TOURISM IN THE UAE
OVERVIEW
TOURISM BEFORE OIL DISCOVERY.
TOURISM AFTER OIL DISCOVERY.
UAE'S FUTURE PLANS FOR TOURISM.
UAE'S INITIATIVES IN TOURISM
TOURISM BEFORE OIL DISCOVERY
1- Pearling Industry:
Before the 1930s, the pearling industry was the main
economic driver in the region. Although it wasn’t a
traditional form of tourism, people from the surrounding
regions, including India and Europe, came for trade and
business related to pearling.
Dubai Creek was a hub for pearl diving and trade activities,
and early visitors would have been exposed to this unique
aspect of the local economy.
TOURISM BEFORE OIL DISCOVERY
2- Oasis Towns and Caravan Stops:
Al Ain Oasis was historically a popular stop for caravans
traveling between Oman and the Gulf region. Early tourists, if
any, would have been travelers seeking rest in these oases.
The Al Ain region, with its falaj irrigation systems and date
farms, was a key destination for early traders.
TOURISM BEFORE OIL DISCOVERY
3. Historic Forts and Souks:
The UAE, especially Dubai and Abu Dhabi, had a rich tradition of
historic souks (markets) and forts, which attracted early visitors
interested in regional architecture and trade.
Al Fahidi Fort in Dubai, now the Dubai Museum, was one of the
main attractions for visitors in the past. Built in the late 18th
century, it served as a royal residence and military fort.
TOURISM AFTER OIL DISCOVERY
The UAE’s tourism sector began to rise in the 1980s, with the
establishments of modern infrastructure, and unique blend
of traditional and contemporary attractions. The
government played a crucial role in promoting tourism, with
Dubai and Abu Dhabi leading the race.
KEY DESTINATIONS AND ATTRACTIONS IN THE UAE
1-Dubai
Burj Khalifa: Completed in 2010, Burj Khalifa, the
tallest building in the world (828 meters).
Dubai Mall: Opened in 2008, Dubai Mall is the largest
shopping mall in the world. It also features the Dubai
Aquarium and Underwater Zoo, which attracts
millions of tourists.
Palm Jumeirah: this is one of the most ambitious
engineering projects. Luxury hotels such as Atlantis,
The Palm have made this a top destination.
Desert Safari and Dune Bashing: Tourists go to the
desert surrounding Dubai for safaris, camel rides,
and traditional Bedouin experiences.
KEY DESTINATIONS AND ATTRACTIONS IN THE UAE
2- Abu Dhabi:
Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque: Opened in 2007, it is one
of the largest mosques in the world and a stunning
example of Islamic architecture.
Louvre Abu Dhabi: Opened in 2017, this cultural
landmark houses art and artifacts from around the
world and symbolizes Abu Dhabi’s cultural ambitions.
Ferrari World: Opened in 2010, this is the world’s first
Ferrari-branded theme park and offers thrilling
experiences.
Yas Island: Yas Island offers a range of attractions
such as Yas Waterworld.
KEY DESTINATIONS AND ATTRACTIONS IN THE UAE
3. Sharjah
Sharjah is known as the cultural capital of the UAE.
Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilization: This
museum displays Islamic artifacts and art from
various periods of Islamic history.
Sharjah Arts Museum: one of the largest art
museums in the region.
Al Noor Island: A park with gardens, a butterfly
house.
Sharjah Desert Park: This park includes a natural
history museum and wildlife center.
KEY DESTINATIONS AND ATTRACTIONS IN THE UAE
4. Ajman:
Ajman Beach: Ajman's white sandy beaches
along the Arabian Gulf offer a calm atmosphere.
Ajman Museum: this museum provides insights
into the emirate's history, culture, and early way of
life.
Al Zorah Nature Reserve: A large area of
mangroves and waterways, popular for kayaking
and birdwatching. It’s home to over 60 species of
birds, including flamingos.
In 2019, Ajman welcomed over 1 million visitors,
contributing significantly to the emirate’s
economy.
KEY DESTINATIONS AND ATTRACTIONS IN THE UAE
5. Fujairah
Al Bidya Mosque: The oldest mosque in the UAE,
dating back to the 15th century. It’s a significant
historical and cultural site.
Fujairah Fort: Built in the 16th century, this fort has
been beautifully restored and offers a glimpse
into the region’s defensive history.
Snoopy Island: Popular for snorkeling and diving,
this small island off the coast is known for its rich
marine life, including turtles and colorful corals.
Wadi Wurayah National Park: A protected area
that’s home to waterfalls, hiking trails, and unique
wildlife.
KEY DESTINATIONS AND ATTRACTIONS IN THE UAE
6. Umm Al Quwain:
Dreamland Aqua Park: One of the largest water
parks in the UAE.
UAQ National Museum: Located in an 18th-
century fort, it showcases the history and
archaeological finds from the region.
Khor Al Beidah: A mangrove area that attracts
birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts. Kayaking
and boat tours are popular.
Al Sinniyah Island: this island is important for
eco-tourism.
KEY DESTINATIONS AND ATTRACTIONS IN THE UAE
7. Ras Al Khaimah
Jebel Jais: The highest mountain in the UAE,
popular for hiking and home to the world’s
longest zipline.
Dhayah Fort: A hilltop fort that offers panoramic
views of the surrounding landscape and is
significant for its historical role in the defense of
the area.
Ras Al Khaimah National Museum: this museum
showcases the emirate's cultural and
archaeological heritage.
Suwaidi Pearls: A unique experience where
visitors can learn about the history of the UAE’s
pearling industry and even dive for pearls
UAE'S FUTURE PLANS FOR TOURISM
1- UAE Tourism Strategy 2031:
40 million tourists annually by 2031.
Increase tourism’s contribution to GDP to AED 450 billion.
Attracting AED 100 billion in tourism investments.
Enhancing the UAE's global ranking as a top tourist destination.
2. SUSTAINABILITY AND ECO-TOURISM INITIATIVES
Al Marmoom Desert Conservation Reserve in Dubai is part of ongoing efforts to
promote eco-friendly travel experiences, such as wildlife tours and desert
conservation projects.
Ras Al Khaimah has announced its commitment to becoming the most sustainable
tourism destination in the region by 2025. This includes initiatives like reducing
carbon emissions and focusing on eco-friendly developments.
Projects like Jubail Mangrove Park in Abu Dhabi showing a commitment to
preserving natural ecosystems while creating visitor experiences that align with
sustainability goals.
3. Focus on Diversified Tourism Segments
Adventure and Sports Tourism: Cultural and Heritage
Health and Wellness Tourism:
The UAE is investing heavily in Tourism: Sharjah and Abu
adventure tourism. Ras Al The UAE has emerged as a
Dhabi are at the forefront
Khaimah is leading in this hub for medical tourism,
of promoting cultural
sector with attractions like the offering top healthcare
tourism. With attractions
Jebel Jais Flight, the world’s facilities, wellness resorts.
like the Louvre Abu Dhabi,
longest zipline, and other The government has launched
Sharjah Museum of Islamic
mountain-based activities. several initiatives to promote
Additionally, the UAE continues
Civilization, and Al Ain’s
health tourism, such as Dubai
to host world-class sporting UNESCO World Heritage
Health Experience (DXH),
events such as Formula 1, the Sites, there’s a significant
which provides healthcare
Dubai Desert Classic, and UFC effort to attract tourists
packages to international
events, boosting sports interested in history and
tourism. visitors.
culture.
4. Digital and Smart Tourism
Smart Airports: Dubai International Airport and Abu Dhabi International Airport incorporate biometric scanning and
AI technology to streamline passenger experiences.
Digital Apps and Smart Services: Dubai has launched several apps and digital services to provide real-time
information and personalized recommendations to tourists. Initiatives like Dubai Smart City aim to make the city a
fully connected tourist destination.
Virtual Tourism: The UAE is exploring the potential of virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) experiences,
allowing tourists to explore key sites digitally before or during their visit.
UAE'S INITIATIVES IN TOURISM
The UAE hosts a wide range of internationally renowned
events throughout the year that attract tourists from
around the world. These events cater to various interests,
from cultural and sporting events to business exhibitions
and festivals.
1. Dubai Shopping Festival (DSF)
When: December to January
Location: Dubai
Attraction: One of the largest shopping
festivals in the world, DSF features huge
discounts, concerts, fashion shows, and
entertainment events. It attracts millions
of visitors every year, offering a
combination of shopping, entertainment,
and cultural experiences.
2. Formula 1 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix
When: November
Location: Yas Marina Circuit, Abu Dhabi
Attraction: The final race of the Formula 1 season,
this event draws motorsport fans from around the
globe. The race is held at the stunning Yas Marina
Circuit and includes concerts by top international
artists, luxurious hospitality experiences, and
after-race parties.
3. Sharjah International Book Fair (SIBF)
When: November
Location: Sharjah Expo Centre
Attraction: SIBF is one of the largest book
fairs in the world, attracting publishers,
authors, and readers from around the globe.
The event includes book signings, cultural
discussions, and workshops, making Sharjah
a center for literature and education.
4- Dubai Food Festival
When: February to March
Location: Various locations across Dubai
Attraction: This festival celebrates the
culinary diversity of Dubai, offering food
lovers a chance to enjoy gourmet
experiences, food trucks, pop-up
restaurants, and special dining events with
top international chefs.
5- GLOBAL VILLAGE
When: October to April
Location: Dubai
Attraction: Global Village is an outdoor
cultural and shopping festival that
showcases the culture, food, and
products from countries around the
world. Visitors can explore international
pavilions, attend live performances, and
enjoy family-friendly attractions. It
attracts millions of tourists every year.
6. Liwa Date Festival
When: July
Location: Liwa, Abu Dhabi
Attraction: This festival celebrates the
date fruit, an important part of
Emirati heritage and culture. Visitors
can explore traditional markets,
witness cultural events, and enjoy the
unique atmosphere of Liwa’s desert
environment.
