United Arab Emirates

Just like in Arabian Nights the seven Emirates of Abu Dhabi, Adschman, Dubai, Fudschaira, Ra’s al-Chaima, Sharja, and Umm al-Qaiwain lie in the desert sand of the south-eastern Arabian Peninsula, making up the United Arab Emirats (UAE).

 Whilst traveling the UAE you won’t even notice the country borders, which facilitates mobility and eases preparations for your journey.

The scenery in this part of the world is stunning and unlike anything you know from home. The northeast between the coasts of the Persian Gulf ad the Gulf of Oman in particular is extremely interesting and constantly changes its face with the tide. From the Gulf of Oman rise the rugged Oman Mountains, and along the coast the desert and shifting sand dunes are sprinkled with green oases.

Tourism in the UAE is still moderate and stresses the traditions and natural particularities of the area. Due to the large oil revenues the country does not depend on tourism as an industry, ensuring you will get great value for your money and you do not have to do without any of the luxuries you might be used to at home. For the most luxurious holiday go to either Abu Dhabi, Dubai, or Sharjah, which are well equipped for anyone with a large wallet a liking for spas, lavish shopping sprees, and eccentric entertainment. Despite the marble and the gold you still do not have to be a millionaire to go a fancy mall, as compared to prices at home even the more luxurious objects can be affordable.

The biggest of the emirates is Abu Dhabi, which is also the name of the main city which is connected to the mainland via a bridge across the Oman Gulf.
This rich city is an open and cosmopolitan metropolis, full of modern buildings and green avenues. Along the Corniche, the beach promenade, you can enjoy the unique flair of the city and meet some locals relaxing after a day at work. A special event is the camel market in the Al Ain Oasis, which gives tourist the opportunity to sample an old Arab tradition.
For less traditional but by no means less interesting entertainment go to Lulu Island, the huge holiday resort built by Sultan al-Nahyan on an artificial island.

Dubai is no less attractive. The city revolves around the historic trade district of Bastakiya. This is truly a city of superlatives: the highest building on earth is currently still under construction, the most luxurious hotel welcomes the rich and famous from all over the world, the largest airport in the world is the entrance to the city, and the biggest ski hall allows the eccentric locals to practice their skills on the slope in the middle of the desert.

Sharja City in the namesake emirate is one of the most diverse cities on the peninsula, mixing old traditions with modern lifestyle. Traditional restaurants in the style of old caravansaries and old cafes are next to modern skyscrapers and sushi restaurants. The souks (markets) give off all the scents of the orient and you are bound to find great hand-crafted souvenirs and local delicacies. For a dip in the Indian Ocean, go to Khor Fakkan, a small town with great beaches for swimming, snorkeling, and scuba diving.

The four smaller emirates of Adschman, Fudschaira, Ra’s al-Chaima, and Umm al-Qaiwan are less integrated in the national tourism efforts, but this is one of the reasons they are so attractive. Small fishing villages and great scenery and authentic Arabian lifestyle await the lonesome traveler charm them with Aladdin-like excitement and warm hospitality.