Written by Menswear Style in Travel on the 15th October 2024

The United Arab Emirates is a stunning travel destination that blends traditional Arabian culture with modern luxury, offering tourists an unforgettable experience, whether they are attracted to the serene beauty of the desert views or the shimmering skyscrapers of Dubai. While Dubai is the most famous of all emirates, other city states are just as appealing and definitely worth a visit. The United Arab Emirates is home to the tallest building in the world – the Burj Khalifa-, has a burgeoning art and cultural scene, world-class resorts that offer the perfect blend of sophistication and relaxation, and culinary delights that will delight the taste buds of all foodies. If the United Arab Emirates is next on your travel bucket list, and you’re looking for practical advice on how to plan your trip, you’ve come to the right place. In this blog, we’ve put together a guide that will help you make the most of your trip to this Middle Eastern gem. Ready to dive in? Let’s begin?

Think about when you’ll visit 

The United Arab Emirates has a predominantly desert climate, with hot summers and mild winters. Depending on your preferences and heat tolerance, you can plan your visit in the cooler months (from October to April), when the temperatures range between 20°C and 30°C. You can spend your time sightseeing and enjoying outdoor activities. Just keep in mind that these are peak tourist months, so you’ll need to book flights and tickets in advance to ensure you’ll have a pleasant visit. If, on the other hand, you aren’t really a fan of crowds and want to score deals on accommodation, it may be better for you to visit between May and September.

Make a list of the attractions you want to see 

There are many things to see in the Emirates, but it’s best to consider which attractions are your priority in advance so you can prepare for your trip successfully. Abu Dhabi is the largest emirate of the United Arab Emirates and it’s a cultural and economic powerhouse renowned for its opulent architecture, such as the Emirates Palace and the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque – one of the largest in the world, where tourist can admire the intricate marble work and the largest hand-knotted carpet in the world. The majestic Qasr Al Watan is another excellent attraction in Abu Dhabi, boasting lush gardens, opulent architecture, and a rich cultural heritage. Just like Abu Dhabi, Dubai dazzles visitors with its vibrant nightlife, bustling souks, and world-class attractions. If you visit it, you can go on a thrilling desert safari adventure, enjoy camel riding, dune bashing, and sandboarding; you can experience the awe-inspiring height of Burj Khalifa- the world’s largest building- or take a relaxed stroll along the stunning Dubai Marina promenade. Suppose you aren’t looking for opulence and would rather prefer opportunities for fishing, birdwatching, and water activities. In that case, Umm Al Quwain is the perfect place to visit in the Emirates, offering you an unforgettable experience, whether you have fun at Dreamland Aqua Park or escape to Al Sinniyah Island. In this serene nature reserve, you can explore coral reefs, pristine beaches, and mangrove forests. No matter what attractions you choose, consider installing an eSIM to share your experience with your friends in real-time and access essential information about the places you visit. You can read more info online about how you can install an eSIM and how it will benefit your trip to the Emirates. 

Book the right accommodation 

There are plenty of options when it comes to booking accommodation in the United Arab Emirates, whether you want to stay in a grand luxury hotel or would rather prefer a budget-friendly option. Abu Dhabi and Dubai feature hotels like the Emirates Palace and Burj AI Arab Jumeirah, which are among the most opulent, renowned for their unparalleled service, remarkable architectural designs, and excellent amenities like world-class spas, private beaches, and various fine-dining options. If, on the other hand, you are looking for an affordable option but don’t want to sacrifice quality and comfort, the good news is that there are many local options and international hotel chains available, which feature fitness centers, pools, and dining options while also enabling easier access to shuttles or public transport to the top attractions.

Consider how you’ll get around 

Given the modern infrastructure, getting around the United Arab Emirates is nothing to worry about during your trip. In popular cities like Abu Dhabi and Dubai, public transportation systems such as buses, metros, and taxis are cost-effective and efficient. However, if you prefer flexibility and seek to visit different emirates during your stay, you can instead rent a car. When it comes to inter-emirate travel, you can opt for intercity taxis or coach services, but if you are seeking an experience like no other, consider booking a flight between emirates, as you will get the opportunity to witness the stunning landscapes of the country from above! 

Respect the cultural etiquette 

As a tourist, you should take the time to understand the cultural etiquette in the United Arab Emirates before your visit and ensure that you respect you during your stay there. The country has Islamic traditions and practices that have an impact on customs and people’s conduct, and there are more conservative dress codes, meaning that you should wear attire that covers your knees and shoulders (particularly when going to a mosque). Also, public affection displays aren’t viewed in such a positive light as they are in Western cultures, and displaying behavior that’s considered disrespectful, or offensive can lead to legal consequences. If you visit the country during Ramadan, which is the holy month, it’s essential to keep in mind that you aren’t allowed to eat, smoke, or drink in public during daylight hours. 

The bottom line 

The United Arab Emirates provides an incredible tapestry of experiences, whether you’re looking for serene landscapes, adrenaline-fueled adventures, or ancient traditions. You can craft your own journey through this multifaceted country and have an unforgettable trip filled with great memories! So, are you ready to experience the beauty of the Emirates?

Think about when you’ll visit, Make a list of the attractions you want to see, Book the right accommodation, Consider how you’ll get around, and Respect the cultural etiquette.