Well known for the Burj Khalifa, luxurious lifestyles, and artificial islands, the United Arab Emirates is also home to desert safaris, souks, and extravagant mosques. Read below to learn more about the country.

The Basics:

• Languages: Arabic is the official language. However, due to the large expat population, most Emirati people speak English as well

• Currency: United Arab Emirate Dirham, Click here to see the current exchange rate

• Timezone: Gulf Standard Time (UTC+4)

• Visas: Tourists from most of Europe, North America, South America, and Eastern Asia will receive a visa upon arrival for up to 30 or 90 days

• Driving side: Right

• Tipping: A small tip of around 5%-10% is appreciated

Places to Visit and Things to Do:

• Dubai: Home to more expats than locals, Dubai is known for luxury shopping, modern architecture, and some of the largest skyscrapers in the world, including the world’s tallest building, the Burj Khalifa. Dubai is also home to indoor skiing, the Palm Jumeirah and World islands, and the Dubai Mall, which is one of the largest in the world

• Abu Dhabi: Just over an hour drive from Dubai, Abu Dhabi is a perfect day trip from Dubai. Abu Dhabi is home to Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque, Ferrari World, and Louvre Abu Dhabi

• Ras Al Khaimah: This area of the United Arab Emirates is known for its beaches, mountains, and ancient ruins. Ras Al Khaimah is also home to several luxury beach resorts

Travel Tips:

• The United Arab Emirates has two seasons: hot and hotter. However, temperatures in the summer can reach up to 110 degrees Fahrenheit. If you are looking to avoid the extreme temperatures, plan to go between October and April

• Dress modestly while in public to avoid unwanted attention and to respect the Muslim culture. This means keeping your shoulders and knees covered. While at your resort or hotel, these unwritten rules are loosened

• Avoid PDA. Public displays of affection are offensive in the UAE. Visitors have been arrested and imprisoned for showing PDA. To be on the safe side, refrain from holding hands or kissing your significant other while in public

• Be mindful of Ramadan laws. During the month of Ramadan, avoid eating food in public between sunrise and sunset. Doing so can result in a large fine or even imprisonment. Restaurants will still be open to those who are not fasting, however, there will typically be curtains to eat outside of the view who are fasting