Seven separate emirates, each ruled by an absolute monarchy, come together to form the UAE, a relatively young nation formed in the 1970s. Although the UAE’s recent growth and economic success is deeply rooted in its oil supply and trade, its economy has greatly diversified in the past decade. The nation has taken great strides in reinvesting its wealth to ensure a successful future — the result is a booming airline and real estate sector, which has given way to engineering marvels and a tourism industry attracting the world’s jet setters.

The most well-known and populous emirates are the diverse urban centers of Abu Dhabi and Dubai, followed by the more traditional principality of Sharjah. Most study abroad programs take place in these emirates, with the American University of Sharjah and the American University in Dubai being popular, reputable picks. Sharjah is an ideal destination for students looking to study Arabic language, culture, and history. Its extensive collection of mosques and museums has earned the city its UNESCO label of the “cultural capital of the Arab World.” As a living museum, it’s the perfect place study in the UAE and absorb the Arabic and Islamic cultures.

From man-made islands and indoor skiing to the UAE’s largest mosque, Dubai and Abu Dhabi showcase the nation’s economic achievements through innovative architecture and a modern cityscape. There’s no shortage to air conditioned shopping centers, but if you’re looking to slip into the Dubai of the past, stroll through the Al Fahidi Historic District or take a wooden boat ride across the creek. Abu Dhabi’s shipyards will throw you back to the city’s humble maritime heritage once you get your fill of the futuristic high-rises. After a long week of classes, you can stretch out your legs in the vast sand dunes outside of the cities for some dune bashing, sandboarding, and camel rides.