The UAE: what to see beyond the beach
Dubai and Abu Dhabi aren't only seaside hotels: a desert safari, dizzying viewing platforms, a snow-white mosque and islands are waiting for you.
Winter is the best time for the UAE: +24…+28 °C, sunshine, perfect for walks and excursions. Many people come here "to lie by the sea", but the most interesting part starts once you get off the sunlounger. The desert, futuristic skyscrapers, Eastern culture and islands create such a contrast of impressions that the sea fades into the background.
The desert and a safari
A safari across the dunes is a must. A jeep races over golden sands (dune bashing), the sunset turns them pink, and in the evening a Bedouin camp awaits: a camel ride, henna, shisha, a barbecue dinner and a fire dance. There are calmer versions too — in the morning, without the extreme driving, with breakfast in the desert. Take sunglasses and something for your shoulders: the desert gets chilly in the evening.
- Dune bashing across the sands in a jeep
- Sunset in the desert and dinner at a Bedouin camp
- A camel ride and henna painting
- A calm morning safari for those prone to motion sickness
Viewing platforms and city architecture
The Burj Khalifa is the most obvious choice, but not the only one. Go up to the observation deck at sunset (tickets are cheaper at off-peak hours). Recent additions are the glass Sky Views platform and The View at The Palm overlooking the palm-shaped island. There's also the Museum of the Future — an art object in itself and one of the most beautiful museums in the world.
The UAE is a country of contrasts: in the morning you're in a glass skyscraper, at midday in the silence of the desert, and in the evening under the domes of a marble mosque.
Culture and the Sheikh Zayed Mosque
The snow-white Sheikh Zayed Mosque in Abu Dhabi is a must-see. Entry is free, but you need covered clothing: long sleeves and a skirt or trousers, plus a headscarf (an abaya can be borrowed on site). Come closer to sunset — the marble is lit up and turns a soft blue. While you're there, visit the culture district on Saadiyat Island: the Louvre Abu Dhabi branch with its stunning "rain of light" under the dome.
Islands and money-saving hacks
Palm Jumeirah, Bluewaters Island with the Ain Dubai observation wheel, the natural Yasat island — there's plenty to explore beyond the beach. And to avoid going broke, keep these simple saving rules in mind.
- Use the Dubai metro instead of taxis — it's fast and many times cheaper
- Eat at local cafés and food courts, not only in hotel restaurants
- Many viewing platforms and parks are cheaper on weekdays and off-peak hours
- The Sheikh Zayed Mosque, Dubai's promenades and fountains are free
- Carry a water bottle: there are drinking fountains, and water in cafés is expensive
The best plan is to combine Dubai (city, viewing decks, shopping) and Abu Dhabi (culture, mosque, the Louvre) — they're a little over an hour apart by car. Book the desert safari from either city, the difference is minor.
Frequently asked questions
What should a woman wear in the UAE?
In the city and on the beach the rules are relaxed — ordinary summer clothes. But mosques require covered clothing: long sleeves, a skirt or trousers, a headscarf. In malls and on the street it's better to avoid revealing outfits out of respect for local traditions.
Can I travel around the UAE on my own?
Yes, the UAE is considered one of the safest countries for solo women travellers. Low crime, good infrastructure and a metro. Take the standard precautions and everything will be fine.
How do I save money in expensive Dubai?
The metro instead of taxis, local cafés instead of hotel restaurants, free sights (the mosque, promenades, fountains) and weekday trips. That makes the trip noticeably cheaper without losing any of the experience.
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