The Seven Emirates of the UAE - Expat life in Dubai

Before I moved to Dubai I had been here for vacation. That’s why I was a little familiar with the culture. My first work contract, though, which turned out to be unsuccessful, I received from Abu Dhabi. When I started telling my family and friends that I planned on moving to The UAE, most of them had confusion on their faces. However, once I mentioned Dubai, everyone seemed to understand what I was talking about. Funnily enough, when local people travel abroad, it’s easier for them to mention that they are from Dubai, than telling everyone about a little country called The UAE, in the Middle East. I have decided to give my little overview of The Seven Emirates of the UAE, to give a better overview of the country.

1. Abu Dhabi

The capital of the United Arab Emirates and the largest state, Which covers around 80% of the countries territory. It’s the second most important city after Dubai, with the biggest expat population. The government is located here and also the president and his family live in Abu Dhabi. It’s well known as a political and industrial center. As a tourist and newcomer, you need to visit Abu Dhabi to at least see the most beautiful Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque. It’s just incredible. I think it’s the most beautiful place in the whole country. The great thing is that everyone can visit and it has free entry.

Another must-visit place is Ferrari Park, which has the fastest roller coaster in the world, and of course Yas Waterworld. Abu Dhabi is a quieter, more chilled out, family-lifestyle city. It’s very well developed, but not as çrazy’ as Dubai. Of course, you can find lots of the restaurants, bars even a few beach bars and nightclubs. There are a lot of shopping malls and definitely more local brand shops inside. Abu Dhabi Louvre was recently opened to the public. Abu Dhabi is also very ambitious about architecture. Such masterpieces like Aldar Headquarters building and Etihad Towers are definitely worth your attention.

2. Ajman

Ajman – the smallest Emirate in The UAE. It lies on the coast of the Persian Gulf and the majority of the population are locals, who are really attached to the culture and tradition of the Middle East. The city is popular for it’s Free Zone with a huge capacity and the lowest prices for company registration, Which makes it popular among companies in Dubai, especially startups. Ajman is not really popular among the expats, as it takes a while to reach and does not have any impressive sights compared to Abu Dhabi. However, in case you are there already, you have to visit the Ajman Fishmarket. You can find probably the best fish and seafood in The UAE. For those who like history, I highly recommend visiting The Ajman Museum, which represents the culture and ancestry of Ajman very well.

3. Fujairah

The only one of the seven emirates, that has a coastline on the Gulf of Oman and none on the Persian Gulf. There are a few nice hotels located by the sea which makes it one of the popular weekend getaways among Dubai expats. We know Fujairah for its beautiful beaches and gorgeous mountains. In fact, the territory of the emirate is almost completely mountainous.

Al Bidyah Mosque – one of the most popular places to visit in Fujairah is the oldest mosque in the United Arab Emirates. It was built in 1446, of mud and bricks. Khor Fakkan Beach is your must-visit when you are in Fujairah. Clear blue water and a relaxing environment plus plenty of water sports activities, such as diving, parasailing, jet skiing. It’s a great way to spend a weekend with friends during the winter season. Probably the best time is December. Of course, if you have more time to explore the city, Historic Fort is worth a visit, while in Fujairah. Locals built it in the 16th century, in order to protect the city from colonialism. It has a spectacular view of the city of Fujairah and if you are there at sunset or sunrise, you can take amazing pictures!

4. Ras al-Khaimah

Another popular emirate for staycation among the expats. It takes you approximately 2 hours drive from Dubai to Ras al-Khaimah. You might find a few 5 stars hotels there, along with 3 and 4-star accommodation. One of the must-visit places is Ice Land water park with some cool and unique roller coasters. If you are into extreme sports, you should go and experience the world’s longest zip line, which runs through the mountains of Jebel Jais Mountains at a hair-raising 1,680 meters about sea level and measuring 2,83 kilometers long. History lovers’ need to visit Ras al-Khaimah National Museum. The Museum is located right in the center of the city and the actual building was a fort at one time, as well as a palace and a police station. You will find some valuable artifacts, which explain the life of locals last century. Definitely worth a visit.

5. Sharjah

Sharjah has been officially named as a WHO healthy city. It’s the only emirate where alcohol is strictly prohibited and can’t be served in any of the restaurant and bars, which attracts lots of Muslim tourists. Also, Sharjah is well known as the cultural capital of the UAE. My favorite place in Sharjah is Gold Souq also called The Souq Al Markazi. Blue and white outside, it looks fascinating. Inside you can find many different jewelry shops, clothing shops, antique shops. It also contains electronics shops and much more. The Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilization is another place worth visiting when you visit the city. The museum holds a wealthy legacy including: the world’s first biological weapons, a copy of Uthman ibn Affan’s Quran in kufi script and many other treasures which provide information regarding Islamic art, culture, and poetry.

6.Umm al-Quwain and inland oasis city Al Ain

Umm al-Quwain is the least populous of the seven emirates. It holds significant archaeological interest. And history which goes back to the 3rd century BC. Al Ain is a beautiful city surrounded by mountains, the majority of the population are locals so you won’t see many different nationalities.

Do not miss out on The Al Ain Zoo, as it’s the biggest zoo in the whole country. Al Ain Zoo is home to over 4,000 animals, with at least 30% of its 180 species, considered endangered. The territory is huge and very well maintained. One of the features of the Zoo is a local farm, the ‘Elezba’ petting zoo. Which lets families feed and play with sheep, goats, camels, llamas, chickenS, and ducks, as well as enjoy camel riding or a picnic in a designated area. Another unique place, which I highly recommend you visit, is Camel Souk. Basically, it’s the largest camel market in the whole of Asia, and gives a glimpse of village life in The UAE.