Welcome to the realm of travel and adventure, where there are countless opportunities and amazing experiences. We encourage you to embark on an unmatched journey with the help of this thorough travel guide, which has been put together by experienced UAE tour operators who specialize in creating wonderful experiences. We will be your reliable accomplice in everything from exhilarating adventures to tranquil retreats to traversing the various landscapes and cultural gems you will encounter.
History
The United Arab Emirates’ history dates back to the beginning of mankind’s existence. What is now a modern nation on the edge of the Arabian Peninsula has long been a meeting site and a hub for trade connecting settlements in Africa, Europe, and Asia.
The earliest known human settlements are at Mleiha in Sharjah, where artifacts from 124,000 BC were found.
When this area developed as a commerce hub, Julfar in Ras Al Khaimah, with its perfect location on the Persian Gulf, became the region’s primary center. Irrigation was used to tame this wilderness as human settlement increased, and some of the nation’s historic forts were built during this era.
The introduction of Islam about 1400 years ago is a crucial time in the history of the area that is still dominant today.
Throughout the 18th and 19th centuries, the UAE attracted the attention of numerous European countries as the Portuguese, Dutch, and British nations all desired to grow and forge stronger ties with their respective empires. This little area, which had gained a reputation as the Pirate Coast, later adopted the name Trucial States and signed an 1820 pact with the British, leading to the creation of the British Protectorate.
Despite the fact that the UAE’s fishing and pearling industries were thriving at the time, it was the discovery of oil in the 1950s which profoundly impacted the region. Commercial oil drilling began on and offshore in the 1960s, prompting Abu Dhabi to launch extensive construction projects for building homes, hospitals, schools, and other infrastructure, including roads.
The relatively small village of Dubai would experience the same thing starting in 1969, signaling the beginning of its development to the metropolis it is today. The UAE has modernized and established itself as a desirable travel destination thanks to oil earnings, scaling into other industries like tourism to lessen its reliance on natural resources in the long run.
In the 1970s, the British decided to stop protecting the area (together with Bahrain and Qatar). The United Arab Emirates was confirmed on December 2, 1971 (Ras Al Khaimah joined in 1972).
Must-See Destinations in UAE
Abu Dhabi
The largest of the Emirates is Abu Dhabi, which serves as its capital. In the UAE, the Emirate has the second-largest population. Despite Abu Dhabi being critical in the history of the Middle East, the Emirate only became prominent in 1958 when oil was discovered there.
Abu Dhabi city lies on the northern side of the Emirate, on the coast and is the second most prominent city in the UAE after Dubai. The city is a modern metropolis of tall glass skyscrapers, resorts, culture, sport and business and hosts the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix, a modern airport and numerous attractions.
Dubai
Dubai Emirate is the most populous of all emirates, with a population of over 4 million people and hosts the largest city in UAE. 80% of Dubai’s population are expatriates. Many foreigners have migrated to Dubai due to its prominence as a hub for business, tourism, education, culture and construction. The favorable taxes are also a reason for many foreigners to live and work there.
Dubai is home to the world’s tallest building, one of the top busiest airports in the world, the world’s finest restaurants and hotels, one of the largest shopping malls in the world, and so many attractions. The infrastructure here is also world-class making it a great travel destination.
Fujairah
Fujairah, situated in the Gulf of Oman, is the easternmost of the Emirates and one of the least visited emirates in the UAE. Regardless, travelers will enjoy experiences in the Emirate, such as the rugged landscapes and the increasing luxury resorts. Fujairah is largely considered an up-and-coming Emirate as it continues to grow the infrastructure and business sectors.
Sharjah
Sharjah is the closest neighbor to Dubai and is mostly considered an extension of the Dubai Emirate. The Emirate is a historic part of the UAE, traditionally a fishing port and a stop on the UK’s Empire air routes. Today, Sharjah has grown into a modern city that plays on its heritage and is a growing tourist destination. The Emirate is home to many great hotels and resorts and numerous cultural and family attractions, including 16 museums. Projects like the Al Qasba Canal and Ferries wheel and the redeveloped Al Majaz Waterfront continue to attract more tourists to the city.
Umm Al Quwain
Umm Al Quwain is situated north of Sharjah on the Persian Gulf coast and is the smallest Emirate with a population of less than 78,000. The Emirate’s heritage includes a fort built and constructed in 1768 and a history of being a trading center. Today, the petroleum industry is a major part of Umm Al Quwain’s economy. Attractions here include the Fort, several historical monuments, Dreamland Aqua Park and the offshore islands with dense forests.
Ras Al Khaimah
Ras Al Khaimah ranks among the earliest locations in the United Arab Emirates. The Emirate is home to Jabal Jais, the highest peak in Ras Al Khaimah and the major tourist attraction. Other attractions include the National Museum of Ras Al Khaimah in an ancient palace, historic forts and stunning sand dunes. The main population concentration zone is RAK City, popularly known as RAK, which has a historic old town, resorts and hotels worth exploring.
Ajman
Ajman is the smallest Emirate with respect to the surface area. The Emirate is situated northeast of Sharjah and has a port on the Persian Gulf. There are few attractions here, but some old forts have been restored and opened as museums. The Ajman China Mall is a prominent shopping mall stocked with Chinese-made products such as electronics and clothing.
Conclusion
The United Arab Emirates perfectly combines tradition and modernity, alluring visitors with different landscapes and rich cultural experiences. Destinations such as the cultural treasures of Abu Dhabi and the legendary skyscrapers of Dubai will guarantee you a memorable trip to the UAE.
Embark on the adventure and lose yourself in the charm of the region while making lifelong memories. The UAE offers both exciting adventures and tranquil getaways. Use this guide as a guide when you set out on a voyage of exploration to get the most extraordinary experiences in the UAE. Happy travels!
