the Destination
Shining skyscrapers, endless desert, majestic palaces and vast sandy beaches – this is all about the United Arab Emirates, the place where the Exotic and the Modern harmoniously coexist.
Unlike any other lands, this one is formed of a brilliant collection of seven Emirates on the shores of the Persian Gulf with the highest skyscrapers, the most luxurious hotels and shopping in the world’s largest mall, complemented by a unique blend of tradition and cultural diversity.
facts & figures
Capital: Abu Dhabi
Population: 10,150,000
Language: Arabic
Currency: Dirham
Best places to visit: Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Ras Al Khaimah.
Best time to visit: All year round.
What to do
With glamorous marinas and beach clubs, luxury hotels and romantic sand dunes, the Emirates are great for family and couple getaways. The UAE combine the features of both Islamic and modern European cultures, so the holidays here surprise tourists with their diversity. Tripadvisor named Dubai as “The World’s Top Travel Destination For 2022” according to travelers’ opinion.
Interesting Traditions
New Year · December, 31st - January, 6th
The New Year is celebrated twice in the UAE. The secular New Year is celebrated on the night of January, 1st. The date of the religious New Year varies annually and is determined by the Muslim calendar Hijri. On the secular New Year in Dubai, for example, the streets are transformed into a kaleidoscope of lights and colors. Here they launch one of the most spectacular fireworks in the world. The Islamic New Year corresponds to the day when the Prophet Muhammad arrived in Medina after leaving Mecca. On this day believers go to pray in the mosque, fireworks are launched and festive events are held all over the country.
Dubai Marathon · January
One of the most popular marathons in the world is held here every year. First time it was held in January 2000. Since then, the Dubai Marathon has become the highest-paid race in the history of long-distance competitions where they offer a $1 million prize for a new world record and $250,000 prize for the first place. The United Emirates’ crown prince personally patronizes this marathon.
Dubai World Cup Races · March
The Dubai World Cup is the most prestigious horse racing competition of the year that takes place annually on the last Saturday of March. It is the culmination and the final chord of the equestrian season in Dubai. It attracts the best jockeys, trainers and owners of the best racehorses. This is the most expensive event of its kind in the world with stakes reaching $100 million.
Al Dhafra Camel Festival · April
In early April Abu Dhabi hosts the Al Dhafra Camel Festival. This event is dedicated to preserving and passing on the folklore and crafts of the Arab region to the younger generation. The attribute of the festival is the camel race. The ten-day festival also includes a beauty contest among camels, exhibitions and oriental bazaars.
UAE National Day · December, 2nd
Every year on December, 2nd, the UAE celebrates National Day. An air show is held with helicopters raising a huge national flag. Parades, concerts, exhibitions and competitions are held in the country on this day. And in the evening the sky is colored with flashes of fireworks and laser shows.
Shopping Festival · December - January
Every year in December and January the Dubai Shopping Festival takes place. More than 3,500 boutiques and brands offer huge discounts up to 75% to residents and guests of the emirate. Fashion shows, concerts and fireworks shows take place during the annual shopping festival in Dubai.
Gallery
Looking for inspiration? View our photo gallery of the United Arab Emirates!
