United Arab Emirates

Discover Good Travel Experiences in this Destination here

The United Arab Emirates combines cutting edge cities, rich cultural traditions, and striking desert landscapes, creating one of the Middle East’s most diverse travel destinations. Visitors can admire the futuristic skyline of Dubai, explore the cultural districts of Abu Dhabi, or wander through historic neighborhoods that preserve the region’s maritime and trading heritage. Beyond its iconic architecture, the UAE offers remarkable natural attractions, from the vast dunes of the Empty Quarter and the mountain scenery of Ras Al Khaimah to protected mangrove ecosystems and pristine Gulf beaches. Whether seeking adventure, luxury, culture, or relaxation, travelers will find a wide range of experiences across the country’s seven emirates.

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GOOD TRAVEL EXPERIENCES

A Good Travel Experience is a tourism activity that creates real benefits for local people and communities, while keeping its impact on nature, culture, and the climate lower than similar activities. Learn more about each Good Travel Experience:

1. Bonobo Forest Wildlife Encounter

Kinshasa

Primate observation and rainforest conservation

Enter the rainforest home of the bonobo for a rare wildlife encounter in the DRC. Guided by local experts, travellers trek through tropical forest landscapes to observe bonobo groups in their natural habitat.

The experience highlights bonobo behavior, ecosystem dynamics, and community-based conservation initiatives that protect both wildlife and livelihoods. More than observation, this journey promotes understanding and respect for a species found only in this region.

GOOD TO KNOW

Duration: 10 days
Type of Activity: Wildlife & Ecological tour
Recognitions: GTE Scan 79%

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2. Congo Basin Rainforest Expedition

Kinshasa

Biodiversity and conservation in Africa’s largest rainforest

Venture into the Congo Basin, one of the planet’s most biodiverse rainforests. This expedition explores remote forest regions defined by vast river systems, dense vegetation, and exceptional wildlife.

Highlights may include tracking bonobos in Salonga National Park and discovering okapis in the Ituri Forest, guided by local and scientific expertise. The journey emphasizes conservation, climate relevance, and responsible travel—offering meaningful engagement with one of Earth’s last great wildernesses.

GOOD TO KNOW

Duration: 12 days
Type of Activity: Wildlife & Ecological tour
Recognitions: GTE Scan 79%

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3. Congo River & REDD+ Conservation Journey

Kinshasa

River exploration and climate action

Follow the course of the Congo River on an expedition that combines scenic exploration with environmental education. Travellers experience riverside life while learning about forest ecosystems essential to the Congo Basin’s health.

A key focus is REDD+ initiatives aimed at reducing deforestation and supporting local communities. Through direct insight from guides and experts, the journey connects tourism with real-world conservation efforts, fostering responsible engagement with biodiversity and climate solutions.

GOOD TO KNOW

Duration: 8-12 days
Type of Activity: Scenic & Ecological tour
Recognitions: GTE Scan 79%

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4. Indigenous-Led Eco-Tourism Experience

Kinshasa

Community stewardship in the forests of the DRC

This six-day journey invites travellers into the ancient forests of the Democratic Republic of Congo through an Indigenous-led program centered on cultural heritage and environmental stewardship. Guided by local forest communities, visitors learn traditional ecological knowledge shaped by generations of coexistence with the land.

Through storytelling, shared experiences, and direct engagement with forest guardians, the program highlights the deep connection between conservation and community wellbeing. Designed for culturally conscious travellers, this experience supports sustainable livelihoods while fostering meaningful understanding of one of the world’s most vital ecosystems.

GOOD TO KNOW

Duration: 6-8 days
Type of Activity: Cultural & Ethical tour
Recognitions: GTE Scan 79%

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5. Okapi Conservation & Research Journey

Kinshasa

Forest research and species protection

Engage with frontline conservation efforts focused on the elusive okapi in the forests of the DRC. Guided by naturalists and specialists, travellers explore habitat landscapes while learning about research, monitoring techniques, and ecological challenges.

The program reveals how scientific data, community collaboration, and sustainable development intersect to protect this unique species. Combining education, exploration, and meaningful contribution, the journey offers insight into conservation in practice within one of Africa’s most biodiverse regions.

GOOD TO KNOW

Duration: 8 days
Type of Activity: Wildlife & Ecological tour
Recognitions: GTE Scan 79%

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6. Savannas and Waterfalls of South DRC

Kinshasa

Landscapes, livelihoods, and ecological contrast

Explore the vast savannas of southern DRC, where open grasslands, rolling plains, and dramatic waterfalls shape the region’s identity. This journey reveals the ecological importance of savanna ecosystems while examining how agriculture and mining influence local communities.

Travellers gain insight into the relationship between land, water, biodiversity, and livelihoods, engaging with local knowledge along the way. More than scenic exploration, the experience offers a deeper perspective on environmental and social dynamics within the Congo Basin.

GOOD TO KNOW

Duration: 9 days
Type of Activity: Scenic & Ecological tour
Recognitions: GTE Scan 79%

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GOOD PLACES TO VISIT

Explore destinations that were awarded for their sustainability efforts

Expo City Dubai

GOOD TRAVEL BUSINESSES

Discover accommodations, restaurants, shops and activities that are committed to sustainability. Their efforts are summarised in a SCORECARD (click on the picture). For the Good Travel Seal, the higher the number of stars or the level (level 3 is the highest), the more aspects of sustainability are checked by an independent auditor.

Accommodations

Retaj Al Rayyan Hotel

Good Travel Seal Level 2

Experience the essence of Arabian hospitality at Retaj Al Rayyan, a premier destination in the heart of Doha’s Al Dafna business district. Overlooking the Arabian Gulf, our hotel blends modern luxury with a commitment to the “Retaj Family” values, ensuring a warm and inclusive atmosphere for every guest. We prioritize sustainability and wellness, offering elegant rooms, state-of-the-art facilities, and authentic dining experiences. Whether visiting for business or leisure, guests enjoy a sophisticated environment that embodies local culture and premium service standards, making every stay both memorable and environmentally conscious.

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Sustainability

The UAE has placed sustainability at the heart of its long term development strategy, investing heavily in renewable energy, conservation, and sustainable urban planning. The country is home to Masdar City, one of the world’s most ambitious sustainable urban developments, designed to promote energy efficiency and low carbon living. Significant investments in solar power, including some of the largest solar parks globally, support the nation’s transition towards cleaner energy sources. The UAE also works to protect coastal habitats, expand wildlife conservation programs, and encourage sustainable tourism practices that preserve natural and cultural assets for future generations.

Tourism & People

The UAE is a highly multicultural nation, with expatriates representing a large proportion of the population and contributing to a vibrant international atmosphere. Emirati culture is deeply influenced by Arab traditions, Islamic values, and Bedouin heritage, with hospitality remaining a central part of daily life. Arabic is the official language, while English is widely spoken across tourism, business, and public services. Visitors will encounter a fascinating blend of modern lifestyles and traditional customs, where contemporary architecture, luxury shopping, and global cuisine exist alongside traditional souks, heritage villages, and cultural festivals that celebrate the country’s identity.

Travel tips from our editors

Visa Rules

Many nationalities can enter the UAE visa free or obtain a visa on arrival, while others require a visa in advance. Always check the latest entry requirements before travelling and ensure your passport is valid for at least six months.

Moving Around

The UAE offers modern and efficient public transport options, particularly in Dubai, where the metro, tram, and bus networks connect many of the country’s main attractions. Public transportation is affordable, air conditioned, and easy to use, making it a convenient and more sustainable way to explore the cities.

Climate & Health

The UAE experiences very hot temperatures for much of the year, particularly during summer. Stay hydrated, wear sun protection, and plan outdoor activities during cooler hours. Healthcare standards are excellent, and travel insurance is recommended.

Nature & Wildlife

Although much of the UAE is characterized by desert landscapes, the country supports a surprising variety of ecosystems. Vast sand dunes, rugged mountain ranges, coastal wetlands, and mangrove forests provide habitats for numerous native species. Conservation efforts have helped protect iconic wildlife such as the Arabian oryx, gazelles, and Arabian tahr, while marine environments support dolphins, sea turtles, and diverse fish populations. Wetland reserves and coastal lagoons also attract thousands of migratory birds each year, making the UAE an important destination for birdwatching and nature enthusiasts. Protected areas throughout the country demonstrate a growing commitment to balancing development with environmental conservation.

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