From unparalleled luxury to beach and desert tranquility, the United Arab Emirates has much to offer. The UAE is a federal semi-constitutional monarchy made up of seven emirates, or hereditary tribal monarchy-styled political units called Sheikhdoms. These emirates formed a federation, with Abu Dhabi as the nation’s capital and Dubai as the business center. The UAE has been described as a “tribal autocracy” where the seven constituent monarchies are led by tribal rulers in an autocratic fashion.

Arabic is the official language, though English is the most spoken language. Islam is the majority religion.

Emirati culture is based on Arabian culture, with influences from Persia, India and East Africa. Emirati men typically wear a kandura, an ankle-length white tunic, and Emirati women commonly wear an abaya, a black over-garment that covers most of the body.

Traditional food of the Emirates is rice, fish and meat, with lamb and mutton preferred to beef and goat. Lugaimat, made of leavened and deep-fried dough balls, is a famous Emirati dessert. Almost every American food chain can be spotted in the UAE, however, and cuisine from around the world can be found on many restaurant menus.

Native Emiratis are outnumbered by expatriates and migrant workers from South Asia, principally India, Pakistan and the Philippines. UAE has the world’s highest net migration rate.

Before 2020, flogging, stoning, amputation and crucifixion were legal punishments for criminal offences such as adultery, premarital sex and drug or alcohol use. The UAE has declared its intention to phase out corporal punishment.

Muslim women still must receive permission from a male guardian to marry and remarry. It is also illegal for Muslim women to marry non-Muslims or foreigners, as well as for any person to commit blasphemy. Apostasy technically is a capital crime. Sodomy is illegal if a complaint is received from the husband or legal guardian. Public displays of affection in certain places are illegal, but holding hands is tolerated. Dancing in public is illegal, and expats in Dubai have been deported for kissing.

On the other hand, it is the only country that has a Ministry of Happiness, a Ministry of Tolerance, a Ministry of Artificial Intelligence and a Ministry of Possibilities. The Ministry of Tolerance encourages people to engage with people different from themselves and to develop a sympathetic consciousness of the concerns of others.

Dubai, north of Abu Dhabi, is the country’s largest city and the top tourism destination in the Middle East. It is glitzier than the capital city, and features innovative architecture and attractions.

From glittering skyscrapers to sandy beaches and adventurous desert safaris, Dubai is a city with much to see and do. The tallest human-made structure in the world, Burj Khalifa, is located there, offering breathtaking views and a digital presentation on the tower. There is an observation deck on the 148th floor. Reservations at the restaurants high in the Burj Khalifa, like the At.mosphere Lounge on the 122nd floor, accessible through the Armani Hotel, are recommended. The creation of Disneyland Abu Dhabi was announced in 2025.

Formula One racing is popular in the Emirates. A Grand Prix race is held annually in Abu Dhabi. Ferrari World Abu Dhabi boasts the world’s fastest roller coaster. Camel racing, falconry, endurance riding and tennis also top the list of sports in the UAE.

Shopping may be considered a sport here. Dubai has some of the world’s most opulent shopping malls, including the Dubai Mall (the world’s largest, with one of the world’s biggest aquariums) and the Mall of Emirates (featuring an indoor snow ski center). The souks offer a rich experience, as well, in a more authentic setting.

The Louvre Abu Dhabi (a collaboration between the UAE and France) and the Museum of the Future in Dubai (buy tickets far in advance) are popular cultural landmarks. One can kayak around the Louvre, which is especially appealing at sunset.

The iconic Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi is one of the largest and most stunning mosques worldwide. It can accommodate more than 40,000 worshippers. It is adorned with 24-carat-gold gilded chandeliers and houses the world's largest hand-knotted carpet, as well as one of the biggest marble mosaic floors. Free tours are offered. Abayas and head coverings may be purchased before entering.

Beaches and desert adventures are also worthwhile pursuits in the UAE. The Abu Dhabi Corniche is an 8-kilometer waterfront esplanade with a picturesque boardwalk, parks, cycling/scootering paths and beautiful beaches. The Palm Jumeirah is an artificial island in Dubai offering an exclusive waterfront stay or residence.

Camel riding, dune bashing, quad biking, sandboarding and Bedouin-style outdoor dinners are featured on many desert outings. And it is sunny almost every day of the year in the UAE.

Dune bashing is not for the faint of heart. Participants ride in four-wheel drive vehicles at high speed on the sand for a roller-coaster-like experience.

The wealth and offerings of the United Arab Emirates draw tourists from around the globe. Visitors are lured by its stunning, futuristic architecture, luxurious shopping and accommodations, and diverse activities, including stargazing in the dark, vast desert. But its history and cultural offerings may be its real treasures.