- One of The main attractions of the country is The Abu Dhabi Cultural Center. It has helped UAE tourism to grow for a long time. Considered as a landmark it holds workshop and cultural events through out the year.
- The Khor harbor has emerged as an important International trading center.
- The small towns of Kabla and Khorfakkan attract lots of tourists as it provides an escape to the stressful day-to-day life of the people.
- Al Quwain's long clean beaches are favorite tourist spots in UAE. It is an enclosed lagoon as well as riding stable for public horses.
- Seneyah Island is another tourist spot that attracts the leisure travelers and especially wildlife lovers. It is a natural reserve for a large species of birds, deer and Al Qaram trees.
- The Worlds Largest aqua park dreamland is another tourist destination in UAE that attracts millions of people across the globe.
Apart from all these numerous shopping centers and a fascinating Night Life in the country has promoted tourism in UAE to a great extent.
History of The UAE
Ancient History of the UAE
The history of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) dates back to thousands of years. According to archeological evidences found in various parts of the country, the human settlement in UAE had existed as early as 5000 BC. Discovery of pottery from Ubaid dating back to 5000 BC have been found in Ras al-Khaimah. The early inhabitants of the UAE were perhaps nomadic cattle herders, as the region had good pasture grounds untill 3000 BC. According to recent findings in Abu Dhabi, Agriculture in the region started with the cultivation of creals and date palm around 3000 BC. Archeological evidence also suggest that the whole area remained closely assocaited with the Magan civilization untill 2000 BC, when the desertification of the region led to the end of the civilization itself.
Medieval History of the UAE
The area came under the influence of the Sassanian Empire during the 3rd century AD, followed by the Umayyads who intorduced Islam in the region in the 7th century AD. The early Islamic history of UAE, from the 7th to 14th centuries AD, is not documented well. Portuguese were first Europeans who arrived in the region in the early 17th century AD, followed by the Biritish. In the late 18th and early 19th centuries Al-Qawasim tribes dominated the region, and controlled the maritime commerce in the lower Persian Gulf and in much of the Indian Ocean. British and Indian Ships were regularly attacked by the pirates, leading to British naval attack in 1819 and defeat of the Qasimis, which led to the dominance of Banu Yas tribal confederation in the region. The principal sheikhdoms along the gulf coast signed a partial truce with Britain in 1820 and the maritime truce in 1853, which came to be known as Trucial Coast. In 1892, these sheikhdoms became Trucial States accepting British protection.
Modern History of the UAE
After World War II, Britain granted internal autonomy to the Trucial States and a council of the Trucial States was formed in 1952. Following the by the British government that its forces would be withdrawn from the Persian Gulf by late 1971, discussion of federation began in January 1968. The British withdrew from the Persian Gulf in 1971, and the Trucial States became a federation called the United Arab Emirates (UAE) on December 2, 1971. Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan Al Nahyan became the President of the UAE and Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum, emir of Dubai, became the UAE Vice President and Prime Minister. In 1981 the UAE joined the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC). The UAE also participated with international coalition forces against Iraq during the Gulf War in 1991.
UAE Festivals & Events
The people of the UAE are vibrant and versatile and love to celebrate a number of festivals and events all round the year. In fact, fiesta is an integral part of the UAE culture. From religious to cultural festivals to internationally renowned shopping and sports events, the annual calendar of the UAE is dotted with many festivals and events. Among most popular festivals in the UAE include Ramadan, Eid Al Fitr and Eid Al Adha. Most popular events in the country include the world-renowned Dubai Shopping Festival, National Day Festival, Dubai World Cup, Dubai Desert Classic, Dubai Summer Surprises, and Nokia Abu Dhabi International Jazz Festival.
Given below is a short account of major festival and events in the UAE.
Religious and Cultural Festivals
Ramadan: Ramadan is the month of fasting during which Muslims abstain from eating, drinking and smoking from dawn to dusk. Visitors are also advised to refrain from eating or drinking in public during daylight hours as a sign of respect.
Eid Al Fitr: Eid Al Fitr is the most popular festival for Muslims all over the world. The occasion marks the end of holy month of Ramadan and is celebrated over three days. It's a time for feasting and exchange of greetings and gifts.
Eid Al Adha: Eid Al Adha is the festival of sacrifice for Muslims and marks the end of Haj - pilgrimage to holy cities of Mecca and Medina in Saudi Arabia.
National Day Festival: December 2 is celebrated as the National Day all over the United Arab Emirates. The UAE became independent on December 2, 1971. Various cultural such as concerts, music competitions, children's cultural programs, fireworks, exhibitions, camel racing etc. are organized all over the country.
Major Shopping and Sport Events
Dubai Shopping Festival: Dubai Shopping Festival is perhaps one of the most popular events in the world, attracting over 3 million people. First started in February 1996 by the Dubai Government, the month long annual event is the time for shopping, entertainment, and cultural extravaganza. Various events such as international fashion shows, children's programs, fireworks, film festivals, and many other cultural events are organized on this occasion. It's a great time for shoppers, as shopping malls have big sales and discounts.
Dubai World Cup: The Dubai World Cup is an internationally renowned annual horse racing competition held at the Nad Al Sheba. It's richest and one of the biggest horse race events in the world and takes place during the Dubai Shopping Festival. This exciting event attracts horses, jockeys, trainers and owners from all over the world.
Dubai Desert Classic: The Dubai Desert Classic is an annual PGA Golf Tournament held at the prestigious Emirates Golf Course. The event is held in February or March every year, andattracts some of the top names in golf, international media and millions of television viewers from all over the word.
Getting to UAE
Visitors looking for a pleasant destination to spend their holidays in can always visit UAE. The United Arab Emirates is a country in the Middle East located to the southeast of the Arabian Peninsula. Getting to UAE should not worry travelers for the Emirate is blessed with an efficient network of transportation. These ensure connectivity in all the regions of the country. The public transport system in Dubai is called the Roads and Transport Authority (RTA). It is responsible for the bus network that is in operation. The RTA ensures Getting to UAE by Road.
For travelers who are getting to UAE, the most important element is acquaintance with the traffic rules. The construction of the Dubai metro network has been put into effect, with the introduction of the red, green, blue and purple lines. Water taxis make Getting to UAE by Ferry convenient. The city of Dubai has a waterfront that epitomizes its personality, and a cruise along the 10 km long Dubai Creek.
Getting to UAE also ensures that travelers are introduced to the unique culture and lifestyle of the people. Transportation in UAE encompasses the entire infrastructure including: cars, buses, taxis, airplanes, ferries et al. Car Hire in UAE enables you to get to the sightseeing destinations in no time. The taxis are more often than not metered and are hence safe to travel in. Service taxis accommodate a total of five to nine passengers. All in all, getting to UAE is a guarantee that the foreign tourists as well as those from the emirates enjoy a pleasant journey.Hotels in United Arab Emirates
