A mini weekend getaway or just a long drive to Hatta will take you to a side of Dubai that is made up of picturesque mountain ranges, natural and man-made wadis and trekking trails.

Rich in culture and with ample opportunities for some adventure sports, Hatta truly is a welcome escape from the busy city life. A must-see that so many visitors miss off their Dubai itinerary, let’s see why you should make at least a day trip for an overnight stop in Hatta.

In This Hatta Guide, We’ll Cover:

• Hatta: Where Is It, And What’s There?
  • Navigating your way around Hatta’s highlights
• Top Things To Do In Hatta
  • Hatta for Adventure-Lovers
  • Exploring Hatta – Nature & Culture
• Where to Stay in Hatta
  • Camping in Hatta
  • Hatta Caravan Park
  • Glamping in Hatta
  • Resorts and Farmhouses in Hatta
• Where To Dine In Hatta
• How to Get to Hatta From Dubai
  • Private transport to Hatta
  • Public Transport to Hatta
• New Attractions coming to Hatta in 2026 and beyond
• More frequently asked questions about visiting Hatta, Dubai

Hatta: Where Is It, And What’s There?

There are seven emirates that form the United Arab Emirates (UAE), and Hatta is part of the Dubai emirate, even though it is not located within the city’s main boundaries.

It sits close to the border of Oman, along the stunning Hajar Mountains, and is less than a two-hour drive away from Dubai. Technically, it’s an enclave as you pass through the emirate of Sharjah, Ras Al Khaimah and even part of Ajman to reach the township of Hatta.

Due to its location and natural landscape, the area experiences cooler temperatures than other parts of the country.

Although it may not feel any different during the hot summer months, winters are unquestionably cooler. If trekking up the mountains or camping overnight in winter, it is advisable to pack warm jackets and sweaters.

Top Things To Do In Hatta

Hatta is a bucket-list destination with so many options when it comes to activities for nature lovers. Here are a few top picks for you:

Hatta for Adventure-Lovers

1. Hatta Wadi Hub

This is the perfect escape for adventure seekers looking for a wide range of experiences to try out. Choose from downhill carting, zorbing, a human slingshot, axe throwing, archery, free-fall jumps, adventure rope courses, wall climbing, or trampoline.

New experiences continue to get added, including an inflatable obstacle course, drop in slides and a four-wheel off-road electric scooter experience.

Prices vary depending on the experience chosen, and the centre opens only from October until May 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM. Learn more here.

2. Hatta Kayak

This water sport is an unforgettable opportunity to explore the stunning lake formed by Hatta Dam. You can hire a kayak, pedal boat, or water bike as you enjoy a relaxed afternoon on the quiet waters, surrounded by jagged mountain creeks.

Rental prices start at AED 60, and it is advisable to check their website for up-to-date information about age restrictions and their seasonal opening timings. Learn more here.

3. Paragliding

There’s nothing more thrilling than getting strapped in and taking in the beautiful Hatta scenery from the air. The paragliding experience will have you soaring 500 feet above Hatta’s rocky mountains. The experience is available for anyone aged above 18, while under 18’s must be accompanied by an adult.

Paragliding is available between 10: 00 AM to 6:00 PM during the winter season, costs AED 650 for a 15-minute flight, and requires pre-booking. Learn more here.

4. Mountain Biking

Home to the Hatta Mountain Bike Trail Centre, it is the best spot to explore the rugged landscape on two wheels. With 50-kilometers of biking trails covering different terrains and distances, there’s a trail for every rider, catering to all levels of ability. You can bring your own bike or rent a mountain bike at the Hatta Wadi Hub.

The Hatta Trails are open all year round and free to ride. Parking for your car is available for free. Learn more here.

5. Horseback riding

Enjoy a tranquil and memorable experience with a horseback ride at Hatta Horses. Enjoy the sights of Hatta as you trail across lakes and mountain foothills or venture into the wilderness in the company of an Arabian horse. Everyone is welcome here, regardless of whether you’ve never been on a horse before or are a child.

Rides take place during the winter months, start at AED 100/hour, and need to be pre-booked. Learn more here.

6. Hatta Hiking

One of the best free activities in Dubai is hiking the trails around Hatta. There are now over 32 kilometres of defined hiking trails around Hatta. These have been broken up into various sections to help hikers choose the correct terrain for their ability level.

Grab your detailed hiking trails map for Hatta before you set out here.

Exploring Hatta – Nature & Culture

If adrenaline sports aren’t for you, or perhaps you’re travelling with young kids or elderly parents, there’s still plenty more to see and do in Hatta.

Hatta Sign

In the style of the iconic ‘Hollywood’ sign, the Hatta sign proudly sits atop the mountains of Hatta. Almost 60 meters tall, the sign is visible upon entry and also lights up at night. You can also take the trek from Hatta Wadi Hub to reach the sign and take some memorable photos.

Hatta Fort

Built in 1896 and fully restored in 1995, Hatta Fort is one of the most significant architectural monuments in the UAE. A residence and defence facility with a large internal courtyard and an 11m-high watchtower, it is made of mountain stones and mud bricks. The ceiling is constructed using palm fronds, trunks, and mud.

Hatta Hill Park

As the name suggests, this park is located over a mountain. Opened in 2004, it is popular with families getting together for picnics and barbecues. With a beautiful landscape and vibrant greenery, the park also includes a kid’s play area, running tracks, a sports field, and even a tower at the topmost point of the mountain, offering great vantage points of the surrounding scenery.

Entry is free and open between 8:00 AM to 11:00 PM.

Hatta Heritage Village

Take a step back in time and explore this restored traditional village that dates back 3000 years.

Imagine what life must have been like as you walk past reconstructed stone houses, overlooked by watchtowers and a fort, look through old photographs and learn about their agricultural practices and Arab culture.

Close by is a palm tree farm known as the Al Sharia site, where you can learn about the Falaj system traditionally used to irrigate farms. The falaj water system here, which dates back to the 1800s, was used to bring fresh water from the mountains and supply it to the local residents and date farms in the heart of Hatta Village.

Entry to Hatta Heritage Village is free, and operating hours are: Saturday- Thursday: 7:30 AM till 8:30 PM & Fridays: 2:30 PM till 8:30 PM

Hatta Caravan Park

This is the region’s first luxury caravan park, complete with luxurious caravans that can be rented for a short stay and comfortably accommodate a family of four. The caravan park operates only between October and April.

You have four different vans to choose from (all of which they describe as fitting a maximum of two adults and two children under 12; we’d argue they could fit more from our own experience staying there, but you’d need to make your own enquiries):

• Standard Caravan
• Deluxe Caravan
• Premium Caravan
• Elite Caravan

All offer guests an ensuite bathroom, air conditioning, cooking amenities outside their van, and access to a fire pit.

Check pricing for Hatta Caravan Park here

Damani Lodges Resort

Perched along low-lying mountain tops, these purpose-built lodges provide a cosy place to get close to nature. The simple lodges can sleep two adults (or a family of four if kids are under 12) and come with a private terrace to enjoy the amazing mountain views.

Overlooking the Hatta Wadi Hub activity park, you can order your meals directly to your lodge from any on-site dining options and use all of the onsite facilities, or tuck yourselves away in your own private retreat.

Check pricing for Hatta Damani Lodges here

JA Hatta Fort

This resort has existed since the 1980s and has undergone a modern transformation to achieve its four-star status. The views of the majestic mountains against the resort’s lush lawns look impressive as you stand on your private balcony from either your room or three-bedroom chalet.

A recent addition worth noting for families are their new Terra Cabins. these have flexible floorplans including pull out beds and bunks.

There are so many activity options here, from mini-golf, petanque, and archery to air-gun shooting, a zip line, swimming pools, and even a maze.

Relax at their spa and wellness centre, play at their indoor recreation centre, and even interact with the resident animals, which include deer, ponies, bunnies, tortoises, and exotic birds. Pet owners will be pleased to know that well-behaved dogs are also accepted here.

Check pricing for JA Hatta Fort here

Public Transport to Hatta

You can also reach Hatta using public transport. The RTA has launched a new service, the H02 Hatta Express, which starts at Dubai Mall Station and goes directly to Hatta Bus Station.

• The route is operated by deluxe coaches with bathrooms onboard, aircon and wifi.
• The route operates from 7:00 AM to 7:00 PM with buses every 2 hours
• The journey costs AED 25 per person one-way

We believe this has replaced the previous E16 route, which used to operate from Al Sabkha Bus Station in Deira and make multiple stops.

• You’ll find our complete and comprehensive guide on how to get from Dubai to Hatta here.

More frequently asked questions about visiting Hatta, Dubai

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Please note we are not a travel agency. This site is a travel blog to help newcomers to the UAE and transit passengers self plan their trip, we cannot book your flights, hotels, visas or connections for you. We may make a small commission if you click on any of our recommendation links.

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The Grand Mosque has re-opened post-COVID, and border crossing restrictions between the Emirates have been abolished. As of 7 November 2022, you no longer require any sort of PCR testing, nor evidence of vaccination against COVID-19 in order to enter public spaces in Abu Dhabi emirate.

Things To Know About The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque

Before diving into the details of how to get there, let’s look at just a few fabulous facts about the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque (and why it is absolutely worth the day trip from Dubai!)

• The Grand Mosque is named after the country’s founding father, the Late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al-Nahyan “May Allah rest his soul in peace”.
• The Mosque is an active house of worship, capable of housing 41,000 worshippers at capacity – 10,000 inside and 31,000 in the external courtyards.
• The building of the Mosque was completed in 2007 with the craftsmanship of 38 contractors and thousands of workers from around the world.
• It holds several “largest in the world” claims to fame – including the largest hand-woven carpet at 5,627 sqm and the largest marble mosaic floor in its 17,000 sqm courtyard.
• HH Sheikh Zayed is laid to rest in a mausoleum on the Mosque grounds. Two Imans read the Quran here 24 hours a day.

How To Get To The Grand Mosque From Dubai

There are limited public transport options between Abu Dhabi and Dubai, as we discuss here, so our best-recommended method of getting from Dubai to Abu Dhabi to see the Grand Mosque are:

1. Take A Taxi – approximately 1.5 hours, depending on where you set out from; expect to pay around AED 300-350 one-way for a metered taxi.
2. Join A Tour Group – 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on the departure point and how many pickups they make. A tour guide, meals, and multiple tourist stops are likely to be thrown in, so the price is very variable per person – more below!
3. Hire a Private Driver – taking approximately 1.5 hours; this is the best choice if you prefer door-to-door service and like the personal touch – ideal if you are a family or small group looking to split the cost. You can try a service such as GetTransfer to have private drivers bid on your journey and get a competitive price.
4. Self Drive – 1 to 1.5 hours – If you are a confident driver, pick up a hire car in Dubai and take the E11 all the way to Abu Dhabi.
5. Take a public bus – 2 to 2.5 hours, depending on your starting point; more below!

Public Transport Dubai to Abu Dhabi to see the Grand Mosque

There are two different Intercity bus routes that you can take from Dubai to central Abu Dhabi, each costing AED 25 one way.

• The first bus leaves from Al Ghubaiba Bus Station (Route 100) approx every 20-35 minutes and terminates at Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station (Al Wadha Mall)
• The second leaves from Ibn Battuta Mall (Route 101) approx every 20-35 minutes and also terminates at Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station.

From Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station, you then need to catch a local Abu Dhabi bus service 94 to the Grand Mosque.

Note you can use your Nol card to get to Abu Dhabi on the InterCity bus, but from the Abu Dhabi Central Bus Station to the Grand Mosque, you need a Hafilat card to use local public transport in the capital.

You can learn more about the public bus service from Dubai to Abu Dhabi here

• Once you’re in Abu Dhabi, tourists can also avail the FREE Visit Abu Dhabi shuttle buses. They are not super frequent, but if you’re travelling on a budget, these can be a great way to get about in Abu Dhabi. Look for Route B2 (stops near Al Wadha Mall) to take you to the Grand Mosque.

Organised Tours From Dubai to Abu Dhabi

You can join a larger tour group and simply use this as a form of transportation or hire a personal guide and driver.

This can certainly take the stress out of self-driving, but do note a lot of the tour buses from Dubai arrive “en masse”. If you want crowd-free photos, self-driving, taxi or private Abu Dhabi tours are the better way to go.

More Facts And Visitor Information To Know About Visiting The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque As A Tourist

Do I need to be Muslim to visit?

Not at all. The Grand Mosque is open to everyone as long as they treat it in a respectful way (including conservative dress).

There are certain areas of active worship and Friday mornings when visits are limited to worshippers only.

Otherwise, you can attend the Grand Mosque any time during opening hours.

Learn more about other Dubai mosques that allow visitors

What should I wear to the Grand Mosque?

It is always advisable as a tourist in Abu Dhabi to dress conservatively. The Abu Dhabi Grand Mosque – and in fact, any religious or Government building in the UAE – has a much higher dress standard than, say, a Mall or public promenades.

For women, you must have arms and legs completely covered and your head. The only skin that can show is your hands, feet, and face.  If you are not adequately dressed (don’t worry, this applies to most tourists), you will be sent to purchase an abaya or Shayla in the adjoining boutiques as you enter the mosque. These are around AED 40 – 80 for something cheap.

This is all part of the experience, so embrace it! But please don’t think this means you should wear the skimpiest outfit underneath!

For men, they should be in long trousers and sleeves. If they have shorts on, they will also be asked to purchase something more suitable before entering.

Please note! since COVID the ability to hire appropriate clothing for free to enter the Grand Mosque has been suspended and doesn’t look like it will return. If you turn up with in appropriate clothing, you will be redirected by security staff to a small strip of shopping boutiques to buy the right attire. They are relatively inexpensive, but you may want to BYO from Dubai if you’re hitting the souks, consider it a souvenir of your time in the UAE!

Security stringently enforces the appropriate wearing of your outfits throughout your visit – you can find a really detailed guide to the Grand Mosque dress code here.

Note, part of the tour involves you taking off your shoes to walk through the Mosque itself; consider nice socks too, or having your toenails painted for this!! And remember where you left your shoes!!!

Do I need to pay to go into the Grand Mosque?

It’s absolutely free.  The Mosque is for the people; as such, no charge is levied on worshippers or visitors. Even cultural tours are provided for free.

However, they will issue you an entry ticket where you need to give some personal details. This can be done online in advance here to save time.

Do I need to book a tour of the Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi?

If you come with a tour guide, they may include a personal tour guide within the price you paid.

Otherwise, the best alternative option to make sure you get the best out of your Grand Mosque visit is to get involved with one of the FREE mosque cultural tours.

These are held throughout the day with no need to pre-book.

Opening times for the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque.

• Saturday through Thursday, 9:00 AM to 10:00 PM
• Friday 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM & 3:00 PM to 10:00 PM

Tours are conducted in English and Arabic and last around 45 minutes, with an opportunity to ask further questions at the end. It is not customary to tip for this tour.

Note opening hours and tour times are adjusted during the Holy Month of Ramadan – Find the revised opening hours for Ramadan here

For more on what to expect at the Grand Mosque including photography tips, see this article.

Best Accommodation Near The Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi has plentiful accommodation choices. Our favourites close to the Grand Mosque, or with spectacular views back over the canal towards the Grand Mosque are:

• Pure Luxury: The Ritz Carlton Abu Dhabi
• Indulgent but fairly priced: The Fairmont Bab al Bahr
• Budget but excellent choice: Traders Hotel Qaryat Al Beri by Shangri-La

More To See In Abu Dhabi

For a long time, the Grand Mosque was probably Abu Dhabi’s most prominent and the only drawcard getting tourists to trek the 160km journey from Dubai.

However, many more tourist highlights now warrant at least a full-day trip to Abu Dhabi, if not longer.

Look out for Abu Dhabi tours that will also include:

• The Louvre Abu Dhabi – a stunning Museum on Saadiyat Island that covers the history of humanity in a superb waterfront setting. Open Tuesday to Sunday; Closed Mondays. Paid Entry.

• Qasr al Watan – the Presidential Palace of the United Arab Emirates is a stunning new building to rival the beauty of the Grand Mosque. Open for daily tours. Paid Entry.

• Qasr al Hosn – a brilliant insight into the history of the United Arab Emirates and Abu Dhabi from early Bedouin days through to the discovery of oil, federation, and the modern-day city. Open Daily,Paid Entry.

We explain here how to get from Dubai to the Louvre and Qasr al Watan with a free shuttle service from Dubai. You can also check out our complete guide for things to do in Abu Dhabi over on our partner site www.abudhabitravelplanner.com for more of the city’s spectacular cultural sites and entertainment.

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Please note we are not a travel agency. This site is a travel blog to help newcomers to the UAE and transit passengers self plan their trip, we cannot book your flights, hotels, visas or connections for you. We may make a small commission if you click on any of our recommendation links.

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What to Expect at Etihad Museum

Etihad Museum is a museum focused on the contemporary history of the UAE. Packed full of documentary films, photographs and artefacts along with interactive displays which lead us from the trucial states to the United Arab Emirates as we know them today.

A Short History of the UAE

The museum sets out through interactive displays and memorabilia the historic milestones leading up to the Unification of the United Arab Emirates in 1971 and a homage to the country’s seven founding fathers.

The primary focus of the Etihad museum is the era from 1968 to 1974, during the country’s crucial years on the road to unification.

You can learn more about each of the seven Emirates of the UAE here.

The Etihad Museum – What’s Inside

Spread over 25,000 sqm, the museum is located on the same historical site as Union House, the very place where the constitution was signed in 1971.

Housed in a magnificent new building located near Port Rashid, Etihad Museum offers a series of interactive pavilions where visitors can explore the UAE’s history. The museum was inaugurated on the country’s 45th anniversary, 2 December 2016.

The museum grounds consist of a visitor’s pavilion, Union House and the Guest Palace. Much of the collection is underground, with permanent and temporary exhibits on offer, as well as a theatre, a library and educational areas.

Visitors Pavillion

Part of the splendour of the museum is the building itself. The unique curved white roof of the museum was inspired by the shape of the constitution – it resembles a folded manuscript. The building is adorned with seven gold columns, which symbolise the pens used to sign the agreement. The visitors’ Pavillion was designed by Canadian architects Moriyama and Teshima.

You first arrive in the Founding Father’s Hall, where you can learn more about each of the Sheikhs from the seven Emirates of the UAE, with family trees and artefacts. Through a series of documentary films, photos and artefacts, you are then stepped back in time to the 1950s when oil was first discovered and onwards to the withdrawal of the British in 1968.

Your journey continues through the historical milestones in the years leading up to and immediately following unification. The Trucial states are discussed in detail through news clippings and photographs, including how Bahrain and Qatar came to be (though I felt it was a little mute on why Ras Al Khaimah didn’t join the union as the 7th Emirate until 1972 – you’ll see here just six of the Founding Fathers in December 1971 – logos subsequently shown of this historic occassion depict all seven leaders).

Union House & Flag Pole

The historical significance of the location is that the museum is built on the exact site of the signing of the Unification. This incredibly humble round building is most-oft completely neglected off most tourists’ itineraries but is a hugely significant landmark building in terms of the UAE’s history.

We understand free tours are available around Union house; however, at the time of our last visit, there did not seem to be running (it might be by appointment only or only when they have a group booking or school group).

Adjacent, you will find the impressive 123-metre-tall flag pole on which the UAE flag was first raised.

Entry Costs for Etihad Museum

• Adult: 25 AED
• Group: 20 AED
• Student: 10 AED (aged 5 to 24)
• People of Determination: Free
• Child: Free (under 5)

Learn more on the Museum’s website here

The website is sadly not kept very well up to date with current events and workshops; it may be best to call or email in advance to see if there are any special events or exhibits planned to coincide with your visit (staff will speak both English & Arabic).

Phone: 800 33 222

Email: Etihad.Museum@dubaiculture.ae

What is the Best Time to Visit Etihad Museum

The Etihad Museum is open Daily 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM (last entry 7:00 PM)

There is no busy time of day for the Etihad Museum; it is a quiet and less frequented Dubai attraction.  The only thing you may want to be mindful of is any formal events or VIP visits that may be happening on any given day.

They have added daily guided tours to their schedule at 12:00 PM and 5:00 PM.

Do note, during local school term time you are likely to encounter school groups from roughly opening until 2:00 pm in the afternoon. You may wish to avoid these times as independent travellers

How to Get to Etihad Museum

Etihad Musem is in the Port Rashid area of the city, on Jumeirah Road. You will find it adjacent to the end of 2 December Street, which runs all the way through to the World Trade Centre Roundabout.

Slightly off the normal tourist trail, there are no direct public transport links however a taxi should have no problem dropping you off (they may better recognise if you say Union House rather than Etihad Museum, depending on how new they are to the city!)

So is Etihad Museum worth a stop?

I’ll be honest, from a resident’s point of view, it may be visually beautiful but not the most exciting of Dubai’s museums. Being such recent history, I think the museum lacks depth and detail that goes further into the country’s past. A beautifully crafted story and journey with state-of-the-art modern displays, but I felt missing so many parts of the story that would intrigue outsiders to the region.

For a visitor who is new to the history of the Emirates, you will certainly find it an educational experience though, and the ticket price won’t break the bank. Its importance as the birthplace of the Emirates is something every Emirati and expat alike should experience at some time during their stay in the country.

Frequently Asked Questions for Visiting Etihad Museum

Where to Stay Near Etihad Museum

The Etihad Museum isn’t directly attached to a major shopping mall or hotel district of the city. However, you will find plenty of affordable places to stay nearby in Bur Dubai.

The closest place to stay is Holiday Inn Express Dubai Jumeirah. Alternatively, try Nikki Beach at Pearl Jumeirah, or head slightly further along the coast for Rove La Mer Beach and the many luxurious resort hotels of Jumeirah Beach.

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Please note we are not a travel agency. This site is a travel blog to help newcomers to the UAE and transit passengers self plan their trip, we cannot book your flights, hotels, visas or connections for you. We may make a small commission if you click on any of our recommendation links.

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Known as the cultural capital of the UAE, you will find everything from art galleries to museums and various events in this city. And, when it comes to museums, there’s one for everything in Sharjah! Cars, planes, science, technology, architecture, you name it!

There are around 13 museums in Sharjah that everyone should tour when visiting this beautiful city. However, we have picked out the top six best museums in Sharjah that every newcomer to the country should start with.

Top 6 Museums and Cultural Sites in Sharjah

Here are 6 of the top museums and cultural sites in Sharjah that are worth a cultural day trip from Dubai:

1. Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilization

Ever wondered how Islam originated, evolved, and reached every nook of the world? You will find all your answers at the Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilization!

With a magnificent structure comprising 2 floors, the museum will take you through the history of Islam, its culture, faith, scientific accomplishments, and various other artefacts that will leave you wowed!

The ground floor has everything from the rituals of the religion to its impact on science, maths, and astronomy. The first and second floors have 1400 years of woodworks, ceramics, jewellery, textiles, and coin collections of different Islamic eras.

So, if you want to know about the roots of the Arab and Islamic culture and how it changed in all these years, the Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilization is a must-go place.

Timings for Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilization

• Saturday to Thursday: 8:00 am to 8:00 pm
• Fridays: 4:00 pm to 8:00 pm

Entry Fees

• AED 10 for adults
• AED 5 for kids 2 to 12 years
• Kids under 2 can enter for free

For more information, please visit the Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilization.

2. Sharjah Natural History Museum and Desert Park

If you want to learn about the flora and fauna of the UAE and how several natural processes take place, the Sharjah Natural History Museum and Desert Park will help you understand everything in a fun and innovative way.

The museum and park comprise 3 sections: The Natural History Museum, the Arabian Wildlife Center, and the Children’s Farm.

At the museum, you will learn about how this Earth came into being and how micro-organisms and other species evolved. You will also find an impressive collection of all 52 plants mentioned in the Quran. There’s also a section dedicated to fossils and taxidermies of extinct animals.

The wildlife center has various Arabian wildlife in their natural habitat, while the farm has an indoor and outdoor area where children can interact with the animals, including donkeys, camels, Arabian horses, chickens, ducks, etc.

Timings for Sharjah Natural History Museum and Desert Park

• Sat – Wed: 9:00 am to 5:30 pm
• Thursday: 11:30 am to 5:30 pm
• Fridays: 2:00 pm to 5:30 pm

Entry Fees

• AED 15 for adults
• AED 5 for kids 12 to 16 years
• Kids under 12 can enter for free

3. Sharjah Classic Car Museum

If you’re into vintage cars, the Sharjah Classic Car Museum is just the place where you should be!

It has an impressive collection of the classic 4-wheeled beauties from the beginning of the 20th century, complete with how they were manufactured and their company stories. The oldest car displayed in the museum dates back to 1915!

Apart from the old-school cars, you will also find the evergreen masterpieces like Rolls Royce, Bentley, Chevrolet, Mercedes, and Ford. You can check out the interior of the vehicles, the engines and other specifications. Plus, there are many interactive activities for the visitors.

So, whether you’re visiting Sharjah or reside there, the Sharjah Classic Car Museum is one of the places you should definitely visit with your family.

Timings For Sharjah Classic Car Museum

• Saturday to Thursday: 8:00 am to 8:00 pm
• Fridays: 4:00 pm to 8:00 pm

Entry Fees

• AED 5 for adults (13 years and above)
• Kids under 13 can enter for free

For more information, please visit the Sharjah Classic Car Museum.

4. Sharjah Archaeology Museum

How about learning more about the UAE? How it came into being? Who were the early settlers? And how did it become what it is today? At the Sharjah Archaeology Museum, you will find out about the history of the UAE and its cities.

Visit this amazing museum and get a chance to travel 125,000 years back in time! In this place, you will find jewellery, pottery, weapons, and other historical artefacts that give you an insight into the lifestyle of the early inhabitants of this region.

The highlights of the Sharjah Archaeology Museum are a 2000-year-old bridle from Mleiha, skeletons of 500 nomads from a Stone Age graveyard, and several pieces of ancient Arabic art.

If you have kids, there are interactive displays, short films, and informative exhibits sure to grab their attention and keep them entertained.

So, plan a visit to this information-packed museum with your kids and get to know about the history of Sharjah!

Timings

• Saturday to Thursday: 8:00 am to 8:00 pm
• Fridays: 4:00 pm to 8:00 pm

Entry Fees

• AED 10 for adults (13 years and above)
• AED 5 for kids 2 to 12 years old.
• Kids under 2 and adults over 60 can enter for free

For more information, please visit the Sharjah Archaeological Museum.

6. Sharjah Maritime Museum

As Sharjah is a coastal city, it’s no wonder that it is home to the famous Sharjah Maritime Museum.

In this museum, you will find majestic ships from the past and the interesting stories connected to them. Also, you will get a chance to learn about the historical fishing methods and how the region’s early inhabitants used the sea for trade purposes.

The highlight of the Sharjah Maritime Museum is the huge Emirati ship displayed right at the front, which is open for exploration. So, if your kids accompany you, they’ll have a great time at this museum!

But that’s not all! The museum also houses precious Arabian pearls of the sea back from the day, collected by the early residents.

So, dazzle yourself with the fascinating marine history of Sharjah, and visit the Sharjah Maritime Museum!

Timings For Sharjah Maritime Museum

• Saturday to Thursday: 8:00 am to 8:00 pm
• Fridays: 4:00 pm to 10:00 pm

Entry Fees

• AED 10 for adults (13 years and above)
• AED 5 for kids 2 to 12 years old
• Free entry for kids under 2

For more information, please visit the Sharjah Maritime Museum.

These were the top 6 museums in Sharjah that are worth visiting; however, there are many other museums that you can visit on your trip to Sharjah.

Other Museums in Sharjah

Here’s a list of other museums in Sharjah that are as interesting and informative as the ones discussed above:

• Al Mahatta Museum: A museum displaying old aircraft.

• Sharjah Heritage Museum: A museum about the culture and tradition of early Sharjah inhabitants.

• Sharjah Fort: A museum about defence strategies from 196 years ago for safekeeping the city.

• Sharjah Science Museum: A museum about life, space, science, and technology.

• Sharjah Calligraphy Museum: A museum displaying calligraphic art by local and other Arab artists.

How to Get to Sharjah From Dubai

Sharjah is the Emirate immediately to the east of Dubai, the city centre is around 30 kilometres away by car, taxi or bus.

Driving your own car or a taxi will take approximately 20 to 30 minutes via E11 (though be prepared for fast-paced, and solid traffic).

If you go by bus, there are many different routes crossing between Dubai and Sharjah, terminating or passing through Al Jubail Bus Station. From there, you can catch local bus services to key attractions. The bus fare from Dubai can be purchased using your Nol card, expect to pay AED 10.

Once in Sharjah, the Hop on Hop Off Tourist bus is a great way of getting between Sharjah’s key attractions we’ve listed here.

Another alternative is to hire a guide and driver who will accompany you to several destinations on this list and will include a pick-up from your Dubai hotel.

More Historical Sites in the UAE

If you’re a history buff, or simply enjoy learning more about the cultural side of the UAE, then a day tour to Sharjah is a must during your Dubai vacation.

Planning a trip to the museums in Sharjah is the best way to know about the region’s history, religion, culture, and traditions, as these museums are famous for the in-depth information displayed in an interactive way.

So, if you want to know more about the historical roots of the UAE without getting bored, tour these 6 best Sharjah museums and get ready to be blown away!

For more on UAE culture:

• Learn more about the best Museums in Dubai

• Take a stroll through Dubai’s past at Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood

• The birthplace of a leader, culture lovers will also want to check out the Al Shindagha historic district of Dubai to learn more about the formation of Dubai and early trade routes

• And to understand how the seven emirates were formed, don’t miss a visit to the Etihad Museum

• For a further understanding of Islam, we highly recommend you visit one of the Dubai mosques open to the public.

• Check out our complete guide to Dubai’s historical places

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Please note we are not a travel agency. This site is a travel blog to help newcomers to the UAE and transit passengers self plan their trip, we cannot book your flights, hotels, visas or connections for you. We may make a small commission if you click on any of our recommendation links.

Dubai Travel Planner

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The area is flanked by Port Rashid on one side and Al Fahidi historical district on the other.

While lesser known than Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood, the historical significance of Al Shindagha is unmistakable not only from the strategic location at the beginning of the Dubai Creek, it is further reinforced by close ties to the ruling family of Dubai, the Maktoums.

The area has been dedicated to showcasing Emirati history and culture since 1997, when the Heritage Village opened to the public.

Today, the area is home to Al Shindagha Museum and is part of a larger conservation area included in the Dubai Historical District.

A Brief History of Dubai

Dubai started out as a small fishing settlement located around the Creek, a natural water inlet, and pearl diving activity has been recorded as far back as the 16^th century.

Al Shindagha is situated right by the mouth of the Creek as it flows into the Persian Gulf, next to Port Rashid. This is one of the oldest neighbourhoods of Dubai and has been inhabited for centuries.

In 1833 a large section of the Bani Yas tribe settled on the banks of the Creek in Shindahga. The Maktoums belong to the Al Falasi branch of the Bani Yas tribe, which originated out of Saudi Arabia.

By the turn of the 20^th century, the first freezone had been created, which helped establish Dubai as a hub for the pearling industry and wider trade. Fishermen from Iran were persuaded to stay in Dubai to benefit from the tax free conditions.

By the 1920s the population had reached nearly 20,000 residents. Whilst Dubai had prospered during the growth of the pearling industry, it was impacted by the global economic recession during the 20s and 30s.

Around the same time, Japan introduced the cultured pearl, and the production of high-quality pearls at a fraction of the price had devastating consequences for the pearl diving industry in Dubai.

Seeing Dubai through this financially turbulent period was the then ruler of Dubai, Sheikh Saeed Al Maktoum. Throughout his rule from 1912 to 1958 when he passed away, Sheikh Saeed kept his main residence in Al Shindagha.

This is where Sheikh Saeed’s son, Sheikh Rashid Bin Saaed Al Maktoum, who steered Dubai through the oil boom through to diversification, spent his formative years, and current ruler, Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid al Maktoum, was born at the family residence in 1949.

Al Shindagha is quite literally the birthplace of the great visionaries of Dubai. 

Al Shindagha Historical District

The main attraction of Al Shindagha Historic District is the Shindagha Museum. It comprises a small enclave of traditional buildings recreating the residential area. Some of the foundations of the buildings date back to pre- 1900s.

They have been sympathetically restored, using original materials and the many wind towers showcase the iconic local architecture. A few modern twists have been incorporated into the architecture to update and innovate the visitor experience.

The museum was established in order to give visitors a unique insight into the historical perspective of Dubai and the birth of the city. Like the neighbouring areas of Al Fahidi and Al Seef, you will feel transported back in time, when you wander the narrow lanes between each building.

As a visitor, you start at the Welcome Centre and you are then invited to visit themed pavilions each dedicated to different aspects of Emirati history, life and culture. You can learn about the Maktoum family and see their family residence as part of Governance and Society.

The perfume house and jewellery-making are part of Creativity and Well-being. Living of the Sea and Land takes you through the significance of the fishing and pearling industry for the region, as well as the challenges of living in the desert. There is a great selection of artefacts on display, supporting the carefully curated visitor journey around the museum.

The museum has gone to great lengths to ensure that you will have an engaging and interactive experience of the history of Al Shindagha, the area around the Creek and wider Dubai.

Further Dubai & UAE History

You may wish to extend your visit to Al Shindagha by also visiting the Etihad Museum, less than 5 minutes away by taxi.

Whilst Al Shingadha is focused on the history of Dubai, Etihad Museum walks visitors through the journey of the United Arab Emirates and is home to Union House where the constitution was signed in 1971, bringing together the UAE.

You can find out more about all of Dubai’s Museums and historic buildings here.

How to get to Al Shindagha Historic District

Al Shindahga is very well situated if travelling by public transport.

The closest metro and bus station is Al Ghubaiba, which is only a two minutes walk from the Shindagha Museum.

If you opt to arrive by Dubai Ferry, alight at the Al Ghubaiba Marine Transport Station just one minute from the entrance to the museum.

If you are travelling by car, there is public parking along Khaleej Street. You can also park at the Shindagha City Centre Parking, which is about 10 minutes away from the museum on foot.

Opening hours and entrance fees for Al Shindagha

The museum is open 7 days between 10:00 am and 8:00 pm

Special Ramadan hours are from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm

Entry fees are 50 AED per adult, 20 AED for students and children, and 40 AED per person for groups of 10 or more. People of determination, children below five, and over 60s are free.

Tickets can be booked in advance here as well as at the main entrance. 

Family group? Check out the Al Shindagha Family Pass (valid to May 29, 2023)

Learn more at Dubai Culture or on Instagram @alshindaghamuseum

A UNESCO World Heritage Site?

The areas of Shindagha and Al Fahidi, along with Deira, have been the cornerstone of a UNESCO World Heritage Site bid going back to 2012.

Originally the bid included the entire area around the Creek (Khor), starting at the port all the way to Al Maktoum Bridge.

The bid then went through several different iterations, and it was ultimately withdrawn entirely in 2018, due to ongoing developments in the area.

The only UNESCO World Heritage Site currently listed in the UAE is the Cultural Sites of Al Ain – which you can visit on a day trip from Dubai.

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Please note we are not a travel agency. This site is a travel blog to help newcomers to the UAE and transit passengers self plan their trip, we cannot book your flights, hotels, visas or connections for you. We may make a small commission if you click on any of our recommendation links.

Dubai Travel Planner

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With traditional houses and winding streets, it is like stepping back in time to life at a slower pace. Part of Bur Dubai, this district is the oldest part of Dubai, and the area pays homage to the rich heritage of this modern metropolis.

Brief Historical Background of Dubai

Dubai was established in the 18^th century on the banks of the Creek and quickly grew from a sleepy fishing village to a port town of prominence, largely due to its proximity to Iran. As the trade and pearling industry flourished, so did Dubai.

Despite a period of depression in the early 20^th Century, the city continued to grow as Sheikh Rashid bin Saeed Al Maktoum established the foundations of the city.

When oil was discovered in the mid-60s, Sheikh Rashid’s plans were given a significant boost, and the city as we know it grew at an unprecedented speed.

Bur Dubai is home to the oldest part of the city, and the Al Fahidi neighbourhood was saved from demolition in the 1980s and restored to protect the heritage and history of the area.

Exploring Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood

Through narrow alleys and winding lanes, you can explore a forgotten Arabia. The buildings are made with traditional materials such as coral, stone, mud and wood, and the iconic wind towers crown the structures in testimony to local engineering expertise.

The area is dedicated to the preservation and celebration of Emirati history and culture. With several cultural centres and small museums dotted around, there are ample opportunities to get an insight into Dubai and the wider region.

Al Fahidi Fort & Dubai Museum

The oldest building in Dubai, the Al Fahidi Fort, is located in this area and dates back to 1787. It opened as Dubai Museum in 1971. The museum is well worth a visit; however, it is currently closed due to much-needed renovation.

We do not have a reopening date as yet.

There’s plenty more still to be explored though in this historic area of the city. Among the many other places to explore in the Al Fahidi District, do seek out the following highlights:

Coffee Museum

Dedicated to all things coffee, this museum is well worth a visit. Coffee plays a big part in Emirati culture along with the wider Middle East, and here you can learn all about the cultural significance of this drink.

You can discover the history of coffee, and get an insight into production processes and the many varieties of beans, along with different coffee cultures throughout the world. Of course, don’t forget to sample some coffee in the café and stock up on coffee brewing accessories at the museum shop.

Opening hours: Saturday to Thursday 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, Fridays closed

Learn more at CoffeeMuseum.ae or on Instagram @coffeemueum

Coin Museum

While the Coin Museum is a definite must-visit for any coin enthusiast, it will also appeal to someone with a historical interest in the region.

The compact museum showcases nearly 500 coins mainly from the Arab world from different time periods and geographical locations. The display allows you to inspect each coin closely and gives you details of the minting date, shape and material.

Housed in a traditional coral, stone, and sandalwood building, the collections are displayed in eight rooms.

Opening hours: Monday to Thursday 8:00 AM – 3:00 PM, Friday 8:00 AM – 11.30 AM, Saturday & Sunday Closed

Learn more at Coin Museum or on Instagram @coinmuseum

Where to next? Continue exploring along the Dubai Creek

Looking beyond Al Fahidi district, there are many areas worth exploring.

Follow the Creek inland and you will reach Al Seef, a waterfront promenade that marries old historical architecture with modern designs. There is a great selection of shops and eateries on offer, and the Museum of Illusions is located here.

You can also opt to take in the views from the water and jump on an abra cruise from one of the water stations, or pop into one of the dozen or so restaurants here, including Al Fanar for Emirati cuisine.

Head in the opposite direction, along the Creek through the Textile Souk, and you reach the Bur Dubai Abra Station. 

Pay 1 dirham to cross the Creek the traditional way. From here you can explore the old Spice Souk and a little further along you will reach the busy streets of the Gold Souk.

We talk more about all the old souks of Dubai here.

Transport to Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood

The neighbourhood is easily reached on public transport.

Al Fahidi is the closest Metro station, or nearby you’ll find Al Ghubaiba bus stop. There is RTA parking in close proximity for those preferring to drive.

Heritage Express

Whilst in the Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood you may well spot the “Heritage Express” red trolleys.

Privately run tours with SMCCU, there are several different daily programs running that commence from Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood including:

• The Emirati Hospitality Experience (from 230 AED pp, 4 hours)
• Culture on Wheels (from 150 AED pp, 2.5 hours)
• VIP tour (from 500 AED pp, 4 hours)

NB Children 6 to 12 are half price, 5’s and under are free.

Learn more at heritageexpress.com

These trolley tours can be a great way to get between the city’s key historic sites with a personal tour guide. Stops include Jumeirah Mosque, Al Shindagha and Etihad Museum (Union House), plus a visit to a desert bedouin visit.

Opening Hours for Al Fahidi

While the district is open, please be mindful of the individual opening hours for each venue within the neighbourhood.

Places to Stay in and near Al Fahidi

Staying inside al Fahidi itself, XVA Art Hotel offers an excellent boutique hotel option.

A little further along, there is the Al Seef Heritage Hotel Dubai, Curio Collection by Hilton, or across the Creek you find a Radisson Blu offering stunning views of the heritage area.

More FAQ for Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood

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Please note we are not a travel agency. This site is a travel blog to help newcomers to the UAE and transit passengers self plan their trip, we cannot book your flights, hotels, visas or connections for you. We may make a small commission if you click on any of our recommendation links.

Dubai Travel Planner

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There is far more to the UAE than just Dubai. In fact, Dubai might be the most populous, but it is only the second-largest Emirate, or “state” in the UAE – and even then, it only makes up 5% of the landmass of the UAE.

There are seven Emirates in the UAE. The 7 Emirates of UAE in order are (by total area):

• Abu Dhabi (67,340 km²)
• Dubai (3,885 km²)
• Sharjah (2,590 km²)
• Ras Al Khaimah – RAK (2,486 km²)
• Fujairah (1,165 km²)
• Umm al-Quwain – UAQ (777 km²)
• Ajman (259 km²)

So, as you can see, the Emirate of Abu Dhabi is by far the largest in the United Arab Emirates but NOT the most populous. Dubai is firmly the largest city in the UAE in terms of population.

Map of the 7 Emirates of the United Arab Emirates

The United Arab Emirates is a Middle East country facing the Persian Gulf to the north and the Gulf of Oman to the east. The UE shares a land border with Oman and Saudi Arabia.

What else do I need to know about the United Arab Emirates?

Here are just a few facts that visitors to the UAE should know about the country’s political system and recent history.

When did the UAE become united as one country?

The UAE was formed in 1971 under a Federal Constitutional Monarchy with six of today’s seven Emirates.  (Ras al Khaimah later joined the UAE in February 1972, making the seven Emirates of the UAE that we know today).

Prior to this time, the Emirates were known as the Trucial States, Sheikdoms that were allied with the UK since the 1820s but not united. In 1968, the British announced the withdrawal of their protectorate, and discussions began to form a new country.

Every year, on 2 December, the country celebrates its birthday with extravagant National Day celebrations.

Each of the individual Emirates, or Sheikhdoms as they are also known, is ruled by a Sheikh (rather than an Emir, as you may expect). These seven Sheikhs are members of the ruling Federal Supreme Council.

Who is the ruler of the UAE?

The Federal Supreme Council elects the President of the United Arab Emirates.  Since the country’s unification, this has been the ruler of Abu Dhabi Emirate, while the ruler of Dubai has held the role of the country’s Vice President and Prime Minister.

At present, the country’s President is HH Sheikh Mohamed Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, the third son of the founding father, Sheikh Zayed Bin Sultan al Nahyan. He is often referred to colloquially as MBZ.

He took over from his older half-brother HH Sheikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, upon his passing in May 2022 (although he has been the de facto leader of the country as Crown Prince since early 2014 after Sheikh Khalifa suffered a stroke).

Who is the ruler of Dubai then?

Since the 1830s, Dubai’s ruling family has been the Al Maktoums, and since January 2006, Emir HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum has been the ruler of Dubai, as well as elected Vice President & Prime Minister of UAE.

The Crown Prince of Dubai is Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum.

Where is the capital of the UAE?

The capital city of the United Arab Emirates is Abu Dhabi. Qasr al Watan in Abu Dhabi is the Presidential Palace and where the Federal Supreme Council meets, as well as the Federal Cabinet. Federal government departments are found in Abu Dhabi.

Which Emirate has the largest population in the UAE?

The Emirate of Dubai is the hands-down winner when it comes to being the most populous city and Emirate. Despite the city of Abu Dhabi being the capital, and the Emirate of Abu Dhabi having by far the largest land area and oil production, Dubai has the greater number of residents.

The current estimate (as of mid-2023) is that the population of Dubai Emirate exceeds 4.1 million people – about 43% of the UAE’s total population.  Of those, only around 10% are native Emirati; the vast majority of the population is expatriate workers from all over the world. At least 3.6 million are thought to live in Dubai city.

Where is all the oil from in the UAE?

The vast majority of oil reserves are in the Abu Dhabi Emirate. Dubai only accounts for about 4 billion barrels of oil from proven reserves; oil is not a major part of Dubai’s economy.

Although the discovery of oil is undoubtedly what helped build the current mega-city of Dubai, it reportedly only makes up about 1% of the Emirates GDP as of 2022. Real estate, construction, trade, finance and tourism are much larger sectors.

Local Governments of the seven Emirates of the UAE

Like many countries around the world, the UAE’s Federal Constitution keeps many powers within each individual Emirate, rather than at a Federal level. You can learn more about local Governance here.

Do the Emirates have different flags?

Although united under the one flag of Red, Green, White and Black, each Emirate still retains its own flag, though you rarely see these displayed.

What is there to see and do in the other Emirates?

Great question! We are just finishing putting together guides for each of the other six Emirates of the UAE that you may want to incorporate into a trip to Dubai.

In the meantime, you can see our guide to the best Dubai day trips here

What do the other Emirates of the UAE look like?

While you wait for our complete guides, here is just a taster tour through the 7 Emirates of the United Arab Emirates in pictures.

Abu Dhabi

The largest Emirate, rich in coastal vistas, a modern city skyline, and deep desert sand dunes through to Saudi Arabia and Oman, known as “the Empty Quarter.” Most of the UAE’s oil is found in Abu Dhabi and in the adjacent Arabian Gulf.

Famous buildings in Abu Dhabi include the country’s largest mosque, the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, the Presidential Palace Qasr al Watan, the Louvre Abu Dhabi, and the Yas Marina Grand Prix Circuit on Yas Island, also home to four world-class theme parks. Learn more about visiting Abu Dhabi here.

Dubai

The largest city and Emirate of the UAE, famous for buildings like the Burj Khalifa, Burj Al Arab, and Dubai Mall as well as tourist attractions such as the Palm Jumeirah, shopping malls, and an abundance of beautiful beaches. Dubai is also rich in desert landscapes and mountains – see all our Dubai attraction guides here.

Sharjah

Most of the city of Sharjah sits immediately next door to Dubai. The Emirate of Sharjah includes a coastal city, as well as rolling sand dunes and incredibly picturesque exclaves and enclaves on the country’s eastern coast including Khor Fakkan and Kalba.

Packed with heritage sites, many galleries, and museums, Sharjah is known as the cultural capital of the UAE.

Ajman

The smallest Emirate hugs a very short coastal stretch close proximity to Sharjah and Umm Al Quwain. The Emirate of Ajman also includes two tiny enclaves in the Hajar Mountains, Masfout and Manama.

Umm Al Quwain

The Emirate of Umm Al-Quwain is made up of a small wetlands coastal strip as well as a fairly flat desert landscape. It is a sparsely populated part of the country.

Ras al Khaimah

A beautiful blend of coastline and beaches, desert sand dunes, and the rugged Hajar Mountains. The emirate of Ras al-Khamaih is known as an adventure playground and also home to peral diving and many heritage sites – learn more about visiting Ras al Khaimah here.

Fujairah

The Emirate of Fujairah is the only one to sit entirely on the east coast between the Gulf of Oman and the Hajar Mountains. This gives Fujairah some of the country’s most picturesque landscapes, sandy beaches and historic sites, including the countries oldest mosque.

We hope you enjoyed learning more about Dubai’s neighbours. Got any questions? Feel free to ask us in the comments below and we’ll do our best to help.

Please note we are not a travel agency. This site is a travel blog to help newcomers to the UAE and transit passengers self plan their trip, we cannot book your flights, hotels, visas or connections for you. We may make a small commission if you click on any of our recommendation links.

Dubai Travel Planner

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Absolutely! We’ve been on the hunt for the city’s best attractions and come up with this incredible list of over 30+ places you can visit and enjoy for free (or really cheap – under 20 AED / $5 USD a person).

Travelling to Dubai on a Budget? You don’t want to miss all our money-saving tips for Dubai here

Watch the Dubai Fountains show

A great starting point for many visitors to Dubai is to head to Downtown Dubai and the Dubai Mall. Every lunchtime and throughout the evening, visitors are treated to the visual spectacle of the Dubai Fountain Show.

Perfect choreographed dancing fountains move to music, ranging from modern pop hits to traditional Arabian music, under the foot of the Burj Khalifa (which also runs its own towering LED light show throughout the evening).

>> You can learn more about the Dubai Fountains, including our favourite viewing spots and timings here.

Enjoy the IMAGINE sound and light show

A nightly show at Dubai Festival City, this sensory experience harnesses the power of light, water and fire in one incredible display, using the world’s largest water projection screen.

Dubai Festival City is a great location for those who want to stay close to Dubai airport and the free shows held hourly between 7:00 pm and 11:00 pm are a fabulous family entertainment option (and in our experience a bit less crowded than the Dubai Fountains).

>> You can learn more about IMAGINE at dubaifestivalcity.com

See the largest fountain show in the world

Just when you thought that was it, along comes another even bigger and better than the last! The Palm Fountain which opened in October 2020 set the Guinness World Record as the largest fountain show in the world. Offering nightly shows every 30 minutes between 7:00 pm and midnight, your best vantage point is from The Pointe entertainment district at the top of the trunk of Palm Jumeirah.

>> Learn more about the Palm Fountain at The Pointe here.

Spot flamingos in the wetlands

Head to the Ras Al Khor wildlife sanctuary on the outskirts of the city to spot over 170 native species that call the protected wetlands area home – the stunning pink flamingos are a crowd favourite. The wetlands are a beautiful free urban oasis with airconditioned viewing platforms and a Lagoon Hide for quiet observation of its residents.

>> Learn more about Ras al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary here

Turtle feeding at Jumeirah Al Naseem

The Dubai Turtle Rehabilitation Project, based inside Jumeirah Al Naseem Hotel (adjacent to Souk Madinat Jumeirah) is a fabulous opportunity to see some of the country’s native turtle species. During the cooler months of the year, a FREE weekly turtle feeding session is held at 11:00 am on a Wednesday. [NB we’re waiting to see if this one returns post-COVID]

The session is only short with priority given to children (and very busy on local school holidays), or you can turn up at any time and try and spot these magnificent creatures floating in the lagoon.

The Walk & The Beach

One of Dubai’s most iconic beachfront and leisure precincts can be found in the JBR area of the city. There are plenty of tourist traps beckoning for your cash along the way, but if you are happy to hold firmly onto your wallet, it costs you nothing to stroll along and enjoy the atmosphere especially beautiful at sunset. The street art installations are popular and in the winter months enjoy The Market.

Soak up the sun at Kite Beach

Although there are plenty of beaches along the Arabain Gulf coast, Kite Beach is one of our favourites for enjoying the rays as the locals do. There are plenty of water sports at Kite Beach, but there’s no entry fee for simply pulling up for a towel and enjoying the sun.

>> You can find out more about Dubai’s most popular free beaches here.

Picnic at Dubai Creek Park

One of the largest parks in Dubai, there’s always a plethora of family activities going on in this green oasis that hugs the western bank of Dubai Creek. Entry is 5 AED per person to access the extensive grounds, botanical gardens, playgrounds and barbeque and picnicking areas. For an extra charge, there is a Dolphanairum, a planetarium in Children’s City and even a cable car for some unique and stunning city views.

>> To learn more about all the family parks in Dubai, run by Dubai Municipality, check out this guide here

Fresh seafood at Jumeirah Fishing Harbour

A little surprise packet tucked away in the more suburban area of Dubai, the Jumeirah Fishing Harbour is a modern dining area giving a traditional touch to the waterfront. The area, close to Mercato Mall has fully revitalised a few years ago. Most come for the fresh seafood and dining options, or simply enjoy the jetty. Coming at dawn is your best time to see the harbour in action.

Enjoy the sunset from the Palm Boardwalk

Covering the outer crescent of the Palm Jumeirah, enjoy a stunning sunset walk around Dubai’s most exclusive resort zone. There are food trucks and benches along the wooden boardwalk for regular stops – though only the fit may be able to cover the whole 11km!

The boardwalk starts from the Rixos Palm Jumeirah Hotel on the Crescent’s east side to the One&Only The Palm on the west side of the crescent – one of the best free things to do on Palm Jumeirah! 

Soak in the beach vibes at La Mer

This fun and funky beachfront area truly is one of the new hot spots in Dubai. Brilliant boardwalk views back to the city skyline, fun and colourful food vans and beach huts give an utterly instagrammable backdrop.

As well as the beach itself, there are loads of free play spaces here for kids and (paid) extras including Hawa Hawa outdoor trampoline park, Roxy Cinemas and Laguna Waterpark. A great place to chill of an evening, even in the hotter months.

>> You can learn more at larmerdubai.ae

Discover Dubai Museum

The culturally curious will be pleased to know there is an extensive line up of museums to explore in Dubai. Most visitors have likely only heard of the Dubai Museum and Al Faihidi Fort, which only cost 3 AED to enter. Don’t let your exploring finish there, however. There are more than a dozen museums to explore around Dubai, many of them situated in the Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood (mostly free or just a few dirhams for entry). Dubai Museum is currently closed for renovations.

>> You can see a complete collection of Dubai’s Museums and historic properties here

Get lost in the streets of Al Fahidi and Al Seef

This brings us nicely to our next suggestion. After completing a tour of the Dubai Museum, the Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood beckons you to come and explore. Many of the city’s original buildings have been wonderfully restored and the narrow alleyways now house galleries to tea houses as well as small museums and the Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding (SMCCU), a key cultural bridge to understanding more about the city, Islamic culture and the people of Dubai.

Many of the events organized by SMCCU used to be free (including cultural meals and mosque tours) but there is now a cover charge for most activities. Do enquire within what is currently on their program, and if you are going to splash the cash for a Dubai experience, this is the one that will deliver the most educational value.

Nearby, the Al Faididi Historical Neighbourhood now seamlessly blends to the modern development of Al Seef, built in the traditional style of “barajeel” wind tower houses. There are plenty of restaurants and tourist traps along the way, but also wonderful shops and instalments to browse as you make your way to Dubai Creek.

Take an Abra Ride across Dubai Creek

An absolute steal at 1 AED for a traditional boat! This is one of the best authentic Dubai experiences as you sail from one side of Dubai Creek to the other. There are pricier options, as well as Dubai Creek Dhow Cruises and dining options, but nothing can beat the wind in your hair on a traditional abra!

Satisfy your senses at the Old Souks

This is a taster of true Dubai, a trading port for well over a century as you make your way through the streets and laneways of Deira on the eastern bank of Dubai Creek. The Gold and Spice Souk are the most famous, but you can also seek out the perfume souk and electronics souk.

Find our complete guide to exploring Dubai’s souks here.

Stroll for a bargain in Meena Bazaar

Often touted as Little India, this is a bargain hunter paradise if you are on the hunt for traditional textiles, jewellery and handicrafts. Situated in the city’s Bur Dubai area, this market area is a colourful collection of shops and laneways, along with cheap South Asian eats.

The area is affectionately nicknamed Meena Bazaar after its counterpart in India and the name has pretty much stuck since the 1970s.  The shopping district is located between Al Fahidi, Al Musalla and Al Ghubaiba streets.

Coffee Museum

Amongst Dubai’s additional museums this is one of our favourites, found at villa 44 Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood. As well as learning more about the origins of coffee production and how coffee is produced around the world, you can sample traditional Emirati coffee too!

If you’ve got some hard-earned dirhams to spare (10 AED), this is where you can sit down for some authentic coffee in the upstairs cafe (includes a kids corner) and also pick up speciality coffees from around the world.

>> Learn more about at coffeemusuem.ae

Al Shindagha Heritage Village

Situated on the banks of Dubai Creek, near Port Rashid is the Al Shindagha Historical District. The area consists of many buildings, including a Heritage Village and several museums. This is a great one to explore if you are interested in the birth of Dubai and the role of Dubai Creek.

Look out for the Diving Museum, Camel Museum, Perfume Museum and Sheikh Saeed al Maktoum House, telling an interesting story of the country’s past.

NB the Museum now has a cover charge of 15 AED for adults, 5 AED students/kids

Dubai Canal Boardwalk

The man-made canal carved into the desert sees Dubai Creek connected to the Arabian Gulf via the city’s Business Bay area. Whilst you can pay to take a ferry or cruise boat down the canal, there is a 3.2km walkway that runs alongside the canal that’s free to stroll along, particularly pretty at night. At Sheikh Zayed Road you can catch the man-made Dubai Waterfall, beautifully lit up at night.

Enjoy a ride on the Dubai Water Bus

Whilst marina cruises in Dubai can be on the pricey side, if you’d still like to enjoy the water, then pop on down to Dubai Marina and catch a leg of the Dubai Water Bus. A single journey for an adult is 3 AED and children are free.

Cool off in the Dubai Marina Walk Fountains

One especially for the little kids (but we won’t judge if the grown-ups want to join!). The beautiful sidewalk fountains can be a savour from the heat and the perfect way to cool off as you make your way around the bustling, modern Dubai Marina area of the city.

Wander City Walk area

In contrast to the older areas of Dubai, the City Walk area of Dubai is a modern entertainment area of the city. There are plenty of paid activities on hand including the Green Planet, Geek Nation and Mattel Play! Town but it’s completely free to stroll around the modern, design-inspired streets and enjoy free street entertainment, particularly in the cooler winter months.

>> Learn more at citywalk.ae

A photo stop at Burj al Arab

OK, you can pretty much put aside your next paycheck if you actually want to go inside the iconic “7-star” hotel, but there are plenty of ways you can catch a glimpse of the iconic sail-shaped landmark. For a close-up view, head to Sunset Beach – which as the name would suggest is perfect for those sunset views.

Alternatively, head to Souk Madinat Jumeirah, from where you can capture beautiful canal views with a Burj al Arab backdrop (the abra boats here run by Jumeirah Hotel are substantially more expensive though than Dubai Creek!)

Fill your senses at the Ripe Market

Enjoy the best of local produce and crafts at Dubai’s favourite pop up market event. A seasonal event it moves destination each year (though seems to have found its permanent home during the 2019-2020 winter season at Academy Park). The Academy Park event is held on every Friday during the winter, and in Umm Sequim on a Saturday.

The market is also held indoors at Times Square Centre every Saturday from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.

>> Learn more at ripeme.com

Explore the world at Global Village

Take a trip around the world at this international showcase event. Held daily over the cooler winter months, Global Village Dubai is like a giant fair of food, entertainment and traditions from over 70 countries.

Entry is only 15 AED and you only pay for any additional activities or food once inside. Food tasters to free dance performances and showground rides, it is truly a global taster session and one of Dubai’s most buzzing evening destinations.

>> Learn more about Dubai Global Village and buy your tickets online

Get into Aquaventure Free

Yes, you read that right! It’s not well-advertised but by registering here, you can get into top rates Dubai water park Aquaventure at Atlantis the Palm for free on your birthday and in the immediate days before and afterwards (redeemable once per year). Other members of your party will need to pay (you’ll get a 20% discount for 2 friends), but a great saving if you have a celebrant in the family!

Enjoy art, fashion & fun at Alserkal Avenue

A modern fun and funky area of Dubai, Alserkal Avenue in Al Quoz is a treasure trove of art galleries, performing arts spaces and artisans working in one creative hub. Food, fashion and fun can be found amongst the warehouses with regular free exhibitions and cultural events happening throughout the year. Some shows and hands-on experiences cost extra.

You can learn more including a program of upcoming events at alserkal.online

Admire Al Qudra & the Love Lakes

The iconic “Love Lakes” are a man-made creation, an extension to Al Qudra Lakes in the desert area of Al Marmoon Desert Conservation Reserve, about 45 minutes outside of Dubai. Entry to the Love Lakes area is free, as is access to the Al Qudra bike track (extra to hire a bike from TrekBikes.ae to use on the track). There’s no public transport this far out of town though so you will need to have your own car.

>> Learn more about accessing Love Lakes Dubai here

Get on your wheels at Nad al Sheba Park

A popular spot for local fitness enthusiasts, the Nad Al Sheba Cycle Park has 4km, 6km and 8km bike paths to suit everyone from beginners to pros as well as a jogging track. Entry is free but if you’re only visiting you’ll need a rental bike at 50 AED.

Camping in the Dubai desert

If a desert safari in Dubai isn’t really your style, there are plenty of places in the Dubai desert where you can pull up your own patch of sand for the night totally free. Granted, you need to be travelling with the right sort of gear and have access to a 4×4, but this is one of the best free activities residents in Dubai can enjoy over the cooler winter months.

>> You can learn more about Dubai’s popular desert camping spots here

Day trip to Hatta

A day trip into the mountains to experience Hatta is not only a hugely rewarding contrast to the city (and often several degrees cooler than being on the coast), you can enjoy many of the sites for free.

The outdoor Hatta Heritage Village is completely free to enter, as is the Hatta Wadi Park and hiking the mountain trails.

>> You can access Hatta from Dubai on the E16 bus for just AED 10.

Free movie under the stars

Dubai’s original outdoor cinema can be found on the rooftop of the Wafi Pyramids Complex every Sunday evening from 8.30 PM. There are giant bean bags to lounge around on for free to the public and popcorn & hotdogs available to purchase – seasonal.

>> You can learn more about the outdoor movie season at wafi.com

View the world’s largest suspended aquarium tank

Inside Dubai Mall, you will find the megalithic 10 million litre Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo tank.  The viewing area in the centre of Dubai Mall stands at an impressive 51m wide and 20m high and is completely free to view from the outside.

There are plenty of add on experiences inside the aquarium if you want to upgrade for the full experience.

>> See how much entry to the aquarium is here.

Get your photograph with the Burj Khalifa

OK, we won’t lie, going up the world’s tallest tower Burj Khalifa is not cheap. But getting your selfie with the Burj is the next best thing right? It’s not easy to fit the whole tower in, but our favourite recommended spot is to head to Burj Park, on the other side of Burj Lake to the Dubai Mall.

Pre-fitted with pretty wings for those insta-moments, here’s your best chance to get the Burj Khalifa in the frame and admire this record-breaking building. (Note they don’t take too fondly to what they consider professional photography, save this experience for your smartphone).

You can also catch a glimpse on your way past of the stunning Dubai Opera House, and head all the way around Burj Lake for Burj Plaza, here you can find the free Downtown Slide! A giant 19m high attraction that older kids and adults will love!

Attended a horse race at Meydan Racecourse

Catch the excitement of racing season from October through to March each year with the Dubai Racing Club.  General Admission is free throughout most of the season (bar the  Dubai World Cup Finale end of March). A great fun way to enjoy the more glamorous side of Dubai without cost.

>> You can learn more at dubaracingclub.com

Watch a camel race

For one of the ultimate cultural experiences in Dubai, you cannot go past attending a camel race at Al Marmoom Camel Race Track. Free to enter and you may even capture a moment where the trainers are happy for you to get up close and personal with the camels. Tracking down the actual camel race timetable has always been notoriously hard but expect most of the action to happen early morning and be all over by 9:00 am.

>> Check out upcoming race schedules (if published) here or try info@dcrc.ae

There’s no denying that Dubai CAN be an expensive city to visit if you choose to enjoy all of the attractions and luxuries on offer. There can be plenty of hidden costs in Dubai too, so do watch out for tourist taxes, particularly if you are dining in a hotel. Street eats are a fabulous way to save money and exploring beyond the main tourist areas.

With some careful planning, there’s plenty that can be enjoyed in Dubai on a budget – and as you’ve seen many incredible attractions are completely free.

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Please note we are not a travel agency. This site is a travel blog to help newcomers to the UAE and transit passengers self plan their trip, we cannot book your flights, hotels, visas or connections for you. We may make a small commission if you click on any of our recommendation links for paid activities.

Dubai Travel Planner

The post 30+ Incredible Places To Visit In Dubai For Free appeared first on Dubai Travel Planner.

It’s no surprise how fascinating mosques are to non-Muslims, the sheer elegance and beauty of the buildings, architecturally stunning and the lessons on Islamic culture they hold within.

Whilst the call to prayer may prick the attention of many a visitor to Dubai, I bet you have been curious, can I actually go inside a mosque?

Unlike many other religious buildings around the world, as a non-Muslim, you should not simply walk up to a mosque in Dubai and expect to be allowed in.  Mosques – also known as Masjid in Arabic – in Dubai are, first and foremost a house of worship, not a tourist attraction.

That said, there ARE a few mosques in Dubai and two others in the UAE that allow non-Muslims to visit, not only admiring their beauty from the outside but providing tours and education programs within.

The most famous that visitors to Dubai are likely to be aware of is the Grand Mosque.  By this, we mean the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque which is actually located in neighbouring city Abu Dhabi, a bit over an hour away from Dubai.

Whilst it is possible to visit Abu Dhabi and the Grand Mosque on a day trip, those tight on time may be looking at options readily available with the city of Dubai.  (We will cover how to see the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque later in this post!)

Note there are also different timings and rules during the Holy Month of Ramadan

Dubai mosques that allow access to non-Muslims

So which beautiful Dubai Mosques will permit you to enter as a non-Muslim?

Jumeirah Mosque

The most well-known mosque in Dubai has been welcoming non-Muslim visitors for educational purposes for many years. Their motto is “Open doors, open minds”.

Guided tours are arranged daily (except Fridays) by The Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Cultural Understanding. They last for 75 minutes and include refreshments.

Did you know… the Jumeirah Mosque adorns the back of the 500 Dirham note!

• Entry: 35 AED
• Timings: 10:00 am & 2:00 pm
• Pre-booking not essential but recommended you arrive 30 minutes before
• Every day except Friday
• Learn more at jumeirahmosque.ae

The SMCCU also orgainse cultural experiences and heritage tours in Dubai’s Al Fahidi Historical District.

Al Farooq Omar Bin Al Khattab Mosque

Built in the late 1980s and renovated in 2003 and 2011, Al Farooq Omar Bin Al Khattab Mosque in Dubai is another mosque in the UAE to welcome non-Muslims. The building complex includes not only a mosque but an Islamic Centre equipped with an extensive library on Islamic teachings. You can learn here about Muslim culture, medicine, art and science as well as Quran lessons.

From the exterior, you will see four distinctive minarets of 65-meters. Its great dome measures a staggering 30 metres high and huge stained glass windows flood the interior with light.

Whilst named after Umar Bin Khattab, the building is said to be inspired by Istanbul’s Blue Mosque with its Andalusian and Ottoman style. But don’t be mistaken, it is not one of Dubai’s “Blue Mosques” more on them below!

Tours at this mosque are conducted by the resident cultural guides of Al Farooq Omar Bin Al Khattab Mosque & Centre. The focus of the tours is on the history and architecture of the mosque, along with the painting and engravings and lasts for one hour.

• Entry: Free
• Timings: 10:00 am and 4:15 pm
• Sunday to Thursday
• You need to make reservations for the tour. Contact the mosque on +971 4 394 4448
• Learn more at alfarooqcentre.com

Grand Bur Dubai Masjid

Also known as the Grand Mosque (not to be confused with the one in Abu Dhabi), this Grand Mosque can be found in the Bur Dubai area, opposite the Dubai Museum.  Situated in the oldest neighbourhood, it is one of the largest mosques in Dubai, as well as the highest in Dubai with 70m tall minarets. 

It was originally built in 1900, replaced by a newer mosque in 1960 and rebuilt again in 1998 to resemble the original mosque of 1900. It can house 1,200 worshippers.

Whilst you cannot enter the Grand Mosque Bur Dubai as a non-Muslim, you can marvel at the architecture from outside. The Minaret is of Anatolian architecture and the tallest in the city, non-Muslims have permission to climb it for stunning views over old Dubai.

Looking for other ways to learn about the Quran and Islamic culture? Try a visit to the Quranic Park

Other interesting mosques in Dubai

Although not open to the non-Muslim public, amongst the 1400+ mosques in Dubai there are many other notable mosques in that capture the eye of visitors that you may be interested in viewing from outside, these include:

Iranian Mosque (Imam Hossein Mosque)

Located on Al Wasl Road in Jumeirah, this is the most famous Shia mosque in Dubai, also known as the Persian Mosque. The mosque was founded by the Iranian community in Dubai in 1979, with the aid of the Iranian Red Crescent. The architecture is inspired by quasi-Fatimid with Persian influences.

Non-Muslim visitors are reportedly allowed into the mosque on guided tours. Private Muslim tour guides can also take visitors outside of prayer times, however, we do not have an exact schedule as of early 2022.

Update: From a Private UAE Facebook Group we gather you can contact Kosar on WhatsApp +989190247164 to arrange a tour.

Iranian Mosque (Ali In Abi Talib Mosque)

Located in the Bur Dubai district, near to the textile souk this is the second “Iranian Mosque” in Dubai, built with the distinctive Persian-style architecture; distinctive blues, greens, yellows and reds in beautiful floral patterns and tiled calligraphy of Quranic quotes.

Non-Muslim visitors cannot come inside this Shia mosque. However, external photography of the facade is permitted. You can spot it apart from the other Persian Mosque in Jumeirah as it lacks the two distinctive minarets and large wooden doors.

Al Salaam Mosque

Located in the Al Barsha area, near to Mall of the Emirates, this mosque catches the eye for its stunning red exterior, with white accent features and gold domes and balconies on its minarets. The architecture has been influenced by both Ottoman and Emirati culture and design features. Opened in 2014, the mosque can accommodate 1500 worshippers. Not open to the public.

Khalifa Al Tajer Mosque

Said to be Dubai’s first eco-friendly mosque, located in Deira the mosque can house 3,500 worshippers. The architecture is based on traditional Emirati Bedouin styling for cooling. It may look more “simple” than other mosques in Dubai but is notable for its size and energy efficiency in the bustling older corner of the city. Not open to the public.

Masjid Al Rahim

Masjid Al Rahim is one of the newest and most beautiful mosques in Dubai to capture the eye and curiosity of visitors. Opened in 2013, it is the only Mosque in Dubai Marina. It is particularly notable at night when its golden domes and blue minarets light up the city skyline. Not open to the public.

Zabeel Mosque

Another among the most beautiful in Dubai, Zabeel Mosque in Zabeel Park opened in 2012 with a capacity for 4,000 worshipers. Not open to the public.

Other UAE Mosques of interest

The entire of UAE is said to have over 5,000 mosques. The vast majority do not accept visitors, however here are some notable exceptions or places of history, importance and beauty you may like to include on a trip around the United Arab Emirates:

Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, Abu Dhabi

As we mentioned at the outset, although not in Dubai, certainly one of the UAE’s most famous buildings is the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque.  The utterly stunning white marble structure with an impressive 82 domes sits proudly at the entrance to Abu Dhabi island.

Covering an impressive 22,400 square metres, including internal courtyards, with the ability to house over 41,000 worshippers at once (10,000 inside and 31,000 outside), it is the third-largest mosque in the world.

Apart from a mosque, it is also the resting place of the country’s Founding Father, Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan; two Imams read the Quran over his resting place 24/7.

The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is open 7 days a week (Friday’s limited hours due to Congregational Prayer) for non-Muslim visitors. Entry is free, as are guided tours (see timetable here), though they have recently added guest registration which can be done online or at the venue, bring photo identification. 

Guests are provided with the appropriate attire to attend the mosque. (Since COVID this has not been possible due to health and safety reasons, all guests must bring their own abaya or be fully covered in accordance with mosque dress code – these items can be purchased now in a small bazaar attached to the mosque underground entrance).

We have a complete guide to Abu Dhabi day trips and cultural attractions of interest here.

There are, of course, options to hire a car, take a taxi or navigate the Intercity Bus and Abu Dhabi public bus system.  We explain each of these options in much more detail here.

If you are after truly stunning photos of the Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, our top tip is to self-drive in order to arrive either before opening time (9:00 am Saturday to Thursday), or come much later in the afternoon when the sun is setting. It can still be crowded at this time but nowhere near as busy as mid-morning when most tour buses from Dubai arrive en masse.

• Entry: Free (register online or when you arrive)
• Timings: Sat to Thu 9:00 am to 10:00 pm
• Friday’s 9:00 am to 12:00 pm (closes for Prayer) & 3:00 pm to 10:00 pm
• Ramadan: 10:00 am to 6:00 pm (Closes for Iftar – breaking of the fast), then 9:00 pm to 11:30 pm
• Learn more at szgmc.ae

Al Noor Mosque

Situated in neighbouring Sharjah, this stunning Ottoman-style mosque completed in 2005 was the first to open its doors to non-Muslim visitors. A guided one hour tour can be arranged by Sharjah Centre for Cultural Communication and include complimentary qahwa (Arabic coffee).

Not only architecturally beautiful, but the mosque also overlooks the Khalid Lagoon which adds to its stunning splendour and is easily accessible from the other cultural highlights in the Heart of Sharjah.

• Entry: Free
• Timings: 10:00 am
• Every Monday and Thursday [suspended since COVID]
• Learn more at shjculture.com

Sharjah Mosque

Newly completed in 2019 it is one of the newest and most impressive mosques in the UAE. It is now Sharjah’s largest mosque with grounds covering 185,000 square meters, the Mosque can take 25,000 worshippers.

Whilst the inside is for worshippers only, guests are invited to admire the mosque from the track that runs around the entire mosque complex. Learn more at visitsharjah.com

Sheikh Zayed Mosque, Fujairah

The largest mosque on the UAE’s eastern coast and second largest in the country, the Sheikh Zayed Mosque covers an area the size of three football pictures. The mosque has six minarets each 100 meters high and the great prayer hall has space for 32,000 worshippers. It is not open to the public.

Bidyah Mosque, Fujairah

Dating back to 1446 AD, this is believed to be the oldest mosque in the UAE. The mosque, constructed of mud and stone, is tiny and whilst non-muslims are not allowed to enter, it is possible to catch a peep of the interior through the doors.

The mosque still hosts daily prayers and all visitors to the site even from outside should dress modestly (women should cover their hair as well as their arms and legs). The Mosque can be seen as part of an east-coast UAE day trip.

You can find a complete guide to exploring Fujairah here.

Sheikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Grand Mosque (Al Ain Grand Mosque)

Based in the regional city of Al Ain, Abu Dhabi Emirate, the Sheikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Grand Mosque named after the country’s current ruling President opened to the public on 21 April 2021.

Capable of housing 20,000 worshippers inside and in its external courtyards, it’s one of the country’s largest mosques measuring in at over 250,000m²

COVID restrictions have limited entry since opening, it is unclear as yet whether it will be open to non-worshippers in the future.

Things to keep in mind visiting a Dubai Mosque

It is essential you follow the necessary protocol to enter a mosque, even as a non-Muslim:

• Dress modestly:
  • For women, this means arms and legs covered, as well as a scarf that covers your head. Some tours will provide women with the necessary abaya, including the Shayla or headscarf. If wearing your own clothing, keep it long and loose.
  • Men must cover beyond their knees (though full-length trousers are preferable) and have shirt sleeves.
  • We have a complete guide to appropriate attire in Dubai here.
• Shoes must be left in cubbies outside the entrance to a mosque. Socks may be worn if you do not want to walk around barefoot.
• It should go without saying, you cannot take food, drinks, alcohol or cigarettes inside mosques.

You can learn more about religious etiquette, local laws and customs in Dubai here.

Take me back to the Dubai Travel Blog

Please note we are not a travel agency. This site is a travel blog to help newcomers to the UAE and transit passengers self plan their trip, we cannot book your flights, hotels, visas or connections for you. We may make a small commission if you click on any of our recommendation links.

Dubai Travel Planner

Feature image source Dreamstime.

The post Can I Visit a Dubai Mosque as a Non-Muslim? appeared first on Dubai Travel Planner.

It is also the border crossing point to the Sultanate of Oman, sitting to the south of the city – a popular border crossing point for visitors looking to do border runs, or head onwards to Nizwa & Muscat.

Al Ain houses many museums that seek to document the country’s past and are well worthy of being included on an Al Ain road trip; sites to consider include:

• Al Ain Palace Museum (currently closed for renovation)
• Qasr al Muwaiji
• Al Jahili Fort
• Al Ain National Museum (currently closed for renovations)
• Souk Al Qattara (Thu, Fri & Sat evenings October to May)
• Al Ain Camel Market
• Sheikh Zayed Desert Learning Centre, inside Al Ain Zoo

If you are interested to learn more about the Al Ain Zoo, amusement parks and family activities on offer in Al Ain, check out this detailed family guide to Al Ain.

Tour Suggestion: Take a Guided Tour of Al Ain from Dubai

You can read more about the UNESCO World Heritage Inscription here.

Let’s look at each of the sites in more detail:

The Oasis of Al Ain

There are several Oasis in Al Ain that make up the UNESCO World Heritage Site, namely:

• Al Ain Oasis
• Al Muatared Oasis
• Al Jimi Oasis
• Al Qattara Oasis
• Al Hili Oasis

The largest is Al Ain Oasis, which can be found in the city centre. Extensive restoration works took place on the site over the last decade, and it reopened to the public in 2016 and is now the city’s most popular attraction.

A tranquil forest of trees and alleyed laneways, it was nearly lost beneath the city as rapid development occurred in the 1980s and 1990s. The 3,000-acre site (1,200 hectares) contains more than 147,000 palm trees. You will also find within the grounds an old fortification and mosque.

Most visitors are intrigued by the falaj system, an ancient irrigation system that brings bore water to farms. A small Eco-Centre has been built within the Al Ain Oasis to provide more information on the falaj’s history and importance.

Just outside the oasis is the Al Ain Oasis Plaza, which offers refreshments until 9 p.m. at night.

The Oasis is open 8 am to 5 pm daily and free to enter.

Jebel Hafeet Bee Hive Tombs

Found at the foot of Abu Dhabi’s highest peak Jebel Hafeet (Jebal Hafit), the circular Bee Hive Tombs are thought to date back up to 5,000 years. The artefacts found within the tombs have helped archaeologists to substantiate claims of trade routes dating to around 3,200 to 2,700 BCE.

Since February 2020, the tombs now fall within the Jebel Hafit Desert Park. Hiking and biking are available, along with camel rides, dune buggy experiences and even overnight camping in Bedouin-style tents and eco glamping options.

Open 8 am to 6 pm or sunset, entry 5 AED activities extra.

Hili Archaeological Park

Home to the largest discovered Bronze Age settlement in the UAE, the park is a living museum of tombs, settlements, and a falaj—mostly, only foundations can be spotted today. Most significant items have been moved to the central Al Ain National Museum (which is closed for an unspecified period of time for renovations) in the centre of Al Ain, adjacent to the Al Ain Oasis.

The park is open limited hours 4 pm to 11 pm daily, entry is free.

Bidaa Bint Saud

There are several small finds near one another contributing to this archaeological site, sitting about 15kms to the north of Al Ain:

• Numerous rectangular, stone-constructed tombs from the Hafit period (3200 to 2600 BC) on top of a mountain called Gharn bint Saud
• 1,500 metres to the west is a 3,000-year-old falaj system
• A large mudbrick building with column bases was found near the falaj, thought to perhaps be a distribution point for the falaj

This site is quite isolated and not easily accessible to the public. Finds from the site are also housed in the Al Ain National Museum (which has been ‘closed for renovations’ for an extensive period of time). You can learn more about this site on abudhabiculture.ae

Open 24/7, entry is free.

Al Ain Camel Market

Situated on Zayed Bin Sultan Street, not far from the Al Bawadi Mall, the camel market provides the opportunity to see hundreds of camels, sheep and goats being bought and sold. It’s the only market of its kind in the UAE and is definitely worth a visit.

Open daily from 6.00 am until 7.00 pm. Entry is free. 

The Green Mubazzarah

The name ‘Jebel Hafeet’ means ‘Green Mountain’, and whilst there is certainly less vegetation than the name suggests, there are areas where some species of plant have flourished, such as the Green Mubazzarah, where hot springs flow from the mountain onto the plain below.

The area has become a resort on its own right with an artificial boating lake, bikes for rent, and chalets to stay in overnight. There is also a swimming pool with a charge of 5 AED and a little train that will take you around the site with 25 AED for adults and 15 AED for children. 

Weekends here are very busy, as families come from all over the UAE and even from over the border in Oman to enjoy the parklands and dip their feet in the healing waters!

Site open 24/7. Attraction times vary. 

Al Ain Zoo

Another family-friendly option whilst in Al Ain is a visit to Al Ain Zoo. Along with large enclosures featuring a range of animals from around the world, the zoo offers a safari experience and the chance to drive through the vast reserve area in the safety and comfort of an air-conditioned vehicle.

If you want to do more than observe the animals from afar, there are a number of animal experiences on offer, including giraffe feeding (an additional fee payable at the giraffe enclosure).

Children will also enjoy the range of playgrounds and interactive exhibits on site, as well as the extensive gardens and open spaces to run around in. At the height of the day, there are plenty of shady areas to escape the sun, as well as the indoor Sheikh Zayed Desert Learning Centre.

The learning centre offers the opportunity to learn about the UAE’s unique natural environment and the animals and people that live there.

Open daily from 9.00 am until 7.00 pm (closed in July and August), entry is approximately 31 AED for adults. 

When is it best to visit Al Ain?

Like much of the country, the cooler winter months are ideal for exploring Al Ain from November through to April. In the summer months, it is still possible, and the oases do bring a refreshing reprieve from the summer heat, but be prepared. It can still be a very sweaty experience in the summer.

In the winter, Al Ain can experience quite heavy fog, which plays havoc on the highways to Al Ain from Dubai and Abu Dhabi. It normally burns off before lunchtime, leaving you with glorious sunny winter afternoons and perfect sunsets from Jebel Hafeet.

 Take me back to the Dubai Travel Blog for more great day trip ideas

Please note we are not a travel agency. This site is a travel blog to help newcomers to the UAE and transit passengers self plan their trip, we cannot book your flights, hotels, visas or connections for you. We may make a small commission if you click on any of our recommendation links.

Dubai Travel Planner

The post Fascinating Day Trip to Al Ain & the UAE’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites appeared first on Dubai Travel Planner.

The confusion can largely reign from the fact that Dubai is not only a city but an Emirate (or state) – and it’s surprisingly not a capital city!!!  So let’s take a more detailed look at exactly what is Dubai – then we’ll help you place it on a map!!

Dubai is the largest city in a country called the United Arab Emirates

The United Arab Emirates is a Gulf country in the Middle East which has coasts facing both the Arabain Gulf (Persian Gulf – but don’t call it that in front of an Emirati!) and the Gulf of Oman to the east.   The UAE neighbours Saudi Arabia to the south and west and Oman to the south-east (and a tiny bit in the north – we’ll get on to that!).

Is Dubai a country?

Nope! This is the biggest misconception.  Bid bold and brassy but a city and an Emirate, NOT an entire country, just like Abu Dhabi. The country is called the United Arab Emirates.

Is Dubai the capital of the UAE?

No, often mistaken as Dubai is the largest city in the UAE, Dubai is not the capital of the United Arab Emirates.  That crown goes to Abu Dhabi which sits approximately 130kms to the west, about an hour away by road.

You can see exactly how to get between Dubai and Abu Dhabi here.

What’s an Emirate?

Emirates are sort of like states, they are ruled over by a Sheikh, also called a Sheikdom.  In 1971, the United Arab Emirates was formed with the union of 6 of these Sheikdoms. A further Emirate joined in 1972 bringing us the 7 Emirates of the UAE we know today.  The countries birthday is celebrated in a massive event ever 2 December.

You can learn more about all 7 Emirates of the UAE here.

How big is Dubai?

The whole  Emirate of Dubai, including the city and desert areas is 3,885 km²

What is the population of Dubai?

There is no census carried out in Dubai, however, reports seem to vary between 2.4 million and 3.3 million!

The biggest surprise might be that only around 11% of the city’s population are considered native Emirati’s. The vast majority of Dubai’s population is expatriate workers from nearly 200 different nations!  It is one of the most diverse city populations in the world!

Why are there so many men in Dubai?!

The male to female ratio in Dubai is believed to be 75%:25%.

This is driven by the largely male Asian workforce in the construction and services sectors, predominantly Indian who are believed to make up as much as 50% of the city’s population.

This does not mean it is an unsafe place for female tourists to visit. Quite the opposite, we will share more soon on women’s safety in Dubai.

Who rules Dubai?

Dubai is ruled by the Al Maktoum family.  The current leader of Dubai and the Vice President of the United Arab Emirates is Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum.

What continent is Dubai on?

The Middle East and the Arabian Peninsular sit within the continent of Asia.

What is the Dubai Flag?

Whilst there is a flag for each of the Emirates that make up the UAE, the individual flags are very infrequently displayed. You are most likely to see only the unified flag of the United Arab Emirates. This flag is red on the left and has hortizonal black, white and green stripes.

Is Dubai Expensive to visit?

It can be in you don’t watch where you are spending your money; there is certainly an emphasis on luxury experiences, but there is plenty to see and do on a budget too, you can see our guide to Dubai on a Budget here.

Do I need a Visa to visit Dubai?

Yes, all visitors require a visa, but many nationalities are entitled to a Visa on Arrival when visiting as tourist – we talk much more about Dubai Visit Visas Here

What’s the time zone in Dubai?

Dubai’s time zone is called GST – Gulf Standard Time and it sits at UTC+4.  There are no daylight savings changes implemented in the summer months.

What is the currency in Dubai?

The United Arab Emirates uses the UAE Dirham – expressed as AED or dhs.

We have a complete guide to UAE currency and Dubai money matters here.

Is Dubai Muslim?

The majority of Dubai’s native population are Sunni Muslim. Sharia Law is followed in Dubai and the United Arab Emirates.

You can find out more about customs, culture and religion in Dubai here.

What language do they speak in Dubai?

Arabic is the country’s legal first language. However, English is widely spoken as a common language between all workers and locals. Signposts and any official documents will come in both Arabic and English.

As a tourist to Dubai, you would not have to learn any Arabic to enjoy visiting the city, however, a few small words such as “Shukran” (thank you) never go astray. You could well go an entire trip to the city and NOT speak to an actual Emirati.

There are literally dozens of languages spoken in Dubai at home and amongst workers, reflective of such a diverse population.

What do they wear in Dubai?

Traditional dress is worn in public by native Emiratis. Men wear white dishdashas while women wear a black Abaya and Shayla love their heads (NOT a full face Burqa).

Tourists and expatriate residents are not expected to dress in traditional clothing, but modesty in public places IS expected. The rules can get complicated though and many have differing opinions on what is acceptable or not in Dubai in the 21st Century.

We discuss what to wear in Dubai in much more detail here.

So are you thinking about visiting Dubai?

We are a Dubai-based Travel Blog dedicated to helping tourists self-plan a visit to Dubai.

As long term expatriates in the UAE, we have spent many years unearthing the city’s secrets and most incredibly spots – from those insta-perfect locations to cultural gems and family-fun attractions.

It is a constantly growing and evolving city that perfectly intertwines traditional and modern.

If this article has you interested in learning more about Dubai, we suggest you jump over to our Essential Travel Planning Information page next as your starting point to get more acquainted with the city, learn more about the best times to visit, the legal matters you’ll want to know and how exactly to plan your trip to the modern and exciting city of Dubai!

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Please note we are not a travel agency. This site is a travel blog to help newcomers to the UAE and transit passengers self plan their trip, we cannot book your flights, hotels, visas or connections for you. We may make a small commission if you click on any of our recommendation links.

Dubai Travel Planner

The post Where is Dubai? Facts about Dubai and the UAE appeared first on Dubai Travel Planner.

Athough the country is only 48 years old, the city of Dubai has a much longer history, and civilisation in the region can be dated back some 5,000 years! Much of this history is captured in these top museums across the city.

Some are quite small and explain specific chapters of the city with a nominal entry fee. Others are fabulous modern buildings with the present era and the future in mind.

Let’s take a deeper look at each:

• Dubai Museum & Al Fahidi Fort (3 AED)
• Etihad Museum (25 AED)
• Coffee Museum
• Coin Museum
• Bayt Al Khanyar (Dagger) Museum (5 AED)
• Majilis Ghorfat Umm Al Sheif
• Salsali Private Museum – Free
• Dubai Police Museum (Naif Museum) – Free
• Saruq Al-Hadid Archaeology Museum (20 AED)
• Museum of the Poet Aqeli
• Pearl Museum – private collection of Emirates NBD
• Al Shindaga Museum – Story of the Creek and Perfume House

Unique Modern Museums in Dubai

• Museum of the Future 
• Museum of Illusions 
• OliOli interactive children’s play museum
• 3D World Selfie Museum

Other historic buildings worth a visit

Although not museums as such, the culturally curious will definitely want to include these historical buildings and tours on their Dubai attractions list:

Arabian Tea House

The original is in Bastakyia, however, there are now additional branches of the Emirati favourite.

Sheikh Mohammed Centre for Culture Understanding

Within the Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood, you will find the SMCCU, a not-for-profit organization housed in a restored wind tower house.

House 26 Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood, Al Musallah Street

Open Doors, Open Minds, all questions – no matter how sensitive – are welcome and answered.

Through SMCCU you can sign up for a traditional Emirati breakfast, lunch, or dinner. These include guided tours of the Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood before taking a seat on Bedouin-style carpets and pillows and enjoy a selection of traditional dishes while your local host answers questions about life in the emirate.

They also offer walking tours, a mosque visit to Al Farooq Mosque and Creekside tours. Times and dates are limited so you are thoroughly recommended to book in advance. Costs vary per activity, children are discounted 50%.

You can also book these tours through external providers such as Get Your Guide to easily keep your tour and attraction bookings together:

• Historic Walking Tour (1.5 hours 10:30 AM Tuesday & Thursday)
• Cultural Lunch at SMCCU (1.5 hours, 1:00 PM Monday to Thursday)

Jumeirah Mosque

Although quite a modern building, the tours conducted at Jumeirah Mosque are among the best for understanding more about the country’s Islamic culture. You can read a complete on what to expect at Dubai’s mosques (and which ones are actually open to non-Muslims) here.

This is an example of what you can expect on a cultural tour of the Jumeirah Mosque, conducted by SMCCU.

You can combine both Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood and the Jumeirah Mosque if you take a Heritage Express tour run by SMCCU.

Other Buildings of interest in Dubai

• Al Ahmadiya School
• Majlis Ghorfat Umm Al Sheif
• Heritage House

Beyond Dubai – Museums in the UAE

We strongly suggest history-lovers make a day trip up to Sharjah, known as the country’s cultural capital. Here you will find the Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilisation, the Calligraphy Museum, Shajrah Fort (al Hisn) to name just a few.

You can find a complete listing of Sharjah Museums here.

Another great place to visit is Al Ain, in Abu Dhabi Emirate. Birthplace of the country’s founding Father Sheikh Zayed, and home to the country’s UNESCO World Heritage Listed sites. You can see a complete guide to visiting Al Ain here.

Abu Dhabi also has several museums and cultural attractions of interest, including the breathtaking Louvre Museum Abu Dhabi, Qasr Al Hosn, the UAE Heritage Village and Qasr al Watan.

• You can find a complete guide on how to day trip to Abu Dhabi from Dubai here.
• We suggest this full-day group tour from Dubai

Each of the Northern Emirates also has its own museum:

• Ajman Museum
• National Museum of Ras al Khaimah
• Fujairah Museum
• Falaj Mualla Museum

You can learn more about the 7 Emirates of the UAE here.

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Please note we are not a travel agency. This site is a travel blog to help newcomers to the UAE and transit passengers self plan their trip, we cannot book your flights, hotels, visas or connections for you. We may make a small commission if you click on any of our recommendation links.

Dubai Travel Planner

The post Unmissable Museums in Dubai & the UAE appeared first on Dubai Travel Planner.