United Arab Emirates Holidays

FROM€723

The United Arab Emirates, located on the Arabian Peninsula along the Persian Gulf, is known for luxury, modernity and its rich cultural heritage. It is home to a number of popular tourist destinations, inlcuding Dubai and Abu Dhabi. The landscape is made up of a blend of vast deserts, rugged mountain ranges, and coastal plains, while beautiful sandy beaches can be found along the coast. The weather is hot and sunny year-round, with cooler, pleasant winters from November to March.

There are plenty of things for visitors to do in the United Arab Emirates. In Dubai, the Burj Khalifa offers breathtaking views from the world’s tallest building, with observation decks showcasing the city’s skyline and desert landscape. Abu Dhabi’s Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, a stunning piece of Islamic architecture, welcomes visitors to admire its incredible mosaics and marble domes. For adrenaline junkies, desert safaris provide thrilling dune bashing adventures, camel rides and traditional Bedouin camps for an unforgettable Arabian experience. No matter where you visit in the United Arab Emirates, there's an abundance of activities waiting to be discovered.

The UAE is an ideal tourist destination for all types of travellers. Families will enjoy attractions like Dubai’s theme parks and aquariums, while couples can indulge in romantic desert dinners and luxury spa resorts. Those looking for an exciting Adventure Holiday are well catered for, as the desert offers plenty of thrilling experiences such as dune bashing, 4x4 rides and more. The culturally curious are sure to love learning all about the United Arab Emirates' heritage through tours and museum visits. The UAE is a truly versatile destination, offering something for everyone.

To learn more about things to do in the United Arab Emirates, the best time to go and local info see here.

Things to Do in the united arab emirates

Attractions 

• The Sheikh Zayed Mosque is a stunning architectural marvel with intricate designs, massive domes and beautiful reflective pools.
• The Louvre Abu Dhabi is a world-class art museum featuring impressive galleries, global artifacts and a unique floating dome structure.
• Ferrari World is the world’s first Ferrari themed amusement park featuring the high-speed Formula Rossa roller coaster, the fastest roller coaster in the world, reaching speeds of 240 km/h!
• Qasr Al Watan is a magnificent palace showcasing Arabian culture, stunning architecture and fascinating exhibits about the UAE’s history.

Nightlife

The UAE offers vibrant nightlife, from luxurious rooftop bars in Dubai to beach clubs and live DJ events in Abu Dhabi. Dubai’s Marina and Downtown areas are hotspots for nightclubs, while Abu Dhabi’s Yas Island frequently hosts concerts and festivals. Many venues feature live music, world-class dining, and dazzling city views for visitors to enjoy.

Dining out

Dining out in the UAE offers a wide variety of options. You can enjoy traditional Emirati food like shawarma and majboos, as well as international dishes from all over the world. From casual street food to cosy cafés and upscale restaurants, there's something for everyone. Dubai and Abu Dhabi also feature plenty of places with great views and delicious food to suit all tastes and budgets.

For Families 

Abu Dhabi has plenty of fun activities for families. You can spend the day at exciting theme parks like Ferrari World and Warner Bros World theme parks or go to Emirates Park Zoo, which is home to over 1,700 animals and 200 different species. For a more laid back day out, families can enjoy the interactive exhibits at the Louvre Abu Dhabi, go for a walk along the Corniche Beach or set off on a boat ride from Yas Marina.

Shopping

Shopping in the UAE is a unique experience, offering everything from luxury malls to traditional markets. Dubai’s Mall of the Emirates and The Dubai Mall feature top global brands, while local souks offer a more authentic experience with spices, gold, and textiles on offer. Abu Dhabi also has its own high-end shopping centers and markets, where you can find a range of designer brands and outlets. The UAE is known for hosting annual shopping festivals, where visitors can find great discounts and special deals on a wide range of products, from clothes and perfumes to electronics and more.

Best Time to Go 

The best time to visit the UAE is during the cooler months, from November to March. During this period, temperatures tend to range from 20°C to 30°C, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. The summer months (June to September) can be extremely hot, with temperatures often exceeding 40°C, which makes it less comfortable for outdoor exploration.

Local Info

Currency 

The currency used in the UAE is the United Arab Emirates dirham (AED).

Time Zone

The UAE is 4 hours ahead of Ireland.

Getting around 

Getting around the UAE is easy with plenty of public transport options available. In cities like Abu Dhabi and Dubai, metros, taxis and buses are widespread and make it easy to travel around the city. Many areas also offer services like Uber and Careem. Renting a car is popular for exploring at your own pace.