The
UAE and Dubai blend desert traditions with futuristic ambition,
creating one of the world’s most dynamic destinations. Discover the
surprising facts, hidden stories and cultural insights that reveal a
deeper side to this remarkable Middle Eastern nation.
• Dubai is home to the world’s tallest building, fastest police supercars and one of the busiest international airports.
• The UAE has no rivers — all water is either desalinated or groundwater.
• Dubai’s Palm Jumeirah is visible from space and built entirely on reclaimed land.
• Camel racing uses robot jockeys instead of children.
• Weekends run Friday to Sunday, with Friday observed as a holy day.
• The UAE launched the Arab world’s first mission to Mars (Hope Probe).
• Dubai Metro is one of the longest fully automated rail networks.
• The country pioneered large-scale desert solar farms, including the Mohammed bin Rashid Solar Park.
• Abu Dhabi’s Louvre was the first international museum to open in the Arab world.
• Public displays of affection are limited; holding hands is fine but kissing is not appropriate in public.
• Dressing modestly is expected in traditional areas and malls.
• Swearing, rude gestures or offensive behaviour can lead to fines.
• Photography of government or military sites is restricted.
• Alcohol can only be consumed in licensed venues or with a permit.
• Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan, the UAE’s founding father, united the seven emirates.
• Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum modernised Dubai’s global status.
• Zahra Lari became the first Emirati figure skater to compete internationally.
• Hussain Al Jassmi is one of the Arab world’s most famous musicians.
• Dubai has a subtropical desert climate with year-round sunshine.
• Abu Dhabi’s Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is one of the world’s largest.
• The Empty Quarter (Rub’ al Khali) is the world’s largest sand desert.
• Fujairah’s coastline is known for coral reefs and diving.
• The UAE has more than 200 man-made islands.
• Emiratis make up less than 15% of the national population — the UAE is one of the world’s most multicultural countries.
• Hospitality is a cornerstone of Emirati culture.
• Traditional majlis gatherings foster community and discussion.
• Dates and Arabic coffee (gahwa) are symbols of welcome.
• Falconry is a UNESCO-recognised cultural tradition.
• Oud fragrance and perfumes are central to local identity.
• Ramadan shapes daily routines, with shorter work hours and nightly iftar gatherings.
• Cuisine blends Emirati, Indian, Persian and Levantine influences.
• Before oil, the emirates relied on pearl diving and trade.
• Al Fahidi Historical District preserves Dubai’s early wind-tower architecture.
• Ras Al Khaimah is one of the world’s oldest continuously inhabited regions.
• The UAE was founded in 1971 as a union of seven emirates.
• Burj Khalifa remains the highest structure ever built.
• Dubai Creek offers dhow cruises reflecting the city’s early trading history.
• Hatta combines mountain scenery with traditional villages and wadis.
• Abu Dhabi’s Louvre features a floating dome of 7,850 interlaced stars.
• Dubai uses robot camel jockeys.
• The UAE has no natural rivers.
• Burj Khalifa is the world’s tallest building.
• Emiratis are a minority in their own country.
• Falconry is UNESCO-recognised.
• The Palm Jumeirah is visible from space.
• Friday is a holy day.
• Alcohol is strictly regulated.
• The UAE reached Mars in 2021.
• Sheikh Zayed is the nation’s founding leader.
• The Empty Quarter is the world’s largest sand desert.
• Dubai Metro is fully driverless.