Things to do in the UAE

Record-breaking skyscrapers and man-made islands beside centuries-old souks and desert dunes, built at a pace and scale unlike almost anywhere else.

Explore United Arab Emirates on the map →

What's worth your time in United Arab Emirates

Go up the Burj Khalifa's observation deck

Culture

The world's tallest building, with an observation deck at level 148 — book sunset slots well ahead, as they sell out fastest.

Ride a camel or dune-bash into the Dubai desert

Adventure

Sunset desert safaris combine 4x4 dune bashing with camel rides, a Bedouin-style camp dinner, and stargazing away from city light.

Explore the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi

Culture

One of the world's largest mosques, with hand-knotted carpets, floral marble inlay, and a scale meant to be genuinely awe-inducing, free to visit with modest dress.

Wander the Dubai Gold and Spice Souks

Culture

Old Dubai's trading heart, where gold is sold by weight in shop windows and spice stalls pile saffron and frankincense in open sacks.