The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is a union of seven sovereign sheikhdoms. The Emirate of Abu Dhabi represents 85% of the UAE, while the emirate of Ajman is the smallest, measuring only 250 km² (100 sq mi). The other emirates are Dubai, Fujairah, Ras al-Khaimah, Sharjah and Umm al Qaiwain. The country was formed after the British withdrew from the Gulf in 1971.

The relatively small area of the UAE boasts mountains, beaches, deserts, oases, camel racing, Bedouin markets and duty free shopping in Dubai. The UAE has the most relaxed entry regulations in the region, as well as an excellent tourist infrastructure.

Much of the interior of the UAE is featureless desert, running to the edges of the Empty Quarter, the largest sand desert in the world, which occupies southeastern Saudi Arabia. The coastal areas consist mainly of salt flats, while the northern and eastern parts of the country are green and inviting with beautiful mountain scenery. Around the larger cities, thousands of palm trees are being planted in the desert. The efforts to make the desert 'green' cost millions of liters of fresh water every day.

The best time to visit the UAE is between November and April, when temperatures are quite comfortable, although in the desert areas around Al-Ain it can get very cold, especially at night. During the summer, from May to September humidity is high and daytime temperatures easily soar up to more than 40°C (105°F). In December and January sometimes, heavy rains can make getting around the country tricky. The rest of the year, rainfall is non-existent.

Ramadan, the Muslim month of fasting, is strictly adhered to in the UAE. During that time there is no eating, drinking or smoking in public from sunrise to sunset, including tourists. Places that normally serve alcohol stop serving it during this month. Ramadan is in November-December for the next couple of years.

Some of the most interesting places to visit include Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Al-Ain, Al-Fujairah and Dibba.

Click on the images to learn more about this interesting destination. A map of United Arab Emirates will open full-screen. Just click on towns and places you want to know more about.