Explore the UAE

Fujairah, located on the UAE’s eastern coast along the Gulf of Oman, is set between the Hajar Mountains and the sea, offering a striking natural landscape. Many students visit Fujairah to relax on its beaches, enjoy snorkelling and diving, spot marine life such as turtles and dolphins or go hiking in the surrounding mountains. The emirate is well known for its clear waters and outdoor activities, as well as for scenic drives through wadis, traditional markets, and historic sites such as Fujairah Fort and ancient mosques. 

For students, Fujairah offers a quieter, more laid-back atmosphere, making it an ideal destination for relaxing weekends and nature-focused trips. Many organised tours and transport options connect Abu Dhabi to Fujairah, making short stays easy to plan. Students can also rent a car and drive independently—a great way to enjoy the mountain roads and landscapes along the way.  

Ras Al Khaimah is a popular choice for students looking for short breaks focused on nature, adventure, and outdoor experiences. Easily accessible from Abu Dhabi through organised day trips or weekend packages, the emirate offers a refreshing change of scenery. 

Home to Jebel Jais, the UAE’s highest peak, Ras Al Khaimah is known for its mountain roads, panoramic viewpoints, hiking trails, and adventure activities such as ziplining. Students can also enjoy desert excursions, adding another dimension to the emirate’s diverse landscapes. 

Beyond nature and adventure, Ras Al Khaimah offers a glimpse into the UAE’s cultural heritage, with historical landmarks such as the Suwaidi Pearl Farm, traditional villages, museums, and forts. For relaxation and leisure, Al Marjan Island provides beaches, waterfront resorts, and water sports, making Ras Al Khaimah an ideal destination that balances exploration, culture, and downtime. 

Located around 1.5 hours by road from Abu Dhabi, Dubai offers a contrasting rhythm and atmosphere that many students enjoy discovering during day trips or weekends. The city is known for its striking skyline, waterfront districts, and creative neighbourhoods, as well as iconic landmarks such as Burj Khalifa and Dubai Marina. Students often explore areas like Kite Beach for a relaxed seaside break, Madinat Jumeirah for its canals and traditional architecture, or the Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood to learn more about the city’s past. 

Dubai is also home to Global Village, a seasonal destination that brings together pavilions from more than 90 countries, offering a unique way to experience cultures, cuisines, and performances from around the world in one place. For those interested in arts and culture, Alserkal Avenue and Al Quoz District stand out as dynamic creative hubs, hosting exhibitions, live performances, workshops, and other cultural events throughout the year.  

Thanks to well-connected highways and regular intercity bus services, travelling between Abu Dhabi and Dubai is simple and convenient, making it easy for students to enjoy a change of scenery without extensive planning. 

Neighbouring countries are close to Abu Dhabi, making short trips easy and convenient—you can even drive to some of them. Abu Dhabi airport is a major regional hub, offering short, affordable flights that make it easy to explore countries such as Oman, Qatar, and Saudi Arabia. 

Oman is popular for its mountains, wadis, coastal towns, and desert landscapes, Qatar offers a mix of museums, modern waterfronts, and desert experiences, and Saudi Arabia is increasingly accessible for cultural tours, historical sites, and natural landscapes such as the Red Sea coast and desert dunes. 

From the UAE, students can reach a variety of destinations across Asia within four to five hours of flying. Beyond popular spots like the Maldives and Sri Lanka, there are under-the-radar gems such as Kazakhstan or Kyrgyzstan, offering unique landscapes, rich cultures, and off-the-beaten-path experiences. 

This means your time in the UAE can easily include regional and international travel, enriching your academic journey with broader cultural exploration. 

"Another thing I appreciated was how each emirate offered something different, so there was always a new atmosphere to discover. Over time, the UAE stopped feeling like a temporary place to study. It became familiar, comfortable, and welcoming, a place that felt, and still feels, like my second home." Hawra Jasim Abdulwahab, Class of 2018

"Moving from one emirate to another felt like discovering a new dimension of the nation. Wherever you go, you can truly feel the essence of what it means to be living in UAE, which made the experience both meaningful and unforgettable." Joelle Khaled El Ahmadie, Class of 2023