United Arab Emirates Overview, Facts, Vacation Information of United Arab Emirates

Emirates Palace is a luxury hotel in the capital of the United Arab Emirates.
Ryan Lackey

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The United Arab Emirates is a federation of seven emirates on the eastern side of the Arabian Peninsula, at the entrance to the Persian Gulf. The seven states that make up the UAE are Abu Dhabi (the largest), Ajman, Dubai (probably the most well-known), Fujairah, Ras al-Khaimah, Sharjah and Umm al-Quwain. The UAE has coastlines on the Gulf of Oman and the Persian Gulf, with Saudi Arabia to the west and southwest and Oman to the southeast.

The United Arab Emirates is a modern and dynamic country. One of the main focuses of tourist life (other than shopping) is the beach. The waters of the UAE are remarkably warm, clean, and beautiful. There are long stretches of white-sand beaches, ranging from completely undeveloped to highly commercialized. There is magnificent snorkeling and diving, especially along the eastern (Indian Ocean) coast.

Vast swaths of desert stretch to the south of the major urban areas, offering dramatic views and terrifying rides in fast-driven safaris. The mountains are dramatic with steep rocky crags, and visits to them (for example, to the town of Hatta) are well rewarded with amazing views. Women wearing bathing suits will draw unwanted attention at the public beaches; it is advisable to pay for a one-day entry pass to a private beach at a hotel.