Located on the Arabian Peninsula with a coastline along the Arabian Gulf, the UAE is a vibrant hub for global travellers. Home to over 9.5 million people, it is a melting pot of cultures and a top destination known for its modern cities, luxurious shopping, and stunning landmarks like the Burj Khalifa and Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque.

A popular stop-over destination for millions of travellers looking to visit Asia, Europe and Australia, the UAE offers a wealth of luxury dining, accommodation and entertainment opportunities for anyone travelling through the region.

Planning to visit Europe in 2025 or beyond? Extend your stay in the UAE by a couple of days and check out some of our top recommendations for places to eat, drink and stay in this vibrant country.

Best Luxury UAE Hotels

The UAE is home to some of the most luxurious hotels in the world, offering unparalleled elegance and service. From iconic landmarks like Dubai’s Burj Al Arab, often dubbed the world’s only seven-star hotel, to the opulent Emirates Palace in Abu Dhabi, these properties redefine hospitality. With lavish suites, world-class dining, and stunning amenities like private beaches and rooftop pools, UAE’s luxury hotels provide an unforgettable stay.

Mandarin Oriental Abu Dhabi

The Mandarin Oriental Hotel Abu Dhabi, located on the prestigious Al Bateen Peninsula overlooking the Arabian Gulf, offers unparalleled luxury with 167 spacious rooms and 183 elegant apartments blending modern design with Arabian charm. Featuring world-class dining, a private beach, and an opulent spa, it provides a haven of tranquillity and sophistication. Its prime waterfront location and exceptional service make it a standout destination for discerning travellers seeking the ultimate in comfort and style.

Atlantis The Royal

Atlantis The Royal Hotel, located on the iconic Palm Jumeirah in Dubai, is a masterpiece of luxury and innovation. Boasting 795 opulent rooms and suites, the hotel features stunning design, private infinity pools, and breathtaking views of the Arabian Gulf. With world-class dining by celebrity chefs, a sprawling spa, and a dazzling array of pools and beaches, Atlantis The Royal redefines extravagance and offers guests an unforgettable experience in the heart of Dubai’s most exclusive destination.

Burj Al Arab

The Burj Al Arab, located on its own island off the coast of Dubai, is an iconic symbol of luxury and innovation. With 202 lavish duplex suites, this sail-shaped hotel offers unparalleled opulence, featuring personal butler service, a private beach, and one of the world’s most stunning infinity pools. Renowned for its seven-star experience, the Burj Al Arab is a destination in itself, offering world-class dining, a luxurious spa, and breathtaking views of the Arabian Gulf.

Top Things to Do in the UAE

A popular stopover destination for travellers looking to visit Europe, Asia and the Pacific Islands, the UAE offers a mix of iconic landmarks, cultural experiences, and modern luxuries to explore in just a few days. Whether you’re marvelling at the Burj Khalifa, wandering through traditional souks, or enjoying a thrilling desert safari, there’s something for everyone. If you’re planning to add a stopover in the UAE to your itinerary, here are our top things to do while visiting:

Dubai Marina

Dubai Marina is a bustling hub of activity and one of the city’s most exciting tourist destinations. Visitors can take a leisurely walk along the Marina Walk, lined with cafes, boutiques, and restaurants offering stunning views of the waterfront and towering skyscrapers. For a more adventurous experience, hop on a luxury yacht or take a dhow cruise to enjoy the spectacular skyline from the water. The area is also home to some of Dubai’s best beaches, perfect for relaxing or trying water sports. For those looking to shop, the Marina Mall offers a variety of high-end stores, while the nearby JBR (Jumeirah Beach Residence) area features a vibrant mix of shops and entertainment options.

Burj Khalifa

The Burj Khalifa is an iconic must-see landmark and the world’s tallest building, offering unrivalled views of Dubai and beyond. Visitors can take an exhilarating trip up to the observation decks on the 124th and 148th floors, where they can experience panoramic views of the city, desert, and the Arabian Gulf. For an extra touch of luxury, the Atmosphere restaurant on the 122nd floor offers fine dining with stunning views. Additionally, the Burj Khalifa is part of the larger Dubai Downtown complex, making it easy to explore nearby attractions like the Dubai Fountain, Dubai Mall, and the Dubai Opera, all of which make this area an unforgettable stop for tourists.

Sheikh Zayed Mosque

The Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi is a breathtaking architectural marvel and one of the largest mosques in the world, making it a must-visit for any traveller to the UAE. Visitors can explore its stunning courtyards, admire the intricate Islamic design, and marvel at the world’s largest hand-knotted carpet and beautiful marble work. The mosque offers guided tours that provide insight into Islamic culture and history, and it’s a peaceful place for reflection. Its stunning blend of modern and traditional design, along with its serene atmosphere, makes it a truly unique and enriching destination.

Palm Jumeirah

Palm Jumeirah is one of Dubai’s most iconic landmarks, offering a unique and luxurious destination for tourists. This man-made island is home to world-class hotels like Atlantis The Palm, upscale restaurants, private beaches, and exciting attractions. Visitors can enjoy relaxing at the beach clubs, take a scenic monorail ride for spectacular views, or explore Aquaventure Waterpark for thrilling water rides.

Arabian Desert

The Arabian Desert is a captivating destination, offering a unique blend of adventure and tranquillity in one of the world’s most dramatic landscapes. Visitors can experience thrilling dune bashing in 4x4s, take scenic camel rides through the golden sand dunes, or enjoy the serene beauty of a desert sunset. For a deeper cultural experience, you can stay in luxury Bedouin-style camps, indulge in traditional meals, watch captivating performances like belly dancing, or even try sandboarding and hot air balloon rides.

Why Visit the UAE During Your Next Trip?

The UAE is the perfect stopover destination, offering a dynamic mix of modern luxury, cultural experiences, and world-class attractions all in one place. Whether you’re exploring the futuristic skyline of Dubai, relaxing on pristine beaches, or immersing yourself in the rich history and stunning architecture of Abu Dhabi, there’s something for every traveller. With seamless airport connections, short flight times, and a wide range of activities from desert safaris to fine dining, a stopover in the UAE is the ideal way to break up your journey and make your trip even more memorable.

Our Leisure Travel team are experts at crafting the perfect holiday to help you make the most of your trip and your time in the UAE – For more information on how they can help, get in touch via leisure@pulsetravel.com.au.