UAE (United Arab Emirates)

Spotlight on United Arab Emirates (U.A.E.)

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is a union of seven sovereign sheikhdoms, formed when the British withdrew from the Gulf in 1971. It boasts mountains, beaches, deserts, oases, camel racing, Bedouin markets and the legendary duty-free shopping of Dubai, all packed into a relatively small area. It also has the most relaxed entry regulations in the region, the best tourist infrastructure and, despite promoting itself exclusively to tourists with a buck or three (or four) to spend, it's extremely accessible to independent budget travelers.

Dubai is a member of the United Arab Emirates, the cluster of sheikdoms along the Arabian Sea. Located at the crossroads between East and West, the emirate's long-standing trading tradition has for centuries brought visitors from throughout the Middle East and neighboring regions. Now modernized, Dubai continues to attract many with its international facilities and its exotic, yet cosmopolitan lifestyle. Dubai has the best prices in the Arab Gulf states for gold, electronics, perfumes and is a tax-free city. It also has good beaches and excellent resort hotels. The town was the residence of the British political agent for the former Trucial States from 1954 until 1971. Known as the Venice of the Gulf, Dubai is the chief port and commercial center of the United Arab Emirates.

Abu Dhabi is one of the most modern cities in the world. It is the center of government and business life in the UAE. The architecture of its modern buildings and sky scrapers is the finest in the Middle East. The promotion of tourism and various tourism related projects will elevate Abu Dhabi to a Singaporean status in the region. Large gardens and parks, green boulevards lining all the streets and roads, sophisticated high-rise buildings, state-of-the-art communication services and transport, the presence of all the international luxury hotel chains, rich shopping malls, cultural centers and events provide tourists a one-of-a-kind experience all the year round.

Fujairah, with a stunning setting of wide sandy beaches set against a backdrop of the rugged Haijar Mountains, is an emirate of contrasts, attracting slowly a growing number of visitors, especially those in search of a different kind of “sun, sea and sand” vacation. Careful planning ensures preservation and protection of the town’s rich cultural heritage and natural beauty. Despite several new luxury hotels and resorts along the picturesque coastline, the charm and tranquility, which characterized the town in times gone by, remain largely unchanged. In addition to ancient fortresses perched on rocky hilltops, there are date palm groves that grow to the sea’s edge, abundant marine life and beautiful beaches that invite exploration.

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