Place, Where Ancient Traditions Mix Futurism
The United Arab Emirates is a rollercoaster of emotion, where you can experience the oldest mosque next to futuristic construction. Your eyes catch ancient wind towers and old forts, and just a drive away stands a futuristic building like the Dubai Frame or Museum of the Future. You can experience such a blend of traditions and engineering marvels only in the UAE. The most wonderful part of this is that all these wonders are connected by the open road, waiting to be discovered one stop at a time.
UAE's Architectural Diversity
The accelerated development of the United Arab Emirates had a strong influence on its architecture. Throughout all seven emirates, visitors can find various styles and forms. Traditional Arabian design combines dried coral and beach stone, while modern buildings are made of steel and glass. Each emirate reflects this rapid growth, making the UAE a valuable destination for those interested in historical and contemporary architecture.
Exploring the landscape of the UAE is easiest and most rewarding when done by car, as it allows observers to move comfortably between famous landmarks and lesser-known ancient cities. Start your trip in the most architecturally diverse emirate. It will be advantageous to rent cars in Dubai and set out to discover both modern marvels and traditional structures across the country.
Ways to Explore Hidden and Iconic Gems in UAE
The architectural charm of the UAE goes beyond a particular city or skyline — it's scattered throughout deserts, mountains, coastlines, and vivid metropolises. From towering wonders in Dubai to centuries-old forts in Ras Al Khaimah. Most of the exciting and culturally rich structures can only be enjoyed by hitting the open road. If you're traveling by car, include the following destinations on your road map and experience the magnificent places.
1. Modern and Innovative: The Marvels of Dubai
Burj Khalifa has set several world records, including the world's tallest structure (897m).
Museum of the Future, designed by UAE architectural firm Shaun Killa Design and engineered by Buro Happold, is one of the most beautiful modern designs.
Palm Jumeirah & Atlantis The Royal is a man-made island with luxury architecture and Dubai's most iconic resort.
2. Abu Dhabi's Architectural Masterpieces
Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque—Country's largest mosque and the key place of worship for Islamic people.
Louvre Abu Dhabi—A worthy place to visit due to its essential architecture.
Qasr Al Watan (Presidential Palace)—The building enhances Arabian design and cultural richness.
3. Sharjah: Centre of Arabian culture
Sharjah Museum of Islamic Civilization—The museum covers more than 5,000 artifacts from the Islamic world.
Al Noor Mosque—Experience Turkish Ottoman design and visit an iconic landmark in Sharjah.
House of Wisdom—Representation of innovative and contemporary design, now serves as Sharjah's cultural hub.
4. Hidden Jewels in the Northern Emirates
Al Madam-buried ghost village—Sand dunes pile over the deserted homes; Al Madam lies just an hour's drive from central Dubai.
Fujairah Al-Bidya Mosque—The oldest mosque in the UAE is located on the coast of the Indian Ocean.
Ajman Museum—Ajman's foremost museum illustrating life as it once was. Ajman Museum provides a window into the history and culture of the emirate before the 1970s.
The Beauty of Discovering UAE's Architecture on Four Wheels
The United Arab Emirates has a deep aesthetic appeal. The country combines contemporary art and traditional heritage, where you can observe all architectural layers. From Dubai's highest skyscrapers to Fujairah's oldest mosque, each emirate can tell its own unique story through design.
To fully enjoy the country's landscapes, you must travel across the UAE by vehicle. Thus, you will see how tradition and innovation coexist across towns and deserts. You can schedule your trip; on the first day, you visit contemporary art in Dubai's museum, and on the next day, you witness an incredible town lost in the sand. Car grants you vast opportunities to access all architectural gems that are often overlooked. A road trip through the UAE is a convenient way to experience the country's wonders. All you need is a good itinerary — and the keys to a car.
