Posts - Glimpses of UAE

Discover the Best Things to Do in Liwa Desert Abu Dhabi (2024)
Last winter, I took a solo trip to the Liwa Desert in Abu Dhabi, a place that’s always intrigued me with its vast dunes and deep-rooted traditions. My journey brought me to the heart of …
Reflecting at Wahat Al Karama – A Memorial honouring the UAE’s National Heroes
Wahat Al Karama, or the ‘Oasis of Dignity,’ isn’t just a place. It’s an experience that resonates deeply with anyone who visits. As you stand before the towering tablets of this memorial in Abu Dhabi, …
Visit Oberoi Al Zorah – Best Beach Resort in Ajman UAE
Looking for a relaxing break in the UAE but unsure where to go? If big cities and noisy resorts aren’t your style, The Oberoi Al Zorah in Ajman is the perfect choice! This five-star resort, …
19 Best Things to Do in Ajman
Looking for the best things to do in Ajman? I’ve got you covered! Having lived in the north for many years and in Ajman for the last five, I’ve enjoyed kayaking, birdwatching, scenic boat rides …
Discover Interesting and Beautiful Mosques in the UAE
All around we can see beautiful mosques in the UAE as well as lots of interesting ones and unique architectural styles. With so many photos of these mosques, I thought it was time I started …
Visit the new Al Hefaiyah Lake in Kalba Sharjah
Al Hefaiyah Lake in Kalba is now open, offering yet another beautiful place to visit in Kalba. Relax and enjoy the mountain view, take a boat on the lake, have a picnic, dine with a …
Visit Kalba Hanging Gardens – Sharjah’s New Attraction
I’ve been eagerly watching the development of Kalba Hanging Gardens over the last couple of years and so I was pretty excited to visit at last! Sharjah’s latest attraction didn’t disappoint and offered all I …
Best sustainable hotels and eco-friendly retreats in UAE 2024
Eco-friendly Retreats in UAE (United Arab Emirates) Join me as we explore the world of sustainable hotels and eco-friendly retreats in UAE and beautiful places where luxury meets sustainability. Having lived in the UAE for …
17 Best things to do in Kalba
Exploring Kalba offers a blend of nature, culture, and adventure, making it a must-visit for those seeking authentic experiences. It’s long been one of my favourite places in the UAE and one I visit often. …
Explore Khatt, Habhab Plateau and Habhab Village
Khatt, Khatt Mountain, Habhab Plateau and Habhab Village are all in the same area and you can discover more on all of these sites below. Follow my tour around Khatt, off-road drive up Jebel Khatt …
Visit 15 Best Islamic Attractions in UAE
Are you searching for an authentic experience of Islamic culture and history in the UAE? Here are fifteen of the best Islamic attractions in UAE. Living locally, I’ve visited them all and most of them …
Guide to Visiting The Abrahamic Family House in Abu Dhabi
The Abrahamic Family House in Abu Dhabi has caused some discussion, both positive and negative but I believe the negatives have mostly come from misperceptions. Let me share what you can expect to find there …
Visit breathtaking Fujairah Grand Mosque
As you descend into Fujairah from the highway, Fujairah Grand Mosque instantly stands out on the skyline. And each time I pass it, I’m just as mesmerised by its breathtaking architecture as the time before. …
Private Villa Retreat in Musandam – Bandar Hafa
Our amazing stay at this private villa retreat in Musandam was the perfect weekend getaway! This little bit of Santorini in Oman is in a fabulous location with scenic views and plenty of outdoor seating …
Beeah Headquarters by Zaha Hadid (and all about Beeah)
If you’ve driven through the Sharjah desert, you may have spotted a low, sleek, futuristic-looking building and wondered what it was. The Beeah Headquarters are an excellent example of sustainable architecture and innovative design. As …
Explore Saadiyat Cultural District, Abu Dhabi
Guest post by Karen Warren from Worldwide Writer I first visited the Saadiyat Cultural District when Manarat Al Saadiyat opened in 2010. But Abu Dhabi’s art and museum quarter has come a long way since then. …
Sharjah Art Area
Whether you’re a lover of art or of wandering down alleys and exploring traditional buildings, Sharjah Art Area should be high on your list of places to visit. Join me as I take you on …
Al Manama, enclave of Ajman
Al Manama, Ajman, UAE Let me take you on a journey to the enclave of Al Manama surrounded by desert, mountains and plains and home to farms, forts, parks and serenity. It’s also a place …
Chill at Al Wathba Abu Dhabi
Al Wathba Abu Dhabi Al Wathba offers a mix of nature, sport and cultural festivities. Between the tranquillity of Al Wathba Lakes, perfect for camping and barbecues, the intriguing fossilised dunes, the cycle track through …
Al Mirfa Abu Dhabi
Al Mirfa is a tranquil town around 130 kms west of Abu Dhabi city with a rich history. Once a small fishing village, it has developed like other towns and yet still has a serene …
Seven best reasons to visit Sharjah
Sharjah is still a hidden secret for many and yet it has so much to offer. Join me while I share some of my top reasons to visit Sharjah and why this emirate has captivated …
Sharjah Architecture Triennial 2023
Sharjah Architecture Triennial 2023 has recently started and I have to say I love it! Let me start by confessing I know nothing about art or architecture (that doesn’t mean I can’t enjoy it) so …
Sharjah Holy Quran Museum
The Holy Quran Museum and Holy Quran Academy in Sharjah The Holy Quran Museum is a wonderful hidden treasure within the Holy Quran Academy in Sharjah. Through the various halls, you will learn about the …
Fujairah Fort
Fujairah Fort Fujairah Fort is one of the best known and most popular forts to visit in the northern emirates. Once you’ve explored all the lower rooms, you can climb up to the roof and …
Sharjah Aquarium and Sharjah Maritime Museum
Sharjah Aquarium Sharjah Aquarium is a fantastic destination for anyone interested in marine life. With over 150 species of fish and other aquatic creatures on display, the aquarium offers visitors a chance to learn about …
Ajman Museum and Fort
Ajman Museum First published on 11 Jan 2020, rewritten on 22 Sept 2023 with all photos replaced. Ajman Museum is located in Ajman Fort, a historic landmark in the heart of Ajman and often overlooked, …
Best beaches in Ras Al Khaimah
Best Beaches in Ras Al Khaimah There is no shortage of beautiful beaches in Ras Al Khaimah. With their crystal-clear turquoise waters, they offer a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. …
Dibba Mountain Park and Resort, Fujairah
Dibba Mountain Park and Resort, Fujairah Dibba Mountain Park and Resort is a fabulous new Fujairah destination with activities and chalets on the East Coast. With the backdrop of the Dibba Fujairah mountains and a …
Visit Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi
Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque Come and take a tour with me around the stunningly beautiful Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque and let me tell you what you need to know to plan your visit. Sheikh Zayed …
Amazing Photography Locations in the UAE
Amazing Photography Locations in the UAE In 2023, I was invited to participate in Xposure International Photography Festival, Sharjah. I’m not a photographer and so I chose to do a presentation on Amazing Photography Locations …
How to plan your trip to Sharjah
Helping you plan your trip to Sharjah! So, you’ve made the perfect decision to visit Sharjah, the cultural hub of the UAE! Fabulous! Now, let me help you with all you need to plan your …
What to do in the school holidays in the UAE?
This post was first published in March 2020 and last updated on 23 August 2024. Are you wondering what to do in the school holidays or weekends? Or maybe you’re out of ideas about where …
The Dubai Frame
The Dubai Frame The Dubai Frame is a remarkable architectural landmark among Dubai’s many new attractions. As the world’s largest frame, this beautiful structure offers marvellous views of the city. About Dubai Frame Dubai Frame …
The Resistance Monument, Khor Fakkan Sharjah
Resistance Monument Khor Fakkan What is the Resistance Monument in Khor Fakkan? Read on to discover the background. In 1507, the Portuguese army attacked Khor Fakkan, a coastal town in the east. However, the local …
Souq Al Jubail Sharjah
Souq Al Jubail Sharjah Souq Al Jubail Sharjah deserves a visit from those who love to explore traditional markets, buy fresh food and experience authentic local culture. So let’s take a closer look at what …
Exploring Sharjah – fascinating tours and itineraries 2024
Exploring Sharjah Sharjah is full of beautiful and fascinating places and the best way to see some of them is on a walking tour. This handy guide gives you 12 different tours of varying lengths …
Al Dhafra Festival Abu Dhabi
Al Dhafra Festival About Al Dhafra Al Dhafra is one of the three main regions in the emirate of Abu Dhabi and also the biggest. As it lies to the west, it is also known …
Wadi Shaam Ras al Khaimah
Wadi Shaam Wadi Shaam is the most northerly area of the UAE and is home to lots of old settlements. Enjoy a walk through history and beautiful mountains. Once you drive through the town of …
5 Best Places to visit in Al Dhaid, Sharjah Central Region
5 Best Places to Visit in Al Dhaid Al Dhaid is the main town in Sharjah Central Region and there are lots of plans to develop it. For now, these are 5 Best Places to …
Sharjah Annual Events
A quick rundown of Sharjah annual events, fairs and festivals you can expect to see throughout the year. These dates can change and are meant as a guideline. Please refer to official sources in links …
Cute Places to stay in UAE
Looking for cute places to stay in UAE? Want something a bit different? Take a look at some of these great and unique places to stay in UAE. Disclosure: When you make a booking or …
Al Nahwa – an enclave in an exclave
The enclave of Nahwa belongs to Sharjah and can be found in the Omani exclave of the UAE.
Dibba Al Hisn
Dibba Al Hisn is a small enclave of Sharjah nestled between Dibba Fujairah and Dibba Oman on the northeastern coast. It has a tiny population and two main roads. On one of them, one side …
Off Road History Museum
The Off Road History Museum in Al Madam, Sharjah is an incredible place for any car enthusiast to visit. There is a wide range of cars and trucks of different makes and models, some more …
Hiking in the UAE 2023
Hiking in the UAE If you want to go hiking in the UAE, there are many places to go, from well-laid out and marked trails to challenging unmarked ones. Popular ones with families are Shawka, …
Masfoot
Masfoot is one of those places I go back to again and again. Lying on plains between rugged mountains, it has beautiful views, lots of fresh, clean air and a relaxed pace of life! It …
17 Best Places to Visit in Summer in UAE with Kids
With the very hot weather and high humidity, indoor locations are the best places to visit in summer in UAE. Most of these are cheap and some of them are free for children and resident …
25 Places Senior Citizens get free entry in UAE!
25 Places Senior Citizens get Free Entry in UAE Senior citizens are defined in the UAE as those 60 years old or above and there are a few places where they can enjoy free entry. Usually, a companion is also …
Masfout Museum
Masfout Museum stands high up on the rocky hill overlooking the fertile plains, where Masfout Fort was well-positioned to spot any unwanted visitors coming to attack, mostly bandits. Higher still on the hill opposite is …
Visit Qasr al Watan – Palace of the Nation
Qasr Al Watan Qasr Al Watan is rather deceiving from the outside as although its traditional architectural style and gentle colours are beautiful in their simplicity, entering the Presidential Palace is rather like opening a …
Al Dhaid Fort, Sharjah Central Region
Al Dhaid Fort is one of the more recent and exciting heritage projects in the Emirate of Sharjah. Recently added to the The Islamic World Heritage List, it’s one to include on your own list …
Dibba Musandam Oman
Dibba Musandam is a little bit of paradise within easy reach of the UAE. So if you’re looking for a tranquil escape with some adventure, this is one for you. I went on two different …
Madha
Madha Oman First published Feb 2021, updated on 1 Apr 2024. Last visited 1 Apr 2024. A trip to Madha Oman always makes me feel like I’m going back in time. Between the narrow, winding …
Who is behind Glimpses of the UAE?
I’ve been saying for so long I’ll introduce myself properly to let you know who is behind Glimpses of the UAE and so here I am finally getting round to it! Who is behind Glimpses …
Look Down by Jago
Look Down by Jago is a marble sculpture of a child in foetal position by Italian artist. It was originally placed in Naples, Italy just over a year ago and had a chain attached. It …
Top places to visit in Al Ain
Al Ain is known as the Garden City, come and find out why by visiting the best places to visit in Al Ain. Although it had been many years since I last visited, I found …
Bithna Fort, Nature Trail and Hiking
Bithna Fort Bithna Fort is an 18th-century fort which had a very strategic location on one of the main trade routes. The area was much fought over not only by local tribes but also by …
50 Places to Visit in the UAE
Watch the video to see 50 places to visit in the UAE in 50 seconds Tap/click links below for more info on 50 places to visit in the UAE – Northern Emirates 1) Khor Kalba …
Why does the UAE need rain?
Why does the UAE need rain and what is the prayer for rain? What is the prayer for rain? You may have read about the rain prayer being called for or you may have wondered …
National Museum of Ras Al Khaimah
National Museum of Ras Al Khaimah Ras Al Khaimah Museum gives an excellent insight into the local history and offers a little haven of tranquillity in the inner courtyard. After its early role as a …
Arabic Architecture in Sharjah
Arabic Architecture in Sharjah The beautiful and exquisite Arabic architecture in Sharjah is not something to be missed. All government buildings across the emirate are designed using principles of Arabic and Islamic architecture. As you …
Explore Science, History and Art at the Museum of Islamic Civilization in Sharjah
Post first published on June 11 2021, last updated on 6 January 2024 Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilization has a wealth of information and artefacts tracing the contributions Muslim scholars have made over the centuries …
Ajman Heritage District
Ajman Heritage District is a lovely, tranquil place to wander around, admire the murals of scenes of traditional life, explore Ajman Fort and stop off for tea, Emirati breakfast or even Viking fine dining! Ajman …
Al Ghayl, Adhen, Wadi Al Aim and Kub
Al Ghayl is where desert meets mountains with striking scenery, and is one for the off-road lovers. If you enter from the Manama-RAK rd (E18), you can go off road a few kilometres before the …
Al Marsa, Ajman
Al Marsa Ajman comes alive in the late afternoon and evening as people visit restaurants and coffee shops, walk or jog around the corniche and children play on go-karts and bikes which you can rent …
Sharjah Centre for Astronomy and Space Sciences
Sharjah Centre for Astronomy and Space Sciences, often referred to as Sharjah Planetarium, houses several fascinating exhibits such as lunar vehicles, the solar system and other things related to the universe and space science. After …
Umm al Quwain
Umm Al Quwain has several beaches with the most popular being the one where the Kite Beach Centre is located. Kite Beach Centre has cabanas, beach tents, beach chairs, a restaurant, etc and charges an …
Umm al Quwain Museum and Fort
Umm al Quwain Fort Umm al Quwain Museum served as the stronghold of Umm Al Quwain Fort for many years. Its true name was Al Ali Fort and it was built by Sheikh Rashid Bin …
Friday Market, Masafi
At the Friday Market in Masafi, you can find many different shops and goods sold here, such as plants and trees, fruit and vegetables, carpets, traditional furniture, colourful sets for tea and Arabic coffee, toys. …
Al Hamriya Beach
Al Hamriya Beach is divided into two parts, the beach park and the open beach, both with beautiful white sand, free of charge and easily accessible from early morning till late at night. The beach …
Sharjah Natural History Museum and Islamic Botanic Gardens
Sharjah Natural History and Botanical Museum and the Islamic Botanic Gardens are so often forgotten and yet well worth a visit! Located in Sharjah Desert Park along with the Arabian Wildlife Centre and Children’s Farm, …
Sharjah Science Museum
Sharjah Science Museum is yet another fun and educational place with many interactive learning stations where children can learn about different aspects of science such as electricity, how the body works, etc. Sharjah Science Museum …
Learn at Buhais Geology Park Sharjah
Buhais Geology Park is a great family trip out. At the foot of Jebel Buhais, the park consists of several interactive exhibitions indoors and an outdoor trail where you can see different types of rock, …
The Rain Room Sharjah
The Rain Room If you are tired of the heat, visiting The Rain Room in Sharjah might cool you down for a few minutes. Don’t worry, you won’t get wet! The Rain Room is a …
Learn and Enjoy Nature at Wasit Wetlands Centre
This post was first published on 29 May 2021 and updated on 5 February 2024. Location last visited 5 February 2024. Wasit Wetlands is a hidden oasis in the city and one of my favourite …
Al Qasba
Al Qasba in Sharjah can go from a peaceful spot to wander and sit and enjoy the view in the daytime to a hive of activity in the evening. On either side of the canal …
Al Noor Island and Butterfly House
Al Noor Island Al Noor Island is quite magical with its lush greenery, exquisite Butterfly Pavillion, beautiful butterflies and colourful night lighting and yet another quiet haven in the city of Sharjah. The island was …
Al Rafisa Dam
Al Rafisa Dam in Khorfakkan is a great family location in Sharjah Eastern Region with play areas, kayaking, doughnut and paddle boats, a lovely walk on the other side of the dam, seating areas and …
Flower Farm, Asima
The Flower Farm is a private farm but opens to the public from November to March. You can buy both fresh and dried flowers there. There is now an admission fee of 15dhs over the …
Classic Car Museum Sharjah
Sharjah Classic Car Museum If you love old cars, Sharjah Classic Car Museum should be on your list. Also, if you have children learning about transport at school, this is a fabulous learning resource with …
Mleiha
Mleiha offers stunning scenery from mesmerising rock formations, rolling sand dunes, desert meeting mountain to sandy plains and lush gardens. Discover Mleiha has long been one of my favourite places and should be on everyone’s …
Al Mahatta Museum (Sharjah Airport Museum)
Al Mahatta Museum is great for students learning about transport or the science of flight and is also an excellent resource for learning the recent history of Sharjah. The museum building is in fact the …
Islamic World Garden, Sharjah
This post was first written on May 28 2021 and last updated on 6 February 2024. At the Islamic World Garden, you can learn history, relax, play and eat. Join me on this tour of …
Manar Mall Promenade
A nice stop off and popular photo spot if you’re in Ras al Khaimah. The mall itself has a variety of shops, a play area and cinema. the food court has an outdoor terrace as …
Have hours of fun at Fujairah Adventure Park 2024
At Fujairah Adventure Park, there’s lots going on! From mountain bike trails, hiking trails, dirt jumps, skateboarding, archery or just drinking coffee and enjoying the view. They now also have camping huts available with barbecue …
Jebel Jais Lower Trails
These trails are temporarily closed. There are several trails which overlap. The Asbaq is suitable for families with the children but the side of the Teen trail nearest the road has paths near a steep …
Bidya Hiking Trail (Fujairah Adventures)
Bidya Hiking Trail, created by Fujairah Adventures, is nice, easy and short and you can combine it with something else you’re doing nearby. Without stops, it will take 30-45 minutes moving time but no doubt …
Explore the Heart of Sharjah
The Heart of Sharjah is the oldest part of the city and it’s such a quiet haven that I sometimes forget I’m in a bustling town. Home to several museums, a fort, theatres, old souqs, …
Corniche al Qawasim, Ras al Khaimah
Part of Ras al Khaimah city sits between the mangroves.The views from Corniche al Qawasim are both beautiful and tranquil. There’s a jogging track as well as a normal walkway and you can rent scooters …
Khor Kalba Mangrove Centre
Khor Kalba Mangrove Centre Ten years after being closed to the public, Khor Kalba Mangrove Centre has made it possible for visitors to visit the mangroves once again. The area is still restricted and you …
Sharjah Central Region
Sharjah Central Region is great for exploring! Lots of interesting places and the weather is drier so great for the summer! Here are a few ideas below for you until I find time to update …
Glimpses of the UAE
Come on in and discover the emirates beyond Dubai and Abu Dhabi, revisit those old favourites and discover some of the UAE’s hidden gems.
Jebel Jais Ras Al Khaimah (2024)
Jebel Jais Jebel Jais is best known as the highest peak in the UAE and home to the longest zip line in the world, Sky Flight. It’s much more than that though with stunning views …
House of Wisdom and the Scroll Monument
This post was first published on 20 February 2021 and updated on 8 January 2024. The House of Wisdom Sharjah The House of Wisdom is a fabulous place to study, work or just read. You …
Traditional Crafts Museum, Khor Fakkan
Take a stroll back through time in this small well set out museum and see how trades and every day tasks were carried out in the past and how the local people lived. The museum …
Falaj Al Mualla Fort
Falaj Al Mualla is a quiet oasis town in the Umm Al Quwain desert. The fort is nearly 200 years old and overlooks the sand dunes where more watchtowers stand higher up and offering a …
Tayyibah Heritage Museum
Tayyibah Heritage Museum has to have one of the best locations of museums here, set at the edge of a village in the Hajar mountains overlooking farms and itself in lush green grounds. Walking through …
Awhala Fort
Awhala Fort is on a hidden plain between the Hajar mountains in Southern Fujairah. Although the main part of the fort couldn’t be dated, the locals believe it has been there for around 250 years. …
Wadi Al Helo
Wadi Al Helo is one of Sharjah’s several enclaves and is full of surprises. Just off the old Kalba Road, the valley lies on the old caravan trade route and is on the tentative list …
Ras Al Khaimah Fine Arts Festival at Jazeera Al Hamra
Ras al Khaimah Fine Arts Festival Take a trip up to Jazeera Al Hamra to see the RAK Fine Arts Festival, or RAKFAF, held each spring in the fort and old village. What a great …