How many emirates are in the UAE?

The United Arab Emirates is a federation of seven emirates.

UNITED ARAB EMIRATES

Plan a UAE trip with confidence.

Q: Do I need a visa for the UAE?

It depends on nationality and circumstances. Some travelers can receive a visa on arrival while others need a pre-arranged visa. Check the official UAE government visa guidance for your passport.

Q: Which UAE airport should I use?

Major UAE gateways include Dubai International (DXB), Zayed International (AUH), Sharjah (SHJ) and other airports. Choose based on your final destination and flight options.

The UAE is a federation of seven emirates. Use this guide to understand where to go, how to plan your stay, and which practical details to check before booking.

Explore Dubai →Plan flights

Dubai skyline at sunset in the United Arab Emirates

UAE AT A GLANCE

What should you know before planning?

The official UAE government travel portal covers entry, accommodation, money, transport, airports, customs and tourist services. Use BrownMetro for trip planning, then verify changing entry requirements with official sources.

Seven emiratesDubai is one of seven emirates; Abu Dhabi is the federal capital.

CurrencyThe official currency is the UAE dirham (AED).

AirportsMajor gateways include DXB, AUH, SHJ, RKT, FJR, AAN and DWC.

ClimateThe UAE has a desert climate, with hot summers and generally warmer, sunnier winters.

WHERE TO GO

Choose the emirate that matches your trip

BrownMetro currently goes deepest on Dubai, while this hub provides a framework for exploring the wider UAE.

01 · CITY GUIDE

Dubai

Skyscrapers, beaches, neighbourhoods, desert experiences, shopping, dining and a wide range of accommodation.

Open Dubai guide →

02 · NEXT GUIDE

Abu Dhabi

The federal capital, with major cultural, waterfront and leisure attractions to research when planning a wider UAE itinerary.

More UAE guides will be added as BrownMetro expands.

03 · NEXT GUIDE

Sharjah

A useful option for travelers interested in museums, heritage, culture and a different urban setting.

More UAE guides will be added as BrownMetro expands.

PLAN THE TRIP

Build your UAE itinerary in the right order

Start with the destination and dates, then confirm entry requirements before committing to non-refundable bookings.

1. Check entry rulesVisa and entry eligibility vary by nationality. Check the official UAE government guidance before travel.

2. Choose your baseCompare neighborhoods, hotel location and airport access before choosing accommodation.

3. Book key experiencesPrioritize attractions, tours or day trips that have fixed dates or limited availability.

4. Plan transportReview airport transfers, public transport and connectivity for your itinerary.

UAE TRAVEL QUESTIONS

Quick answers

Do I need a visa for the UAE?

It depends on your nationality and circumstances. Some travelers can receive a visa on arrival while others need a pre-arranged visa. Check the official UAE government visa guidance for your passport.

What currency is used in the UAE?

The official currency is the UAE dirham, abbreviated AED. The fact sheet states that the dirham is pegged to the US dollar.

Which UAE airport should I use?

Dubai International (DXB) is one major gateway, while Abu Dhabi, Sharjah and other airports serve different parts of the country. Choose based on your destination and flight options.

Should I visit only Dubai?

Not necessarily. Dubai is BrownMetro's first UAE destination guide, but the country has seven emirates with different attractions and travel experiences.

Start with Dubai, then expand your UAE trip.

Explore the detailed BrownMetro Dubai guide for neighborhoods, hotels, things to do and practical planning.

Open Dubai guide →