The UAE is the modern Arabian showpiece and the great stopover: Dubai's record-breaking skyline, shopping and desert safaris; Abu Dhabi's serene Grand Mosque and Louvre; theme parks for families and gold souks for browsers — all polished, safe and easy.
Three or four days does it beautifully, on its own or on the way to Europe. Here's our short brief.
Best time to go
November – MarchThe season — warm, sunny days perfect for the beach, the desert and the city; December–February is peak.
April & OctoberShoulder — hotter but quieter and better value, still fine early and late in the day.
May – SeptemberVery hot; life moves indoors to the malls and pools, and hotel prices drop.
What not to miss
DubaiBurj Khalifa, the Dubai Mall and fountains, the Marina and old Deira's souks.
Desert safariDune drives, camels and a Bedouin-style dinner under the stars.
Abu DhabiThe breathtaking Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque and the Louvre Abu Dhabi.
Theme parksIMG, Motiongate and Ferrari World / Yas Island — a family day out.
Beaches & brunchJumeirah's sand, the Palm, and the city's famous weekend brunches.
Visas & entry
Malaysians and many nationalities enter the UAE visa-free for tourism; others need a visa in advance. We'll confirm the current allowance for your passport.
Visa & OCI servicesPractical tips
- Dress modestly away from the beach and pool, and cover shoulders and knees at mosques (abayas are lent at the Grand Mosque).
- Book Burj Khalifa's observation deck ahead, and go near sunset for the best light.
- The metro is cheap and easy in Dubai; taxis are plentiful and metered.
- It's a great-value stopover — we can build in a few days en route to Europe.
