Top Cities to Visit in the United Arab Emirates

Updated on 6 Jan 2026

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is home to some of the world's most famous cities, each offering a unique mix of culture and entertainment. Places like Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Sharjah are popular tourist destinations and have attractions such as the Burj Khalifa.

Reading about the cities in the UAE helps you plan your travel better and explore the country’s lifestyle in depth. Whether you are visiting for leisure, business or education, being aware of each city’s history, culture and main attractions can make your trip better. This article will walk you through the top cities in the UAE and interesting facts about them.

List of cities in the United Arab Emirates

Here’s a comprehensive list of cities in the UAE:

Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Fujairah, Sharjah, Ajman, Ras Al Khaimah and Umm Al Quwain share their names with the emirates they belong to and are also the largest cities within their respective emirates.

Interesting facts about the top cities in the UAE

Every city in the UAE is different and interesting in its own way. Here’s a closer look:

Dubai

• Dubai is home to the tallest building in the world, the Burj Khalifa, standing at 828 meters.
• The city boasts the world’s largest shopping mall, the Dubai Mall and artificial islands like the Palm Jumeirah.
• Dubai hosts the annual Dubai Shopping Festival, attracting millions of visitors from around the globe.

Abu Dhabi

• The UAE's capital city is Abu Dhabi, and is renowned for its historical sites, like as Abu Dhabi's Louvre and the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque.
• The city’s Yas Island is home to the world-renowned Ferrari World theme park.
• Pearl diving has a long history in Abu Dhabi, and its coastline was once a major centre for the pearl trade.

Sharjah

• Sharjah is regarded as the United Arab Emirates' cultural hub and has a large number of museums, art galleries and theatres.
• The city has a thriving traditional souk scene, offering everything from spices to gold.
• Sharjah is also the only city in the UAE that has been designated as a UNESCO Cultural City.

Ajman

• The UAE's smallest emirate, Ajman, is renowned for its serene beaches and laid-back way of life.
• History lovers should not miss the Ajman Museum, which is located in a fort from the 18th century.
• Ajman’s coastal beauty attracts both residents and visitors looking for a peaceful retreat.

Ras Al Khaimah

• The highest point in the United Arab Emirates, the mountain Jebel Jais, is located in Ras Al Khaimah. The mountain also hosts the longest zipline in the world.
• The city has rich archaeological sites, including ancient forts and tombs that date back thousands of years.
• Ras Al Khaimah is becoming a hub for eco-tourism with its vast natural reserves and mountain trails.

Fujairah

• Fujairah is located on the UAE’s east coast, along the Gulf of Oman, offering visitors unique views of the Arabian Sea.
• Fujairah is known for its beautiful beaches and water activities like scuba diving and snorkelling due to its clear waters.
• The Fujairah Fort, built in the 16th century, is one of the oldest and most significant historical landmarks in the UAE.

Umm Al Quwain

• Umm Al Quwain is a peaceful emirate perfect for a relaxed vacation with its pristine beaches and desert landscapes.
• One of the biggest water parks in the area is Dreamland Aqua Park, offering a fun experience for families and visitors.
• Umm Al Quwain is home to a bird sanctuary, attracting wildlife enthusiasts and photographers from all over the world.

Al Ain

• Because of its natural springs and profusion of greenery, Al Ain is regarded as the "Garden City" of the United Arab Emirates.
• The Al Ain Zoo, which houses endangered species including the Arabian oryx, is located in the city.

Travel tips for visiting cities in the UAE

When you are travelling in the UAE, it helps to keep a few simple tips in mind to make your trip comfortable and memorable.

Always plan your trip according to the season. The best time to visit is between the months of November and March, when the weather is cooler and outdoor attractions are at their best. During the summer, temperatures can rise high, so indoor destinations like malls and museums are ideal.

Respect local customs and dress modestly, especially in public spaces outside of tourist zones. While the UAE is modern and cosmopolitan, traditions are deeply valued, particularly during religious occasions.

Transportation is convenient across major cities, with taxis and ride-hailing apps being widely available. If you plan to drive, make sure your international driving permit and insurance documents are valid. Roads are well-maintained, but speed limits are strictly enforced.

Lastly, always stay hydrated and protect yourself from the sun. Carrying a reusable water bottle and sunscreen can make a big difference when exploring desert landscapes or coastal areas.

Reasons to buy travel insurance for the UAE

Travel insurance is mandatory to fulfil the visa requirements for visiting the UAE. Beyond being a travel formality, it serves as an essential safety net that protects you from unexpected expenses and emergencies during your trip.

Healthcare in the UAE is among the best in the world, but it can be very costly for visitors without coverage. A suitable travel insurance policy ensures that you are financially protected in case of medical emergencies, hospitalisation or accidents during your stay.

If you are travelling for a short period, a uae travel insurance plan is ideal. For frequent flyers visiting the UAE multiple times a year, a multi-trip policy provides year-round coverage without the hassle of purchasing a new plan each time.

Travel insurance also comes in handy in situations like lost passports, missed connections or airline-related issues, giving you peace of mind throughout your journey.

Before travelling, review your policy documents carefully to ensure that medical, baggage and trip protection are included. You can easily compare plans and buy travel insurance online these days, but if you need personalised guidance, fill out the form provided on this page.

Conclusion

The UAE offers a combination of cultural heritage and modern tourist attractions, such as skylines and shopping complexes. To make the most of this experience, it’s important to be prepared for the unexpected. Having the right travel insurance adds an extra layer of protection. It safeguards against unexpected medical costs, trip delays or lost baggage, letting you enjoy your visit without worry.

FAQs

• Can I buy travel insurance for the UAE after booking my flights?
  Yes, most insurers allow you to purchase travel insurance online even after booking flights, but it’s best to buy it as early as possible for full coverage.
• Does single-trip travel insurance cover pre-existing medical conditions?
  Coverage for pre-existing conditions varies by policy. Some plans include it if declared at the time of purchase, while others may exclude it. Always check the policy terms carefully.
• Is travel insurance mandatory for UAE visas?
  Yes. Travel insurance is mandatory to obtain a valid UAE visa. Applicants must show proof of a travel or health insurance policy that provides coverage for medical emergencies during their stay.
  

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