The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is a country composed of seven emirates: Abu Dhabi, Ajman, Dubai, Fujairah, Ras al-Khaimah, Sharjah, and Umm al-Quwain. On one hand, it is modern, hyper-technological, built on luxury and wealth, Dubai stands out like a diamond, boasting deluxe five-star hotels, designer boutiques, dazzling skyscrapers, and glamorous shopping avenues. On the other hand, it is a nation deeply connected to its traditions and customs, typical of Arab countries.
Across the vast, endless desert expanses, one can still encounter Bedouin tribes and small fishing villages by the sea. Being one of the wealthiest nations on the planet, the UAE offers every comfort to travelers accustomed to luxury, or to those wishing to feel like VIPs for a few days,and countless attractions for adventure seekers. Alongside its spectacular modern skyline, there are ancient archaeological sites, and among the Hatta Mountains, nature reveals its purest splendor.
You can visit colorful and lively souks, brimming with life in both large and small cities, ride a camel across the desert, lie on the warm sands counting the stars in the Abu Dhabi desert, or go diving in the crystal-clear, warm waters of the Persian Gulf.
Discovering the inevitable and mysterious beauty of the Emirates is an extraordinary experience that will remain engraved in your eyes and your heart.
LANGUAGE: The official language of the United Arab Emirates is Arabic; however, especially among the younger generations, English is becoming increasingly widespread.
RELIGION: The predominant religion in this nation is Islam. It is estimated that about 90% of Muslims are Sunni, with a small minority of Shiites. There are also small communities of other faiths.
TIME ZONE: GMT +4
CLIMATE: The UAE has a subtropical arid climate, with mild winters and hot summers. The hottest months of the year are July and August, when average maximum temperatures can exceed 48°C (118°F). In January and February, average minimum temperatures range between 10°C and 14°C (50°F–57°F).
The annual average rainfall along the coast is less than 120 mm, although rainfall can be heavy when it occurs. In the mountain regions, yearly precipitation often reaches 350 mm. The coastal area is occasionally affected by strong sandstorms, which can greatly reduce visibility.
DOCUMENTS: To enter the UAE, travelers must hold a passport valid for at least six months from the date of entry. Upon arrival, the passport is stamped with a free 30-day visit visa.
CURRENCY: The national currency is the UAE Dirham (AED).
Curiosity
Let’s explore some curiosities about Abu Dhabi, one of the most famous cities of the UAE and also the capital. The city has become world-renowned as a symbol of the nation’s wealth and luxury. Abu Dhabi is a blend of culture, nature, and sports — each year, the Formula One Grand Prix takes place at Ferrari World.
The Abu Dhabi archipelago includes over 200 scattered islands.
The name Abu Dhabi means “Father of the Gazelle”, and legend says that the first settlers came here following a gazelle searching for an oasis.
The city’s grand mosque, the Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan Mosque, is the third largest in the world and features chandeliers ten meters in diameter.
The most expensive cars in the world can be found here, as well as the most valuable license plate — worth 14 million dollars, it bears only one number: “1.”
Our advices
TO READ: I Love Dubai by Federica Marchese, which tells the story of the contrasts of this Arab city — its luxury, beauty, contradictions, and traditions — ideal for understanding the mindset and history behind this modern phenomenon.
TO LISTEN TO: Arabic music is deeply connected to African and tribal influences, as well as Bedouin melodies, softened by Oriental tones. Today, however, young people also enjoy rock and rap. Dubai even hosts the Dubai International Music Awards.
TO WATCH: Ok, Enough, Goodbye — an Emirati film not distributed abroad, but interesting to watch because it humorously portrays aspects of everyday life in the country. Though the story follows a small-town comedy format, it beautifully captures the essence of local life.
TO EAT: There is no single, “true” Arab cuisine by definition. Arab gastronomy has always borrowed from other culinary traditions, blending them into a fascinating mix. You can enjoy dishes imported from Morocco, such as falafel, or from Turkey, such as doner kebab. Traditional beverages include tea and coffee. Alcoholic drinks are served only in licensed restaurants.
