Where should I go and what should I do in the United Arab Emirates?
Dubai delivers skyline glamour, with the Burj Khalifa, yacht time in Dubai Marina, and desert experiences that feel wonderfully exclusive.
Abu Dhabi pairs luxury with culture, from Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque to Louvre Abu Dhabi and Saadiyat Island.
The desert is a big part of the magic here, whether it’s a private-style safari, a vintage-vehicle experience, or sunset at a luxury camp.
Mangrove kayaking in Abu Dhabi offers a quieter, more refined side of the UAE that feels worlds away from the city skyline.
Saadiyat Island and Al Fahidi give luxury travelers a richer sense of place, blending art, heritage, and atmosphere.
When should I go to the United Arab Emirates?
November to May is generally the best window for comfortable sightseeing and outdoor experiences.
Late autumn, winter, and spring are especially good for beaches, desert activities, and mangrove outings.
Summer can still work if you prefer resorts, shopping, spas, and more indoor time.
What do I need to know for a trip to the United Arab Emirates?
Check your entry rules before departure. U.S. citizens travelling on a regular passport may receive a visitor visa on arrival for short stays, but always confirm current rules first.
Make sure your passport is valid for travel and carry it with you for all entry and identity checks.
Review the current travel advisory before you go so you know the latest safety and entry guidance.
Keep routine vaccinations up to date, including MMR.
Ask your doctor about any destination-specific vaccines based on your itinerary and trip style.
Use licensed transport and reputable tour operators, especially for desert excursions.
Plan for heat and dress codes, especially if visiting mosques, cultural sites, or travelling in warmer months.
Consider travel insurance with medical coverage and evacuation for peace of mind on a long-haul trip.
Situated at the gateway to the capital city is Fairmont Bab Al Bahr, a beachfront five star hotel in Abu Dhabi with unrivaled views of the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque.
Experience refined privacy at The Biltmore Hotel Villas Dubai, where exclusive private residences, personalized service, and contemporary elegance create a sophisticated retreat in the heart of the city.
A bold new icon on Dubai’s shoreline, Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab reimagines ultra-luxury living with world-class dining, expansive pools and beaches, and sweeping views of the Arabian Gulf and Burj Al Arab.
Raffles The Palm Dubai is an opulent beachfront retreat where palatial design, expansive suites and villas, legendary Raffles butler service, and world-class dining come together on the shores of Palm Jumeirah, offering guests a serene yet indulgent escape defined by refined elegance, exceptional wellness experiences, and sweeping views of the Arabian Gulf and Dubai skyline.
A serene beachfront escape on Abu Dhabi’s most pristine sands, Jumeirah Saadiyat Island Resort blends refined luxury, world-class wellness, and vibrant dining with the natural beauty of the Arabian Gulf.
A next-generation wellness destination in the heart of Dubai, SIRO One Za’abeel redefines luxury with performance-driven suites, cutting-edge fitness and recovery experiences, and a holistic approach to living well.
Situated in one of the city’s most exclusive neighborhoods, One&Only One Za’abeel is conveniently located approximately 6 miles from Dubai International Airport, and less than 4 miles from Dubai Mall.
Atlantis The Royal is an unparalleled destination located on the crescent of The Palm. The new iconic landmark of Dubai, Atlantis The Royal is the most ultra-luxury experiential resort in the world, welcoming guests to an experience that completely redefines the perspective of luxury.
Embark on a nomadic journey of rediscovery within intertwining corridors and courtyards in this address built from the inspiration of the traditional Arabic fort. Sensations will be heightened as the desert dunes’ sheer magnitude and constant shifting captivates imagination.
Welcome to Taj Exotica Resort & Spa, The Palm, Dubai, a distinctive beach resort nestled on the iconic Palm Jumeirah where guests can explore their tranquil side and discover the welcoming embrace of Tajness.
An inspiring blend of sophisticated luxury, authentic Indian heritage and contemporary style - Taj Dubai is a world-class destination. Taking prime position overlooking the prestigious Downtown and Burj Khalifa precinct, it puts you at the heart of where it happens: a five minute stroll from the city's dynamic business centre and a myriad of exclusive shopping and fine dining experiences.
Nestled between a pristine 1-kilometre-long private beach and lush gardens, the hotel is situated ten minutes drive from the city's international airport, five minutes from the golf course and the new Convention Centre and 15 minutes from the Corniche and the city centre. Shangri-La Hotel, Qaryat Al Beri, Abu Dhabi, features 213 luxurious rooms and suites, all furnished to the highest standards in a modern Arabic style.
Atlantis is a majestic five star Dubai hotel situated on the Palm island, a man-made island that has captured the world’s imagination with its magnificent scale and ingenuity.
Visitors can find their place between the future and the past at The Ritz-Carlton, Dubai, where five-star luxury is accompanied by an inimitable sense of style
On the outskirts of the ever-growing metropolis of Dubai, the tranquility and adventure of the desert awaits at The Ritz-Carlton Ras Al Khaimah, Al Wadi Desert
Located on Hayat Island, surrounded by the sparkling shores of the Arabian Gulf, expansive terracotta desert and soaring mountains, InterContinental Ras Al Khaimah Mina Al Arab Resort & Spa is a celebration of Middle Eastern hospitality, escapism, and natural spectacle. Just a 45-minute drive from Dubai, the resort offers an idyllic island living amongst lush green landscapes and powdery white sand.
United Arab Emirates: A Country of Contrast and Grandeur
The United Arab Emirates is a dazzling mix of bold architecture, refined hospitality, and unforgettable desert beauty. In Dubai, luxury travelers can pair a private yacht cruise with skyline views, explore the soaring Burj Khalifa, and linger over a chef-driven dinner in one of the city’s most stylish enclaves. Abu Dhabi brings a more elegant, cultural edge, from the grandeur of Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque to the artistry of Louvre Abu Dhabi and the calm sophistication of Saadiyat Island.
For travelers who want something more intimate, the UAE offers plenty beyond the headline sights. Spend a morning in the quiet mangroves of Abu Dhabi by kayak, wander the heritage districts of Al Fahidi, or take a private desert drive to a beautifully staged camp for sunset and stargazing. In Ras Al Khaimah, the mountain landscapes and slower pace create a striking contrast, while Fujairah offers coastal scenery and a more relaxed, local feel.
This is a destination where every detail can feel polished and personal, from iconic five-star resorts to curated experiences that reveal a more nuanced side of the country. Whether you want glamour, culture, desert adventure, or all three, the UAE delivers it with style.