Overview Country

United Arab Emirates
Towers of glass amid
oceans of sand

Dubai Skyline and Desert Landscape

Is this the future: spires of metal and glass rising up out the desert and man-made islands shaped like the world? No, it’s today in Dubai, the largest and loudest city of the United Arab Emirates (UAE). Oil money has transformed this sandy country into something like the film set of a sci-fi movie, but there are pockets of traditional charm and artistic pleasure to be found among the futuristic towers, opulent hotels and cavernous mega-malls.

A tandem skydive over The Palm in Dubai you'll never forget
where it is

Where it is

Middle East

When to go

When to go

October to April

Why go there

Why go there

Modern architecture
Desert adventures
Beach time

what to see

What to see

Abu Dhabi
Dubai
Burj Khalifa

Discover the untold stories of a true UAE landmark

Visit a city of the future

Discover the untold stories of a true UAE landmark

Dubai isn’t just Manhattan in the sand, it’s an ultra-modern cityscape straight out of Hollywood. An urban experience like no other.

Experience outstanding Islamic architecture at the Sheikh Zayed Mosque

Relish the polish of Abu Dhabi

Experience outstanding Islamic architecture at the Sheikh Zayed Mosque

It’s not as big as Dubai but sleek Abu Dhabi has must-see sights like the new-yet-old Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque and the delightfully airy Louvre.

A thrilling ride in the Dubai desert

Try out some dune bashing

A thrilling ride in the Dubai desert

It’s the ultimate adrenalin rush: careering up and down giant sand dunes in a 4×4 or ATV. Hot, sandy and excellent fun for everyone.

Louvre Abu Dhabi presents a historical narrative of art

Admire the biggest boldest buildings

Louvre Abu Dhabi presents a historical narrative of art

This is modern architecture on steroids, from the refined Louvre Abu Dhabi to the bombastic Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world.

The Falcon is the national bird of the UAE

Travel in the UAE

The Falcon is the national bird of the UAE

Most trips to this hot country focus on the two main cities, Abu Dhabi and Dubai, with excursions into the desert. There is limited public transport outside the urban areas so you’ll need a car to get around, although Dubai has a very modern metro. Whether you’re into the stunning art and architecture or want to indulge in some luxury pampering, we’ll find the perfect combination for you. So, pack your sunscreen and get ready to relax.

UAE facts

The United Arab Emirates is a federal monarchy made up of seven emirates, each ruled by a sheikh. The country, which is largely desert and borders on the Persian Gulf, was created in 1971, with its capital in Abu Dhabi although Dubai is the largest city. Thanks to huge oil reserves, the UAE is one of the richest countries in the world. Only around 12% of the population of 10 million are Emiratis; the rest are all foreigners.

How to know the time zone

Time zone

UTC +4

Check the flight time

Flight time

6 hours from Switzerland

local currency

Local currency

UAE dirham

Dial code by country

Dialling code

+971

United Arab Emirates