Which emirate is the best for a holiday in the UAE? Opening the UAE! Which emirate to choose? Where better to go to rest in the UAE.

The United Arab Emirates captivates with the unique unity of the traditional Arab way of life, European service and a sharp contrast between large cities and harsh desert terrain. However, before embarking on a tour, it is better to decide on a place where it is better to relax and how to save money in the UAE. Choosing an emirate is best done based on personal preferences. If necessary, a tourist can always change the noisy and crowded Dubai for calm and patriarchal Sharjah.

Abu Dhabi

The political and federal center of the country is known for its grandiose business deals. No less, he, as well as the nearby island of Yas, is also famous as a vacation spot for guests of the country. Respectability and a variety of places of leisure, that's how tourists briefly describe their stay in this emirate. It offers vacationers a theme park of Italian supercars Ferrari, which not only hosts one of the Grand Prix, but also many rides that allow you to drive these famous cars. In addition, those interested in the history of this brand can visit the museum, which displays all the cars created since the 50s of the XX century.

Ferrari park in Abu Dhabi

Interesting places for family holidays will be both the beaches on Yas Island and one of the best zoos in the world, with children's animation and special entertainment for young visitors. Excellently equipped city beaches, among which there are separate for men and women, are not suitable for couples who do not want to part. Therefore, Yas Island is better suited for a beach holiday, to which various ships depart at short intervals.

Making an evening promenade along the Carniche promenade or climbing the Eye of the Emirates ferris wheel, visiting shopping centers and nightclubs, staying in hotels with exorbitant prices for hotel rooms and the same luxury, you will not only feel the smell of big money everywhere, which is saturated with everything around , but also feel like a real sheikh.

Dubai

This emirate is called by many people, both locals and tourists, an island of the Western world, surrounded by Muslim traditions. Never tired of surprising vacationers, this emirate has become a Mecca for both shopping lovers and entertainment seekers. Shopping lovers are provided with a free shuttle that picks up shopaholics from the hotel and heads along the route, which includes the largest shopping malls in the city.

Burj Khalifa in Dubai

Those wishing to splash in the warm waters of the Persian Gulf and soak up the Middle Eastern sun are at your service in the Marina area, with its beach parks, which take into account everything for a comfortable stay and a lot of entertainment for children and parents. But if you like a quiet beach holiday, then change the warm sand on Friday and Saturday and find another place for leisure. On these weekends, without exception, the beaches are crowded due to official holidays.

Sharjah

The emirate of Sharjah opens its doors for less wasteful and more calm in manners and preferences. Due to the smaller size and popularity of this part of the United Emirates among the country's guests, the cost of living, especially if you stay in a hotel on the first or second line, is significantly lower than in neighboring Dubai.

In addition, the emirate is famous for its strict demeanor and adherence to Muslim traditions, fewer entertainments, but more comfort and patriarchal gravity of the environment. If you get tired of relaxing from the crowd and want to shake things up, then any taxi or bus will take you to the center of entertainment created by the Arabs in just twenty minutes.

Ajman

This emirate is more loyal to drinkers, but most of all it suits people who want to get acquainted with the past of this Middle Eastern country. Locals keep the memory of their past in stories and make their history with international visitors in museums. The expositions feature ancient artifacts that testify to a rich history and a collection of ancient weapons, with which the ancestors of modern Arabs defended their independence and defended their own honor.

In addition to museums, the emirate of Ajman is known for the friendliness of the locals and the atmosphere of hospitality they created. These features of the area fully compensate for the lack of metropolitan gloss, shopping bustle and skyscrapers, which are more popular among holidaymakers in the Emirates.

Located in the northern part of the country, this emirate will be the best choice for people who are sensitive to heat or dry air. The average annual temperature and dryness of the air in this area is lower than in other emirates. Since this part of the country appears relatively little in the offers of travel agencies, there is the most optimal ratio between the cost of living and entertainment and their quality and variety. It is in this emirate that the villas of the local rich are located, who chose the area not for advertising purposes. Located on the territory of the emirate, they are ready to offer foreigners vacationing in them the concept of All inclusive service.

Despite the low popularity among vacationers, Ras al-Khaimah is able to compete with the more “European” Dubai and fashionable Abu Dhabi in terms of the number of various entertainments. Hiking in mountainous areas for fans of "harsh" recreation, diving under water for fans of extreme sports, cultural monuments that are the same age as Ancient Egypt for connoisseurs of history and visiting local villages for lovers of Arab culture, delicious gourmet dishes and much more is ready to offer its guests emirate. In addition to entertainment, people come here to improve their health in the hot mineral springs of the emirate.

fujairah

This youngest emirate among the rest is also not ignored by guests from other countries. Its protection from the hot desert winds and the 90-kilometer coastline, turned into a continuous beach with a gentle day, creates all the conditions for a comfortable family vacation on the beach. The entertainment offered by the locals is marked by their traditional occupation and landscape, as they are known as the most skilled anglers among the inhabitants of all the United Emirates.

In addition to diving under water, where divers will find almost ideal conditions for exploring the diversity of the underwater world, vacationers can take part in fishing or night crabbing. The prey caught by them can be served on the table at the slightest hint. An alternative to a beach holiday will be a visit to the gardens of Ain Al-Madhab, the hot springs of Ain Al-Ghamur or the Al-Wurraya waterfalls.

Umm Al Quwain

The most modest emirate in size is also ready to receive guests. The cleanliness and size of the beaches will delight people who come with the whole family, the endless groves of date palms will give a relaxed holiday in the Arabian style, and the multi-colored sand dunes will refute the stereotype of the "boring" and monotony of the desert. In addition to admiring the surroundings, you will be offered a visit to the Dreamland water park, a local dolphinarium or a ride on another “transport” traditional for Arabs - horses.

The small number of foreigners is explained by the small attention paid by the inhabitants of the emirate to advertising the area as a vacation spot. The tourist infrastructure is developing here rather, but this does not mean the worst conditions for recreation. Situated between the shopping and bustling Dubai and the official and fashionable Abu Dhabi, this emirate guarantees the same level of comfort as in the more famous tourist destinations. In addition, the tiny size of the emirate itself and its good location will allow you to visit any of the emirates within a few minutes if necessary.

A variety of places of entertainment, Arabian fantasy and ingenuity, as well as the rapid growth and development of the country make it impossible to answer the question of where it is better to relax in the UAE. Each of the guests of this Middle Eastern country will find his own corner in which he will forget about the unrest that accompanied him earlier and plunge into the world of calm and tranquility. Come to the United Arab Emirates and find the place where you will return more than once.

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Hot eastern countries are becoming more and more popular among tourists. But, before you go on a trip, you need to solve a few important questions. For example, if the United Arab Emirates is chosen for travel, where is it better to go and the exact purpose of the trip. After all, a suitable place to rest will depend on it.

If recently only very wealthy people could count on holidays in the Emirates, now the situation has changed. The demand for tours is growing, and with it the number of offers, including those quite affordable for ordinary tourists. For travelers from Russia, even a simplified visa is provided, right at the airport after arrival.

The emirates are so different from each other that an unprepared tourist, finding himself in an unfamiliar place, may find himself in a slight bewilderment. For example, Sharjah is known for the fact that it is almost impossible to get alcohol in local stores. Including tourists. Therefore, couples with small children will feel good here.

But Fujairah is full of all-inclusive hotels that are close to the beaches. This place is more suitable for outdoor enthusiasts.

Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi is the capital of the United Arab Emirates, considered one of the richest cities in the world. And for many people, this is the best option for relaxation. There is a lot of greenery, good hotels, the atmosphere of stay is calm and measured. One of the best hotels is Emirates Palace 5 *, and among the inexpensive ones - Corniche Hotel Abu Dhabi 5 *. On Yas Island, which was created artificially, there are quite comfortable hotels for tourists who prefer active water recreation.

On the same island is the theme park Ferrari World, with an area of 200 thousand square meters. m. It includes a car museum and many attractions.

And in Abu Dhabi there is the Sheikh Zayed Mosque - the largest mosque in the UAE, which is a local attraction.

Dubai

It is considered one of the undisputed leaders of a beach holiday.

Downtown Dubai is a prestigious area that houses the Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world. Once on its roof, you can admire the incredible contrast between the panorama of the city and the harsh desert.

In addition, all lovers of shopping will appreciate this place, because the world's largest shopping center Dubai Mall is located here. Opposite is Souk Al Bahar - another shopping center stylized as an Arab market. Here you can buy a lot of national goods.

fujairah

One of the youngest emirates, which is becoming increasingly popular among tourists. Due to the fact that it is reliably protected from the hot desert winds, and its coast stretches for 90 km, it provides an excellent opportunity for families with small children to relax.

Ras Al Khaimah

It is located in the northern part of the country, so it is ideal for people who cannot tolerate heat and dry air. The cost of hotels and entertainment is lower than in other emirates, while they are in no way inferior in terms of the quality of services provided.

Tourists are offered a wide range of entertainment: diving, hiking, excursions. It is also worth noting the hot mineral springs, which attract people from many countries in the hope of improving their health.

Umm Al Quwain

A quiet and provincial emirate, which, in terms of its area, noticeably lags behind the rest. However, this does not prevent him from being as hospitable as other local properties. There are very clean beaches, palm groves and sand dunes that will surprise any person with their beauty.

In addition to walking among amazing landscapes, vacationers can visit the Dreamland water park or chat with dolphins and horses. Of course, little kids will love it the most. And adults will certainly be interested in camel racing.

Sharjah

Quite a modest and cozy place to stay, ideal for people who love peace and tranquility. There is not much entertainment here, while the behavior of people, including tourists, is subject to rather strict requirements.

For vacationers who want adventure, it is enough to catch a taxi. In 20 minutes you can find yourself in places full of entertainment and noise.

Ajman

This is the best place to get acquainted with the history of this Middle Eastern country. There are many museums that display ancient artifacts. Located 10 km from Sharjah.

When is the best time of year to visit the UAE?

The UAE is a state dominated by a dry subtropical climate. That is, there is practically no rain here, and intense heat in spring and summer. This time is more suitable for people with good health who love to relax under the scorching rays of the sun. In the period from May to September, the temperature in the shade reaches about +50°C. It is unlikely that such conditions will have a good effect on the condition of the elderly, children or those who suffer from cardiovascular diseases.

But in October-November the weather becomes more favorable. The average temperature is around +30°C. The improvement of the climate is causing prices for tours and accommodation to rise. And only from December to March one can observe the same decrease in both air temperature (up to + 25 ° C) and the cost of vouchers.

This option is more suitable for those who prefer a temperate, even cool climate, while being a supporter of a budget holiday. Most importantly, a slight decrease in temperature does not affect the beach season, which is still in full swing. In April, the air temperature starts to rise gradually again.

Where to relax with small children

Families with children should take a closer look at those emirates in which appropriate entertainment is developed. For example, in Ras Al Khaimah there is a Dreamland water park, where up to 7 thousand children can relax daily. There are many water attractions, a lot of greenery, as well as places for sunbathing.

But while relaxing in Dubai, you can visit the Wonderland amusement park, whose area is more than 180 thousand square meters. km. It is ideal for families. Teenagers will love the Ferrari World theme park on Yas Island.

Regardless of the features of each emirate, their advantages and disadvantages, the final choice of a holiday destination is up to the traveler. There are so many resorts in this state that everyone can choose something suitable for themselves.

Air temperature in December: +26 o C.
Water temperature in December: +24 o C.

UAE map

Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi is the luxurious capital of the United Arab Emirates, which is located on the coast of the Persian Gulf among the endless sands of the desert. The city is unique in its combination of history and modernity - oriental bazaars are adjacent to modern universities, mosques with supermarkets, museums with entertainment complexes.

A large number of mosques in the city center reminds that the Manhattan of the Middle East, built up with skyscrapers and highways, is still part of the Muslim world.

The opportunities for excursions and entertainment here are truly enormous - the Sheikh's Palace, the old Al Husn Fort, the oasis city of Al Ain, the Al Ain Zoo and Aquarium, the Ferrari World theme park, the carpet and camel bazaars - this is just a small part of what you can visit, being in the largest and richest emirate of the country.

pros

Lots of sights, interesting places and opportunities for entertainment
The streets are very clean, as the fines for abandoned garbage are very high

Minuses

From all hotels, the view is not on the sea, but on a narrow strip of water and nearby islands
Some city parks are paid

Dubai

Dubai is the most famous city and emirate in the UAE. Here everything is the most - high, big, expensive. The coastal waters of the resort are the place for the implementation of ambitious projects to create man-made islands "Palma" and "Mir". Although Dubai has a very colorful old quarter, a historical and ethnographic village and mosques, lovers of history and excursions will be bored here.

Dubai is interesting for shopping, which can be done both in the old oriental bazaars and in ultra-modern shopping centers. In addition to shopping, the resort will impress with the architecture of skyscrapers and luxury hotels, as well as beaches with sand brought from Egypt.

pros

It is possible to go skiing at any time of the year at Ski Dubai
Relatively large amount of entertainment and attractions
Excellent transport system
Great shopping experience
Active nightlife

Minuses

There are a lot of locals on the city beaches on weekends
Quite expensive

Sharjah

Sharjah has a unique location - access to two ocean bays at once: Persian and Oman. In addition, the resort is convenient due to its close location to Dubai, which allows you to enjoy a relaxing family vacation and, if possible, visit the sights of a more famous neighbor or go to shopping malls at any time.

Sharjah is considered the cultural capital of the country - there is an archaeological museum, a cultural center, a monument to the Koran, located in front of the largest mosque in the entire Middle East, King Faisal's mosque, which can accommodate 3,000 people. The Al Jazeera amusement park with a mini-zoo and swimming pools, as well as the Desert Park with a farm for children and a natural history museum await the youngest travelers.

pros

Life and hotels are cheaper than in nearby Dubai
No public transport

Minuses

Virtually no nightlife
Strict norms, laws and regulations, for example: you can swim on the beaches only during daylight hours and in clothes that cover your arms and legs; If you break this rule, you can go to the police station.

fujairah

Sandy landscapes, so typical of the UAE, in Fujairah are diluted with the Hajar mountains and green oases. In this emirate they do not extract oil, do not build skyscrapers - life here is measured and calm. This is the only resort that has access to the Indian Ocean.

Fujairah is renowned as the best diving and snorkeling destination in the entire country. The underwater world of Shark Island is rich in lobsters, stingrays, many exotic fish, and near the Musandam Peninsula you can meet turtles, barracudas, dolphins and reef sharks. Those who decide to go to the mountains can visit the waterfalls, visit the hot springs and look into the gardens.

pros

Beautiful underwater world
Lots of excursions and activities

Minuses

Lack of nightlife, bars, discos
Long distances between attractions

Ras Al Khaimah

Ras Al Khaimah is the northernmost of the emirates, located on the border with the Sultanate of Oman and not very popular with tourists.

It has a milder climate, cleanest sparsely populated beaches and mineral water springs. In the Old Town of Ras al-Khaimah, you can visit a dilapidated fort, ancient watchtowers, a national museum, and a local market. The more active ones are waiting for the Ice Land amusement park with numerous waterfalls, slides, play areas, pools and attractions.

In order to improve your health, you need to go to the Masafi region - get natural drinking water or visit the town of Hatt to plunge into the hot springs. Here, by the way, you can go through a complex of Ayurvedic spa treatments using thermal water - this is no longer the case in any other emirate.

pros

You can combine a beach holiday with treatment
Good climatic conditions and gorgeous beaches

Minuses

No public transport, only taxis
Tourism infrastructure is not very developed

Ajman

An almost homely atmosphere reigns in Ajman - this is due to the fact that this poor emirate occupies the smallest area of all seven. Here, among numerous palm trees and beautiful beaches, tourists will find a cozy and friendly atmosphere. In the evenings, both locals and vacationers go for a walk on the embankment - after the sun sets and the heat subsides, life begins to boil here.

There is no dry law in Ajman, alcohol can be freely bought at any store, but it will not work to take it out of the emirate. You can diversify your vacation by visiting mineral springs, camel racing or water sports.

pros

Ajman is located just 10 km from Sharjah and 30 km from Dubai, so you can go to the neighbors for entertainment and shopping centers

Minuses

Few excursions, shopping

Umm Al Quwain

Those who want to see the real Emirati life without the luxury of Dubai and the splendor of Abu Dhabi should head to the provincial Umm Al Quwain. Thanks to the territorial location, the inhabitants of the emirate were able to preserve traditions and their usual way of life. The city itself is located on a small peninsula, on the coast, indented with lagoons, bays and coves.

Umm al-Quwain is an ideal place for those who want to observe the unhurried Arab life through the smoke of a hookah and the noise of coastal waves. Of the more active entertainment - the oceanarium and the largest park in the Middle East, Dreamland with an artificial 18-meter volcano. In addition, you can raft to the islands, watch camel races, hit all the targets in the shooting club or practice water sports in the Marine Club.

pros

Unique atmosphere and color

Minuses

Few hotels and accommodation options
No public transport

We figure out where it is better to relax in the UAE at sea. What are the beaches in the resorts, what to do and what to see.

Map of resorts and beaches in the UAE

Beach holidays in Dubai

Where is it better to relax in the UAE if you want to combine a beach holiday with shopping and excursions? Dubai is a versatile city and is the best choice, especially if you are there for the first time. It is convenient to go on excursions to other emirates, and in the city itself there is something to see on our own - we visited the beaches, Deira and the Old City, the singing fountains and the Dubai Mall, and the aquarium. In Dubai, you can live with a different budget - from quite modest to luxurious.

Shopping in Dubai is wonderful, there are a lot of shopping centers. In addition to the famous Dubai Mall (it can be considered as a separate attraction), visit Dubai Marina Mall, Mall of the Emirates, Outlet Mall Dubai, as well as the markets in Deira.

For those who care about living by the sea, we advise you to settle in Jumeirah - this is where the cool long beaches are. Jumeirah is home to the Burj Al Arab Sail Hotel and the Atlantis Water Park Hotel. Another beach area in Dubai is Marina Beach, local Manhattan. Expensive yachts, glass skyscrapers, very beautiful.

When asked where to relax in the UAE with a child, the answer is the same - it is best in Dubai. There are good beaches, and the entrance to the water is smooth, and the infrastructure is developed. There are water parks and amusement parks for children - Wild Wadi and Wonderland.

Dubai Mall. The famous aquarium can be viewed for free, but only partially, from the outside.

Interesting video! TV presenter and blogger Anton Ptushkin gives a video tour of rich life in Dubai:

Beach holidays in Abu Dhabi

Some believe that in the UAE it is better to relax in the capital - Abu Dhabi. In many ways, it resembles Dubai: the same ultra-modern city with skyscrapers, there are also good beaches and shopping centers, you can go on excursions.

If you just want to lazily lie on the beach, then Abu Dhabi has everything for this. The beaches are good and suitable even for small children.

What to do and what to see? Be sure to visit the sixth largest mosque in the world, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan Mosque. This marble shrine of 82 domes and 1,000 columns can accommodate more than 40,000 worshipers. With children, go to Ferrari World, Al Mushrif Children's Garden and Hili Fun City amusement parks, as well as Waterworld water park - a lot of fun and delight are guaranteed!

Clear water in Abu Dhabi (Photo © Michaela Loheit / flickr.com)

Huge funnel on the Dawwama tornado slide at Yas Waterworld.

Beach holidays in Sharjah

Some tourists believe that in the UAE at sea it is better to relax in the emirate of Sharjah. This is the cultural center of the country and an ideal place for a measured family vacation. There are no noisy entertainments here, as in Dubai, but there is a lot of greenery and excellent beaches. It is also cheaper to live in Sharjah, and it takes about 30 minutes to 1 hour to get to Dubai by bus or taxi! True, there may be traffic jams in the morning and evening, keep this in mind.

The beaches are clean and the entrance to the sea is smooth. The bottom is sandy and gently sloping, so in Sharjah you can relax even with a baby - however, like almost everywhere in the UAE.

However, there are strict laws in Sharjah - you can sunbathe in a swimsuit only on hotel beaches, where the entrance is paid if you do not live in this hotel. Men are not allowed on public beaches on Mondays.

Alcohol is also prohibited, but you can drink in hotels. For some, this is a plus.

What to see? This is the oldest emirate, so there are many museums - archaeological, ethnographic, historical. For children - Al Majas Green Park, Desert Park, National Park, Adventureland themed, aquarium and water park.

Beach holidays in Fujairah

This is where it is better to relax in the UAE for families with children or lovers of solitude! The emirate of Fujairah is very, even too calm and quiet - mass tourism has not yet reached here and there is no noisy entertainment. But in the capital of the emirate and in the resorts near it, there are many good hotels, including those with all-inclusive meals.

It is worth going to Fujairah only for the sake of a beach holiday, snorkeling and diving. The emirate has wide and clean sandy beaches - all belong to hotels. The best beaches are in the north, where it is also better to snorkel and dive. Tourists prefer the beaches of Al Aqah Beach, Dibba Al Fujairah and Shark Island. The climate is milder, and you can relax at any time of the year, except for summer.

What to see? See the fort and old city, Fujairah Museum and Madhab Folk Park, Mosque and

Heritage Village. Visit gardens, waterfalls and healing springs.

Beach holidays in Ajman

Ajman is an alternative to beach Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Sharjah. Yes, there are no amazing skyscrapers, grandiose mosques and amusement parks here. However, if you just want to relax calmly and relatively inexpensively in the UAE by the sea, then this emirate is for you.

The beaches are clean with fine white sand. Private closed beaches are well cleaned, they have all the infrastructure. Lots of hotels, cafes and restaurants.

Another advantage is that laws are not as strict as in Sharjah, plus you can buy alcohol in a bar, restaurant or shop.

Things to do? The list of entertainment is scarce: go to the historical museum and the ancient fort, admire the mosques and the shipyard, visit camel races and mineral springs. If you get bored, go to Dubai or Sharjah - they are nearby.

Beach holidays in Ras Al Khaimah

In this unpopular with tourists, but very colorful emirate of the UAE, you can have a good rest - here the same long beaches as elsewhere in the Persian Gulf. And also - a beautiful canyon of the Hajar Mountains, sand dunes, desert villages, ancient valleys (wadis) with oases and archaeological sites, mangroves and picturesque hills.

We figure out where it is better to relax in the UAE at sea. What are the beaches in the resorts, what to do and what to see.

Map of resorts and beaches in the UAE

Beach holidays in Dubai

Dubai Mall. The famous aquarium can be viewed for free, but only partially, from the outside.

Interesting video! TV presenter and blogger Anton Ptushkin gives a video tour of rich life in Dubai:

Beach holidays in Abu Dhabi

If you just want to lazily lie on the beach, then Abu Dhabi has everything for this. The beaches are good and suitable even for small children.

Huge funnel on the Dawwama tornado slide at Yas Waterworld.

Beach holidays in Sharjah

The beaches are clean and the entrance to the sea is smooth. The bottom is sandy and gently sloping, so in Sharjah you can relax even with a baby - however, like almost everywhere in the UAE.

Alcohol is also prohibited, but you can drink in hotels. For some, this is a plus.

Beach holidays in Fujairah

What to see? See the fort and old city, Fujairah Museum and Madhab Folk Park, Mosque and

Heritage Village. Visit gardens, waterfalls and healing springs.

Beach holidays in Ajman

The beaches are clean with fine white sand. Private closed beaches are well cleaned, they have all the infrastructure. Lots of hotels, cafes and restaurants.

Another advantage is that laws are not as strict as in Sharjah, plus you can buy alcohol in a bar, restaurant or shop.