Embark On An Arabian Adventure With An Emirates Sightseeing Tour

By Joanna Allen at Allen Batista Travel, Inc.

The United Arab Emirates is a cultural tapestry of hospitality, modern skylines, and centuries-old traditions. An Emirates sightseeing tour takes in everything from Dubai’s glittering towers to the cultural treasures of Abu Dhabi, giving a complete introduction to the heart of the Arabian Peninsula.

This guided tour lets you traverse the iconic Emirati landmarks, vibrant souks, posh malls, and desert vistas that form the premise of the Emirates. A mix of cultural insight and modern marvels, it’s the perfect mix for travelers looking for a nuanced take on this dazzling region.

Language And Cultural Tips

The official language is Arabic. English is widely spoken, especially in tourist areas, restaurants, and hotels. Most international travelers will be pleased with bilingual road signs, menus, and public information.

But that’s no reason travelers shouldn’t know a few Arabic phrases to show respect.
 

• Marhaba—Hello!
• Shukran—Thank you.
• La shukran—No, thank you.

It’s important to respect cultural etiquette. Travelers should dress modestly when going to visit religious sites. For a mosque visit, women should carry a shawl or scarf, and both men and women should wear clothing that covers their shoulders and knees. Public displays of affection are not allowed in the country. Tourists should ask permission before taking pictures of locals.

Currency And Exchange

The currency is the UAE Dirham (AED). At the time of writing this, 1 USD equals approximately 3.67 AED. At airports, shopping malls, and local exchange centers, visitors will find currency exchange. Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, but it's good to have some cash for smaller purchases made at markets and street vendors, though.

Travelers should notify their banks before they leave to avoid blocks on debit or credit cards.

Dubai: Innovation On Display

Our sightseeing adventure starts from Dubai, a city known for its innovation, opulence, and jaw-dropping architecture. The Burj Khalifa, the tallest building in the world, is more than approximately 2717 feet (or 828 meters) high. Visitors often venture to the observation deck on the 124th and 125th floors to see sweeping views of the city, desert, and ocean.

From there, travelers are escorted to the largest shopping and entertainment complex in the world, the Dubai Mall, with over 1,200 stores, an indoor ice rink, a VR park, and the Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo. The Dubai Fountain is known for its breathtaking water, light, and music show.

The Palm Jumeirah, the world-famous man-made island shaped similar to a palm tree. By riding the monorail, visitors will have a bird’s-eye view of the country’s architecture and beach resorts.

A Walk Through Old Dubai

The tour meanders through Old Dubai to learn about the heritage of the Emirates. The tour wanders through narrow alleys and traditional wind tower architecture, passing art galleries, museums, and cafés serving Arabic coffee along the way.

There’s an authentic Emirati vibe in the Dubai Creek area. Visitors enter the Gold Souk and the Spice Souk through a traditional abra (water taxi) ride across the creek.

Cultural Capital Of The UAE: Abu Dhabi

Abu Dhabi, the capital of the UAE and a cultural and architectural hub, is the next place on the tour. Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, a white marble marvel decorated in gold, mosaics, and the world’s largest hand-knotted carpet, goes down as the crown jewel. More than 40,000 locals and tourists can worship in the mosque all year long.

A visit to the Louvre Abu Dhabi, a gloriously modern museum that links Eastern and Western artistic traditions, will be dear to art lovers. The futuristic dome turns sunlight into a ’rain of light,’ which only adds to the mesmerizing exhibitions already inside.

Ferrari World Abu Dhabi is a thrill ride in the heart of the desert—home to the world’s fastest roller coaster, Formula Rossa, which hurtles visitors at 149mph.

Local Cuisine: A First-Time Traveler’s Delight

Emirates boasts mouthwatering delicacies—a treasure trove of flavors from Emirati to Middle Eastern to South Asian foods.
 

• Shawarma is a street food made up of spiced meat wrapped in pita bread, topped with garlic sauce and pickles.
• Machboos is a typical Emirati dish of rice, meat (often lamb or chicken), and dried lime.
• Grilled hammour (a local fish) served with fragrant rice is often served with lemon and will please seafood lovers.
• Luqaimat are fried dough balls drizzled with date syrup (crunchy on the outside, soft on the inside).
• Karak chai is a rich tea steeped with milk and sugar.
• Jallab is a sweet non-alcoholic drink made of dates, grape molasses, and rose water.

A Seamless Travel Experience

Traveling with a knowledgeable guide makes all the difference due to so much to see and do. The Emirates are experienced in comfort and style on a well-balanced itinerary of iconic landmarks with hidden gems, cultural integration, and relaxation.

Contact Allen Batista Travel, Inc. to embark on your Emirates adventure.