United Arab Emirates

The United Arab Emirates is a constitutional federation of 7 sheikdoms; Abu Dhabi, Dubai, Sharjah, Ajman, Umm al-Qaiwain, Ras al-Khaimah and Fujairah. Perhaps best known for the cities of Abu Dhabi and Dubai, the UAE has more to offer than just skyscrapers and shopping malls.

Of course, most people come to the UAE to see those skyscrapers so we can't leave them out. Home to a population of around 3.4 million, Dubai is a global city and international business hub set on the Arabian Peninsula. Known as the shopping capital of the Middle East, Dubai has 12 major shopping malls. Other key attractions include Wild Wadi Water Park, Dubai Zoo, and even an indoor ski field.

Sharjah is the third largest city in the emirates, and is located right next to Dubai. The Heritage District has around 17 museums to explore, and the Blue Souq is an interesting, if slightly chaotic, shopping centre with around 600 shops in two wings. Note: Sharjah is a dry emirate.

The capital of the United Arab Emirates, Abu Dhabi, lies on a T-shaped island jutting into the Persian Gulf from the central western coast. Some of its important attractions include Ferrari World, a Ferrari themed amusement park on Yas Island, and the Sheikh Zayed Mosque.

If you're looking for a bit of action; several tour operators offer excursions into the desert (some of them by camel), the waters of the UAE offer a range of diving and snorkelling to suit all levels of experience, and there are also a number of fantastic water parks for you to enjoy.