Combined, the seven emirates offer an unmatched travel destination and an incredible place to live.
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) became a federation in 1971. The UAE federation consists of seven states or emirates. Originally, there were only six emirates: Abu Dhabi, Sharjah, Dubai, Umm Al-Quwain, Ajman, and Fujairah. Ras Al Khaimah joined the federation a year later, in 1972, to become the seventh emirate.
Combined, the seven emirates offer an unmatched travel destination and an incredible place to live. Each emirate brings something unique that contributes to the splendor of the UAE. From skyscrapers to mountains to seascapes, there is something here for everyone.
Abu Dhabi
Abu Dhabi is the emirate where modern convenience meets heritage. There is an incredibly welcoming atmosphere here that makes residents and visitors feel right at home.
It is also one of the safest cities in the world, so people can walk around at night or use public transport to explore different attractions.
Abu Dhabi is the biggest emirate and is home to the Rub’ al Khali desert, 700 kilometers of coastline, and around 200 islands. Additionally, there are several glamorous shopping malls, museums, skyscrapers, and even theme parks to enjoy.
However, Abu Dhabi is not all about the modern. The Al-Ayn holds ancient tombs and fortresses that keep the emirate’s long history intact.
Dubai
Dubai is the emirate most people think of when they picture the UAE. In contrast to Abu Dhabi, where residents enjoy a relaxed way of life, Dubai is fast-paced and all about entertainment.
There are incredible skywalks to brave and waterparks to explore. Families can have fun days at the Aquaventure waterpark at Atlantis, The Palm. There is even an indoor tropical forest at The Green Planet where visitors can get up close with more than 3,000 plants and animals.
A visit to the Burj Khalifa is a must-do, while the Museum of the Future often has people’s jaws dropping to the floor. The Dubai Opera offers world-class shows, while rooftop bars are the perfect place to unwind.
Dubai also clings to its historic roots. This is evident given the historic area at Dubai Creek. Here, traditional boat rides and souks show what life was like many years ago.
Sharjah
Sharjah is the third-largest emirate and also the arts capital of the UAE. The overwhelming thread that runs through this emirate is history and culture, with a far lesser focus on beach holidays and upmarket malls.
Those who find art and history interesting will love the world-renowned Sharjah Art Museum and Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilization. This region also has a Heritage Area filled with historically restored buildings. There is also the Calligraphy Museum, which holds works from infamous calligraphy artists.
For younger visitors, there is a lot to do in Sharjah, including visiting Al Noor Island and the Sharjah Desert Park. Sharjah also offers desert activities and several archaeological sites to tour. Overnight desert camping tours include stargazing while learning about astronomy.
Ras Al Khaimah
Ras Al Khaimah is the northernmost emirate and a favored destination for the adventurous. There are beaches and mountains, luxury resorts, and heart-pounding outdoor activities.
This emirate is famous for the Jais Flight, the longest zipline in the world. There is also a Bear Grylls Explorers Camp for people who want to learn how to cope in the wild. Hikers will enjoy the Wadi Shawka hiking spot and the gorgeous Shawka pools.
An unexpected experience that visitors can have in Ras Al Khaimah is visiting a pearl farm. Pearl fishing is a long-standing UAE tradition, and a small fishing village in this emirate keeps this tradition going.
The Al Jazeera Al Hamra is the only remaining historical pearling village, and in this neighborhood of Ras Al Khaimah, several historic watchtowers, a fort, and a mosque still stand.
Those who want to enjoy a beach day will love Banan Beach at Al Marjan Island. The beach resort looks like a Greek getaway, and the water is incredibly clear.
Moreover, there are hot balloon tours and a Dhayah Fort visit, the only hill fort still standing in the UAE.
Umm Al Quwain
Umm Al Quwain is smaller than its peers and lies around an hour from Dubai. One of the most popular attractions is Mangrove Beach, where visitors can rent paddle boards and kayaks to test the calm waters.
There is also Kite Beach, which looks like a beach in Bali. There are rattan umbrellas and beach swings everywhere, with huts dotting the sand where visitors can stay overnight.
Umm Al Quwain may be small, but this emirate is big on fun. Its local waterpark offers more than 25 rides, a wave pool, and a crazy river. There are even regular camel races in Al Basa, a small town known for this ancient sport.
Fujairah
Fujairah is the only emirate on the east coast of the UAE, lying between the Hajar Mountains and the sea. Fujairah is a beloved weekend destination because there is much to do here, including snorkeling and wadi-climbing.
The wonderfully named Snoopy Island is the perfect place for snorkeling and keeping an eye out for reef sharks.
The Fujairah Fort is a must-see for those who want to learn more about Fujairah’s history. It is one of the oldest forts in the UAE and also the largest castle in this emirate.
Moreover, there is the Wadi Abadilah hike with its eye-catching streams and pools, as well as Rainbow Mountain (Wadi Ghub), which is popular with hikers and adventurers.
Ajman
Finally, Ajman is the smallest of the seven emirates and home to the City Centre of Ajman. This shopping complex receives 10.5 million visitors annually.
Like Fujairah, Ajman is also home to an old fort where elite families once lived. More history awaits at the Dhow Yard, which happens to be the world’s biggest boat-making yard.
Ajman boasts several beaches, with two of the best being Al Hamriya Beach and Al Zorah Beach. Also, the intricately designed Sheikh Zayed Ajman Mosque is a sight to behold and stands in memory of the late Sheikh Rashid bin Humaid Al Nuaimi.
Seven Emirates but one united destination
These stunning seven emirates create a destination that drives innovation and tourism. The UAE continues to develop into an economic hub driven by oil and tourists, and it is quickly building a reputation for trade, transport, and international events.
