Mere recital of the word UAE brings to the mind Dubai and Abu Dhabi but the country is more than its flagship destinations. High rise buildings, climate controlled malls and fabulous nightlife options may have become the identity of the UAE but the country has not done away its past completely. Scratch its shiny surface and your will find that the country is a fine amalgamation of old and new and traditional and modern. Here we give a lowdown on this mix of traditional as well as modern attractions.
Burj Khalifa
One of the most sought after destinations in the United Arab Emirates the Burj Khalifa is one of most famous landmark of Dubai. The world's tallest building also commands the glory of being tallest freestanding structure in the world. From its observation deck you can get the spectacular view of the city and its beautiful surroundings.
Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque
This huge mosque is fine specimen of architecture that beautiful blends contemporary design with ancient craftsmanship skills, making it one of the most sought after architectural marvels in the world. The mosque dazzles with a fine gold, mosaic and glass work. It marbled structure gleams in the blue sky of the UAE.
Jebel Hafeet
Situated at a short drive from Abu Dhabi and Al Ain, Jebel Hafeet gives a spectacular view of the deserts from its top. Getting there might be difficult but once you reach there you will find that your efforts have been handsomely rewarded.
Al-Bidyah Mosque
The UAE might have gone under an image makeover with construction of new buildings replacing old one. But Al-Bidyah Mosque takes pride in being one of the oldest mosques in the United Arab Emirates. The mosque situated in the Emirate of Fujairah is intricately built with enough ventilation facilities. Being more than this, it is also an important archaeological site with many excavated artefacts.
Hajar Mountains
The Hajar Mountains situated amidst the desert can be reached by riding through the roller-coaster roads with spectacular scenery along the way. On your trip to the mountains you will come across the beautiful countryside of the UAE. The place is highly popular among hikers.
Sharjah Arts Museum
Nurturing a love for art and don’t know where to go to fulfil this? Then Sharjah Arts Museum with its vast art collection could be an ideal destination for you. On your arrival to the museum you will come across several works by Arabic artists. The works of European artists with focus on the Arab world are also on display. The museum also held’s exhibitions throughout the year that could be a great educational experience.
Dubai Museum
Want to have a peek into the life of Dubai before the oil boom then a visit to Dubai museum is mandatory. The museum has exemplary display on local Bedouin life as well as exhibits on fishing and pearl diving which were main source of earning.