United Arab Emirates – Modernized Federation of Seven Emirates

United Arab Emirates (UAE) is known to the world as a clean and modernized nation, known for its contemporary style of living. A cluster of seven emirates, UAE is located in the southwest of the Arabian Peninsula on the Persian Gulf. Sharing border with Oman and Saudi Arabia, the country welcomes a huge crowd of tourists from all parts of the world.

History
It was in the Neolithic Age, around 5500 BC, that first human settlements were established at UAE region. For many centuries to come, the region established itself as a powerful trading destination. Islam became powerful in the region with the arrival of heralds from Prophet Mohammed in 630. After a long period of time, the place was brought under the Portuguese control in the 15th century AD. However, the area soon passed to the Ottoman Empire in the 16th century. From the 17th to the 19th century, UAE region was constantly patrolled by British forces and Arab navies. A number of peace treaties were signed between the United Kingdom and Sheikhs of the region.

The pearling industry in the 19th and the beginning of the 20th century added to the wealth of the region. However, the First and the Second World War led to the decline of this industry. Fortunately, the oil wealth of the region was discovered that helped it to revive its situation. After the expiration of treaties with UK, the seven Sheikhdoms decided to form the union, which is better known as the United Arab Emirates to the world today.

Popular Places

The seven emirates that constitute UAE are:
•    Abu Dhabi
•    Ajman
•    Fujairah
•    Sharjah
•    Dubai
•    Ras al Khaymah
•    Umm al Quwain

The most important cities of UAE include Abu Dhabi (the capital), Dubai, Ajman, Sharjah and Ajman. Grand Mosque and White Fort of Abu Dhabi are well-known tourist destinations, while Al-Fahidi Fort in Dubai is also known as a wonderful tourist attraction. Various other forts and mosques can be found in these two cities. Abu Dhabi is also known for hosting nearly 200 islands, the most famous being Qarn Island, Sadiyat Island and Belghilam Island. Al Ain is known for its resorts and caravan stops. The country has variety of tourist destinations, from Dhaid and Khatt oases to the beaches like Khor Kalba. Archaeological sites at Hili and the famous ancient stone tombs are also preferred by the tourists to visit.

Getting Around
Public transport facilities of UAE include monorails, trains and intercity bus services. Taxis and cars on rent can also be preferred to visit different cities. City guides can be hired to explore different parts of UAE in a better manner.

Places of Entertainment
White sand beaches of UAE can give tough competition to those found in the European continent. One can simply relax at these beaches or participate in the adventures like snorkelling and diving. Desert safari is another memorable experience one can have on a trip to this country. Water and amusement parks are also the great venues for entertainment. From cruising to golfing, one can get involved in huge variety of activities in various cities of the country. UAE is the world-class shopping destination with superior malls and marketplaces.  

Accommodation Options
All types of accommodation options form luxurious to budget hotels, youth hostels, guesthouse, bed and breakfast facilities, resorts and apartments can be found in all regions of UAE. 

Currency
United Arab Emirates dirham (AED) is the official currency of UAE. Denominations of 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200, 500, and 1,000 dirham notes can be found, along with the coins of 1 dirham, 25 fils and 50 fils (where I dirham equals 100 fils). Cash exchange points are in abundance and one can also learn about the foreign currency exchange rate from online news.

Group accommodation in United Arab Emirates | Cheap Hotels