United Arab Emirates

For most people, the United Arab Emirates means just one place: Dubai, the sci-fi-esque city of iconic skyscrapers, palm-shaped islands, city-sized malls, indoor ski slopes and palatial beach resorts. But beyond the glitter awaits a diverse mosaic of six more emirates, each with its own character and allure.

April 16th 2021, Dubai UAE, An aerial shot of Kite Beach in Dubai filled with kite surfers and their colorful kites flying in the air or being prepared on the ground, License Type: media, Download Time: 2026-05-27T21:30:52.000Z, User: lonelyplanetmedia, Editorial: true, purchase_order: 65050 - Digital Destinations and Articles, job: Comp Ingestion, client: Global Publishing WIP, other: Pia Peterson

Ashraf Hamdan/Shutterstock

Book
Lonely Planet's Best in Travel 2026
Book

Lonely Planet's Best in Travel 2026

Shop $19.99 USD
App
Lonely Planet App on a phone
Brand New!

Get the Lonely Planet App

Top places to visit in United Arab Emirates

Discover the best attractions in United Arab Emirates from must-see sights to unexpected hidden gems.

in partnership with getyourguide

Book popular activities in United Arab Emirates

Lonely Planet may earn a commission from affiliate links on our site. All recommendations and reviews reflect our own independent opinions.

United Arab Emirates and beyond