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My Trips

United Arab Emirates

Seven emirates with big-city skylines, quiet desert, mountains and two coasts. Most first trips combine Dubai with a day or two in Abu Dhabi.

The UAE at a glance

The emirates are close together. Dubai and Abu Dhabi are about 90 minutes apart by road, and the mountains of Ras Al Khaimah or the east coast are an easy day out with a driver.

Winter, roughly November to March, is the most comfortable season for being outdoors. Summer is very hot; plan desert and outdoor time for early morning or evening.

Uncle’s take: for a first visit, base yourself in Dubai, keep one day for Abu Dhabi and, if you like the outdoors, one for the mountains. One hotel is easier than moving every night.

Capital
Abu Dhabi
Currency
UAE dirham (AED)
Time zone
GMT+4, no daylight saving
Languages
Arabic; English widely used
Main airports
Dubai (DXB), Abu Dhabi (AUH)
Ideal first trip
6–9 days

Destinations in the UAE

Prototype: only Dubai has a destination page so far. The others show a “coming later” message.

Regions at a glance

  • The Gulf coast cities

    Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Sharjah: hotels, beaches, museums and most of the activities.

    • First-timers
    • Families
    • City breaks

  • The desert

    Dunes within an hour of the cities: safaris, camel rides and desert camps.

    • Adventure
    • Evenings

  • Mountains & east coast

    Ras Al Khaimah and Fujairah: hiking, quieter beaches and cooler air in winter.

    • Outdoors
    • Day trips

Popular across the UAE

Ideas by category

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Getting around the UAE

Airport transfers

A driver meets you in arrivals at DXB and takes you to your hotel. Other airports come later.

From AED 160 per vehicle Between emirates

A driver by the hour is the easiest way to see Abu Dhabi or the mountains in a day.

From AED 360 for 4 hours Something custom

Several stops, a big group or lots of luggage? Ask suitable operators for quotes.

Price on request

Practical information

Entry requirements
Rules depend on your nationality. Check the official government sources before you book flights.
Dress & etiquette
Light, modest clothing in public places; cover shoulders and knees at religious sites. Swimwear is for beaches and pools.
Money
Cards are widely accepted. Carry a little cash for small shops and tips.
Ramadan & holidays
Opening hours change during Ramadan and public holidays. Check dates before you plan.

Prototype: practical information is sample text, to be reviewed by an editor.

UAE guides from Uncle

All travel guides

Not sure how to split your days?

Tell Uncle how long you have and what you enjoy. He’ll suggest where to stay and which emirates to fit in.

Plan the UAE with Uncle

UAE FAQs

Can I visit more than one emirate in a trip?

Yes. Distances are short, so most people stay in one city and take day trips with a driver or a tour.

When is the best time to visit?

November to March is the most comfortable for outdoor activities. Summer suits indoor attractions, beaches and early-morning or evening plans.

Do I need a car?

Not usually. Airport transfers, taxis, the Dubai metro and drivers by the hour cover most trips.