Popular tour destinations in United Arab Emirates
The United Arab Emirates offers a captivating blend of modern attractions and rich cultural heritage, making it a top choice for organized tours. Visitors can explore everything from bustling cities to serene deserts, each presenting unique tours and activities that cater to different interests.
DubaiKnown for its futuristic skyline and luxury shopping, tours in Dubai explore landmarks like the Burj Khalifa and the Palm Jumeirah. Popular activities include:
- Desert safaris
- City tours
- Shopping excursions
- Waterpark adventures
- Cultural experiences in Old Dubai
The capital city is famous for its stunning architecture and cultural sites, with tours highlighting the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque and the Louvre Abu Dhabi. Notable activities include:
- Heritage tours
- Falconry experiences
- Eco-tours in the mangroves
- Island visits
- Culinary tours
As the cultural capital, Sharjah offers rich historical experiences through its museums and art galleries. Popular tours feature:
- Art walks
- Historical city explorations
- Souk visits
- Heritage tours
- Cultural festivals
This smaller emirate is perfect for a relaxing beach getaway, with tours focusing on beach activities and heritage sites. Highlights include:
- Beach tours
- Visit to Ajman Museum
- Fishing excursions
- Historical tours
- Desert visits
Nestled on the east coast, Fujairah is known for its mountains and beaches, ideal for nature tours. Popular options include:
- Snorkeling and diving trips
- Mountain hikes
- Cultural heritage tours
- Wadi explorations
- Beach outings
Types of tours available in United Arab Emirates
The diversity of tours available in the United Arab Emirates meets the interests of all travelers. From cultural insights to exhilarating adventures, you'll find a variety of organized experiences that showcase the UAE's unique offerings.
Cultural & HistoricalThese tours immerse you in the rich heritage and traditions of the UAE. Examples include:
- Heritage Village Tour – Abu Dhabi
- Dubai Museum Walk – Dubai
- Sharjah Art Museum Tour – Sharjah
- Al Ain Oasis Tour – Al Ain
- Historical Dubai Creek Tour – Dubai
Thrill-seekers can enjoy adventure-filled experiences like:
- Desert Safari Tour – Dubai
- Hiking in Hajar Mountains – Fujairah
- Scuba Diving Trips – Fujairah
- Kayaking in Mangroves – Abu Dhabi
- Zipline Adventures – Ras Al Khaimah
Embark on culinary tours to discover local flavors. Enjoy:
- Dubai Street Food Tour – Dubai
- Arab Cuisine Cooking Class – Abu Dhabi
- Fish Market Tour – Ajman
- Wine and Dine Experience – Fujairah
- Traditional Emirati Dinner – Sharjah
Explore the vibrant urban scenes of the UAE. Where to go:
- Walking tour of Old Dubai – Dubai
- Sharjah Art Walk – Sharjah
- Abu Dhabi City Tour – Abu Dhabi
- Ajman Heritage Walk – Ajman
- Urban tours of Yas Island – Abu Dhabi
Experience the local culture through various events. Participate in:
- Dubai Shopping Festival Tour – Dubai
- Cultural Festival - Sharjah
- Food Festival Tour – Abu Dhabi
- Art Tours during Art Dubai – Dubai
- Islamic Heritage Festival – Abu Dhabi
Best day trips and excursions in United Arab Emirates
Day trips from UAE’s major cities offer an easy escape to experience natural wonders and cultural gems. Short excursions can be effortlessly arranged, providing glimpses of the diverse landscapes and attractions that await beyond the urban centers.
- Dubai to Abu Dhabi – A visit to the iconic Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque and the Louvre Abu Dhabi (1.5 hours).
- Dubai to Al Ain – Discover the historic forts and breathtaking landscapes of Al Ain, with its lush oases (2 hours).
- Dubai to Fujairah – Explore the beautiful beaches and the ancient Fujairah Fort (1.5 hours).
- Dubai to Ras Al Khaimah – Experience adventure with mountain hiking or ziplining in Jebel Jais (1.5 hours).
- Dubai to Sharjah – Engage in cultural activities with visits to museums and heritage sites (1 hour).
- Dubai to the Hatta Mountains – Enjoy outdoor activities like kayaking and hiking in a scenic area (1.5 hours).
- Abu Dhabi to Liwa Desert – Experience the vast desert landscapes and traditional Bedouin camps (2 hours).
- Abu Dhabi to Emirati Farm – A culinary tour focusing on local produce and cuisine in the countryside (1 hour).
- Ajman to Dubai – Day of shopping and sightseeing in the bustling Dubai city center (30 minutes).
- Sharjah to Khor Fakkan – Relax at the beach and explore the vibrant marine life (1 hour).
- Dubai to the Mangroves – Kayak through the mangroves of Abu Dhabi for a unique nature experience (1.5 hours).
- Fujairah to Dibba – Enjoy a day of snorkeling and mountain scenery along the coast (1 hour).
Adventure and outdoor tours
Adventure and outdoor tourism in the UAE is increasingly appealing to nature lovers and thrill-seekers alike. From desert landscapes to coastal excursions, outdoor activities abound, providing a perfect playground for outdoor experiences.
Desert SafarisExperience a thrilling ride through the dunes, perfect for adrenaline hunters. Enjoy activities like dune bashing, sandboarding, and camel riding, best experienced in the cooler months (October to April).
Mountain Hiking
Explore the Hajar Mountains through various trekking routes suitable for all levels of experience. Venture through Wadi Ghalilah or ascend Jebel Jais, the highest peak in the UAE, with breathtaking views of the landscape (ideal in winter months).
Scuba Diving
Dive into the crystal-clear waters of Fujairah, where vibrant coral reefs and marine life thrive. Dive trips cater to all experience levels, with notable sites including Shirani Island and the Fujairah wreck. Accessible year-round with a peak season during summer.
Kayaking and Stand-up Paddleboarding
Explore the serene mangroves in Abu Dhabi or enjoy the calm waters off Fujairah's coast. These activities offer a unique perspective of the UAE's diverse ecosystems, best enjoyed during cooler afternoons.
Zipline Adventures
For those seeking high-altitude excitement, ziplining at Jebel Jais provides an exhilarating experience with stunning mountain views, available year-round with occasional seasonal events.
Canyoning
Discover hidden waterfalls and canyons in Wadi Wurayah for a thrilling hiking and rappelling experience, mostly suited for adventurous visitors during winter months.
Cultural and thematic tours
The cultural richness of the United Arab Emirates makes it an enticing destination for thematic tours encompassing various aspects such as history, art, music, and gastronomy. Immerse yourself in the segments of Emirati culture that resonate with you the most.
Historical HeritageUncover the deep-rooted history of the UAE through dedicated tours. Highlights include:
- Heritage Village Tour – Abu Dhabi
- Al Ain Forts Tour – Al Ain
- Old Dubai Walking Tour – Dubai
- Sharjah Heritage Area Walk – Sharjah
Experience Emirati customs through immersive activities such as:
- Falconry Experience – Dubai
- Coffee and Dates Tasting – Abu Dhabi
- Bedouin Culture Evening – Ras Al Khaimah
- Traditional Craft Workshops – Sharjah
Explore the local culinary scene with tours focused on traditional dishes and modern gastronomy:
- Food Festival in Abu Dhabi – Abu Dhabi
- Dubai Street Food Tour – Dubai
- Culinary Experiences – Fujairah
- Emirati Cooking Class – Al Ain
Engage with the UAE's vibrant art and music scene through tours like:
- Art Galleries Tour – Dubai
- Sharjah Biennial Art Tour – Sharjah
- Museum Night Tours – Abu Dhabi
- Music festivals & cultural events – various locations
Practical tips for booking tours in United Arab Emirates
Choosing and booking tours in the United Arab Emirates can enhance your travel experience significantly. To ensure a smooth process, consider the following practical tips when arranging your trips.
- Research reliable tour operators with good reviews.
- Decide between online bookings or purchasing on-site upon arrival.
- Pay attention to typical tour duration (usually half or full-day options).
- Expect price ranges that reflect tour quality and inclusions.
- Check what’s included: transport, meals, and guided services are common.
- Be aware of tipping customs; generally, a small tip is appreciated.
- Dress appropriately for cultural sites; respectful clothing is often required.
- Consider local payment methods; credit cards are widely accepted.
- Clarify cancellation policies to avoid unexpected fees.
- Ask about the language of guides to ensure a comfortable experience.
- Understand safety protocols and emergency exits for your chosen tours.
- Plan tours in accordance with weather conditions, especially during summer.
