Custom travel to United Arab Emirates

The United Arab Emirates is a federation of 7 emirates created in 1971 — a feat-country that in 50 years transformed a desert populated by pearl fishers into one of the world's most spectacular destinations. 10 million inhabitants (88% expats). Dubai (3.5 million inhabitants, the most famous emirate) houses the Burj Khalifa (828 m, world's tallest tower since 2010), Burj Al Arab (7-star sail hotel), Palm Jumeirah (palm-shaped artificial island visible from space), Dubai Mall (world's largest, 1,200 shops, aquarium, ice rink), Dubai Frame (giant golden frame), gold and spice souks in Old Dubai (Deira, Bur Dubai). Abu Dhabi (capital, more traditional), with Sheikh Zayed Mosque (one of the world's most beautiful, 82 domes, marbles and inlays), Louvre Abu Dhabi (Jean Nouvel, 2017, starry dome), Yas Island (Ferrari World, Warner Bros). Rub al-Khali Desert ('Empty Quarter', one of the world's largest sand deserts) at Liwa. Ras Al Khaimah (Hajar Mountains, hiking, beaches). A destination of luxury, modernity, and architecture, perfect in 5-10 days.

Highlights

  • Dubai: Burj Khalifa, Palm Jumeirah, Burj Al Arab
  • Abu Dhabi: Sheikh Zayed Mosque, Louvre Abu Dhabi
  • Rub al-Khali Desert (Liwa): giant dunes
  • Old Dubai: gold and spice souks
  • Ras Al Khaimah: Hajar Mountains and beaches
  • Exceptional hospitality (Burj Al Arab, Atlantis)

Frequently asked questions

When?

November-March (20-28 °C). Avoid June-September (40-50 °C, unbearable even at night).

How long?

5-7 days for Dubai + Abu Dhabi + desert. 10 days for the 7 emirates.

Budget?

€2,800-€4,000 per person for 7 days in comfort, excluding flights. Premium: €5,000-€7,500. Flights: €600-€1,000.

Visa?

No for French citizens < 90 days.

Family?

Yes, exceptionally (Atlantis Aquaventure, Ferrari World, Dubai Mall, beaches). Total safety.

How to get around?

Private car with driver recommended. In Dubai: modern metro, Uber/Careem. In Abu Dhabi: taxi.

Cover up?

Yes in mosques (abaya lent). Casual attire accepted everywhere else (covered shoulders appreciated in souks).

Alcohol?

Yes in licensed hotels and restaurants. Forbidden in streets. Sharjah: alcohol totally forbidden.

Combine?

Yes: UAE + Oman (Muscat 4 h away), UAE + Maldives, UAE + Sri Lanka.

Tips?

10-15% in restaurants (sometimes included in service charge). Appreciated in hotels.