Scrape below the surface though, and you'll find there's more here than skyscrapers, shopping, and sandy shores. The various UAE destinations offer culture fans plenty of things to do. Delve into the country's Bedouin past on starry desert nights before exploring the many forts that guarded the coastline long before the domination of the glitzy high-rises. While for nature-lovers, the desert starts where the cities end, and the jagged peaks of the Hajar Mountains are ripe for adventuring.
# Sheikh Zayed Mosque, Abu DhabiThe Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque is a mammoth modern mosque of incredible beauty. Harnessing contemporary design and ancient craftsmanship, the mosque harmoniously blends modern and ancient styles and techniques to create a new interpretation of Islamic architecture. A visit here is a must on any Abu Dhabi itinerary.
# Hajar MountainsThe Hajar Mountains scythe through the desert, creating the jagged and wild heart of the United Arab Emirates. Twisting roller-coaster roads with spectacular scenery along the way connect the region's tiny villages, making this region road trip heaven. Nature lovers will find plenty of hiking, trekking, and bird-watching opportunities, while the vast amount of picturesque wadis (dry riverbeds; valleys) in the area are also fun to explore.
# Jebel HafeetA must-do for anyone who wants to snap a great vista, the summit of Jebel Hafeet is a favorite day trip from Abu Dhabi and Al Ain. This is the second highest peak in the United Arab Emirates, and far-reaching, sumptuous desert panoramas greet you all the way up to the top on the winding road. After the twisting mountain road drive, you are rewarded with being able to see across the area's vast sweep of desert.
# Dubai Creek Dhow RideThe Burj Khalifa may give you that famous skyline view from up high, but the most iconic Dubai views are still taken from the water. Dubai Creek slices through the city, and the best way to experience Dubai is from one of the beautiful dhows (traditional Arabic boats) that ply the creek. Sunset cruises (which often come with entertainment and dinner) are particularly beautiful as you watch the lights of the high-rises begin to twinkle in the dusk.
# Sharjah Museum of Islamic CivilisationOne of the best museums in the country to focus on the full breadth of Islamic history and culture - not just local history - the Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilization holds a wealth of fascinating and well-laid out exhibits, which trace Islam's course from the very early years of the Islamic empires through its spread into Asia and Africa and up to today. Many displays feature rare manuscripts and religious documents, and tourists will find them easy to understand thanks to excellent information boards throughout.