The United Arab Emirates is a very special place, partly because of the fusion consisting of a large foreign population and the Middle Eastern culture. The architecture is unique, and here you find a nice, dry and warm climate and excellent beaches with good snorkeling and diving opportunities.
The United Arab Emirates is situated on the Arabian Peninsula and consists of seven Emirates (a kind of state): Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, Ras Al Khaimah, Umm Al Quwain and Fujairah. Abu Dhabi is the capital and also the largest of the seven Emirates.
Diverse population
This exciting Middle Eastern country is very rich in oil and natural gas, but at the same time, tourism and international business investments in the country contribute to its economic prosperity. The country has in particular, many male labourers and has landed the world's most uneven sex ratio - there are 2.7 men for every woman. Quite remarkable, but no problem for the traveller, because despite this, the country offers an extremely diverse and varied population - almost 80 percent of its residents are foreigners, and it creates an exciting and colourful image of the country.
Travel to Dubai
Dubai has the largest population and 90 percent of its population lives in cities. This fact makes the cities here vibrant, lively and exciting places, with a good mix of cultures and all sorts of culinary delights.
The architecture of The UAE
The United Arab Emirates is estimated to have the world's fastest growing economy and it can be clearly seen in the many opulent and stunning building projects and architectural features in the city's skyline. When you look at the many designs, you get the impression that they have done the impossible here. Some of the most interesting ones include The Palm Islands, The World, Sports City, Dubailand and of course, the world's tallest building, Burj Khalifa, which towers over 800 metres high.
The wealth that clings to the region means that it can be a challenge to find a hotel room at an affordable price. But fear not, for fortunately the major international hotel chains have started to build more and more hotels for the average traveller. But if money is no problem, then it's highly recommended to engage in some of the joys the Emirates has to offer.
Dubai and Abu Dhabi: Where it's happening
Of the seven Emirates, Dubai and Abu Dhabi are clearly the most vibrant places with fancy hotels and shopping centres, plus numerous cultural events, especially Dubai, which offers plenty of entertainment. There are also plenty of excellent beaches, especially Fujairah with good diving and snorkelling opportunities. Other attractions are the entertaining jeep tours through the desert and up and down the sand dunes, and last, but not least, take a swim in the wonderful Hatta Pools, which are natural swimming holes surrounded by rocks.