United Arab Emirates Holidays

How to reach the UAE

Flight time:

• There are many direct flights to Dubai and Abu Dhabi from the UK, and they take around 7 hours. Flights to Abu Dhabi and Dubai depart from major airports such as London, Manchester, Birmingham, and Newcastle.

Transfer time:

• The airports of Abu Dhabi and Dubai are roughly 15 to 30 minutes from popular areas of town by taxi. The drive to Sharjah from Dubai Airport takes around 30 minutes, while to Ras Al Khaimah it’s around 90 minutes. Some hotels offer shuttle services.

Price:

• Taxis to central Abu Dhabi cost around Dhs70–Dhs80 (£15–£17). From Dubai Airport they cost Dhs40–Dhs80 (£8.50–£17) into town, depending on the exact destination, Dhs60–Dhs80 (£13–£17) to Sharjah or Dhs250 (£53) to Ras Al Khaimah.

Weather and best time to visit the UAE

With its desert climate, the UAE has plenty of sun and minimal rain year-round, but temperatures vary considerably between seasons. Here’s a breakdown of what to expect:

Winter (November to March)

• This is the peak time for holidays to United Arab Emirates, when the weather is ideal for beach days, sightseeing, and exploring the desert. High temperatures average 18°C to 30°C. The number of visitors is also highest then, as are prices for flights and hotels, and it's a popular time of year for outdoor events.

Summer (June to August)

• This is the hottest time of year, with temperatures reaching 40°C or higher and humidity increasing along the coast. While it can be a quiet time to visit – good deals can be found for hotels – be prepared for limited outdoor activities during the hottest part of the day. It’s best to enjoy being in the air conditioning, everywhere from high-end shopping to museums.

Spring and autumn (April to May and September to October)

• These are the shoulder seasons, warmer than winter but not as sweltering as the height of summer. Average daytime temperatures are 30°C to 35°C, with some hotter days from mid-May onwards. It’s an excellent time for enjoying the beaches and exploring the sights before the peak season crowds arrive.

Practical information

• Spoken languages: The United Arab Emirates’ official language is Arabic, but English is widely used. A few words of Arabic can be a nice gesture and are usually well-received by locals.

• Local habits and customs: The UAE is a Muslim country, so while swimwear is fine on beaches or pools, modest dress is advised elsewhere, especially when visiting religious sites. Public displays of affection are discouraged and some restrictions apply to the consumption of alcohol. If you visit during Ramadan, it’s a respectful and quieter time, but most tourist sites, restaurants, and hotels remain operational with modified schedules.

• Currency: The currency in the UAE is the dirham (Dhs). ATMs are readily available in cities, and major credit and debit cards are widely accepted in most larger businesses. However, cash is better in smaller shops and restaurants, and in the souks.

• Getting around: Dubai and Abu Dhabi have good public transport systems, mainly using buses, which are very cheap, and an impressive metro in Dubai. In all cities, taxis are plentiful, reasonably priced, and a very common way to get around. Ride-hailing services like the local Careem and Uber are also available. For inter-emirate travel, coach services such as RTA’s intercity buses connect the cities.

• Electricity and plug types: The UAE’s electricity supply runs at 220/240v and uses the British-style three-pin plug, so no adaptor is needed for UK travellers.

• Time zone: The UAE operates on Gulf Standard Time, four hours ahead of GMT.

Best things to do in the UAE

The United Arab Emirates is a fascinating multi-cultural mix of futuristic architecture, rich heritage and luxurious experiences. From world-class attractions in Dubai and Abu Dhabi to the cultural wonders of Sharjah and natural beauty of the desert and the Northern Emirates, United Arab Emirates holidays have something for everyone.

The best districts

• Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood, Dubai: Wander through the narrow lanes right by Dubai Creek and admire traditional wind-tower architecture. This cultural district houses museums, art galleries and charming cafés.

• Abu Dhabi's islands: Away from the traditional heart of the city, islands such as Yas and Saadiyat are home to a growing collection of entertainment and leisure attractions. These include the world-renowned Louvre Abu Dhabi, Ferrari World, Yas Waterworld and Warner Bros World. The nearby beaches are an added treat.

• Sharjah Heritage Area: This district is the historic heart of the city, where you’ll find restored coral stone houses, wind towers, charming museums and the quaint Al Arsa Souk. It’s a must-see for anyone interested in Emirati history and culture.

Museums

• Museum of the Future, Dubai: This out-of-this-world sculpture is one of the most stunning buildings ever constructed, and it houses a museum showing a vision of our future on earth and beyond. Several themes are explored, from how the world might look decades from now to how humans can change to handle it.

Historic monuments

• Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, Abu Dhabi: This masterpiece of Islamic architecture, with its white marble domes and columns inlaid with floral designs, is an awe-inspiring site. Visitors can join guided tours or explore independently.

• Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilisation: Home to a superb collection showcasing Islamic contributions to art, science and architecture, this museum features artefacts from around the Muslim world. The central atrium, featuring a mosaic of the night sky, is particularly impressive.

Activities for families in the UAE

Family holidays to UAE offer a wide range of activities, from water parks and theme parks to cultural sites that will entertain and educate. Here are some other top family-friendly experiences to try.

• Zoos and aquariums: Dubai Aquarium and Al Ain Zoo provide fantastic encounters with wildlife, from sea creatures to desert animals.

• Al Jahili Fort, Al Ain: Built in the late 19th century, this mud-brick fort offers an insight into the UAE’s military history and traditional architecture. Wander through exhibitions detailing desert life and the region’s historical significance.

Free things to do in the UAE

Visitors can enjoy many attractions across the UAE for free, from public beaches to cultural experiences. Here are a few ideas.

• Museums: Several museums and galleries offer free admission, making them ideal for cultural visits on a budget. These include Al Ain Palace Museum, Abu Dhabi’s Manarat Al Saadiyat and Etihad Modern Art Gallery, and Sharjah Art Museum.

• Public beaches: Kite Beach and JBR Beach are among the best spots to unwind by the sea in Dubai, and the Corniche beach in Abu Dhabi is perfect for a family day by the water.

• Al Ain Oasis, Al Ain: This UNESCO World Heritage Site is an enchanting palm grove with peaceful pathways shaded by date palms. Explore the traditional falaj irrigation channels, which have watered this oasis for over 3,000 years.

Wellness in the UAE

• Spas and thermal baths: Many high-end hotels offer incredible spa experiences, often in spectacular surroundings. The Talise Spa in Dubai's Al Qasr Hotel and the Anantara Spa, in three special locations around the emirate of Abu Dhabi, are especially popular for their luxurious experiences blending modern techniques with traditional influences. Sharjah has a unique spa at The Chedi Al Bait – there is a range of relaxing treatments in the stylish, Arabian-influenced surroundings, in addition to a sauna, steam baths and a hammam.

Nature and outdoor activities

• Desert tours: Exploring the desert is a quintessential, must-do UAE experience. Whether it’s an adventurous trip to Liwa, a drive through the dunes in a 4WD, camel trekking, sandboarding or just soaking up breathtaking vistas, the desert is a memorable place to visit. Some tours also include dinner at a traditional Bedouin-style camp with live entertainment and stargazing opportunities.

• Hiking: For those who enjoy trekking, the rugged Hajar Mountains, especially around Jebel Jais in Ras Al Khaimah, are ideal. Several trails cater to different skill levels, with views across craggy peaks and huge wadis (dry valleys).

• Watersports: With calm, warm seas, the UAE’s coastlines are perfect for water activities. Kayaking in Abu Dhabi’s Mangrove National Park, paddleboarding or kite-surfing off Dubai’s beaches, and snorkelling or diving at Fujairah’s Snoopy Island are just a few of the options.

Local dishes in the UAE

The food of the UAE is diverse and flavourful, and draws on influences from Arabic, Indian and Persian cuisine, along with some dishes based on traditional Bedouin recipes. From delicious street food to lavish dishes served in luxurious settings, here’s a taste of what to look for on your UAE holidays.

Some typical Emirati dishes

• Harees: A hearty dish, popular during Ramadan, combining meat – often chicken or lamb – slowly cooked with wheat and ghee until the grains are soft and it resembles porridge.

• Machboos: A rice dish, similar to biryani, often made with chicken, lamb or seafood, and flavoured with saffron, dried lime and various spices.

Street food

• Shawarma: A popular street food across the Middle East, shawarma is cuts of spit-roasted chicken, lamb or beef wrapped in flatbread with fresh salad, pickles and garlic sauce.

• Falafel: Crunchy, deep-fried balls of chickpeas flavoured with herbs and spices, enjoyed either as they come or in wraps with salad and tahini sauce.

Meat and fish dishes

• Shuwa: A traditional meal across the Gulf, this is usually lamb that’s slow-cooked in a clay oven or underground until tender, and served with rice. For local families it's commonly eaten at special occasions or festivals, and is a must-try.

• Samak Mashwi: Grilled fish marinated with regional spices, this dish is best enjoyed at beachside restaurants paired with fresh salads.

Local drinks

• Arabic coffee (kahwa): An essential part of Emirati culture, this intense coffee is flavoured with spices such as cardamom and served in small cups, usually alongside dates.

• Fruit juices: Popular at juice bars, cafés and local restaurants, the range of fresh juices includes orange, lemon and mint, or mixed cocktails.