The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is a union of seven sovereign sheikhdoms, formed when the British withdrew from the Gulf in 1971. The country is mostly low-lying, barren desert and stretches of gravel plain, which rise dramatically to nearly 3,018 meters (nearly 9,902 feet) along the Musandam Peninsula in the east. Qatar is found to the northwest, the Gulf of Oman to the northeast, Oman to the east, and Saudi Arabia to the south and west. Abu Dhabi is the capital of the union and the largest city. Dubai (Dubayy) serves as the major port and centre of commercial activity. The UAE has the most relaxed entry regulations in the region as well as the best tourist infrastructure. Of the total population, only about one-quarter are UAE citizens; the rest are largely non-Arab immigrants who came in as workers during the rapid expansion of the 1970s and 1980s. The majority groups come from India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, and Iran.

The sheen of recent wealth is all about the town that has bloomed to become the capital city of the United Arab Emirates. Prior to the discovery of vast oil reserves in the late 1950s, the town was little more than a sleepy coastal settlement. The site was founded in the 1760s. Some thirty years later, it became the seat of power for the emirate of Abu Zaby. Then oil changed everything, and in the late 1960s, rapid expansion was in full swing. When oil revenues dipped in the 1980s, construction slowed, but the rebound in the 1990s brought the skyline back to life. There is still a little of the old town present if you wander the streets around the old fort. Being a city built on an island, there is ample opportunity to wander the seafront.

Water parks that thrill and amaze, golf courses in the desert, futuristic six star accommodations, bountiful duty free shopping... Dubai has grown with the oil-rich UAE states to become a major contender for jet setters seeking fun and excitement and shopping. The glint of the new sleek skyline stands in stark contrast to the ancient mosques, minarets, and souks that reveal a way of life that is not easily forgotten. Persian carpet sellers camp under the palms along the shore waiting for customers. Bright air-conditioned malls beckon with promises of full filling everyone's wish. Yet, fancy delights and tasty treats await, just around the corner at the local souk, where shopping is of an entirely different order. Old or new...it's up to you.

Sharjah is just up the coast from Dubai yet is often overlooked by visitors to the region. For a look at the largest mosque in the UAE, you will need to make the trip to Sharjah. A mini Disneyland is here to welcome family vacationers. The archaeological museum or the natural history museum will provide edification for the more serious minded visitors to the area. Souks are everywhere, so not to worry when it comes to browsing the local markets. And, for something completely different, try 'wadi bashing', a form of desert safari, which involves zooming around the sands in a 4WD vehicle. Sharjah as the innovator of tourist development in the UAE, was once the main point of entry for package tours, suggesting a solid track record for welcoming visitors.

Al-Ain is a border town in the Buraimi Oasis, which is shared with Oman. Buraimi is the name of the town on the Oman side. Visitors can move freely between the two, making it a great way to catch a glimpse of Oman without having to obtain a visa. An remarkable contrast can be seen between the two sister communities. Of interest in Al-Ain is the Al-Ain Museum near the Eastern Fort. It contains a good collection of Bedouin jewellery, weaponry, musical instruments, and a display of the interior of a Bedouin tent. The Eastern Fort has little to offer in the way of historical viewing, but the restored 400-year-old Al-Khandaq Fort across the border is well worth a visit. The Buraimi Souk next to the Al-Hilla Fort is a great place for fruit and vegetables. But if it's sheep, goats, or camels you're after, better head back to Al-Ain for the livestock market-get there early for the best deals. Enter your newly purchased camel in the races that take place every Friday during winter months. The track is just outside Al-Ain on the way to Abu Dhabi. If you only want to ride a camel, you can go on a desert safari that ranges from a one-hour joy ride to an overnight excursion including accommodation in a Bedouin tent. Al-Ain is equidistant from Dubai and Abu Dhabi (two hours on the freeway).

The northernmost of the UAE's emirates, Ras al-Khaimah is one of the most beautiful spots in the country. It is an area of abundant greenery surrounded by sea, desert, and mountains. The city of Ras al-Khaimah welcomes tourists in a quiet fashion. Its attractions include a fascinating museum, a distinctive old town, souk and fishing port. Oh, and great camel racing too! There are several interesting archaeological sites nearby, including the Queen of Sheba's Palace in Shimal, 5km (3mi) to the north. Ras al-Khaimah is roughly 100km (60mi) northeast of Dubai, accessible by service taxi.

Fujairah is the newest member to the UAE's seven emirates. It faces the Gulf of Oman and makes a good base for exploring the eastern coast, which is regarded by many as the most attractive part of the country. Fujairah has a wonderful museum showcasing archaeological and ethnographic displays. Bithna, 12km (8mi) north-west of Fujairah, has several archaeological sites, including the Long Chambered Tomb, thought to have been a communal burial place. An impressive fort stands here as well.

Islamic history recalls Dibba as site of the Muslim victory in 633AD marking the conquest of Arabia. Actually a set of three seaside villages, each belonging to a different ruler (Fujairah, Sharjah and Oman), Dibba is located on the east coast of the Musandam Peninsula. The area is picturesque and provides a different seascape from that of the Persian Gulf since the view is towards the Gulf of Oman. Dibba is approximately 50km (30mi) north of Fujairah and 145km (90mi) east of Dubai, accessible from both by service taxi.