UNITED ARAB EMIRATES: A modern traditional Arabian wonderland.
THE UNITED ARAB EMIRATES? Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm Al Quwain, Ras Al Khaimah and Fujairah. In 1971, their rulers (Emirs) joined to form a country, parts of which have since transformed in mind-boggling, nature-bending ways. Dubai? Over-rated. Great place to transit. There is some awesome food, and a great old souq. Al Ain, on the border with Oman had some pleasant date palm oasis. Watching people from around the world come to hustle and trade is fun for a day or two, but you can keep your megamalls and fancy hotels. Sharjah, one of the other 6 Emirates that make up the country, has some really good Islamic museums. The great mosque in Abu Dhabi is on my must-see list as one of the world’s great buildings.
The most famous emirate in the UAE is Dubai, although the capital is Abu Dhabi.
Biggest malls, tallest hotel, most overthetop this, extravagant that. Dubai is a modern example of a very Arab traditional: building the grandest cities in the world.
The tallest building in the world, viewed from the biggest shopping centre in the world. Yes, I've photoshopped the hell out of the shot, but there isn't much natural about the place anyway.
Huge mall with a fish tank so huge, you can scuba in it. I prefer the crowded, bustling alleyways of old Dubai.
Sharjah remains quieter and more traditional than its flashy neighbour up the coast.
Falconry is an Arab tradition. Wealthy owners spend vast sums on these beautiful birds.
Well, I'm looking forward to seeing Abu Dhabi in the near future.
Dubai does have a fast and efficient metro system.
Sharjah's livestock market is a world away from the overblinged megas of Dubai.
Unlike Dubai, people in Sharjah have time for a chat with a stranger.
Al Ain, on the Omani border, has several historical buildings, and huge date plantations, irrigated by ancient "falaj" channels.