UAE consists of much more than just Abu Dhabi and Dubai. The five Northern Emirates also have a lot to offer. Discover spectacular attractions, dreamy beaches and a variety of wild animals. Sharjah, for example, is the art capital of the United Arab Emirates. The Emirate of Umm al Qaiwain has one of the largest water parks in the world.
Experience luxurious accommodations, selected tours to historical and cultural sights, top-class restaurants and breathtaking beaches in the Northern Emirates. Spend an inspiring and relaxing vacation and enjoy all that this diverse and fascinating country has to offer.
Facts & climate
Flight time from London 7 hours
Hot and dry climate
Average 24°C to 36°C
Low rainfall
Top Sights & Attractions in Northern Five Arab Emirates
An-Nur Mosque
Sharjah
Sharjah Aquarium
Sharjah
Ajman Fort
Ajman
Dhow Yard
Ajman
Al-Falayah Fort
Ras Al Khaimah
Dreamland Aqua Park
Umm al Qaiwain
The An-Nur Mosque is one of the most opulent and impressive mosques in Sharjah. It is located on the eastern shore of the al-Khaleed lagoon on the Majaz waterfront. Construction first began in 2003. Particularly impressive are the two 52-meter-high minarets on the front side and the interior decorated with ornate mosaics.
The Sharjah Aquarium, with over 20 separate aquariums on two levels and more than 150 marine species, is like stepping into the unique aquatic world of Arabia.
Although it may not be one of the most famous attractions in the United Arab Emirates, the Ajman Fortress is still very exciting thanks to its long and important history. The fortress was built in the late 18th century from rocks as well as mud bricks and served the Portuguese as a protective structure for the port.
In the famous Dhow Yard in Ajman you have the opportunity to be very close to the production of the unique Arabian sailing ships, which are also called "Dhaus". Usually several boats are built at the same time, which are in different stages of construction. The Dhow Yard is like a huge museum under the open sky, which presents to you the construction process, beginning from the first draft all the way to the finished wooden boat.
Surrounded by date palms, the 18th century summer house of the ruling family is a stunning place with a unique atmosphere. Most of the buildings and part of the connecting wall have been renovated using the original building materials. This gives you a real sense of how the locals lived here in the past.
The emirate of Umm al Qaiwain offers one of the largest water parks in the world for an unforgettable day of adrenaline. The spectacular facility is located about 20 minutes by car from the historical centre and just under 40 minutes from Dubai. Nevertheless, it is very rarely crowded, because with more than 30 attractions on 250,000 square meters, there is enough space for everyone.
The Museum of Fujairah shows a unique archaeological exhibition of historical weapons, jewellery, costumes and handcraft products that are typical for this region. In addition, there are other historical finds from Dibba, Bitnah or Byida to marvel at.
An overview of the 5 Northern Emirates
Key facts about Sharjah
Sharjah is the third largest emirate in the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and a true hidden gem if you want to escape the hustle and bustle of Dubai and Abu Dhabi. This emirate is not only characterised by its desert landscapes but also has the oldest mangrove forests in all of Arabia. There are also numerous dreamy beaches on the Persian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman.
Explore the narrow streets of the city of Sharjah, visit the Blue Souk, a market decorated with mosaics and ornaments, and immerse yourself in the world of Islam.
The most significant building in Sharjah is the Sharjah Fortress, originally built as a residence for the ruling family. Today it serves as a museum and houses twelve galleries with exhibits from the former royal collection.
Facts
Approximately 1.4 million residents
Third largest emirate in the UAE
Cultural capital of Arabia
The only alcohol free emirate
Key facts about Ajman
Ajman is the smallest and quietest of the seven Arab Emirates, located just under 30 kilometers from Dubai. Thanks to its unique warm, clean and turquoise waters, Ajman particularly attracts seaside tourists to its 16-kilometer coastline. The sandy beaches of Ajman are an ideal destination to relax from the stress of everyday life.
In Ajman, modern as well as original oriental architecture are combined and give the city its own special charm. A visit to the still well-preserved fortification shows, thanks to the museum inside, a comprehensive insight into the times before the discovery of oil in the UAE.
Facts
Apx. 490,000 inhabitants
Smallest emirate with 259 square kilometers
Oriental flair
Smallest emirate
Key facts about Ras Al Khaimah
Ras Al Khaimah is the fourth largest emirate in the United Arab Emirates. It surprises with its diverse landscape, which includes desert as well as long beaches and green oases. Ras Al Khaimah offers visitors the opportunity to experience the magic of the Orient without sacrificing Western luxury, combining traditional customs and modern trends.
Facts
Approx. 300,000 inhabitants
Northernmost emirate of the UAE
Approx. 1700 square kilometer - fourth largest emirate
Key facts about Umm Al Quwain
Still considered more of an insider tip, the emirate of Umm Al Quwain, which is located between Sharjah and Ras Al Khaimah, is somewhat neglected in terms of tourism compared to the other emirates. However, with its oriental old town, its beautiful beaches and one of the world's largest water parks, it is ideal for a slightly quieter stopover or a well-filled family vacation.
Facts
Second smallest emirate with the lowest number of residents
Oriental old town
Unique water park
Key facts about Fujairah
The emirate of Fujairah, which is separated from the metropolis of Dubai and the rest of the United Arab Emirates by its mountainous backcountry, is perfect for a relaxing adventure vacation by the sea. Relax on the quiet beaches with crystal clear water, set off into the mountains for a hike or explore the riverbeds of Fujairah in an off-road vehicle.
Facts
70 km long coastline
Crystal clear water
Gulf of Oman
Weather & stay in the Northern Emirates
The climate in Northern Emirates is very hot and dry with an average temperature of 42°C in summer and 24°C in winter. If you want to plan a vacation without rain, the Northern Emirates is the place for you. Even in January, the rainiest month, there is an average of only 1.73 days of precipitation.
For a vacation in one of the five Northern Emirates, we recommend a length of stay for around a week. This will give you enough time to discover the old town of the emirate with all its historical highlights, to relax at one of the fantastic beaches and, if necessary, to plan some exciting day trips. If you decide to visit the neighbouring cities and emirates, such as Dubai or Abu Dhabi, you should plan at least two weeks.
Excursions & Day Tours from Northern Emirates
Abu Dhabi is the capital of the United Arab Emirates and is rich in culture, history and unique attractions. One of the most famous landmarks of Abu Dhabi is the Sheikh Zayed Mosque, a gigantic mosque with marble-clad columns and golden domes. It is considered one of the most beautiful mosques in the world. Another highlight of Abu Dhabi is Yas Island, a man-made island that is not to be missed. The entire area is full of exciting attractions, including Ferrari World, Warner Bros. World or the Yas Marina F1 Circuit.
Dubai is about two hours away from most of the Northern Emirates. During a day trip you can discover the highlights of this breathtaking city. Discover the Burj Khalifa, the Palm Jumeirah Island or treat yourself to a luxurious shopping day at the Dubai Mall.
The Musandam Peninsula forms the Northern tip of the UAE, but belongs to Oman. It is known for its stunning cliff and fjord landscapes, where nature lovers can spot sea turtles and whales. Learn more about the history and culture of the region on a guided tour of the old town with its many historic buildings.
Transportation - Getting to around in the Northern Emirates
The Northern Emirates offers you a variety of ways to get around inside and outside the cities, including buses, cabs, ferries, as well as chauffeur and limousine services.
In addition to the airports Abu Dhabi (AUH) and Dubai (DXB) there are two more optional airports to fly to: the Al Ain (AAN) and the Sharjah (SHJ).