Honest thoughts on United Arab Emirates after my first visit

First time in United Arab Emirates and I tried to approach it with open eyes rather than preconceptions. Al Ain was the base and a good one — central, manageable, and with strong food options including the best Al Harees I've ever had. Sheikh Zayed Grand Mosque was the big set piece and fully justified the trip.

Two things worth knowing: brutal summer heat, which is more of a factor than some guides acknowledge. But also: extraordinary modern architecture, which I'd never read about and turned out to be a genuine pleasure. Solid first impression — I'd return.