It’s easy to reduce the UAE to a series of headlines: tallest tower, biggest mall, flashiest cars. But beyond this, there is a country layered with culture, adventure, and unique experiences that work beautifully together.

The United Arab Emirates is a federation of seven emirates. If you think it’s all just brunches in Dubai or desert selfies in Abu Dhabi, think again.

I’ll spotlight the best places to visit across the UAE as a curious traveller, an expat trying to see more of the country, or a digital nomad mapping your next break between remote gigs.

Let’s explore what makes each emirate worth visiting and how to travel smart while you’re there.

Also read: How to receive and convert foreign currencies to USDC in the United Arab Emirates

What makes the UAE so worth visiting in 2025?

In recent years, the UAE has doubled down on positioning itself as a global hub for business and tourism. In 2023 alone, the country welcomed over 28 million international visitors, an 11% increase from the previous year.

But what really stands out is how each emirate has carved its own identity while offering unique experiences. Every corner offers something that's different and, interestingly, accessible for most visitors.

Dubai – The city of contrast and extremes

The Burj Khalifa is probably its most popular attraction. 163 floors of pure engineering excellence. But there’s more to Dubai than the skyscrapers.

You can spend your morning having karak chai in Deira and your afternoon kite surfing at Jumeirah Beach Residence. Walk through Al Fahidi’s restored historic district before getting lost in futuristic malls with indoor ski slopes. There’s nowhere else like it.

Here are the things you shouldn’t miss.

• Burj Khalifa at sunset: Everyone deserves that postcard view at least once.
• Al Seef and Al Fahidi: For heritage architecture, museums, and old-world Dubai.
• Desert safari in Lahbab: Think dune bashing, camel rides, and traditional dinners under the stars.
• Global Village: Usually open from October to April, it’s a multicultural festival park best described as half theme park, half world bazaar.

Also read: How freelancers in the UAE can receive payments from US, UK & EU clients

Abu Dhabi – Tradition meets refinement

Abu Dhabi is slower-paced than Dubai but every bit as impressive, just in a different way. There’s art, culture, and unparalleled luxury.

Must-see highlights:

• Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque: One of the most beautiful mosques in the world.
• Louvre Abu Dhabi: An architectural and artistic masterpiece.
• Qasr Al Hosn: Abu Dhabi’s oldest stone building, turned heritage site.
• Saadiyat Beach: For quiet, white sand and turquoise water.

If you’re planning your visit for winter, check out the Abu Dhabi Festival or Mother of the Nation Festival, both fantastic windows into Emirati culture and music.

Sharjah – The UAE’s cultural heart

Although tourists often overlook it, Sharjah is where you learn about the UAE’s roots. It’s only a 30-minute drive from Dubai.

Explore:

• Sharjah Art Foundation: Contemporary exhibitions, restored heritage homes, and creative events.
• Museum of Islamic Civilisation: Explore the history of Islamic art and innovation.
• Al Noor Island: An artistic garden island perfect for families or solo wandering.

Sharjah is also more conservative than other emirates, so it’s worth dressing more modestly here.

Ras Al Khaimah – Hiker’s paradise and hidden gem

Nature lovers, this one’s for you. Ras Al Khaimah (RAK) has quietly become the go-to for hiking, mountain biking, and off-grid adventure in the UAE.

Make sure to:

• Drive up Jebel Jais: The UAE’s tallest mountain. There’s even a viewing deck and zipline.
• Try camping or glamping: Jebel Jais has great overnight spots with serious sunrise payoffs.
• Visit Dhayah Fort: A hilltop fort with sweeping views of the mountains and sea.

If you visit from November to March, you’ll catch RAK at its coolest, literally and figuratively.

Fujairah – East Coast calm

Facing the Gulf of Oman, Fujairah is quieter than its western neighbours, perfect for diving, beach days, and temple visits.

Top picks:

• Snoopy Island: Great for snorkelling and diving.
• Al-Bidyah Mosque: The oldest mosque in the UAE.
• Fujairah Fort and Heritage Village: For a peek into the country’s pre-oil past.

This side of the UAE has a rugged beauty that feels like a break from the usual glam.

‍

Ajman & Umm Al Quwain – Small but full of soul

If your idea of a good trip is skipping the tourist trail, head to Ajman or Umm Al Quwain. They’re the smallest emirates, but their beaches are beautiful, and the pace of life is delightfully slow.

In Ajman:

• Walk the Corniche at sunset
• Visit Ajman Museum inside an 18th-century fort

In Umm Al Quwain:

• Try Dreamland Aqua Park
• Visit the traditional dhow yards
• Take a mangrove kayak tour

‍

Also read: How freelancers in the UAE can receive payments from US, UK & EU clients

Travel tips for visiting the UAE

• The best time to visit: Anytime from November to March usually works best. Daytime highs are pleasant, and there are many events.
• Dress code: Generally modest. Swimwear is fine at the beach, but cover up elsewhere.
• Weekend days: Saturday and Sunday (this came into effect in 2022).
• Currency: AED (Emirati dirham). 1 USD is about 3.67 AED.‍
• Transport: Taxis are reliable, but inter-city buses and apps like Careem or Uber also work great.

How to manage your money while travelling in the UAE

Managing your spending abroad can be a pain between currency exchanges, ATM fees, and unpredictable rates. That’s where Grey comes in.

Grey gives you multi-currency accounts in USD, EUR, and GBP, so you can:

• Pay for hotels, tours, and online bookings at great exchange rates.
• Withdraw funds easily while abroad.
• Hold foreign currencies until rates are favourable.
• Skip international fees and track all your expenses from one dashboard.

Whether you’re booking a desert camp or shopping at the Dubai Mall, Grey makes international payments seamless.

Also read: How to open a virtual bank account as a freelancer in the UAE

If you’ve only seen the UAE through Instagram reels of skyscrapers and brunches, it’s time to dig deeper. The UAE delivers culture, adventure, and warm hospitality. Create your Grey account today or download the app to enjoy inclusive global banking designed to carry your dreams across borders.

‍

‍