Dubai
Dubai is arguably the most well known of the seven United Arab Emirates and as the 7th most visited city in the world we are all aware of some of the fantastic sights the “City of Gold” has to offer including the world’s tallest building, the Burj Khalifa and the infamous Palm. In this blog we discover what the other six emirates; Abu Dhabi, Ajman, Fujairah, Ras al-Khaimah, Sharjah, and Umm al-Quwain have to offer.

Abu Dhabi
Abu Dhabi is the capital of the United Arab Emirates and is the largest of the seven. Stay at the Yas Viceroy Hotel, which straddles the Abu Dhabi Formula 1 track and visit the world’s largest indoor theme park, Ferarri World famous for ‘Formula Rossa’ the world’s fastest rollercoaster! If this hasn’t entertained you enough head up the Hyatt Capital Gate Hotel and experience its Guinness World Record Breaking leaning tower. For those after something a little more high brow check out the Sheikh Zayed Bridge, thought to be the most complex bridge ever built and visit the spectacular Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque , which comprises of 1000 columns and 82 domes.

Sharjah
Sharjah is the 3rd largest Emirate and the only one to have coastlines on both the Arabian Gulf and Gulf of Oman. It is known as the cultural and educational centre of the UAE and the University of Sharjah is the largest throughout the seven Emirates, Sharjah’s’s University City is home to 7 colleges and universities. Sharjah is rich in Arabic traditions, was named the Islamic Capital of Culture in 2014 by ISESCO and has 16 museums and the Arabian Wildlife Centre.

Ajman
Ajman is the smallest of the seven Emirates and controls the rugged exclaves of Masfout and Manama located on the foothills of the Hajjar Mountains, a popular spot for hikers and mountain bikers after an escape from the busy cities. Ajman also has a huge waterfront nature reserve which is home to over 58 species of birds including the pink flamingo and an amazing 2km mangrove forest. Finally, for some inner city entertainment, head down to the The Corniche, a 16km stretch of beach offering plenty of souks, shopping malls, five star hotels and fantastic restaurants.

Fujairah
Unlike the hustle and bustle of the other emirates Fujairah has a relaxed and laid back feel which makes it a favourite for weekend escapes among the Emirati locals. Fujairah’s mountainous landscape boasts some famous historical monuments including the Fujairah Fort, Bithnah Fort, Al-Hayl Castle and the Al-Bidyah Mosque, the oldest mosque in the UAE. Wadi-bashing is one of the most popular things to do in Fujairah and involves four wheel driving through some of the region’s most beautiful Wadis.

Ras al-Khaimah
The northern most Emirate of Ras al-Khaimah offers a whole host of exciting outdoor experiences. Learn to sail on Ras al-Khaimah’s 64km stretch of beautiful coastline or head inland and discover the rugged mountains and traditional Arabic desert camps. Immerse yourself in the regions culture and watch the famous tradition of raising Falcons or enjoy an afternoon of horseriding at the prestigious RAK Country Club – Ras al-Khaimah is all about experiencing the great outdoors!

Umm al-Quwain
Canoe out across the calm waters of the Persian Gulf and discover the uninhabited islands of mangrove forests dotted around Umm al-Quwain’s coastline. Head to the UAQ Aero Club and view the amazing Emirates from above and for the thrill seekers among you try your hand at skydiving or hot air ballooning. Enjoy a beautiful drive up to the Al Labsa racing track for a day of camel racing, visit Dreamland, the UAE’s largest water park and unlock your inner Indianna Jones by discovering some of the region’s ancient artefacts dating back to the 5th Millennium BC!

If you are planning your move to one of the seven amazing emirates contact Five Oceans Moving today for help and advice on moving to the UAE.