Explore United Arab Emirates

Introduction to United Arab Emirates (UAE)
Located on the Persian Gulf and Gulf of Oman, the UAE’s seven Emirates have attracted travellers for centuries, from Bedouin tribes to international visitors seeking desert adventures. The IHG’s family of UAE hotels includes a luxury resort on Abu Dhabi’s Yas Island, a family-friendly hotel at a Dubai beach resort, and rooms near Fujairah’s Hajar Mountains.

Currency
United Arab Emirates dirham (AED)

Official languages
Arabic; English widely spoken

Climate
Hot and dry; Abu Dhabi average Jun–Aug 35C; Dec–Feb 20C. Highest rainfall Feb–Mar

Arriving From Dubai International Airport
Airport is 13km northeast of central Dubai. Journey time 12 minutes by taxi (average AED 50)

Arriving From Abu Dhabi International Airport
Airport is 32km east of central Abu Dhabi. Journey time 30 minutes by taxi (average AED 76)

Getting around UAE

• Taxis
• Air-conditioned buses and minibuses
• Flights
• Metro (Dubai only)

Top UAE sightseeing

• Burj Khalifa, Dubai
• Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, Abu Dhabi
• Louvre Abu Dhabi
• Furairah Fort
• Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary

Top experiences

• Diving at Al Aqah
• Shopping at Old Souk in Deira, Dubai
• Yas Waterworld, Abu Dhabi
• Dhow trips on Dubai Creek
• Shopping at Marina Mall, Abu Dhabi