golden beaches and world-class shopping, dining and nightlife. It hosts electrifying events and sporting championships, and for all the family, is one big, adventurous playground. A place where tradition meets ambition, where the past meets the future, the visionary city is also proud to display its rich heritage and culture. Extraordinary images of Dubai’s skyline have been seen around the world, but this is a city that must be experienced to be believed. Where else can you spend the morning on the beach, the afternoon snow skiing and the evening camel riding in the desert? Where else can you dive with sharks in a shopping mall and watch dancing fountains at the base of the world’s tallest tower? Whatever your passion, whatever your age – Dubai will never disappoint. With changes constantly afoot, Dubai is a city that can be visited year after year, after year. The pace of progress has been phenomenal and it takes s ome believing to imagine that just 50 years ago Dubai was little more than a fishing village beside the famous Creek. It was here that the Bani Yas tribe and the forefathers of the Maktoum dynasty first settled back in 1800. Even in the 1950s when the rest of the world was exploring space and New York’s Times Square had been illuminated for a good 50 years, Dubai still sat in darkness without electricity. But it was also here that the vision of Dubai first came about. The seeds of ambition were sowed and that small fishing village blossomed into the modern, multicultural and dynamic metropolis we see today. Dubai dares to dream big and then turns that dream into reality.
Centuries before it became the international destination that we all know today, Dubai was inhabited by nomadic tribes that left little trace of their existence. Then, in the 18th century, members of the BaniYas tribe settled on the banks of the Dubai Creek. Their natural commercial instincts, allied with liberal attitudes, attracted the attention of neighbouring traders from India and other Gulf countries. By the late 1870s, Dubai had become the main port of the southern coast, developing major souqs to enable visitors to barter their wares. It was in these clamorous Arabian souqs that spices were traded, potters and weavers worked, butchers hung carcasses, carpenters carved their wares and the waters of the Creek were congested with wooden abras and dhows ferrying passengers and unloading their cargo. It was a chaotic home to Iranians, Omanis and tribal Bedouins.
Pearls, collected from offshore beds, and gold were key to the emirate’s prosperity. Yet with the collapse of the pearling industry in the 1930s, Dubai fell into a deep depression, and many residents starved or migrated to other parts of the Arabian Gulf. Yet thanks to the implementation of favourable tax incentives, Dubai blossomed into a burgeoning trading hub. By the early 1950s, the Creek was at bursting point and it was down to the sheer determination and survival instinct of Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum – the Ruler of Dubai from 1958 to 1990 – that the money was raised to dredge the Creek, building up its banks with bulkheads and sheet piling. Remarkably, all of this was done without the basic aid of mainstream electricity. At the same time that the Soviets were sending satellites into space and some 50 years after New York’s Times Square was ablaze with multi-coloured illuminations, Dubai still remained in darkness. It was not until 1961 that Dubai flickered to light. Fortunes changed in 1966. Long after oil had been discovered in neighbouring Abu Dhabi and after years of drilling one dry hole after another, ‘black gold’ was eventually found in Dubai. This led the emirate to grant concessions to international oil companies, thus igniting a massive influx of foreign workers. Between 1968 and 1975 the city’s population grew by over 300 per cent. In 1960, Dubai’s 60,000 residents lived in an area of just two square miles, the size of a few city blocks. By 1970, the city held 100,000 people in a seven-square mile area. Five years later Dubai doubled again reaching 18 square miles, home to 183,000 people.
On 2 December 1971, Dubai, together with Abu Dhabi, Ajman, Fujairah, Sharjah and Umm al-Quwain, formed the United Arab Emirates – Ras al-Khaimah joined a year later. Dubai’s new-found fortunes and independence was not wasted and, thanks to the foresight of Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum, the infrastructure to create a city of the future began to take shape. In 1971, Port Rashid opened, providing access for large container ships. At the time, the port only had two gantry cranes. In 1978, the port was expanded to include 35 berths (five of which could be used by the largest container ships of the time). Yet these developments were still not enough, so in 1979, to supplement the facilities at Port Rashid, Jebel Ali Port opened. Covering over 134 square kilometres, the port is today home to over 5,000 companies from 120 countries. With 67 berths Jebel Ali is the world’s largest manmade harbour and the biggest port in the Middle East.
It was in 1999 that Dubai really grabbed the world’s attention with the opening of the Burj Al Arab on an artificial island off Jumeirah Beach. What many bill as the ‘world’s only seven-star hotel’, this sail-shaped building is now a world-famous icon. The headlines didn’t stop there. In 2006 (the year that Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum became the Ruler of Dubai and the Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE), the first residents moved onto the artificial archipelago that is the Palm Jumeirah . Today, this palm-shaped island with 17 fronds is home to luxury beachside residences, apartment buildings and resort hotels – including the colossal Atlantis, The Palm resort, which sits on the tip of the Palm’s crescent and opened to a grand display of fireworks in 2008. Another first came on 4 January 2010, with the opening of the world’s tallest tower, the Burj Khalifa. As if symbolising that the city really is a capable of making the impossible possible, the tower reaches some 828m into Dubai’s cloudless skies. This urban masterpiece is a symbol of strength, determination and a demonstration of Dubai’s capabilities. It’s home to thousands of metres of office space, 900 private residences, the outdoor observation deck on the 124th floor. The Burj Khalifa is also an art lover’s paradise: There are more than 1,000 specially commissioned works of art from Middle Eastern and international artists throughout the building.Yet a true test awaits Dubai in 2020, when the city will host the World Expo. It’s a test that the city is sure to pass with flying colours and, as vowed by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Expo is an opportunity for Dubai to “astonish the world”.
In a city that’s home to over 200 nationalities, Dubai has developed a culture that’s one of a kind. A culture in which global traditions, attitudes, customs, religions and lifestyles have merged harmoniously. Yet, despite being a uniquely tolerant and multi-cultured society, Dubai prides itself on its Arabian roots. At its core, Dubai will always be a city where the mystique of Arabia ultimately prevails; where the sound of the Imam’s call to prayer floats throughout the air; where the skyline of twisting and billowing towers intermingles with the domes and minarets of majestic mosques; and where the air is filled with the aroma of exotic spices. Emiratis are justifiably proud of their heritage – it wasn’t too long ago that this city was little more than a village beside The Creek and where much of its population lived in its glorious desert. Life has progressed here much faster than in any other city in the world and, as such, traditional survival techniques are now revered and have become heritage sports that proudly pay tribute to a bygone era.
More about Dubai’s past is on display at the fascinating Dubai Museum – housed in the oldest building in Dubai built around 1799 - where dioramas of potters, weavers and fishermen tell the story of life long before Dubai’s discovery of ‘black gold’ in 1966. The museum itself is located in Dubai’s oldest part of the city – the historic Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood. Dating back to the end of the 19th century, this is where Dubai’s first wealthy traders settled and built their grand coral-clad houses. These homes have been painstakingly restored and are still alive today in the form of art galleries, boutiques, museums and cafes. Take a moment to explore the labyrinth of winding pedestrianised lanes in this peaceful district; pop into a gallery or cafe and be sure to admire what many bill as the real architectural jewels of the city – the wind towers. This district sees the biggest display of wind towers on the Arabian side of the Gulf. In days gone by, these ingenious towers created a cooling breeze for the occupants of the courtyard houses.
Probably the most famous of all the wind-tower houses – albeit further along the Creek at Al Shindagha– is the former home of Sheikh Saeed Al Maktoum, Ruler of Dubai from 1912 to 1958, and the grandfather of Dubai’s current ruler, Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum. On exiting this museum go next door to the Dubai Heritage Village or take some time out to sit in a Creek-side café and watch the hustle and bustle on the water. It was around this very harbour that Dubai’s story first began when 800 members of the BaniYas tribe settled. Dubai’s Creek is of such historical significance that UNESCO is considering adding it to its list as a World Heritage Site. And of course the site will incorporate Dubai’s renowned souqs. These supermarkets of yesteryear are still very much alive today. Shop (and barter) for silks, throws and cushion covers in every colour and shade imaginable in the Textile Souq before heading across the Creek in a wooden abra (boat) to reach the aromatic Spice Souq where baskets burst at the seams with all manner of spices, dried fruits and frankincense. Close by on the Deira side of the Creek you’ll discover the dazzling Gold Souq with over 300 shops crammed into this glittering covered market.
It’s on Dubai’s beaches that the world meets – its more than 11.6 million visitors a year combined with its residents of over 200 nationalities. It’s here that beach games are won, the sand castles are built, the bodies are tanned, the picnics are eaten and the watersports are played. Families flock here and it’s always reassuring for parents to learn that, on the whole, the warm waters of the Arabian Gulf tend to enjoy gentle currents and, thanks to a slowly graduating sea bed, the waters alongside the shore tend to be relatively shallow – at low-tide you can easily walk out up to 100m and still only be ankle deep (perfect for paddling, collecting shells and hunting for crabs).
There are long stretches of sand that are open to all, stretching along the Dubai coast from Jebel Ali to the outskirts of neighbouring Sharjah. For a beach spot that’s at the heart of the action, head to The Walk at Jumeirah Beach Residence. This beach has the benefit of being fringed by a promenade of restaurants, boutiques, markets, The Beach mall and even an outdoor cinema. Changing and shower facilities are all on tap too. For the perfect picture of the iconic Burj Al Arab, head for Sunset Beach at Umm Suqeim. Many a tourist has clicked their camera here, capturing their photos of this famous “world’s most luxurious” hotel. From here it’s also the best launch pad for some stand-up paddle boarding or kayaking around the hotel’s island. Go early in the morning and you’ll get so close that you’ll even be able to smell the seven-star aromas of breakfast being eaten on the restaurant terrace.
Dubai from above - Seawings experience The best possible way to experience Dubai is from above. Since 2007, over 180,000 guests have flown with Seawings on air tours of Dubai and the rest of the Emirates. It’s an experience that imbues the intimate charm and exquisite detail of the UAE’s iconic attractions. And it fully showcases the splendour of cities that are surrounded by scorched desert and shimmering sea. Besides providing scenic air tours on spacious Seawings seaplanes, they also customise private charters that use 24 fully-licensed water landing strips and runways across the Emirates, including the international airports. It’s the ultimate private journey for exclusive experiences or business excursions.
Sharjah Sharjah is home to acclaimed art galleries, buzzy waterfront areas and pleasure islands, creativity and excitement flow through the emirate. At the same time, the city stays true to its Islamic heritage, with a traditional, gracious and welcoming vibe. Nestled between two lagoons, the city is a global metropolis of modern business and vibrant culture. UNESCO declared Sharjah a Culture Capital of the Arab World for its efforts to maintain and promote Arab traditions. The city shares its heritage through over 20 museums and galleries, local architecture and culture-packed leisure activities. Sharjah is a prime tourism destination with 106 hotels and hotel apartments, a variety of casual dining restaurants and indescribable experiences that take its guests through a rich and vibrant history.
Al Qasba Al Qasba is crossed by pedestrian bridges, this car-free canal-side complex is packed with cafés, restaurants and shops. On the northern bank, you can’t miss the 60m-high Eye of the Emirates Ferris wheel, which affords captivating views in every direction. Families will love the musical fountain, kids’ fun zone and indoor soft play centre, while art fans should check out the latest exhibition at the Maraya Art Centre. There are also abra (traditional boat) rides, eco-friendly electric water karts and bikes for hire. The Maraya Art Centre and Masrah Al Qasba Theatre hosts a variety of cultural events throughout the year, and the whole district comes alive for community celebrations such as Eid.
Al Majaz waterfront Sharjah’s waterfront has experienced a dramatic transformation in recent years, with family-friendly attractions, landscaped gardens and casual dining. It’s home to the Sharjah Fountain, where an impressive sound-and-light show attracts huge crowds during the evening. Play a round of mini-golf, cool off at the splash park or take a ride on the mini-train. Plus there’s a playground, bike hire, dhow boat rides and a host of waterside restaurants to keep everyone, from toddlers, teens and over, entertained for hours. Al Majaz is a focus for Sharjah’s annual Eid and National Day celebrations, while the open-air amphitheatre on Al Majaz Island hosts major cultural performances.
Heart of Sharjah Soak up the atmosphere and architecture of old Sharjah in the narrow alleys of this renovated creekside district. Once the hub of Sharjah’s merchant trade, the original city centre has been reborn as a vibrant heritage and arts district. You can easily spend a whole day exploring the art spaces and museums housed in traditional barjeel (wind tower) buildings. Due for completion in 2025, restoration is well underway and the area has been listed as a potential Unesco World Heritage Site. Keep an eye out for Al Hisn Fort and the only round wind tower in the UAE while bartering for souvenirs in the old-style souks. The district hosts a number of annual events including the acclaimed Sharjah Biennial and Sharjah Summer, which takes place from July to mid-September.
Ajman One of the seven Emirates of the United Arab Emirates, Ajman’s culture is steeped in exceptional hospitality. It is an inherited tradition borne out of the austere natural environment and the resulting emphasis on receiving and providing for guests. In Ajman, neighbours still celebrate life together, guests are warmly welcomed-in and sincere generosity is evidenced throughout everyday life. More than our beaches, quality driven hospitality offerings or investment friendly policies, it is the genuine welcoming nature of our people that defines Ajman’s true sense of place. From beaches and mangroves to museums and malls, Ajman city offers an exciting mix to tempt travellers of all ages. The city of Ajman is the coastal capital of the tiny emirate of the same name. As the emirate’s main hub, more than 90% of the population calls the city home. Situated between the emirates of Umm Al Quwain and Sharjah, Ajman has a beautiful 16-kilometre stretch of beach along the Arabian Gulf, along with mangrove forests and a natural harbor. Blessed with perennial sunshine, Ajman’s shoreline is best enjoyed with a stroll along the delightful Corniche, and its sandy beaches are heavenly for those who want take a dip in the warm Gulf waters. Museums, souqs and traditional past-times like camel racing provide a cultural fix, while the new Al Zorah development offers world-class golfing.
Ajman Museum With a fascinating collection of artefacts housed in a beautifully restored fort, Ajman Museum is one of the most visited historical attractions in the emirate. Ajman Museum is the emirate’s foremost museum illustrating life as it once was. The 18th-century fort served as the ruler’s residence until 1970, before it was converted into a museum a decade later. You’ll find the museum on the east side of the central square in the Al Bustan area. The museum opens from Saturday - Thursday (8:00am - 8:00pm), and on Friday (2:30 pm - 8:00 pm) and displays are annotated in both Arabic and English. The exhibits offer a compelling glimpse of Ajman’s past, from centuries-old manuscripts and weaponry to models of wooden dhows and ingenious irrigation systems. One of the most notable displays is an excavated cemetery discovered in the Al Muwaihat area, which features pottery and funeral jewellery dating back as far as 3000 BC. A section is devoted to the pearl trade that once dominated the region, while the fort itself is a perfect example of traditional Emirati architecture.
Ajman’s corniche and coastline Ajman’s beautiful coastline is best enjoyed with a stroll along the Corniche, where families come to promenade and picnic on the beach. Lined with cafés and restaurants, the Corniche is a four-kilometre-long esplanade overlooking the Arabian Gulf. Much of the emirate’s social activities and events are centred on this area Situated along the northwestern shore of the emirate, the Corniche road (or Sheikh Humaid bin Rashid Al Nuaimi Street) stretches from the roundabout just after Coral Beach Resort Sharjah to the five-star Kempinski Hotel Ajman. Soak up the sun during the day with an afternoon walk, or go for a swim in the sheltered tidal pool. The area really comes to life during the evening and on weekends, so join the locals enjoying barbeques and picnics on the beach, or visit one of the many casual restaurants such as Attibrah and Themar Al Bahar.
Ras Al Khaimah With over 7,000 years of fascinating history and culture, Ras Al Khaimah is the perfect getaway from everyday life. Offering magnificent landscapes, breathtaking coastlines and rich, terracotta desert planes, the emirate has firmly established itself as the UAE’s most authentic destination in the Middle East. With year-long sunshine and 64 kilometres of white sandy beaches, just 45 minutes from the busy metropolis of Dubai, Ras Al Khaimah offers an entirely unique experience from its neighbouring emirates. Ras Al Khaimah’s culture and heritage are very much the product of a desert dwelling, seafaring and Arabic way of life. Intriguing traditions such as camel racing, falconry and pearl fishing are still a key part of local life and the many local museums and forts are a good way to get a glimpse of the emirate’s culture, history and heritage. Travel on a journey through time in Ras Al Khaimah by visiting one of the many, fascinating historical sites that date back to the third millennium BC or immerse yourself in spiritual tranquillity at one of our beautiful mosques. The Emirate of Ras Al Khaimah has an impressive archaeological heritage and rich cultural history. This area has enticed settlers with its unique combination of the four different landscapes found in the United Arab Emirates: striking mountains, coastal beaches and mangroves, and the desert. The interaction of these geographical factors coupled with Ras Al Khamiah’s strategic location at the mouth of the Arabian Gulf has shaped the very special heritage of the Emirate. Archaeological excavations reveal that an advanced trading civilizations have existed in this region since 5000 BC. This rich history dating back to the Bronze Age makes Ras Al Khaimah one of the few places in the world that has continuously had settlers for over 7,000 years.
City & Corniche Ras Al Khaimah city is located on the coast of the Arabian Gulf and it is divided in two sections: old Ras Al Khaimah and Nakheel which are connected by the oldest bridge in the city. Nakheel is home to all the Government Authorities, Ruler’s Court, museum, markets, old souq and some shopping malls. In Ras Al Khaimah city there are two main Corniches: the first one is the old Ras Al Khaimah corniche which is located opposite the Kuwaiti Souq. Here locals enjoy relaxing on the white beach while soaking in the sunset. The second corniche is Al Qawasim corniche, located next to the Ras Al Khaimah Bridge. With three kilometres of green area along the blue waters of Khor Ras Al Khaimah, one can enjoy a lazy afternoon on the grass while taking in the views of the mangroves. This is also a very popular place for fitness seekers to walk or jog on the running track. Kids can ride on their bicycles or enjoy an ice-cream with their families. Visitors can also have a meal or a warm cup of tea in one of the popular waterside restaurants or cafes.
The National Museum of Ras Al Khaimah The National Museum of Ras Al Khaimah is located In the western part of Ras Al Khaimah city in a fort that was the residence of the ruling family until the early 1960s. The National Museum houses a collection of archaeological and ethnological artifacts. The Qawasim Room on the first floor contains documents, manuscripts and treaties between the rulers of Ras Al Khaimah and the UK Government, as well as some traditional weapons belonging to the ruling family. The museum’s exhibits feature discoveries from the earliest settlers to the late Islamic period. Traditional life in Ras al-Khaimah is the highlight of the Ethnographical display. Visitors will learn about architecture, pearl diving, date agriculture, farming and fishing in the various galleries.
Fujairah Fujairah has witnessed a rapid rate In all respects of economic and social development and especially in the field of tourism under the wise guidance of H.H.Sheikh Hamad Bin Mohammad Al Sharqi, Supreme Council member and ruler of Fujairah. Where to make every effort to develop the resources enjoyed by the emirate, it set out to implement its ambitious development plan to achieve the ideal exploitation of its resources and to extend the base of industrial, commercial, and agricultural production.
Fujairah Fort The Emirate of Fujairah is rich in archeological treasures some of which date back to about five centuries ago including castles, forts, towers and mosques. These forts and castles were used for defensive purposes in repelling invaders and maintaining the soil of the homeland and its identity, and the Fujairah Fort is one of the important and largest forts of the Emirate. The Fujairah Fort is characterized by its position on a high hill in the old Fujairah region, and built up to about 20 meters above sea level, and overseas the whole city of Fujairah at this height and is three kilometers away from the coast. The design of the Fujairah Fort differs completely from the usual engineering designs of the rest of the forts of the state. Existing buildings three circular towers and a fourth square tower and a tall building with a section similar to the tower, these buildings are linked by a wall between the towers to form a central hall in the middle.
Al Bidya Mosque On the road to the city of Dibba al Fujairah, 35 km to the north of the city of Fujairah is where Al Bidya Mosque is located, known by its distinctive architectural structure and is also named in some cases, the Othmanian Mosque. Al Bidya Mosque is characterized by its small area size and the manner of implementation in its construction and the architectural and structural component in roofing, where no timber was used to raise the roof, but depends on the column in the middle. This column holds the four domes of the Mosque in a wonderful architectural system where every dome is made up of three domes placed on top of each other. The large dome first, then the smaller dome, and a third with a tiny head. These domes are neighboring each other, located not far from each other. The Mosque features carvings that is architectural in nature and has a niche and a small platform and has internal openings for ventilvations and shelves. This Mosque is the oldest Mosque in the United Arab Emirates. It was built using purely local materials from large and small stones and burnt clay as solder substance for the building. The Department of Antiquities and Heritage renovated and rehabilitated the Mosque as a tourist site in cooperation with the Municipality of Dubai, Department of Historical Buildings and was opened by His Highness, Sheikh Hamad Al Sharqi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Fujairah.
Radisson Blu Hotel, Abu Dhabi Yas island sophisticated hotel is situated in the south of the island. Enjoy Arabian island life with a dip into crystal-clear water; relax and escape from the bustle of city life. Just moments from the Radisson Blu Hotel, Abu Dhabi Yas Island, guests can swim in the cool, blue waters of the Arabian Gulf at Yas Beach, play the stunning championship golf course at Yas Links, or visit the UAE’s biggest global attractions: Warner Bros World Abu Dhabi, Ferrari World Abu Dhabi, and Yas Water World theme parks. This island experiences idyllic weather year round, with no shortage of sandy shorelines to soak up rays. The 397 stylish rooms and suites at this sophisticated hotel offer modern conveniences such as a minibar and Free high-speed wireless Internet, all designed with the traveler in mind. Suites have private balconies that provide dazzling sea views of the Abu Dhabi coasts.
Radisson Blu Hotel, Dubai Deira Creek The Radisson Blu lies within the beautiful Deira Creek area of Dubai, just a short walk from bus and metro stations and only 7 kilometers from Dubai International Airport. The hotel, first built in 1975, is a classic fixture of Old Dubai. The area teems with shopping malls, as well as traditional souks such as the Spice Market. Each of our 288 rooms and suites boasts a private balcony, coffee and tea supplies, and other upscale amenities. The Radisson Blu Hotel, Dubai Deira Creek is the ideal choice for a stylish, comfortable stay, whether you’re visiting for leisure or business. Choose from 9 on-site dining venues, including a pastry shop and a 24-hour international restaurant that serves a variety of themed buffets, including authentic Japanese, Chinese, and Persian cuisines – plus fresh seafood. If you’re returning to the hotel after a night of exploration in Dubai, you can indulge in a late-night snack at the trendy YUM!, which is open until 23.30 daily. Our Deira Creek hotel also offers a special brunch for families on Fridays: clowns, cotton candy and a fun photo booth are just some of the treats in store!
Radisson Blu, Media City Hotel Whether you’re looking for the perfect candlelit dinner or a cozy gathering, this stylish hotel offers superb on-site dining at several restaurants, bars and lounges. Choose from the buffet at Chef ’s House, an elegant meal at the cozy Library Lounge or classic Italian cuisine at the award-winning Certo restaurant, where guests can enjoy the sunshine on our outdoor terrace. Other first-class amenities include two outdoor pools with decks that allow guests to soak up the Arabian sun. Choose from a wide range of rejuvenating spa treatments at the Senso Wellness Center. And start the day with an energizing workout at the fully equipped gym, featuring the latest power plate fitness technology. We cater to business travelers with 12 naturally lit meeting rooms, spanning 582 square meters and outfitted with the latest audio-visual technology. The largest room can host up to 150 people. Our Media City hotel is ideal for business gatherings; it’s close to public transportation and to local business hubs such as Dubai Internet City and Knowledge Village Dubai. We offer a free shuttle bus service for Media City corporate clients and a full-service Business Class Lounge that provides a private work space for Suite and Business Class Room guests.
Radisson Blu Hotel Sharjah Stay on the Gulf Coast beach, just a few kilometers from Sharjah city center at the Radisson Blu Resort. Easy to reach, we’re located just 15 kilometers from Sharjah International Airport (SHJ) and 19 kilometers from Dubai International Airport (DXB). Our Sharjah hotel is also close to attractions such as the Eye of the Emirates and the highly-photographed Blue Souk. Choose from stylish rooms, suites and poolside cabanas with modern amenities such as free high-speed Wi-Fi. With 4 on-site restaurants, you don’t need to go far for an upscale dining experience. You can even stay in and order room service, or make other requests with the touch of a button, using our One Touch Service and App. When you’re not at the nearby beach, visit the Bay Club for tennis courts, gyms, saunas and a children’s fun zone. Our business center and spa also provide a variety of services, so you can combine work and relaxation during your trip.
Radisson Blu Hotel Ajman Stay center stage with Radisson Blu Hotel, Ajman and choose from 148 stylish rooms and suites decorated with your comfort in mind. Our seven restaurants and bars offer international tastes with local touches, while our spa facilities guarantee ultimate relaxation and rejuvenation. Business travelers can enjoy our 4 meeting rooms and large ballroom, fully equipped with state-of-the-art solutions and Free high-speed, wireless Internet for successful meetings and events. Our experienced team of meeting and event coordinators provide a friendly service and are happy to help create memorable moments for you and your attendees. Whether you’re visiting for business or pleasure, Radisson Blu Hotel, Ajman keeps you close to what matters. Take a break and enjoy our private beach just a free 15-minute shuttle ride away, cheer on your team at the nearby sports bar or dance the night away at the modern nightclub just opposite the hotel.