The UAE or the United Arab Emirates is a Southwestern Asian Federation located near Iraq, Oman, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and the Persian Gulf. It is world-famous for its oil reserves as well as beautiful beaches. There are also vast amounts of sand and steep mountainsides here.
Abu Dhabi is UAE’s capital and business central. It used to be an uninhabited fishing and pearling village; but today, it has become a modern and lively city. Numerous luxury hotels and sleek skyscrapers can now be seen here.
One of the most ideal places to visit in the place is the Qasr al-Holsen or the Al Hosn Palace. It is also sometimes referred to as the Old Fort or the White Fort. It is actually a historical feature and famous tourist spot in Abu Dhabi. It is very old; it even used to be the residence of the country’s First Family. It has been renovated to house exhibits, though. Its tile work and courtyard, nonetheless, still remains beautiful.
Another great place to visit is the Cultural Foundation. It houses the National Library, National Archives, and Institute of Culture and Art. A variety of events are also often held here. Some of these are lectures, art lessons, workshop classes, art exhibits, and concerts. Tourists can visit it daily from eight o’clock in the morning until eight o’clock in the evening. A three-hour break from two o’clock until five o’clock in the afternoon should be duly noted, though.
Similarly, Dubai is a beautiful city that tourists may visit and enjoy. It is a place wherein shopping centers, restaurants, and traditional markets or souqs are abundant. Fashion enthusiasts and shopaholics may delight in the duty-free apparel, accessories, and even electronic gadgets. Dubai is really a fun place; no wonder it is called the shoppers’ paradise and UAE’s center for commerce and transportation.
One place to visit in Dubai is Al Bastakiya. It is an old residential area that lies along Dubai Creek, and includes wind towers and narrow lanes. Its architecture makes it unique and interesting. The wind towers or barjeels were not only used to cool houses; they also served as indicators of how wealthy a family is. More barjeels meant more wealth.
The Grand Mosque is also a distinguished landmark. It was originally constructed to serve as a kuttab, or a Quranic school. It has a traditional Islamic architectural style. Today, it is the main center of worship in Dubai. It has been renovated, although it has retained its architectural style. It has nine huge domes and forty-five smaller ones with stained glass panels, sand-colored walls, and wooden shutters. Non-Muslims are not allowed to enter; however, tourists may still take pictures of the mosque from the minaret.
Furthermore, who has not heard of the skyscrapers in Dubai? These state-of-the-art structures make the city view at night heavenly. Watching the city from the Emirates Office Tower, 21st Century Towers, Rose Tower, or Burj Khalifa is certainly breathtaking.
The United Arab Emirates is truly a beautiful country. Aside from the historical attractions, commercial establishments, and tall buildings, tourists can also indulge in world-class hotels and resorts. They will surely enjoy their vacation in this famous holiday destination.
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