The United Arab Emirates is famous for its skyscrapers, luxurious shopping malls, and deluxe resorts.
But underneath all the glitter and luxury, there are a number of undiscovered marvels and genuine local treats just waiting to be explored by adventurous visitors with the aid of UAE tour operators like Arabiers.
We’ll take you on a fascinating tour beyond the skyscrapers in this blog post, looking at less-known locations and experiences that highlight the UAE’s natural beauty and rich legacy.
Choosing the Perfect Accommodation
Whilst the United Arab Emirates is a small nation with good road connectivity, you should choose a place to stay based on the locations you plan to visit. The largest and most prominent Emirate is Dubai, which has the most attractions. The Emirate has the biggest airport and the most well-known attractions, including the Burj Khalifa skyscraper, the Dubai Mall, customary souks, the beach, watersports, and family-friendly activities.
The second-largest city in the Emirati nation is Abu Dhabi. With fantastic hotels and resorts, beaches, shopping, museums, and sporting events like the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix to enjoy, the city is a well-liked location to combine culture with relaxation.
For a quieter environment, select Ras Al Khaimah, which has many human comforts like shopping, fantastic hotels and restaurants, and stunning beaches. The city is calmer than its neighbors, thus providing more of an unspoiled and traditional feel.
When to Visit the UAE
Source: thrillophilia.com
Due to its location, the UAE can get extremely hot and humid during summer, and it’s usually very unbearable to be outside. The best time to visit the UAE is during the cool months from September to May.
December and January are good, with warm sunshine and a little humidity. Winter is the country’s busiest travel season, which translates to higher hotel rates and occupancy in the UAE. If you are looking for a beach holiday, visit the UAE in the Spring and Autumn/Fall seasons.
Food in The UAE
Given its Arabian background, the UAE features a diverse and exquisite culinary scene. Due to its coastal position, seafood is highly valued and well-liked here. Other common foods include meat and rice, with lamb and beef being the most popular. In the UAE, dates are also quite popular and are usually served with meals or as a tasty snack.
In the UAE, pork is rarely served; instead, substitutes are normally offered, like in hotel breakfast menus. Additionally, only legally operating hotels, bars, nightclubs, and golf clubs sell alcohol.
Whatever your culinary preferences, the UAE is home to numerous excellent restaurants that provide everything from high-end dining to casual dishes, especially in more tourist-friendly cities like Dubai and Abu Dhabi.
Hidden Gems to Visit in UAE
Source: timeoutabudhabi.com
1. Al Ain ─ The Oasis of Tranquility
Al Ain, a tranquil oasis hidden among the desert sands, provides an enjoyable getaway from the hustle and bustle of cities. Al Ain, also known as the “Garden City” of the UAE, is popular for its lush vegetation, historic forts, and traditional souks. You can stroll among the serene date palm farms and discover ancient irrigation techniques at the Al Ain Oasis, a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Discover the Al Jahili Fort, a masterpiece of architecture that stands as evidence of the area’s past. At the Al Ain Heritage Village, you can explore the original Emirati culture by sampling the local cuisine, watching performances, and viewing traditional crafts.
2. Hatta ─ A Mountain Escape
Hatta, tucked away in the Hajar Mountains, is a hidden treasure that gives a sharp contrast to the desert scenery. Beautiful mountain scenery, freshwater springs, and the historic Hatta Fort define this lovely town.
Enjoy spectacular views of the Hatta Dam as you go along the Hatta Hiking Trail’s beautiful paths. Experience heart-pounding activities like off-road dune bashing, mountain biking, and kayaking. Experience the true Emirati hospitality at Hatta Heritage Village by observing traditional craftsmanship and enjoying the native Emirati cuisine.
3. Fujairah: A Coastal Paradise
Retreat to Fujairah, the only Emirate with a shoreline on the Gulf of Oman, and relax on its serene sands. The beaches in Fujairah are pristine and more relaxed than those in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, which are known for their lavish beach resorts.
Discover the historic Fujairah Fort, which provides views of the city and the Indian Ocean. Go for snorkeling or dive in the sparkling waters of the renowned Snoopy Island, a marine reserve with plenty of vibrant marine life.
Visit the Bidiyah Mosque, which is the oldest mosque in the UAE, dating back to the fifteenth century. Fujairah’s natural beauty and coastal charm make it the ideal vacation for refreshment and relaxation.
4. Sharjah ─ Cultural Capital of the UAE
While Dubai and Abu Dhabi frequently take the limelight, Sharjah stands out as the UAE’s cultural capital. The city is home to numerous galleries, museums, and cultural institutions which promote Islamic art and Emirati history.
Discover the remarkable collection of Islamic artifacts housed in the Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilization. Stroll through the beautiful Souq Al Arsah, one of the oldest souks in the UAE, as it offers a window into the past of the area. Explore the Sharjah Calligraphy Museum, which showcases Arabic calligraphy.
Because of its dedication to maintaining its cultural heritage, Sharjah is an absolute must-see for lovers of history and art.
5. Ras Al Khaimah ─ Thrills and Adventures
For those looking for adventure, Ras Al Khaimah provides an avenue for thrilling activities such as zip lining through the Jebel Jais zipline, which is the longest zipline in the world, or driving through the rugged desert terrain through an exciting desert safari.
Ras Al Khaimah has something for every adventure seeker. Experience a memorable hot air balloon ride above the desert at sunrise, getting an aerial view of the gorgeous landscape.
Discover the historic Dhayah Fort, which provides magnificent views of the mountains and sea close by. Ras Al Khaimah is a paradise for adrenaline enthusiasts thanks to its adventurous spirit and breathtaking scenery.
6. Emirati Cuisine ─ A Gastronomic Delight
Source: visitdubai.com
A trip to the UAE is incomplete without indulging in the distinctive flavors of Emirati cuisine. The cuisine of the Emiratis is a beautiful blend of Middle Eastern and South Asian influences, with dishes ranging from flavorful biryanis and tender grilled meats to sumptuous desserts like maqamat (fried dough balls) and umm ali (bread pudding).
Visit local restaurants and eateries to enjoy the true flavors and warm traditional Emirati hospitality.
Conclusion
Beyond the flashy skyscrapers, the United Arab Emirates exposes a rich treasure of undiscovered wonders and local experiences. Every location, from serene havens to mighty mountains and immaculate beaches, has its own distinct charm and tales to tell.
Accept the rich culture, the Warm hospitality and allow the UAE’s less popular attractions to charm you. As you venture past the skyscrapers, may you learn about the true nature of this magical region and leave with lifetime-lasting memories.
