Why Fly to UAE
The UAE punches well above its weight for a country this size. In a single trip you can stand at the top of the world's tallest building, haggle for gold in a centuries-old souk, ride a camel into the desert at sunset, and be back at a rooftop bar before midnight. Dubai gets most of the attention — and earns it — but Abu Dhabi, Al Ain, and Sharjah each bring something different. This is a country that has built its tourism infrastructure with serious money and serious intent, and it shows in everything from airport efficiency to road quality.
Dubai is the headline act: Burj Khalifa, Palm Jumeirah, Dubai Mall, desert safaris, Ski Dubai, and a nightlife scene that runs until dawn. Abu Dhabi is the cultural counterweight — home to the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque (genuinely one of the most beautiful buildings on earth), Louvre Abu Dhabi, and a slower, more considered pace. Al Ain offers heritage sites and lush oases that feel a world away from the coastal glitz. The UAE is easy to dismiss as shallow, but spend more than three days and you'll find real depth beneath the skyline.
Best Time to Visit UAE
The UAE has essentially two seasons: pleasant and brutal. November through March is peak season for good reason — temperatures sit between 20–30°C, outdoor activities are genuinely enjoyable, and the whole country feels alive. December and January are the sweet spot but expect higher hotel prices and crowds at major attractions.
March through May is a strong runner-up: slightly warmer but still comfortable, cheaper than peak winter months, and the Dubai Miracle Garden (150 million flowers on display) is typically in full bloom. June through September is brutally hot and humid — temperatures regularly exceed 45°C, outdoor activity is near impossible, and the city empties of tourists. If you must travel in summer, prices drop sharply and malls become your best friend. Ramadan shifts annually; during this period alcohol service is restricted to hotel venues and eating in public during daylight hours is prohibited — worth knowing before you book.
Getting Around UAE
The UAE is small but spread out. Dubai has an excellent Metro system covering the main tourist corridor from the airport through Downtown to the Marina — use the Nol card, it works on buses and trams too. Taxis are metered, plentiful, and honest; Careem and Uber both operate and often work out slightly cheaper. Abu Dhabi is a 90-minute drive from Dubai on a well-maintained highway, making it a straightforward day trip or overnight. Between cities, intercity buses run reliably and cheaply, but most travelers use taxis or rent a car. Driving here is easy — roads are excellent, signage is clear, and your home country license is valid for short stays. Domestic flights exist but are rarely necessary given the distances involved.
Visa & Entry Requirements
EU, UK, and US passport holders get visa-free entry for stays up to 30–90 days depending on nationality — no pre-arrangement needed, you'll receive a stamp on arrival. From 2026, the UAE is rolling out simplified visit visa categories covering leisure, professional, creative, and maritime purposes. Indian nationals holding a valid US, UK, or EU visa also qualify for simplified short-term entry. Keep your passport valid for at least six months beyond your travel dates. There are no unusual vaccination requirements for most nationalities, though check current health entry rules before flying.
Money & Budget
The currency is the UAE Dirham (AED), pegged to the US dollar at roughly 3.67 AED per USD. Cards are accepted almost everywhere — malls, hotels, restaurants, and most tourist sites have contactless payment. Carry cash for the souks (Gold Souk, Spice Souk, and smaller street vendors), where card machines are hit and miss. ATMs are everywhere and reliable. On budget: expect to spend $60–90 USD per day if you're hostel-hopping and eating at local spots. Mid-range travelers should budget $140–200 USD per day, covering a 4-star hotel, guided tours, and a desert safari. Luxury travel starts around $250+ per day and has essentially no ceiling — this is one of the world's premier luxury destinations and it will take as much as you'll give it.
Top Cities to Visit in UAE
- Dubai: The UAE's showpiece city — futuristic skyline, world-class shopping, desert adventures, and a nightlife scene that rivals any global city. Base yourself here for at least three nights.
- Abu Dhabi: The capital and cultural heart of the UAE, home to Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, Louvre Abu Dhabi, and a more relaxed atmosphere than Dubai. An easy day trip or a worthy standalone destination.
- Al Ain: A UNESCO-listed oasis city near the Oman border with ancient forts, camel markets, and lush date palm plantations. A genuine contrast to coastal UAE.
- Sharjah: Dubai's neighboring emirate, more conservative and cheaper, with excellent museums and a well-preserved heritage area. Good for a half-day cultural detour.
- Fujairah: On the Gulf of Oman coast, Fujairah offers decent snorkeling, old forts, and a pace of life that feels nothing like Dubai. Worth it if you want beaches without the crowds.
- Ras Al Khaimah: The northernmost emirate is gaining traction for adventure tourism — hiking Jebel Jais (the UAE's highest peak), zip-lining, and quieter desert camps. A solid add-on if you have five days or more.
FAQ — Flights to UAE
Which airport should I fly into for Dubai?
Dubai International Airport (DXB) is the main hub and one of the busiest in the world — it's well connected to virtually every major city globally. Dubai World Central (DWC/Al Maktoum) handles some budget and charter flights. For Abu Dhabi, fly into Abu Dhabi International (AUH), which is also a major hub served by Etihad Airways.
How long is the flight to the UAE from Europe and the US?
From London, expect around 7 hours. From other Western European cities, roughly 6–8 hours. From the US East Coast (New York), it's approximately 12–13 hours; from the West Coast (Los Angeles), around 16 hours with most routes requiring a connection. Emirates, Etihad, and flydubai offer frequent direct services from major hubs.
Is it worth flying into Abu Dhabi instead of Dubai?
Sometimes yes — Abu Dhabi flights can be cheaper, and if you're staying in Abu Dhabi or planning to visit both cities, it makes logistical sense. The drive between the two airports is about 90 minutes on a straight, fast highway. If your trip is Dubai-centric, stick with DXB for simplicity.