Things to Do in the UAE

UAE: Where Golden Sands Meet Dazzling Skylines

The UAE is a captivating destination blending modernity and tradition, offering a wealth of experiences. From awe-inspiring skyscrapers like Dubai's Burj Khalifa to Abu Dhabi's Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, the UAE is a traveller's paradise.

Visitors can explore the best things to do in UAE, such as dune bashing in the Arabian desert, skydiving over Palm Jumeirah, or indulging in luxurious shopping malls and world-class dining. History buffs can explore ancient forts and cultural landmarks, making the UAE a must-visit for adventure and culture seekers alike.

Indian citizens who plan to visit the UAE must have travel insurance and a visa for the UAE. Comprehensive travel insurance covers not only medical costs but also trip cancellations, lost luggage, passport loss, and other unforeseen issues.

UAE Travel Facts

The UAE is a popular destination for Indian tourists, with around 2. 2 million Indians visiting the country in 2023. You can enjoy a pleasant and hassle-free stay in the Emirates with careful pre-planning and understanding of the following key facts about the UAE:

Most Popular Things to Do in the UAE

No matter when you decide to visit, there are plenty of opportunities to explore tourist attractions in Abu Dhabi or find fun things to do in Dubai. From taking in the sights and sounds of ultra-modern cityscapes to reliving the past in some of the most revered historical sights, here is a selection of popular activities for people touring the Emirates:

Things to See in the UAE for Culture Enthusiasts

• Sit on top of the world at the Burj Khalifa

  The Burj Khalifa is the world's tallest building, and its observation decks are open from 8:30 AM to 11 PM. Tickets to the various Burj Khalifa tours, starting at INR 33,500, can be booked online.

• Explore the ancient wonders of the UAE in the Dubai Museum

  Located in Al Fahidi Fort, the museum is open from 8:30 AM to 8:30 PM. The timings differ on Friday: 2:30 PM to 8:30 PM. The ticket price is INR 720.

• Contemporary art meets traditional elegance at the Louvre Abu Dhabi

  A modern marvel with traditional Islamic design, it is open from 10 AM to 6:30 PM on weekdays and till 8:30 PM on weekends. Tickets start at INR 1,400.

• Tour the Qasr Al Hosn for a cultural experience to remember

  The oldest stone building in Abu Dhabi, it is open from 9 AM to 7 PM. Tickets are INR 720.

Exciting Things to Do in the UAE for Festival Lovers

• The thrill of the race at the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix

  Held in November, the Abu Dhabi Grand Prix is one of the biggest races on the global motorsport calendar.

• A cultural feast for the senses at the Abu Dhabi Festival

  Taking place in March, the world-famous Abu Dhabi Festival takes visitors on a journey through the arts and classical music of the Middle East.

• Get in touch with nature at the Al Dhafra Festival

  Get a chance to celebrate the Bedouin culture and learn about these noble nomadic peoples, their culture, food, and way of life in an authentic desert setting. Held every December, attending the Al Dhafra Festival is one of the popular things to do in Abu Dhabi, UAE, during the tourist season.

• Enjoy a day of family fun by visiting Ferrari World Abu Dhabi

  Home to the world's fastest roller coaster, the incredible Ferrari World Abu Dhabi is open from 12 PM to 8 PM daily. It promises hours of fun things to do for the whole family in Abu Dhabi, with single-day tickets starting at INR 7862.26.

Things to Do in UAE for Foodies

The UAE has a thriving culinary culture combining regional Emirati flavours merged with influences from across the world, especially in places like Dubai and Abu Dhabi. There are many well-known tastes and intriguing new flavours for Indian tourists to experience. Here's a culinary primer to get you going:

Gourmet Delights: A Culinary Journey through Emirati Flavours

Try these fantastic Arab-themed restaurants for the authentic taste of the Middle East:

• Al Fanar Restaurant & Cafe, Dubai: This eatery features a setting that honours the culture of the nation while providing a genuine taste of Emirati food. Taste foods like shakshouka, which is poached eggs in a hot tomato sauce, and machboos, which is spiced rice with beef.
• Al Ibrahimi, Abu Dhabi: The restaurant is known for its hearty Emirati dishes, including stuffed camel and traditional lamb dishes.

Savour the Spice: A Gastronomic Journey through India's Rich Flavours

Looking for a home away from home? The UAE has you covered with delicious Indian foods:

• Ravi Restaurant, Dubai: This is one of the favourite eating places for both locals and tourists. It never disappoints in terms of Pakistani and Indian cuisine. Ravi's biryani and chicken karahi are highly recommended.
• Sanjeev Kapoor's Khazana, Abu Dhabi: The famous restaurant offers fine dining with a range of Indian dishes by the renowned chef Sanjeev Kapoor.

International Flavours: A Tour of Different Tastes from Around the World

In this melting pot of cultures, you are sure to find something to tease your palate:

• Nobu Dubai: Located in the luxurious Atlantis The Palm, Nobu offers high-end Japanese-Peruvian fusion cuisine. It's a great place to try unique dishes like black cod miso.
• Stars n Bars, Abu Dhabi: This restaurant is an excellent option if you're looking for American-style comfort food served in an informal sports bar setting.

Street Eats: Explore the Wonders of Emirati Street Flavours

Delve into the vibrant world of Emirati street food, where traditional flavours meet modern flair:

• Al Mallah, Dubai: A popular Lebanese eatery that offers delicious shawarma and kebabs.
• Karachi Darbar, Dubai: This eatery is known for its flavourful Pakistani dishes, including biryani and nihari.

Planning Your UAE Itinerary

With its towering tall buildings in Dubai and the calm deserts of Abu Dhabi, there are countless fun things to do in UAE for everyone. With its abundance of shopping, world-class cuisine, and picturesque beaches, the UAE is a destination that will leave you feeling rejuvenated and inspired. Here's a step-by-step guide to planning your dream itinerary for the UAE:

Step 1: Plan Your UAE Journey

• By Air: Dubai International Airport and Abu Dhabi International Airport are the main hubs. Direct flights are available from major Indian cities like New Delhi and Mumbai.
• By Sea: You can arrive in the UAE via ferry or cruise from regional ports.
• By Road: Buses from neighbouring countries like Oman or Saudi Arabia provide a road connection to the UAE.

Step 2: Buy UAE Travel Insurance

Ensure a safe trip to UAE with a travel insurance policy covering:

• Medical emergencies, including hospitalisation and sickness.
• Personal accident cover and trip cancellations.
• Lost luggage, passport theft, and more.

Step 3: Pack for the UAE – Travel Tips

• The UAE's currency is the Emirati Dirham (AED); carry some cash along with a credit card.
• UAE visa rules change frequently, so check the latest updates before applying.
• Transportation is easy to navigate with taxis, metro, and buses—check schedules in advance.
• Tourists can purchase prepaid SIM cards from telecom providers like Etisalat and du at airports or shopping malls.

The UAE offers incredible experiences - from modern architectural marvels to cultural treasures. Whether you want to explore the cities or deserts, travel insurance will ensure that your travel is smooth and worry-free.