Time Out may have turned 20 this year, but our anniversary bash pales in comparison to the 50th year celebrations of the UAE, now in full swing.

A vision five full decades in the making, the UAE has cemented itself as a destination and home for pioneers of thinking, design and construction, and has led the world in culinary creativity, architectural wonderment and even deep space exploration.

Here we look at 50 unreal things to see and experience in the UAE as it reaches the big five-zero on Thursday December 2.

Jump to:

ABU DHABI

Emirates Palace

Without question it’s the most lavish, luxurious and extravagant hotel in the world. With pristine lawns, world-class restaurants, stunning craftsmanship, amazing views and more gold than you can comprehend, it’s a real spectacle. So much so that every day hundreds of tourists flock here just to get pictures of the world famous hotel. A stunning example of all the UAE has to offer.
West Corniche, mandarinoriental.com (02 690 9000).

Empty Quarter

When you drive south of Abu Dhabi, you’ll soon be met with pristine rolling dunes and the kind of striking, natural beauty that the UAE is famed for. If you’re going off road to capture that perfect Insta moment, be sure to head out with all the kit you’d need to get yourself out of a jam. Throw a few tents and sleeping bags in the back of the car because you can even spend a night under the stars. Remember to bring water, don’t travel alone and leave nature the way you found it. We’d all like to enjoy it for many years to come, thank you very much.
Set your GPS for 22.974905, 53.785472 and explore.

Jebel Hafeet

Abu Dhabi’s highest mountain, Jebel Hafeet, towers 1,249m above sea level, and you can drive all the way to the top along the winding roads for spectacular views over the area. UNESCO World Heritage site Jebel Hafeet Desert Park lies at the bottom of the mountain and is home to neolithic tombs, which you can explore with a guided hike.
Al Ain. GPS: 24.057282695913543, 55.777984907167365.

Jubail Mangrove Park

After opening in January 2020, Jubail Mangrove Park quickly became one of the top attractions in Abu Dhabi thanks to its gorgeous greenery. Visitors can kayak through the mangroves, or enjoy one of the three walkways through the area.
Jubail Island, Abu Dhabi. GPS: 24.545709501430988, 54.48542756671897

Ferrari World

The massive red exterior is nearly as iconic as the namesake car brand and it’s one the sights people think of when Abu Dhabi comes to mind. Inside Ferrari World Abu Dhabi you’ll find the world’s fastest rollercoaster, Formula Rossa, and you’ve simply got to try it. Hitting breakneck speed is not for the faint-hearted, and it really is one of the most adrenaline-fueled experiences you’ll ever have in your life. Go on, strap in, everything will be fine.
Yas Island ferrariworldabudhabi.com (600 511 115).

Louvre Abu Dhabi

Louvre Abu Dhabi has become one of the most popular tourism destinations in the region and we’re sure you’ve already added it to your list of things to do with visitors when they come to town. If you’ve still never been, now’s the time, as there is so much to see and do from amazing core galleries and changing exhibitions, to activities, events and even film screenings. Don’t forget kayaking!
Louvre Abu Dhabi, Saadiyat Island, louvreabudhabi.ae (600 565 566).

Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque

This is the jewel in Abu Dhabi’s crown and is easily one of the most stunning buildings in the world. The craftsmanship is unparalleled and a walk around the site is something every resident of Abu Dhabi has done a number of times. No matter how many times we visit, every time a guest comes to the capital, we bring them here because it never disappoints.
Khor Al Maqta area, szgmc.gov.ae.

The Founder’s Memorial

There are many great places to watch the sun set in Abu Dhabi but The Founder’s Memorial is truly special. As night descends on the city, The Constellation lights up. Standing 30m tall and using 1,327 geometric shapes, the installation is brilliant to watch. The site won at the CODA (Collaboration of Design + Art) awards last year in the Institutional category. Go and be dazzled.
Open daily 9am-10pm. Corniche West, thefoundersmemorial.ae.

Qasr Al Watan

It’s not often you’ll get to step inside a presidential palace but in Abu Dhabi you can. Qasr Al Watan opened to the public in 2019 and jaws hit the floor when it did. It’s packed with stunning sites, intricate details and scenes so picturesque you have to, well, take a picture of it. Go on guided tours and learn more when you’re not saying “oooh and “ahhh” at every turn.
Corniche West, qasralwatan.ae.

Yas Marina Circuit

There is nowhere in the UAE you can experience speed like you can on the tarmac of Yas Marina Circuit. This famed strip of asphalt is home to the most anticipated F1 meet of the year. When speed superstars aren’t zooming through, amateurs are able to get behind the wheel for a thrilling track day.
Yas Marina Circuit, Yas Island yasmarinacircuit.com
BACK TO TOP

AJMAN

Ajman Dhow Building Yard

The UAE’s maritime history is well documented, but Ajman’s Dhow Building Yard holds a special place. The largest facility of its kind on the planet, be sure to stop by to learn how the boats are made seaworthy, and witness the level of craftsmanship required to make the iconic vessels float.
Next to Al Boom Marine, Ajman Creek, ajman.travel/en/destinations/ajman-city/dhow-yard

Al Zorah Nature Reserve

Wave hello to one of the best things to do in Ajman. Take a leisurely paddle around the waters of the Al Zorah Nature Reserve and come up close and personal with an abundance of birds and marine life in an eco-conscious way. The lush reserve is comprised of a series of channels, ensuring calm waters for even the most inexperienced of paddlers.
alzorah.ae

Masfout

Surrounded by the Hajar Mountains, the village of Masfout is popular among nature lovers looking to get out of the city. There are plenty of hiking and mountain biking routes in the area, and it’s not too far from Hatta, so you can combine days out if you want.
Ajman. GPS: 24.81979623896089, 56.09769655188091.
BACK TO TOP

DUBAI

Alserkal Avenue

It is famed as Dubai’s most creative street and there is always plenty to check out, from ground-breaking cinema to live theatre, music and art. Plus, there are loads of super-trendy coffee shops to check out – we’d recommend Nightjar Coffee Roasters and Wild & The Moon. A must-see in Dubai for artsy types.
Open Sat-Thu 10am-7pm. Alserkal Avenue, Al Quoz, alserkalavenue.ae (04 333 3464).

Al Marmoom Camel Racetrack

Camels are synonymous with the rolling dunes and they are usually depicted as slow, cumbersome creatures. However, these desert-dwelling beasts can reach speeds of up to 65kmh and races are every bit as entertaining as you imagine. Dubai’s famous camel racetrack, Al Marmoom, is open every winter if you want to watch camel racing – a centuries-old tradition – in Dubai.
Opening dates and times vary. Al Marmoom Camel Racetrack, Al Ain Road (055 676 0006).

Al Seef

Al Seef is steeped in history, with a huge amount of Emirati culture. The must-see area leans heavily on the contemporary elements of life in Dubai, but also has a nostalgic twist. There are plenty of things to do by the waterfront from sightseeing to shopping.
Open Sun-Thu 10am-10pm, Fri-Sat 10am-midnight. Al Seef, Dubai Creek, alseef.ae.

Atlantis The Palm

It may have an even bigger neighbour on the way, but this iconic hotel will long-hold the title of Dubai’s go-to spot. There’s everything from helicopter rides, tennis and scuba diving to dolphin encounters and stingray feeding sessions. It’s also home to The Lost Chambers Aquarium, as well as the massive Aquaventure Waterpark, which features thrilling rides that you’ll want to ride again and again.
Palm Jumeirah, Dubai, atlantis.com/dubai (04 426 2000).

Burj Khalifa

It’s top of the charts when it comes to vertical reach and it dominates most used hashtag lists on Instagram and TikTok. So whether you’re taking in the world’s tallest building from the ground (on the bridge between Souk Al Bahar and The Dubai Mall) or from the At The Top observation deck on the 124th floor, Dubai’s Burj Khalifa is a must-see for all.
Prices vary. Open daily 9am-11pm. Downtown Dubai, burjkhalifa.ae (800 2884 3867).

Burj Al Arab Jumeirah

Dubai’s Burj Al Arab Jumeirah is one of the most iconic buildings in the Middle East, if not the world, making it a must-see attraction in the city. The sail-shaped building opened in 1999 and has been a symbol of opulence and exclusivity ever since. It houses 11 restaurants and bars. If you want to feel like royalty, Burj Al Arab Jumeirah is a must-see and must-visit for just that. Not convinced on splashing out for a pricey stay? Check out the recently-launched Inside Burj Al Arab Tour and see what lies in wait.
Burj Al Arab Jumeirah, Umm Suqeim (04 301 7777).

Desert safari

Dubai lies directly within the Arabian Desert and these sandy dunes on the city’s outskirts are a must-see. Local tour operator Arabian Adventures runs dozens of different excursions around Dubai and out into the desert, giving visitors a taste of both Arabian traditions and the emirate’s modern identity.
Prices and times vary. Pick-ups across Dubai, arabian-adventures.com (04 214 4888).

Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo

Take on a shark encounter, meet the aquarium’s resident crocodile, and marvel at the piranhas, crabs, water rats and swarms of fish that inhabit the huge tank inside The Dubai Mall. Feeling extra brave? You can even don a scuba suit and get face-to-face with the ocean’s most efficient predators.
Open daily 10am-midnight. The Dubai Mall, Downtown Dubai, thedubaiaquarium.com (800 3822 46255).

Dubai Creek

Dubai Creek has served as a lifeline for the community for centuries. Abras cross the water every minute or so and will cost you just Dhs1. It’s a short trip to the other side, but it’s a must-see and a top chance to explore “old Dubai”. Embrace the emirate’s past with a sail across Dubai Creek and get ready to be taken back to everything Dubai is really about.
Dubai Creek, Bur Dubai.

Dubai Frame

Got a head for heights? Want to see the city from a different perspective? The views of “old” and “new” Dubai from this 150-metre-high sky glass bridge look superb whether you’re there for the day, sunset or at night. The bridge has a completely see-through bottom to it – walk across it and be labelled one of the bravest of the bunch.
Open daily 9am-9pm. Zabeel Park, dubaiframe.ae.

Dubai Gold Souk

Bargain hunter with a Midas touch? If you’re looking to get more karats for your cash a trip to the Gold Souk is a must. The Gold Souk has hundreds of retailers offering a selection of jewellery, diamonds and other precious stones. Haggling is part of the fun, with visitors getting their hands on a few new jewellery pieces at a fraction of the price they might normally expect to pay at home.
Deira, Dubai.

Dubai Miracle Garden

Green-fingered residents and those who love lush scenes alike get all toothy at the sight of Miracle Garden. Located just outside Jumeirah Village Circle, you can head to the gardens any day of the week from mid-November to mid-May. With millions of flowers, huge constructs made entirely of fresh blooms and more, it’s got a special place in our hearts.
Jumeirah Village Circle, dubaimiraclegarden.com (04 422 8902).

Dubai Opera

The stunning dhow-shaped building in Downtown Dubai is the city’s hub for theatre, musicals, operas, ballet and comedy. It has fast become one of the world’s most impressive performing arts venues. Whether you’re checking out a show or just want to see the stunning piece of architecture yourself, you will be blown away by this building inside and out.
Dubai Opera, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Boulevard, Downtown Dubai dubaiopera.com (04 440 8888).

Etihad Museum

Etihad Museum takes visitors on a unique journey through decades of remarkable progress. The striking culture spot, which is shaped like a manuscript, includes permanent and temporary halls, a theatre, an educational area, interactive maps and videos, and more. It’s a must-see if you’re looking to immerse yourself in the past.
Open daily 10am-8pm. Jumeirah 1, Dubai, etihadmuseum.dubaiculture.ae (04 515 5771).

Expo 2020 Dubai

What can we say about the world’s greatest show that hasn’t already been said? Expo 2020 Dubai has taken the world by storm and is continuing to showcase the very best mankind has to offer direct from the UAE. The packed programme of cultural events is connecting people from all over the world and inspiring an entire generation. If there ever was an event that summed up what it is like to live and work here in the UAE, this is it.
Dhs95 (one day), Dhs195 (30 days), Dhs495 (6 months). Until Mar 31 2022. Dubai Exhibition Centre, expo2020dubai.com.

Hatta Dam

Easily one of the most Instagrammed spots out of the city, Hatta Dam is unbelievably stunning. There are plenty of hiking trails through the mountains, including up to the iconic Hatta sign (Hollywood, eat your heart out), or you can head out on the water in a boat. If the views aren’t enough for you, you can also visit Hatta Wadi Hub for water slides and other fun activities.
Dubai. GPS: 24.784690498854793, 56.11380634772314.

Ski Dubai

Sure, there are sand dunes to be seen, but you can’t come to Dubai without checking out its phenomenal must-see indoor ski slope, which now not only provides great runs for skiers and boarders, but is also home to a colony of penguins.
Open Sun-Wed 10am-11pm, Thu 10am-midnight, Fri-Sat 9am-midnight. Mall of the Emirates, Al Barsha, skidxb.com (800 386).

The Dubai Fountain

Delightful by day and enchanting in the evening, The Dubai Fountain show in Downtown Dubai is a must-see for residents and tourists alike. The fountain is more than 900ft in length – the equivalent of two football pitches – and shoots water into the sky to a range of different songs, from classical music to contemporary Arabian tracks and pop songs.
Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Blvd, Downtown Dubai.

The Dubai Mall

Even if you aren’t able to indulge in a spot of retail therapy, the world’s second biggest mall is still a must-see. From the Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo to the Dubai Ice Rink, there’s plenty to do and see. Wear comfy shoes.
Open daily 10am-midnight. Downtown Dubai, thedubaimall.com (800 382246255).

Time Out Market Dubai

The coolest destination to open in Dubai this year has become an instant classic. With 17 rockstar vendors cooking up the best dishes in town, live musical entertainment twice a week and unbeatable views of Burj Khalifa, Time Out Market Dubai is the place to be right now.
Time Out Market Dubai, Souk Al Bahar, Downtown Dubai, timeoutmarket.com/dubai.
BACK TO TOP

FUJAIRAH

Bull-butting

In a region where camel and horseracing are revered sporting events, it’s a throwback to catch Fujairah’s famed bull-butting. The non-blood sport is watched by hundreds of spectators each Friday at Fujairah Corniche. An open and flat stretch of dusty, bare land is the arena for two beasts to lock horns. Think of it as bull sumo.
Drive to the Oman end of the Corniche and turn right. Crowds start to appear at 5pm.

Dibba Rock

There’s a real escapism to diving in the UAE, and Dibba Rock is one such breathtaking site to see if you’re at home on the ocean’s bed. Dives go as deep as 30m, but with ten metres visibility on a good day, it’s a site to behold once you’ve hit the bottom. Swaying corals wave hello to open water divers along with stingrays and green turtles.
nemodivingcenter.com.

Hajar Mountains wadis

It doesn’t get much better than a hike in the Hajar Mountains. The most famous range in the country is shared by a number of the seven emirates, but Fujairah’s is hard to beat with views out to the Gulf of Oman.
While in Fujairah, look at Wadi Al Waruyah, Wadi Al Hayl and Wadi Siji.

Masafi Friday Market

We’re all about authentic Friday markets, especially when they run every day of the week. Yup, vendors at Masafi Friday Market have septupled their trading with daily bargains on rugs, ceramics and fruit and vegetables. It’s best for the fresh produce and the experience of a traditional market, made extra special by the mountain backdrop. Plus, you get a chance to see where the water we drink comes from.
Find Masafi Market by driving along the E88.

Snoopy Island

Parrot fish, turtles, live coral – catch it all at Snoopy Island. One of the most revered snorkelling spots in the entire UAE, this protruding land mass just off the coast is reachable via a short swim (though we’d recommend bringing a floatation aid to minimise the strain) from the shores of Sandy Beach. For water babies it needs no introduction. Yet to dip a toe in the crystal clear H20? Add it to your Fujarirah to-do list, pronto. The shallows of the 20m tall rock provide welcome retreat for all manner of marine life, including blacktip reef sharks.
Open all day every day. Sandy Beach, Al Aqah.
BACK TO TOP

RAS AL KHAIMAH

Bear Grylls Explorers Camp

Test yourself on one of the UAE’s highest mountains in the world’s first Bear Grylls Explorers Camp in Ras Al Khaimah. Wannabe Bears are exposed to practical and extreme survival techniques with half-day sessions, eight-hour and even 24-hour options. Run by UK survival experts, activities include how to make a fire in the wild, building emergency shelters and navigation techniques.
From Dhs450 (per adult – Basic Survival Course). Jebel Jais, Ras Al Khaimah, beargryllscamp.ae (056 501 5831).

‘Ghost’ village

Get peace and quiet at the abandoned pearling village of Al Jazirat Al Hamra in Ras Al Khaimah. It has remained almost unchanged since its inhabitants left in 1968, making it a permanent monument to a bygone era. Populated constantly from the 16th century until 42 years ago, forts, schools, mosques and more still stand in the area. It’s totally empty now, but intrigued tourists often visit.
Between Al Hamra Village and Al Jazeera Port, Ras Al Khaimah.

Jebel Jais

With an elevation of 1,934m, Jebel Jais is the UAE’s highest peak, and an essential visit for hiking fans. Views from the top are breathtaking, and temperatures here are usually 10°C cooler than the rest of the country – making it a welcome respite during the summer. Check out Jebel Jais Flight, the longest zipline in the world.
Ras Al Khaimah. GPS: 25.94483508163624, 56.14243262461735.

Suwaidi Pearl Farm

Nestled at the bottom of the Al Hajar mountain range in Ras Al Khaimah, in the small fishing village of Al Rams, Suwaidi Pearl Farm gives an insight into the age-old Emirati tradition of pearl farming. You’ll be collected in a pearl diver’s boat before exploring the surrounding mangroves while learning about the history and culture associated with pearls. Experiences range from two to four hours with morning, afternoon and evening tours available. Once back on land, refuel with an authentic Emirati meal and explore the village.
From Dhs335.50 (per adult – tour with lunch), from Dhs250.50 (per adult – farm tour only), half price (nine-12 years old), Dhs50.50 (five-eight years old). Open daily 10am-5pm. Al Rams, Ras Al Khaimah, suwaidipearls.ae (07 221 1124).

Wadi Shawka

Looking for a significantly easier route to clamber around than Wadi Ghalilah? Then Wadi Shawka might just be for you. The loop around the Shawka Dam is around 10km, and you’ll have plenty of gorgeous mountain scenery to enjoy as you hike.
Ras Al Khaimah. GPS: 25.105086901545196, 56.046759497355694.
BACK TO TOP

SHARJAH

Fossil Rock

Hiking enthusiasts absolutely must check out Fossil Rock, which gained its name, as you might expect, for the fossils, dating back 70 million years, embedded in the formations here. The contrast between the burning orange sands and the rocks is beautiful, and the sights from the top are well worth the steps. One for the ‘gram.
Mleiha, Sharjah. GPS: 25.1420409741543, 55.83379624227387.

Kalba Bird of Prey Centre

Falconry is synonymous with the UAE and the Kalba Bird of Prey Centre strives to keep its legacy soaring. The centre has free-flying demonstrations, along with aviaries housing owls, eagles, buzzards, vultures and, of course, falcons. It’s edutainment in full flight. Kids will love hanging with feathered friends.
Open Tue-Thu and Sun 9am-6pm, Sat 11am-6pm, Fri 2pm-6pm. visitsharjah.com (09 277 0880).

Khor Fakkan Waterfalls

The UAE is filled with surprises, and one of our favourites is the Khor Fakkan Waterfalls. Built next to the Khor Fakkan Amphitheatre, the 45m tall attraction has been carved into the natural rock, with viewing windows at the top. Soak up the sights before soaking in the culture at a show.
Khor Fakkan, Sharjah. GPS: 25.367345746884883, 56.348169542025914.

Mleiha

This archaeological site is a real window into the past, with tombs dating back to the Iron and Bronze Age. The visitors’ centre is fab, you’ll come away knowing plenty about the history of the UAE. There’s an option for overnight camping with stargazing, too.
Mleiha, Sharjah. GPS: 25.1266566893995, 55.857847799999995.

Wadi Shees

One of the few places in the UAE with fresh flowing water all year round, Wadi Shees is an oasis worth exploring. The trail inside the park is more of a walk than a hike, with signs explaining points of interest along the way. Want adventure? Try the Shees Valley trails.
Khor Fakkan, Sharjah. GPS: 25.29197854056671, 56.244552469318485.
BACK TO TOP

UMM AL QUWAIN

Mangrove Beach

We’re always looking for a new spot, and you can’t go wrong with Mangrove Beach, which opened in December 2020 in Umm Al Quwain.
Umm Al Quwain. GPS: 25.52840278438662, 55.58258524536412.

Ollie Days

The weekend beach festival-cum-DIY-barbecue is right on the waterfront. Camping overnight is encouraged, with live DJs spinning the decks long into the night.
From Dhs150. The Beach Hotel olliedaze.com.
BACK TO TOP