Destinations in United Arab Emirates

KEY TAKEAWAYS

• United Arab Emirates holidays in 2026/2027 combine year round sunshine, luxury resorts, desert adventures and world-class culture across seven very different emirates, making it one of the most versatile destinations in the Middle East.
• The best time to visit for comfortable weather is late October to April, when daytime temperatures in Dubai and Abu Dhabi sit around 24–30°C and humidity drops to pleasant levels.
• Dubai and Abu Dhabi serve as the main gateways, with direct flights from London Heathrow taking approximately 7 hours and visa-free stays of up to 90 days for UK passport holders (always check the latest entry requirements before booking).
• Visitors should respect local laws and customs, including modest dress away from the beach and alcohol only in licensed venues, while enjoying what is generally a very safe and family friendly destination.

INTRODUCTION TO UNITED ARAB EMIRATES HOLIDAYS

If you’ve ever dreamt of standing atop the world’s tallest building, driving across golden desert dunes at sunset, or floating in the warm waters of the Arabian Gulf, a holiday to the United Arab Emirates should be at the top of your 2026/2027 travel list. This federation of seven states on the Arabian Peninsula combines futuristic skylines, over 400 miles of glorious beaches and more than 5,000 years of human history into one sun-drenched destination.

Dubai and Abu Dhabi lead the way with headline attractions such as Burj Khalifa, Dubai Mall, Louvre Abu Dhabi and Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, but the lesser known emirates like Ajman, Fujairah and Ras Al Khaimah offer quieter lovely beaches and dramatic mountain scenery that many visitors never discover. With year round sunshine, warm sea temperatures in both the Persian Gulf and Gulf of Oman, and easy flight connections from major European hubs, the UAE has become one of the top destinations for British holidaymakers seeking guaranteed warmth.

UAE AT A GLANCE

The United Arab Emirates sits on the south-east corner of the Arabian Peninsula, bordered by Saudi Arabia to the south and west and Oman to the east. This federation brings together seven individual emirates under one federal government, creating a nation that punches well above its weight in global tourism, finance and culture.

Getting there from the UK couldn’t be simpler. Direct flights from London or Manchester to Dubai or Abu Dhabi take around 7 hours, with multiple daily departures on Emirates, Etihad and British Airways. Once you land, transfer times between the major destinations are surprisingly short: Dubai to Abu Dhabi is roughly 90 minutes by road, while Dubai to Ras Al Khaimah takes just 60–75 minutes. The UAE operates on GMT+4, meaning you’re only four hours ahead of the UK during British Summer Time.

The currency is the United Arab Emirates dirham (AED), and you’ll find cards widely accepted everywhere from luxury hotels to neighbourhood cafés. ATMs are plentiful, and English is spoken extensively in hotels, restaurants and shopping malls alongside the official Arabic. As for climate, expect average daytime highs of around 23–25°C in January, perfect for sightseeing and beach time, rising to a scorching 40–42°C in August. Rainfall is minimal throughout the year, making this a reliable sunshine destination whenever you choose to visit.

HIGHLIGHTS OF UNITED ARAB EMIRATES HOLIDAYS

UAE holidays can be tailored to virtually any travel style, from action-packed city breaks and family theme park adventures to tranquil desert escapes and lazy weeks on beautiful beaches. Most visitors find that combining several experiences in one trip delivers the most memorable journey, and the compact geography makes this refreshingly easy.

Modern Dubai offers a concentration of record breaking attractions that have become bucket-list essentials. Burj Khalifa pierces the sky at 828 metres, with observation decks offering views that stretch to the horizon. At its base, the Dubai Fountain performs choreographed water shows each evening, while nearby Dubai Marina buzzes with restaurants, yacht tours and the world’s largest observation wheel, Ain Dubai. The Museum of the Future, with its striking calligraphy-covered façade, has quickly become one of the city’s most photographed buildings.

Abu Dhabi, the capital, brings a more refined cultural dimension. Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, with its 82 domes and capacity for 40,000 worshippers, stands as one of the world’s most beautiful religious buildings. On Saadiyat Island, Louvre Abu Dhabi houses masterpieces spanning millennia beneath its iconic latticed dome. For thrill-seekers, Yas Island delivers with Ferrari World’s Formula Rossa (the world’s fastest rollercoaster), Warner Bros. World’s air-conditioned movie magic, and Yas Waterworld’s 40-plus slides and attractions.

Beyond the cities, classic desert experiences await. Sunset 4×4 dune bashing near Dubai remains a rite of passage for visitors, often combined with camel rides, traditional barbecues and stargazing at Bedouin-style camps. The Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve offers more sustainable encounters with the landscape, while the vast Empty Quarter outside Abu Dhabi provides the ultimate sense of isolation.

Nature and heritage round out the highlights. Al Ain’s UNESCO-listed oases and ancient forts offer glimpses of life before oil transformed the region. In Ras Al Khaimah, Jebel Jais rises as the UAE’s highest peak, complete with hiking trails, mountain viewpoints and the Jais Flight zipline. Along Fujairah’s east coast, clear waters and coral reefs make snorkelling and diving genuine draws for underwater enthusiasts.

WHEN TO VISIT THE UAE

The UAE is genuinely a year round destination, but the most comfortable months for a holiday run from late October through to April, when the fierce summer heat gives way to warm, pleasant conditions ideal for exploring.

Late October to April represents peak season, with daytime temperatures hovering around 24–30°C across Dubai and Abu Dhabi. This is prime time for city sightseeing, theme parks, al fresco dining and beach days without the oppressive heat.

December through February brings cooler evenings, sometimes dipping to 15–18°C, making a light jacket useful for rooftop bars and evening desert safaris. Expect higher hotel rates and busier attractions during this window, particularly around Christmas, New Year and the February half-term.

May and September function as shoulder months, with temperatures climbing into the low-to-mid 30s°C. Crowds thin noticeably, hotel rates drop, and beach-focused stays remain enjoyable with brief dips in the warm sea. Short city breaks work well if you’re happy to schedule outdoor activities for early morning or evening, retreating to air-conditioned malls and attractions during the hottest hours.

June through August sees temperatures regularly exceed 40°C, with coastal humidity adding to the intensity. However, this period brings advantages for budget-conscious travellers: major hotel discounts, quieter attractions and the opportunity to explore world-class indoor venues like Ski Dubai, Mall of the Emirates and the countless shopping malls that effectively function as climate-controlled cities. Sea temperatures remain warm enough for morning or evening swims, and many resorts offer exceptional value during these summer months.

Weather-wise, occasional rain and sandstorms can occur from January to March, though they rarely last long. The Fujairah and Ras Al Khaimah coasts tend to be slightly cooler and breezier than central Dubai, thanks to their proximity to the Hajar Mountains and the Gulf of Oman.

PLANNING & WHAT TO PACK FOR UAE HOLIDAYS

Packing for a UAE holiday varies slightly by season, but light, breathable clothing and modest outfits for public areas remain essential year-round. Getting this right means you’ll stay comfortable in the heat while respecting local expectations.

For clothing, think loose cotton or linen tops, knee-length shorts or skirts, and sundresses with light cover-ups. A light jumper, cardigan or pashmina proves surprisingly useful for heavily air-conditioned malls, hotels and restaurants, where temperatures can plunge dramatically compared to the streets outside. Breathable clothing in natural fabrics will serve you far better than synthetic materials in the desert climate.

Modesty guidelines matter here. In public places like souks, government buildings and residential areas, both men and women should keep shoulders and knees covered. Sharjah enforces more conservative standards than Dubai, while religious sites across all emirates require additional care. At mosques such as Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, women need to cover arms, legs and hair entirely, and men should wear long trousers. Some major mosques lend abayas and headscarves at the entrance, but bringing your own light scarf or pashmina allows you to adapt quickly for any cultural visit.

Footwear should include comfortable walking shoes or sandals for city exploring, plus flip-flops for beaches and pool areas. A wide-brimmed hat, quality sunglasses and high SPF sunscreen are non-negotiable in this climate. A reusable water bottle helps you stay hydrated, particularly during desert excursions where the dry air dehydrates you faster than you might expect.

Practical extras worth packing include a universal plug adapter (the UAE uses type G plugs, same as the UK), a small daypack for day trips, swimwear for hotel pools and waterparks, and that versatile pashmina mentioned earlier. On the admin side, check your passport has at least six months’ validity remaining, arrange travel insurance with medical cover for heat-related issues, and verify the latest visa or entry rules from official sources before your trip. Being prepared to stay safe and healthy abroad means you can focus entirely on enjoying your holiday.

ABU DHABI

Abu Dhabi, the UAE’s capital and largest emirate, offers a slightly calmer pace than Dubai while still delivering world-class cultural institutions, stunning beaches and access to vast desert landscapes.

The centrepiece for many visitors is Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, a masterpiece of Islamic architecture that welcomes non-Muslim visitors outside of prayer times with free entry. The dress code is strict – women must cover hair, arms and legs, and men need long trousers – but the experience of walking through its marble courtyards and beneath its crystal chandeliers rewards any effort. Across the city on Saadiyat Island, Louvre Abu Dhabi showcases art spanning human history beneath its remarkable geometric dome, where sunlight filters through to create a “rain of light” effect.

Yas Island has transformed into the UAE’s entertainment hub. Ferrari World houses Formula Rossa, where you’ll accelerate to 240 km/h in under five seconds, alongside gentler family rides and Italian dining. Warner Bros. World provides an entirely indoor, air-conditioned experience with zones dedicated to Batman, Superman, Looney Tunes and more – perfect for summer months visits. Yas Waterworld adds slides, wave pools and surfing simulators to the mix. Motorsport fans can explore Yas Marina Circuit, home to the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, with driving experiences available year-round.

Saadiyat Island offers more than just museums. Its soft-sand public beach provides a relaxed alternative to hotel pools, while the island’s five-star resorts rank among the finest in the region. Future cultural projects continue to take shape here, including the Guggenheim Abu Dhabi, which may be open by your 2026/2027 visit.

For those seeking genuine remoteness, the Empty Quarter (Rub’ al Khali) awaits. Luxury desert resorts in the Liwa Oasis area offer experiences that feel a world away from the cities: star-gazing free from light pollution, sunrise dune walks and camel treks into landscapes that seem to stretch forever.

Common Abu Dhabi holiday styles include 3–4 night city breaks focused on culture and theme parks, or week-long itineraries that combine 4–5 nights downtown with 2–3 nights at a desert retreat.

SHARJAH & AJMAN

Sharjah and Ajman sit just north of Dubai, easily reached within 30 minutes by road, offering quieter bases with convenient access to Dubai’s attractions for day trips.

Sharjah holds the title of the UAE’s cultural capital and maintains a more conservative character than its neighbour. This is a dry emirate – alcohol is not sold or served – which appeals to families and visitors seeking a more traditional atmosphere. The Heart of Sharjah heritage project has restored historic buildings around the old town, creating a walkable district of museums, galleries and traditional architecture. Sharjah Art Museum and the Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilization showcase regional art and history, while family attractions like the Sharjah Aquarium and Discovery Centre keep younger visitors engaged.

Ajman, the smallest emirate, offers a compact 16 km coastline lined with lower-key resorts that provide genuine value compared to Dubai beachfront properties. The 18th-century Ajman Fort, now a museum, documents the emirate’s fishing and pearl-diving heritage. Nearby, the Al Zorah Nature Reserve protects mangrove forests and mudflats that attract pink flamingos and diverse birdlife – a surprising contrast to the urban development elsewhere.

Both emirates suit travellers seeking better value beachfront hotels and quieter evenings while remaining close enough for taxi or transfer access to Dubai’s record-breaking attractions. Just remember that dress modestly expectations are higher here, particularly in Sharjah, where shorts and sleeveless tops can attract unwanted attention in public areas.

RAS AL KHAIMAH

Ras Al Khaimah, often called simply RAK, has emerged as a rising star among UAE holiday destinations, located about an hour north of Dubai. This emirate delivers something unique: the combination of long sandy beaches with the dramatic Hajar Mountains as a backdrop.

The coastline stretches wide and remains relatively uncrowded compared to Dubai’s busy strips. All-inclusive and family-friendly resorts line the shore, offering watersports, kids’ clubs, spa facilities and the kind of uninterrupted beach time that busy city hotels can’t match. This is where you’ll find some of the UAE’s best value luxury resorts, with five-star properties at prices that would buy you a mid-range room in central Dubai.

The mountains provide RAK’s real point of difference. Jebel Jais, the UAE’s highest peak at 1,934 metres, rises just inland, its slopes carved with scenic roads, hiking trails and adventure activities. The Jais Flight zipline sends you soaring across the mountainside at speeds approaching 150 km/h, while viewing platforms offer sunrise and sunset panoramas that feel worlds away from the coastal development below.

Cultural sites add depth to a RAK stay. Dhayah Fort, perched on a hilltop, offers insights into the region’s defensive history. Traditional markets sell spices, textiles and souvenirs at prices more reasonable than Dubai’s tourist-oriented souks. Desert safaris departing from RAK feel more remote than those closer to the big cities, with fewer vehicles and a greater sense of genuine wilderness.

Ras Al Khaimah positions itself perfectly for winter-sun beach holidays, active couples seeking mountain adventures and families who want quality resort time without Dubai’s intensity. Flying into Dubai and transferring by road (private transfers are easy to arrange) gives you the best of both worlds.

FUJAIRAH & THE EAST COAST

Fujairah and the neighbouring east-coast areas around Dibba offer a genuinely different side of the United Arab Emirates. Separated from Dubai by the Hajar Mountains, this coast faces the Gulf of Oman rather than the Persian Gulf, bringing different marine conditions and a more rugged, scenic atmosphere.

The beaches here lack the manicured perfection of Palm Jumeirah, but their natural character appeals to travellers seeking authentic coastal beauty. Clear waters make this the UAE’s premier destination for snorkelling and diving, with sites like Snoopy Island (named for its shape) offering easy access to coral reefs and marine life. Dive operators run trips to deeper sites where visibility often exceeds what you’ll find on the Gulf coast.

Fujairah city itself holds historical interest. Fujairah Fort, one of the oldest in the UAE, overlooks the town from a rocky outcrop. The Heritage Village recreates traditional Emirati life, while Al Bidya Mosque, dating from the 15th century, claims to be the country’s oldest. Along the road from Dubai, the long-running Friday Market sells pottery, carpets and produce – a popular stop for those making the scenic drive across the mountains.

The east coast suits travellers keen on a relaxed resort stay, serious diving and snorkelling, boat trips and slightly cooler, breezier conditions than the Gulf coast – particularly welcome during the summer months. Transfer time from Dubai runs around 1.5–2 hours by road, making it viable for 3–4 night add-ons to a city stay or as a standalone destination for those prioritising water activities over urban attractions.

BEACHES, DESERT ADVENTURES & OUTDOOR ACTIVITIES

The UAE offers far more than city skylines and air-conditioned malls. Long beaches, protected desert areas and mountain landscapes provide varied outdoor activities for every fitness level and interest.

Beach areas spread across the emirates, each with its own character. Dubai’s Jumeirah Beach and Palm Jumeirah deliver the iconic experience: golden sand, turquoise water and luxury hotels rising behind. Abu Dhabi counters with Saadiyat Beach’s natural beauty and Yas Beach’s party atmosphere. Ajman’s public and hotel beaches offer good value and fewer crowds. Ras Al Khaimah’s resort-lined coast provides space to breathe, while Fujairah’s east-coast strips bring diving and snorkelling within easy reach.

Watersports possibilities seem almost endless. Jet-skiing, paddleboarding, sailing and kitesurfing operate from beaches across the emirates. Snorkelling works best on the east coast around Fujairah, though artificial reefs and protected areas on the Gulf side offer alternatives. Dhow cruises along Dubai Creek or the Ras Al Khaimah coast provide more relaxed ways to enjoy the sea, often combined with dinner and traditional entertainment.

Desert activities remain quintessential UAE experiences. Classic 4×4 dune bashing starts in late afternoon, when the light turns golden and temperatures drop to comfortable levels. Sandboarding, camel riding and falconry demonstrations follow at desert camps, where traditional barbecues and live entertainment continue into the evening. The Dubai Desert Conservation Reserve offers more sustainable, lower-impact alternatives, while Abu Dhabi’s Empty Quarter provides genuine remoteness for those seeking to explore deeper into the desert dunes.

For more active adventures, the Hajar Mountains deliver hiking trails accessible from Ras Al Khaimah and Fujairah. Cycling tracks wind around Abu Dhabi’s Yas Marina and Al Hudayriat Island. Jebel Jais offers not just the headline zipline but also via ferrata climbing routes and observation decks for those preferring to keep their feet closer to the ground.

CUISINE, NIGHTLIFE & CULTURAL EXPERIENCES

UAE holidays offer far more than just sightseeing. The dining scene spans celebrity-chef restaurants and Michelin-starred venues to neighbourhood cafés serving perfect shawarma, while nightlife and cultural experiences add depth to any itinerary.

The food scene reflects the UAE’s cosmopolitan population. Dubai and Abu Dhabi both hold Michelin stars and Bib Gourmand designations since 2022, with Japanese, French, Indian and contemporary Middle Eastern cuisines represented at the highest levels. Yet some of the most memorable meals come from simpler places: a manakish (flatbread with cheese or za’atar) from a Lebanese bakery, or biryani from one of the countless Indian restaurants that cater to the subcontinent’s huge diaspora community.

Traditional Emirati dishes deserve seeking out. Machboos, a spiced rice dish with meat or fish, appears at heritage restaurants and cultural centres. Harees, a slow-cooked wheat and meat porridge, offers comfort food at its finest. Luqaimat, sweet dumplings drizzled with date syrup, make the perfect ending to any meal. Heritage villages in Dubai and Sharjah often serve these dishes alongside cultural demonstrations.

Nightlife concentrates in Dubai and Abu Dhabi, where rooftop bars overlooking Dubai Marina, beach clubs on Palm Jumeirah and Saadiyat Island, and hotel lounges provide settings for everything from cocktails at sunset to late-night dancing. Ras Al Khaimah offers more low-key options, typically within resort bars. Sharjah, as a dry emirate, has no alcohol venues, so travellers staying there typically head to Dubai for evening entertainment.

Cultural experiences extend beyond museums. Walking heritage districts in Dubai’s Al Fahidi and Sharjah’s Heart of Sharjah reveals architecture and atmosphere from before the oil boom. Dhow cruises with dinner along Dubai Creek or Abu Dhabi’s Corniche combine gentle sightseeing with traditional hospitality. The Etihad Museum in Dubai documents the UAE’s formation, while the Gold Souk in Deira demonstrates how trade has shaped the city.

A note on Ramadan: visitors remain welcome during the holy month, which shifts approximately 10 days earlier each year. Daytime eating and drinking in public are more restricted, with many restaurants adjusting hours to focus on evening Iftar meals. Some attractions modify opening times, and the general pace of life slows until sunset, when cities come alive for feasting and celebration.

MULTI-CENTRE ITINERARIES & SAMPLE HOLIDAY IDEAS

Good roads and short distances between emirates make multi-centre UAE holidays remarkably straightforward. Within a week or two, you can easily experience everything from cutting-edge cities and world-class theme parks to peaceful beaches and ancient mountain landscapes.

A classic 7-night itinerary might begin with 3 nights in Dubai, giving you time to explore Burj Khalifa and Dubai Mall, take a desert safari, wander the souks and enjoy Jumeirah Beach. Then transfer north for 4 nights in Ras Al Khaimah or across the mountains to Fujairah, where resort pools, quiet beaches, mountain drives and snorkelling provide the perfect counterpoint to Dubai’s intensity. This combination offers the best of urban excitement and natural tranquility.

A culture-and-beach focused trip could start with 3 nights in Abu Dhabi, centred on Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, Louvre Abu Dhabi, Yas Island theme parks and a day relaxing on Saadiyat Beach. Follow this with 2 nights at a desert resort in Liwa or the Al Ain area, exploring ancient archaeological sites, date palm oases and historic forts that reveal the UAE’s pre-oil heritage.

For shorter breaks, a 4–5 night winter sun city escape in Dubai or Abu Dhabi works beautifully. Add a day trip to Sharjah’s museums or a scenic drive through the Hajar Mountains to add variety without the complexity of changing hotels multiple times.

The flexibility is genuine. Many tour operators and hotels allow easy combinations of 2–3 emirates in one booking, with private transfers handling the logistics. Self-drive works well for confident drivers comfortable with multi-lane highways, though it’s rarely essential given how easily transport can be arranged. Search holidays that combine destinations, and you’ll often find packages that handle the details, leaving you free to simply enjoy your next holiday.