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My husband and I spent 5 days in the UAE over Christmas and New Year’s in 2021, staying in Dubai and taking a day trip to Abu Dhabi. The World Expo was happening that year in Dubai, which made the trip even more exciting. Even though we had to deal with Covid complications (we had to take PCR tests at hospitals before entry/exit and we skipped some of the attractions like the water parks for safety), we were still blown away by UAE’s impressive architecture. Here are the top 5 things we enjoyed the most from our trip:
1. Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque (Abu Dhabi)
Why Visit:
One of the world’s most beautiful and largest mosques, this architectural masterpiece is built from white marble and decorated with gold, crystals, and reflective pools that glow at sunset.
Highlights:
- Intricate floral mosaics and the world’s largest hand-knotted carpet.
- Huge crystal chandeliers that took my breath away.
How to Go:
We visited as part of a day tour to Abu Dhabi. Entry is free, but online registration is needed (which the tour took care of). There is a strict dress code (women must cover their arms, legs, and hair), but our tour provided us with local abayas (robe like dress) with a scarf.
2. Qasr Al Watan (Abu Dhabi)
Why Visit:
Qasr Al Watan, meaning Palace of the Nation, is the UAE’s Presidential Palace. The interiors are breathtaking, filled with chandeliers, mosaics, and domed halls that rival royal palaces.
Highlights:
- Great Hall → intricate geometric patterns and massive chandeliers.
- The Presidential Gifts Room → showcases gifts from world leaders.
How to Go:
We visited as part of the same day tour to Abu Dhabi.Tickets can be bought online or at the entrance (which the tour handled). There is also a strict dress code.
3. Burj Khalifa (Dubai)
Why Visit:
At 828 meters (2716 feet) tall, the Burj Khalifa is the tallest building in the world and Dubai’s most iconic landmark.
Highlights:
- See fireworks shoot off from the building for New Years Eve! We bought a NYE dinner package from a nearby Italian restaurant and had perfect views of the fireworks.
- Watch the Dubai Fountain show below (every 30 minutes in the evening).
- Check out the nearby Dubai Mall, one of the world’s largest shopping malls.
How to Go:
Buy timed-entry tickets in advance to avoid long lines, especially during sunset hours.
4. Dubai Frame (Dubai)
Why Visit:
Shaped like a giant picture frame, the Dubai Frame is one of the city’s most creative landmarks. It perfectly “frames” old and new Dubai, symbolizing how far the city has come while honoring its past.
Highlights:
- Ride the elevator to the top (150 meters / 492 feet) for panoramic views of both Old Dubai (where the city began) and New Dubai (modern skyline with skyscrapers).
- Walk on the glass-floored bridge if you’re feeling brave!
How to Go:
We took an Uber (~15 minutes from downtown Dubai) and bought tickets there.
5. Dubai Miracle Garden (Dubai)
Why Visit:
Dubai Miracle Garden is the world’s largest natural flower garden, a breathtaking oasis in the desert with over 150 million flowers arranged in creative designs.
Highlights:
- Massive floral sculptures in all shapes, including an Emirates A380 airplane!
- Endless photo spots surrounded by bright, colorful blooms.
How to Go:
We took an Uber (~25 minutes from downtown Dubai) and bought tickets there. The garden is only open from November to May, when the weather is cooler.
Planning a trip to the UAE? Check out my 5 essential tips for a more comfortable visit.