United Arab Emirates
Visited
At a glance
- Region
- Western Asia
- Capital
- Abu Dhabi
- Population
- 11.5 million (2025)
- Area
- 83,600 km²
- Languages
- Arabic
- Currency
- United Arab Emirates dirham (AED)
- Drives on the
- right
- Calling code
- +971
Country visited City visited Still to go Click a pin or country to read more. Zoom with + and −, a double-click or a pinch.
Before you go
Overview
The United Arab Emirates is located at Western Asia northeast of the Arabian Peninsula. It recorded a population of 9.631 million in 2018 and covers an area of 82,880 km2.
The capital and largest city is Abu Dhabi. It is the second most populated city in the country and it mainly majors on oil export and commerce. It has modern tall towers and large shopping centres like the Abu Dhabi and Marina malls. Abu Dhabi is one of the richest cities in the world.
Dubai is the most populous city in the UAE. It has the most modern skyscrapers and futuristic architecture. It has a vigorous nightlife and is home to the tallest building in the world.
Dubai, as seen from the top of Burj Khalifa.
History
The United Arab Emirates was formed after Abu Dhabi, Ajman, Dubai, Fujayrah, Sharjah and Umm al Quwain united after the country gained independence from Britain on 2nd December 1971.
Food & culture
Emirati culture is based on Islamic culture.
The crops grown in the country include cauliflower, tomatoes, cabbage and squash.
Wildlife
The most common animals include Arabian wolf and leopard, striped hyena, red fox, Asiatic caracal, Arabian wildcat and hedgehog.
Festivals & events
Awaji festival is conducted in spring to celebrate the country’s culture and heritage.
Dubai Shopping Festival is a month-long event where tourists are invited.
United Arab Emirates National Day is celebrated 2nd December annually.
Things to see
Some of the most ultramodern buildings in the world are in Dubai city. Burj Khalifa in Dubai is the tallest building in the world. It is full of some of the world’s largest malls and beautiful buildings like Dubai mall and Palm Jumeirah.
Dubai Aquarium and Underwater Zoo is a popular tourist attraction.
Ski Dubai is a park in Mall of the Emirates where indoor skiing activities are held.
A Skydiver over the Palms, Dubai
Interesting facts
The largest and tallest building in the world is Burk Khalifa in Dubai.
The most popular language in UAE is Arabic; English is also common.
The country’s official religion is Islam.
City guides
Cities & towns I’ve visited
Run a marathon in United Arab Emirates
Dubai Marathon
Dubai · usually January or February
Flat and fast in the cool of the winter, along the coast towards the Burj Al Arab.
Dates move from year to year, so check the race website before you book.
UNESCO World Heritage Sites in United Arab Emirates
0 of 3 visited. See every site I've been to.
- Cultural Sites of Al Ain (Hafit, Hili, Bidaa Bint Saud and Oases Areas) 2011
- Jabal Al Fayah 2025
- Wadi Wurayah 2026
My videos from United Arab Emirates
Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, Abu Dhabi
Abu Dhabi, UAE
My photos from United Arab Emirates
From 2 trips, newest first, so you can see which places each set of photos came from.
October 2018 Abu Dhabi
Abu Dhabi Falcon Hospital, Sheikh Zayed Mosque, Burj Khalifa
Whole trip gallery
December 2011 UAE Winter
Whole trip gallery
Plan your trip to United Arab Emirates
- HotelsBooking.com
- Tours and ticketsGetYourGuide
- FlightsKiwi.com
- Attraction ticketsTiqets
- Airport parking, lounges and transfersHoliday Extras
- Car hireAuto Europe
- Mobile data (eSIM)AiraloCode DAN9406 for money off
- GuidebooksAmazon
Some of these are affiliate links: if you book through them I may earn a small commission, at no extra cost to you. More about this.
