The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is an Arabian country made up of seven ‘emirate’ states; Abu Dhabi, Ajman, Dubai, Fujairah, Sharjah, Ra’s al Khaymah and Umm al Quwain.
Of these seven regions, Dubai is by far the most famous and most visited. A testament to Arabian progression, it is arguably the most modern emirate in the UAE; few global destinations can compete with its impressive rate of cultural and physical development. Tourism and trade are booming so much that in some parts of Dubai there are more millionaires that non-millionaires. Though Dubai is the most visited emirate, Abu Dhabi is the largest. It also contains the UAE’s capital, which is (perhaps confusingly) also named Abu Dhabi.
Gap year backpackers should remember that though the UAE is remarkably western, it is still an Arab nation. Travellers should be quietly conscious of cultural and legal differences whilst travelling there, but not be afraid to enjoy themselves in this wonderful and vibrant nation.
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