United Arab Emirates, Federal country in Arabian Peninsula
The United Arab Emirates is a federation of seven independent emirates on the southeastern Arabian Peninsula. Abu Dhabi forms the largest territory and hosts the capital, while Dubai serves as the economic center and Sharjah, Ajman, Umm al-Quwain, Ras Al Khaimah, and Fujairah complete the federal structure.
The federation formed in December 1971 when six emirates came together after British protection ended. Ras Al Khaimah joined in February 1972, completing the union under the leadership of Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan until 2004.
Over 80 percent of residents come from other countries, while Emirati citizens maintain their traditions through the white kandura worn by men and the black abaya by women. Falconry and camel racing remain cherished pastimes, and offering coffee and dates to guests is seen as a sign of hospitality.
The months from October through April offer more comfortable weather for outdoor activities, while summer months from June to September bring hot temperatures. Friday is the weekly rest day when many shops and offices have adjusted hours.
The coastline has been extended by artificial islands such as Palm Jumeirah, built up from the sea. The Burj Khalifa in Dubai reaches a height of 828 meters, making it the tallest building in the world.
Inception: 1971
Capital city: Abu Dhabi
Part of: Middle East, West Asia, Gulf States
Shares border with: Oman, Saudi Arabia, Iran
Website: https://u.ae
GPS coordinates: 24.00025,53.99948
Latest update: December 4, 2025 17:20
The United Arab Emirates feature an architectural landscape where modern structures coexist with historical remnants. In Dubai, the Burj Khalifa rises to 828 meters and is the tallest skyscraper in the world, while the artificial island of Palm Jumeirah demonstrates the country’s coastal engineering skills. In Abu Dhabi, the five Etihad Towers line the waterfront, and the Qasr Al Hosn, built in the 18th century, is the capital’s oldest stone building. These modern achievements sit on land that also preserves ancient traces, such as the tombs of Jebel Hafeet carved into the rock more than 5,000 years ago. Cultural and religious buildings round out this overview. The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque covers over 22,000 square meters and invites visitors to explore its architecture and prayer halls. The Louvre Abu Dhabi displays international collections beneath a metal dome designed by Jean Nouvel, creating distinctive light effects inside. In Ajman, the local museum is housed in a restored 18th-century fortress, while the Dubai Opera takes the shape of a dhow, a traditional regional boat. These sites offer varied perspectives on the architectural development of the Emirates and merit thorough exploration.
The United Arab Emirates feature contemporary architectural achievements and monuments that reflect their heritage. Over a few decades, the country has developed infrastructures attracting millions of visitors: glass and steel towers redefining city skylines, international museums showcasing collections from various eras, custom-made islands spread across the Persian Gulf. Alongside these recent constructions, stone forts and mosques serve as reminders of the region's history and traditions.
Burj Khalifa
185.5 km
Burj al-Arab
174.8 km
Queen Elizabeth 2
191.2 km
Palm Islands
169.1 km
The World
179.7 km
Museum of the Future
187.8 km
Formula Rossa
82.1 km
Louvre Abu Dhabi
71.9 km
Dubai Frame
190.4 km
Atlantis, The Palm
169.2 km
Yas Marina Circuit
80.8 km
Dubai Miracle Garden
172.7 km
The Dubai Fountain
185.4 km
Ferrari World Abu Dhabi
81.8 km
Global Village
177.9 km
Dubailand
182.8 km
Ain Dubai
165.6 km
Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo
185.8 km
Ski Dubai
173.8 km
Abrahamic Family House
72.1 km
Sheikh Zayed Mosque
66.5 km
JW Marriott Marquis Dubai
183.4 km
Princess Tower
167.9 km
UAE Presidential Palace
60.1 km
At the Top Burj Khalifa
185.8 km
Cayan Tower
167.6 km
Liwa Oasis
99 km
IMG Worlds of Adventure
179.9 kmReviews
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