Looking for a reason to visit the Emirates right now? Try an otherworldly “Star Wars” desert or extreme roller coasters, or even the thrill of camel racing. Rub’ al Khali desert on the border of Oman and the Emirate of Dubai, Middle East.
Those towering, Martian-red sand hills in “Star Wars: The Force Awakens” certainly looked otherworldly. But planet Jakku’s swoon-worthy landscape is right here on Earth, no intergalactic travel required. A three-hour drive from Abu Dhabi, the Rub’ al Khali desert — often called “the Empty Quarter” — is the largest uninterrupted sand mass in the world. The film set has been dismantled and there’s not a droid in sight, but you can still make like Rey and traverse the dunes yourself through one of the many reputable companies offering day tours from the city. Who knows, maybe you’ll be touched by the Force in this timeless terrain.
Not a “Star Wars” junkie? Here are more of the best reasons to visit the United Arab Emirates this year — from over-the-top openings to only-in-the-UAE festivals and events.
Because You Live for Big Thrills
There’s no shortage of attractions in Dubai, and if bigger is better, the new IMG Worlds of Adventure indoor theme park will be the best. It’s set to be the world’s largest indoor theme park, featuring an extreme roller coaster known as The Velociraptor (get ready to go 100 kph within 2.5 seconds). Fans of “The Hunger Games” should head to Motiongate Dubai for its film-inspired rides: a hovercraft that travels through the world of Panem, and a roller coaster that speeds like a bullet train from District 12 to the Capitol. Opening spring 2016.
(Photo: Courtesy of Motiongate)
Because Animals Make You LOL
Sometime this spring, Dubai’s puny 3.7-acre zoo closes to make way for the 290-acre, $40 million Safari Park. It features everything from solar-generated energy to temperature-controlled environments for some 1,000 creatures, including numerous endangered species. The zoo also has a botanical garden, butterfly garden and a golf course. Because, well, it’s Dubai. Opening later in 2016.
(Photo: Michele Burgess/Alamy Stock Photo)
Because You Always Wanted Wings
Daredevil pilots, high-speed aerial maneuvers and a beachfront setting — what’s not to like about the Red Bull Air Race World Championship? With Abu Dhabi’s gleaming skyline as the backdrop, competitors navigate a slalom course above the turquoise waters of the Persian Gulf, their planes reaching up to 230 mph as they thread through inflated pylons called air gates. Spectators get stunning front-row seats on the Corniche and its five miles of pristine sandy beaches. March 11 – 12.
(Photo: Courtesy of Red Bull)
Because the Desert Makes Your Heart Race
Sand’s the thing when cars, trucks, motorbikes and more compete in the Abu Dhabi Desert Challenge. The five-day rally starts in Abu Dhabi, then contestants head south to careen over dunes and brave the Liwa Desert. You can cheer on the action and mingle with competitors at a desert camp on the edge of the Liwa Oasis, or hire a four-wheeler to reach other viewing points along the route. April 1 – 7.
(Photo: SIME/eStock Photo)
Because Who Doesn’t Love Hump Days?
Camel racing dates back to the 7th century, and until fairly recently it was a mainstay of Emirati wedding celebrations. So hoof it to the Dubai Camel Racing Festival, a multi-week event in which you can soak up the country’s cultural heritage while more than 12,000 camels compete in more than 300 races, often for mega-cash prizes or luxury cars. April 1 – 16.
(Photo: Arabian Eye)
Because You Feel the Need for Speed
Supercars, super yachts, supermodels and, oh yeah, the world’s best drivers descend on the capital for the Formula 1 Abu Dhabi Grand Prix. The racing spectacular takes place at the Yas Marina Circuit on Yas Island, where the waterfront setting and afterparties draw A-listers such as Will Smith and Ludacris. Nov. 25 – 27.
(Photo: Courtesy of Yas Marina Circuit)
Because You Love a Parade
Every year, Abu Dhabi and Dubai turn into giant canvases of red, black, white and green — the colors of the country’s flag — to celebrate National Day. Flag-waving, face-painted denizens hit the streets for parades, performances, heritage festivals, concerts and fireworks, all honoring the day that the seven emirates united as one nation. Dec. 2.
(Photo: Arabian Eye)
Because You Like Seeing Stars
With its screenings on a sandy beach — among other venues — and iconic attendees (think George Clooney and Cate Blanchett), the Dubai International Film Festival offers anything but your average movie-going experience. Showcasing more than 100 films from around the world, the event has earned a spot on Condé Nast Traveler’s list of the world’s top 15 film festivals for two years running. Dec. 7 – 14.
(Photo: Arabian Eye)
Because You Like Starting the Year With a Bang
Dubai’s approach to New Year’s Eve? Go big or go home. The city shattered the world record in 2014 for the largest fireworks show, launching some 500,000 fireworks in six minutes (that’s 1,300 per second). This year’s display at the Burj Khalifa promises to be equally epic. Mix in concerts with A-list artists, and parties that last until dawn, and you’ve got a night to remember. Dec. 31.
(Photo: Arabian Eye)
Because You Like to Shop ‘Til You Drop
Bring on the bling! When the Dubai Shopping Festival takes over the city with 32 days of retail festivities, some 4.5 million visitors arrive to enjoy fashion shows, daily car raffles (how about a new Porsche?), discounts of up to 75 percent and more. After you’ve explored designer displays like Hermès’ Floating Wanderland installation on Burj Lake, score some souvenirs — think spices, textiles and gold — in the city’s souks. Jan. 1 – Feb. 1.
(Photo: Arabian Eye)
Because You’re a Bonafide Foodie
The UAE is about 90 percent expat, so you’ll find eats from nearly every corner of the globe. The Abu Dhabi Food Festival includes Street Feast, a smorgasbord of local and international street food. Between bites, hit up Emirati Kitchen, where noted Emirati chefs show how to make traditional dishes. The grub at the Dubai Food Festival reflects the city’s diversity — but there’s plenty of Emirati cuisine, too, along with food trucks and mystery dining tours. Don’t-miss the Beach Canteen at Kite Beach, with pop-up restos, local music and beach sports. Both in February.
(Photo: Courtesy of Visit Dubai)