The United Arab Emirates is a federation of seven states or emirates, of which Dubai and Abu Dhabi (the largest) are probably the best known. All are located in the southeast of the Arabian Peninsula facing the Persian Gulf and the Gulf of Oman. Most of the landscape consists of arid desert plains, sand dunes, dry river beds or wadi's and the occasional oasis. Only in the northeast are the high mountains of the Western Hajar range, partly on the border with Oman.

The northeast is also the place to head for if you want to explore on foot. Well known are the Hatta pools, and the spectacular "Stairway to Heaven" which is in fact an old trail of the local Shihu tribe, winding up steeply from the Ghalilah Wadi. But there are other beautiful mountains and wadi's to explore in the mountainous emirates of Fujairah and Ras Al Khaima.

Climate in the Emirates is hot and dry year round, with highest temparatures and humidity in July and August. So always make sure you carry plenty of drinking water, and protection against the sun.