Why visit
The UAE is hyper-modern travel. Dubai's Burj Khalifa and Atlantis, Abu Dhabi's Grand Mosque and Louvre, plus desert safaris and Empty Quarter access.
Country · Asia
United Arab Emirates
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At a glance
Location
24.0°, 54.0°
Coast
Has coastline
Country area
83,600 km²
32,278 mi²
Country population
9.5 million
114/km²
Subregion
Western Asia
Currency
United Arab Emirates dirham (د.إ)
AED
Dial
+971
Language
Arabic
Demonym
Emirati
Internet
.ae
UN
Member state
ISO code
AE / ARE
Where in the world
24.0° · 54.0°
United Arab Emirates
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Did you know
- Dubai's Burj Khalifa is so tall (828 m) that people on the top floors see the sunset a few minutes later than people at the base.
- The UAE was founded in 1971: it is younger than the moon landing.
- Abu Dhabi contains 90% of the UAE's land area but only ~30% of the population.
Bordering United Arab Emirates
Traveler notes
- Visa-free or visa-on-arrival for most Western passports
- Dubai → Abu Dhabi is a 1.5-hour drive
- Cooler months Nov–Mar; summer is oppressive
Plan checks
- Start research with the capital Abu Dhabi, then compare two or three other regions.
- Check passport validity, visa rules, health requirements, and travel insurance for current conditions.
- Verify swim safety, ocean conditions, and water-quality reports by month.
- Reserve top restaurants 2–4 weeks out and plan two standout meals per city.
Signature travel cities in United Arab Emirates
Explore more
Frequently asked about United Arab Emirates
What is the capital of United Arab Emirates?
Abu Dhabi is the capital of United Arab Emirates.
What currency does United Arab Emirates use?
United Arab Emirates uses the United Arab Emirates dirham (د.إ), ISO code AED.
What languages are spoken in United Arab Emirates?
The primary language is Arabic.
Is United Arab Emirates landlocked?
No, United Arab Emirates has a coastline.
What countries border United Arab Emirates?
United Arab Emirates borders Oman, Saudi Arabia.
What is the international calling code for United Arab Emirates?
The calling code is +971.
When is the best time to visit United Arab Emirates?
Nov–Mar. Check current weather and local events before booking.
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