Erica and Matt Chua: United Arab Emirates

By Erica and Matt Chua, on Tue Apr 8, 2014 at 8:30 AM ET

The United Arab Emirates is a stage for the world’s super-rich to strut their stuff in pricey hotels, clubs and malls. For example, mall’s include ski slopes, ice arenas, massive aquariums and more high-end shopping than could ever afford. If the glitz and glam are too much, neighboring Abu Dhabi provides a taste of culture in the world’s most expensive mosque which puts the Taj Mahal to shame. For speed addicts, Abu Dhabi’s Ferrari World boasts the world’s fastest roller coaster, while the traditional camel market in Al Ain provides a welcome counterpoint. Even if you don’t have the money to roll with the Emerati, you can still enjoy their playground.

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DON’T MISS: Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque in Abu Dhabi, it has to be seen to be believed. MUST SEE: The Burj al-Khalifa (Dubai), the world’s tallest building, Al Ain camel market, Dubai Marina, Dubai gold souk and Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque. MUST TASTE: Possibly there are better choices, but after two years of traveling we indulged on New York’s famous Shake Shack burgers and other American delicacies.

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TRIP PLANNING: See the highlights of Abu Dhabi and Dubai in a weekend, but plan for a week to include Oman. GETTING AROUND: Make use of the excellent buses. Utilize airline’s free shuttles between Abu Dhabi and Dubai. Getting around is substantially easier if you rent a car.

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OUR COST PER DAY (2 ppl): $64.71 COST OF A BEER: $5-$12 USD, alcohol is available exclusively at international hotels and pubs. KEY MONEY-SAVING TIP: Use Priceline for the best hotel rates, you can score a luxurious hotel for a great price due to the over-supply of hotels in both Abu Dhabi and Dubai.

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YOU NEED TO KNOW: Conservative clothing is required and shows respect for Emirati culture, revealing clothing worn by men or women can be quite offensive. IF WE KNEW WHAT WE KNOW NOW: We would have spent more time in neighboring Oman. HELPFUL LINKS TO LEARN MORE: The New York Times recommendations for spending a weekend in Abu Dhabi.

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WE WERE THERE FOR: 7 days OUR HIGHLIGHT: Experiencing 1.7 Gs of force on the world’s fastest roller coaster at Ferrari World in Abu Dhabi. WHERE WE WENT: Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Al Ain WE REGRET MISSING: The view from the top of the Burj al-Khalifa.