The UAE is where the impossible becomes reality. From the world’s tallest building piercing through clouds to islands shaped like palm trees you can see from space, this country turns architectural dreams into mind-bending reality.
These are the most beautiful places to visit in the UAE where ultra luxury meets raw natural wonder. From swimming with sharks in Dubai to camping under the stars in the Empty Quarter, get ready to see why this desert nation will leave you speechless!
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#1 tip to save money on your trip to the United Arab Emirates
Let’s first cover some quick tips that will save you time and money on your UAE adventure.
- FLYING: If you haven’t already, I HIGHLY recommend signing up for Scott’s Cheap Flights (now called Going). Last winter, I flew to Dubai for just $450 roundtrip thanks to their email alerts. The premium and elite version are even better!
- Food: Save by buying meals from local spots in areas like Al Satwa and Deira in Dubai, or at the World Trade Centre area in Abu Dhabi. You’ll find delicious shawarma, biryani, and local specialties for under $5 – much cheaper than hotel restaurants!
- Transport: I recommend getting a Nol card in Dubai for the metro and buses. For Abu Dhabi, look into the Hafilat card for public transport. Download the Careem app for affordable ride shares between attractions.
The UAE may have a reputation for luxury, but there are plenty of ways to experience its culture and architecture on a budget. Now, without further ado, let’s jump into the best places to visit in the UAE:
Prettiest Places to Visit in the UAE
Ready to discover the UAE’s hidden side? From starlit desert dunes to ancient mountain villages, here are the places that made me forget about Dubai’s skyscrapers.
1. Abu Dhabi Desert Safari
- 📍 Location: Abu Dhabi Desert, United Arab Emirates
- 🏆 Best For: Adventure seekers 🏜️, cultural explorers 🧕, stargazers 🌌
- 📸 Top Experiences: Dune bashing in a 4×4, sunset camel rides, traditional Bedouin dinner under the stars
- 📅 Best Time to Visit: November to March for cooler temps and clear skies 🌤️
- 🏨 Where to Stay: Arabian Nights Village – Authentic desert resort with dune views and heritage-style rooms
Riding deep into the desert just outside Abu Dhabi feels like stepping into another world. Giant dunes rise and fall in every direction, and the orange light at sunset gives the sand an unreal glow. A 4×4 ride across the dunes will get your adrenaline going, especially on steep descents and sharp turns.
Camel rides offer a slower, peaceful way to take in the landscape. As night falls, the stars come alive overhead while you settle in for a traditional Emirati meal in a Bedouin-style camp. From grilled meats to sweet dates, the flavors hit different in the cool desert air.
This experience balances thrill with culture. It’s not just a tourist activity, it’s also a chance to disconnect from the city and experience the UAE’s desert roots. The calm, the food, and the stories shared around the fire make this a top pick for first-time visitors.
2. Ajman Marina Beach
- 📍 Location: Ajman, United Arab Emirates
- 🏆 Best For: Beach loungers 🏖️, seafood lovers 🐟, sunset walkers 🌅
- 📸 Top Experiences: Jet skiing off the coast, strolling the marina promenade, dining on fresh seafood by the shore
- 📅 Best Time to Visit: November to April for warm beach weather without extreme heat 🏝️
- 🏨 Where to Stay: Wyndham Garden Ajman Corniche – Modern beachfront stay with Gulf views and private beach access
Ajman Marina Beach offers a relaxing escape with fewer crowds and a more local vibe than Dubai’s popular coastlines. The beach stretches along a scenic promenade where joggers, families, and café-goers all find space to unwind. Mornings are calm and breezy, ideal for beach walks and light swimming.
If you’re up for some action, try paddleboarding or jet skiing along the calm shoreline. Right behind the beach, you’ll find casual restaurants serving fresh grilled fish, seafood biryani, and cold lemon mint drinks. The marina area has plenty of shaded spots for resting between swims or people-watching.
As sunset rolls in, the waterfront glows with color and soft music from nearby cafés. It’s a comfortable place to settle in, whether you’re here for a beach day or just looking to slow down somewhere peaceful in the UAE.
3. Burj Khalifa Top View
- 📍 Location: Downtown Dubai, United Arab Emirates
- 🏆 Best For: Cityscape lovers 🌆, architecture geeks 🏗️, first-time visitors 🎟️
- 📸 Top Experiences: Viewing from the 124th and 148th floors, sunset skyline photos, watching the Dubai Fountain from above
- 📅 Best Time to Visit: December to March for haze-free views and cooler days 🌇
- 🏨 Where to Stay: Armani Hotel Dubai – Upscale hotel inside the Burj Khalifa with fountain-facing rooms and sleek design
Burj Khalifa’s observation decks give you a front-row seat to Dubai’s ever-changing skyline. Once you ride the ultra-fast elevator to the top floors, you’re met with sweeping views of the desert, sea, and city all in one panorama. Clear days reveal Palm Jumeirah, Burj Al Arab, and the Dubai Marina in the distance.
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Interactive displays line the interior, showing how the tower was engineered to handle desert winds and temperature swings. These insights add depth to the experience, especially if you’re curious about how the world’s tallest building came to life.
Plan your visit around sunset when the golden light hits the buildings below and the Dubai Fountain dances to music. The contrast between the modern skyline and the surrounding desert is especially striking from this height. It’s a great spot for travelers who want a true overview—both literal and cultural—of the city.
- Read next: Most Beautiful Places in Dubai
4. Dubai Miracle Garden
- 📍 Location: Dubailand, Dubai
- 🏆 Best For: Flower lovers 🌸, Instagrammers 📷, families with kids 👨👩👧👦
- 📸 Top Experiences: Walking through heart-shaped floral arches, spotting the flower-covered Airbus A380, exploring themed gardens
- 📅 Best Time to Visit: November to March for cooler weather and full bloom displays 🌼
- 🏨 Where to Stay: Park Inn by Radisson Dubai Motor City – Comfortable hotel with easy access to Dubailand attractions
Dubai Miracle Garden is a visual overload in the best way possible. It features over 150 million blooming flowers arranged into shapes, tunnels, and massive sculptures that transform the desert into a living art piece. Everywhere you turn, you’ll find floral versions of castles, cars, and even an Emirates plane.
The garden is laid out in themed zones, including umbrella walkways, floral clocks, and a Disney Avenue filled with topiary versions of cartoon characters. Each corner is designed to surprise visitors with something colorful and unexpected. It’s an easy place to spend a couple of hours just wandering and taking photos.
Kids will enjoy the Butterfly Garden next door, while adults can relax at shaded cafés scattered throughout the grounds. It’s a great spot for couples, families, and anyone who wants to experience nature in a way that’s playful and larger than life.
5. Dubai Safari Park
- 📍 Location: Al Warqa, Dubai
- 🏆 Best For: Wildlife fans 🐅, families 🧃, animal photographers 📸
- 📸 Top Experiences: Riding a safari bus through the African Village, feeding giraffes, watching bird shows
- 📅 Best Time to Visit: December to February for cooler days and active animals 🐾
- 🏨 Where to Stay: Millennium Place Mirdif – Stylish stay with nearby access to parks and family-friendly dining
Dubai Safari Park combines adventure and education in a massive wildlife reserve on the edge of the city. Spread across themed zones like the African, Asian, and Arabian Villages, the park lets visitors see animals up close while learning about their natural habitats and conservation.
Hop on a guided safari bus to spot lions, zebras, and antelope roaming freely in large enclosures. At the giraffe platform, you can hand-feed the animals and snap a few memorable photos. Families often enjoy the interactive bird shows and reptile house, which add variety to the outdoor exhibits.
The park is also focused on animal welfare and environmental awareness. Signs throughout the park explain breeding programs and rescue stories. With shaded paths, food courts, and play zones, it’s a full-day outing that works well for travelers of all ages.
6. Fujairah Waterfall
- 📍 Location: Fujairah, Hajar Mountains
- 🏆 Best For: Nature seekers 🌿, road trippers 🚗, couples on a scenic getaway 💧
- 📸 Top Experiences: Hiking to the falls, swimming in natural pools, photography in the Hajar Mountains
- 📅 Best Time to Visit: November to March for cooler hikes and stronger waterfall flow 💦
- 🏨 Where to Stay: Novotel Fujairah – Contemporary stay with mountain views and easy driving access to nature spots
Fujairah Waterfall is one of the UAE’s hidden natural gems, tucked deep within the Hajar Mountains. Getting there involves a scenic drive through winding mountain roads lined with cliffs, wadis, and palm trees. Once you arrive, the sound of rushing water breaks the silence and the cool mist in the air is a welcome surprise.
The waterfall flows into small natural pools where visitors can dip their feet or take a swim. The water is clear and refreshing, especially after a warm hike. It’s a peaceful setting that feels far removed from the fast pace of the cities, and you might even have it all to yourself on weekdays.
If you’re into hiking, bring your gear. The trails around the waterfall are not too intense but offer rewarding views of the rocky terrain. This is a great stop for travelers who want to connect with the wilder side of the Emirates.
7. Hatta Dam
- 📍 Location: Hatta, Dubai Emirate
- 🏆 Best For: Kayakers 🚣, hikers 🥾, nature lovers 🌲
- 📸 Top Experiences: Kayaking on turquoise waters, hiking the Hajar trails, scenic drives through Hatta heritage village
- 📅 Best Time to Visit: October to March for cool mornings and comfortable paddling weather 🚤
- 🏨 Where to Stay: Hatta Sedr Trailers Resort – Quirky trailer-style stay with direct dam views and private decks
Hatta Dam is a calm mountain escape just a short drive from Dubai. Known for its still turquoise waters and rugged surroundings, this reservoir is one of the best outdoor day trips in the region. The dam is surrounded by steep rock formations that reflect beautifully in the water during early mornings.
Most visitors rent kayaks or pedal boats to explore the peaceful lake. If you’re into photography or just want to disconnect, gliding across the reservoir offers some of the most tranquil views in the UAE. You’ll often see small fish in the water and birds flying between cliffs.
Around the dam, you’ll find hiking and biking trails that vary in difficulty. Some lead to elevated viewpoints while others pass by the Hatta heritage area. Bring water, good shoes, and a sense of adventure as this spot rewards every effort with quiet beauty.
8. Al Khaimah Beach
- 📍 Location: Ras Al Khaimah, United Arab Emirates
- 🏆 Best For: Swimmers 🌊, couples on retreat 💑, sunset chasers 🌅
- 📸 Top Experiences: Snorkeling in shallow waters, relaxing in beach cabanas, evening strolls along the shoreline
- 📅 Best Time to Visit: November to April for clear skies and swimmable water temperatures 🌞
- 🏨 Where to Stay: Hilton Ras Al Khaimah Beach Resort – Spacious beachfront resort with private lagoon and multiple pools
Al Khaimah Beach offers a slower, more relaxed beach vibe that’s perfect for travelers looking to escape busy city scenes. The long stretch of soft sand and gentle surf makes it ideal for swimming or simply laying back with a good book under the sun. It’s one of the best spots in the UAE to catch a quiet sunrise or sunset by the sea.
If you’re up for exploring, snorkeling near the rocks can reveal colorful fish and shells. Watersports like paddleboarding and kayaking are also available at nearby resorts, making this a fun beach for active travelers. You’ll find food trucks and small cafés nearby that serve fresh juices and grilled seafood.
As the day winds down, the breeze picks up and the horizon glows with pastel light. Bring a towel, some snacks, and take your time here. It’s peaceful, scenic, and surprisingly under the radar for most tourists.
9. Sharjah Desert Park
- 📍 Location: Sharjah, United Arab Emirates
- 🏆 Best For: Families with kids 🦓, animal lovers 🐾, museum goers 🏺
- 📸 Top Experiences: Seeing Arabian wildlife, exploring the botanical garden, visiting the Natural History Museum
- 📅 Best Time to Visit: December to February for mild temps and active animals 🌤️
- 🏨 Where to Stay: Centro Sharjah by Rotana – Convenient stay with quick highway access and a quiet setting
Sharjah Desert Park blends nature, education, and culture into one destination that’s great for families or curious travelers. The park is home to a wildlife center featuring Arabian leopards, oryx, flamingos, and other native species. Enclosures are spacious and designed to resemble the animals’ natural habitats.
Next door, the Natural History Museum walks you through desert ecosystems and prehistoric fossils found in the UAE. Kids love the interactive displays, and adults often enjoy the quiet pace and detailed exhibits. The nearby botanical garden showcases hardy desert plants that thrive despite the heat.
You can easily spend half a day here walking between shaded paths and learning about the region’s environmental story. It’s a thoughtful contrast to the city’s malls and modern attractions, giving you a chance to experience the country’s wild and ancient side.
10. Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque
- 📍 Location: Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates
- 🏆 Best For: Culture fans 🕌, architecture lovers 🧱, peaceful wanderers 🧘
- 📸 Top Experiences: Touring the prayer halls, walking under the domes, viewing the chandeliers and floral mosaic floors
- 📅 Best Time to Visit: November to March for comfortable temperatures and soft lighting for photos 🌇
- 🏨 Where to Stay: Traders Hotel, Qaryat Al Beri – Elegant riverside hotel with shuttle access to the mosque
The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is one of the UAE’s most iconic landmarks, and seeing it up close is an experience that leaves a lasting impression. The white marble façade gleams under the sun, and the sheer size of the courtyard and domes is breathtaking. The architecture blends Moorish, Mughal, and Persian styles in a way that feels both traditional and modern.
Inside, crystal chandeliers, intricate mosaics, and the world’s largest hand-knotted carpet draw your attention to every detail. The prayer hall feels quiet and sacred, even when it’s full of visitors. Guided tours are available and are worth taking if you want a deeper understanding of the craftsmanship and symbolism throughout the building.
Photography is allowed in most areas, so bring your camera. Just remember to dress modestly and observe the respectful atmosphere. It’s one of those places that invites you to slow down and take it all in.
11. Snoopy Island
- 📍 Location: Fujairah, United Arab Emirates
- 🏆 Best For: Snorkelers 🐠, weekend adventurers 🏝️, ocean photographers 📷
- 📸 Top Experiences: Snorkeling with marine life, paddleboarding near the island, relaxing on the beach with island views
- 📅 Best Time to Visit: October to May for calm seas and clear underwater visibility 🌊
- 🏨 Where to Stay: Sandy Beach Hotel & Resort – Beachfront resort directly facing Snoopy Island with snorkeling access
Snoopy Island is named after its resemblance to the cartoon dog lying on his back, and it’s one of the UAE’s most fun and scenic coastal spots. Located just offshore from Al Aqah Beach, the island is surrounded by coral reefs that make it a top snorkeling location for all skill levels.
Once you’re in the water, expect to see tropical fish, sea turtles, and maybe even a friendly reef shark if you’re lucky. The visibility is usually excellent during the cooler months, and rental gear is available from the resort for those who don’t have their own. It’s also a great place for paddleboarding or kayaking if you prefer to stay above the surface.
The vibe is casual and relaxed. You can spend the day lounging on the sand, swimming in clear water, and snapping photos of the island’s unusual shape. It’s a solid weekend trip from Dubai or Sharjah.
12. Umm Al-Quwain Beach
- 📍 Location: Umm Al-Quwain, United Arab Emirates
- 🏆 Best For: Quiet beachgoers 🌴, families 👨👩👧👦, weekend picnics 🧺
- 📸 Top Experiences: Kayaking in mangroves, beach camping, exploring islands by boat
- 📅 Best Time to Visit: November to March for cooler weather and less humidity 🧊
- 🏨 Where to Stay: Palma Beach Resort & Spa – Spacious family-friendly resort with pools and beachfront access
Umm Al-Quwain Beach is a peaceful coastal escape that feels far removed from the noise of the UAE’s major cities. It’s known for its quiet stretches of sand, calm waters, and relaxed atmosphere that suits families, solo travelers, and anyone in need of a low-key beach day. The shallow shoreline makes it especially safe for kids to swim and play.
Kayaking through nearby mangrove forests is one of the most popular outdoor activities in the area. The channels are calm, and birdlife is often spotted along the way. Many locals enjoy bringing picnic setups or tents for an overnight beach camp under the stars. It’s easygoing, open, and surprisingly scenic.
Boat tours also operate from the marina, taking visitors to small nearby islands where you’ll find even more untouched sand and natural views. The vibe here is slow and simple, ideal for travelers looking to unwind without distractions.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Visiting the Beautiful Places in UAE
Looking to expand your knowledge about the most scenic spots in UAE? Here are some common questions I get a lot about the best UAE tourist attractions.
Which is the most beautiful emirate in UAE?
It’s hard to pinpoint just one emirate as the most beautiful, as each offers its own unique attractions and experiences. From the skyscrapers of Dubai to the natural landscapes of Fujairah, the UAE’s beautiful places are spread across all its emirates. Your choice might depend on what you’re looking to experience: urban luxury, natural beauty, or cultural richness.
Where is the most beautiful city in UAE?
Again, beauty is subjective, but many travelers find themselves enamored with Abu Dhabi for its mix of modernity and tradition. The city is home to the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, one of the most beautiful places to visit in UAE. Dubai, with its iconic skyline, also ranks high on the list.
What are some must-see places in the UAE for nature lovers?
For those who love the great outdoors, Fujairah Waterfall and Hatta Dam are must-visit spots. These UAE destinations offer a break from the urban sprawl and a chance to connect with nature.
What is UAE famous for?
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is famous for several things, and it has gained international recognition for various aspects of its culture, economy, and attractions. Here are some of the things the UAE is well-known for:
- Luxury and Opulence: The UAE, particularly cities like Dubai and Abu Dhabi, is famous for its luxurious lifestyle. It boasts some of the world’s most opulent hotels, shopping malls, and high-end dining experiences. The Burj Al Arab in Dubai, often referred to as the world’s only 7-star hotel, is a symbol of luxury.
- Iconic Skyscrapers: The UAE is home to some of the world’s most iconic skyscrapers, including the Burj Khalifa, the tallest building globally. Dubai’s skyline is famous for its futuristic architecture and stunning cityscape.
- Shopping: The UAE is a shopping paradise, with numerous malls, boutiques, and traditional markets (souks). The Dubai Mall, one of the largest shopping centers globally, attracts shoppers from around the world.
- Palm Islands: The UAE is known for its ambitious land reclamation projects, including the Palm Jumeirah, a man-made palm-shaped island, and the World Islands, a collection of artificial islands shaped like a world map.
- Cultural Landmarks: The UAE is home to stunning cultural landmarks, such as the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi and the Al Fahidi Historic Neighborhood in Dubai. These places showcase the rich heritage and culture of the country.
- Desert Adventures: The UAE’s vast desert landscapes offer opportunities for desert safaris, dune bashing, camel riding, and even sandboarding. The desert experiences are a major draw for adventure seekers.
Where can I find the best beaches in the UAE?
From the popular Jumeirah Beach in Dubai to the lesser-known Umm Al-Quwain Beach, the UAE offers a range of beach experiences. Whether you’re into water sports or just want to relax by the sea, there’s a beach for you in the UAE scenery.
What are some unique places to visit in UAE?
Dubai Miracle Garden and Snoopy Island are among the more unique places to see in UAE. They offer experiences that are hard to find elsewhere, from walking amidst millions of flowers to snorkeling in an island shaped like a cartoon character.
Are there any hidden gems in the UAE?
Absolutely! Ajman Marina Beach and Sharjah Desert Park are often overlooked but are among the prettiest places in UAE. They offer a quieter, more relaxed atmosphere compared to the more famous attractions.
What is the coolest place in UAE?
One of the coolest places in the UAE, both figuratively and literally, is Ski Dubai. It is an indoor ski resort located in the Mall of the Emirates in Dubai. It is one of the most unique attractions in the region, offering a chance to experience skiing and snowboarding in a desert climate. The resort features a large indoor snow park with various slopes, ski lifts, and even penguins. It’s a fantastic place to escape the heat of the desert and enjoy winter sports and activities.
Final Thoughts on Visiting Beautiful Places in UAE
And there you have it, a whirlwind tour of some of the most beautiful places in UAE. From the awe-inspiring architecture of the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque to the natural splendor of Fujairah Waterfall, the UAE is a land of contrasts that offers something for every type of traveler. Whether you’re an adrenaline junkie looking to conquer the dunes of the Abu Dhabi Desert Safari or a peace-seeker wanting to unwind at Umm Al-Quwain Beach, this country has got you covered.
The UAE is not just a collection of emirates; it’s a mosaic of experiences waiting to be discovered. Each destination we’ve explored is a chapter in the larger story of what makes the UAE one of the best places to visit. So, pack your bags, grab your camera, and set out on an adventure that promises to be as diverse as it is unforgettable.
In a world where travel destinations often feel like they’ve been curated for the ‘gram, the UAE stands as a testament to authentic, diverse experiences. From its bustling cities to its serene landscapes, the UAE beauty is in its ability to offer a little bit of everything. So why wait? The most beautiful places, the most scenic vistas, and the most enriching cultural experiences are all here, waiting for you to take the first step.
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