United Arab Emirates
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) consists of seven autonomous emirates, including the trade and tourism destinations of Abu Dhabi, Dubai and Sharjah. The other emirates are Ajman, Fujairah, Ra's al Khaymah, and Umm al Quwain. UAE has scenic mountains, deserts with towering sand dunes, and beaches with excellent diving spots. The Hajar mountains, Awir sand dunes, Qarn and Belghilam islands, Diwan Amiri Fort in Abu Dhabi, Al Fahidi Fort and the Museum in Dubai, the 4th century BC archeological site of Mileiha (near Sharjah) and Great Sepulchre (tomb) near Abu Dhabi are worth visiting. While in the UAE, tourists can shop at traditional Gold Souks (markets), or in modern malls, ride out on a desert safari, see a horserace, and enjoy a range of watersports including yachting, water-skiing, windsurfing and diving.
Many airlines operate direct services to UAE from various destinations in Europe, Africa and Asia. A number of cruise lines also call at Abu Dhabi and Dubai. There are excellent road links between UAE and Oman, Qatar and Saudi Arabia.