Time magazine’s World’s Greatest Places 2026 list recognised 100 destinations across continents for new and exceptional experiences, with three UAE sites making the cut as Gulf News reported on March 30. The annual compilation draws from the publication’s international network of correspondents and an application process. The UAE entries stood out in the Middle East category where only two destinations featured alongside one other from the wider MENA region.
The Zayed National Museum in Abu Dhabi’s Saadiyat Cultural District opened on December 3 2025 and traces 300000 years of human history in the country according to Time magazine. The Norman Foster-designed building draws inspiration from a falcon in flight and houses six permanent galleries plus an outdoor gallery and temporary exhibition space. Its collection features artefacts including the Abu Dhabi Pearl the Blue Qur’an and a full-scale reconstruction of an ancient Magan Boat.
Jumeirah Marsa Al Arab earned recognition for its beachfront setting and distinctive architecture rather than sheer scale Time noted in the listing. The Dubai resort offers a range of dining experiences from Japanese cuisine at Umi Kei to Greek dishes at Iliana. The selection underscores the property’s appeal as a distinct destination for global travellers seeking unique hospitality.
Surf Abu Dhabi developed in collaboration with surfing legend Kelly Slater produces consistent artificial waves and has secured three Guinness World Records a Time magazine profile highlighted. The facility is set to become the first artificial wave venue to join a global surfing championship circuit in 2026. Ryan Watkins general manager of Surf Abu Dhabi said “There’s no natural surf break in the world that runs perfection 365 days a year but us does.”
Elsewhere in the region Time included Saudi Arabia’s Bab Samhan Hotel rooted in traditional Najdi architecture and Six Flags Qiddiya City as part of the kingdom’s entertainment expansion. Qatar’s Lawh Wa Qalam M.F. Husain Museum dedicated to the Indian artist and housing more than 150 works also featured with multimedia installations. Kholoud M. Al-Ali of Qatar Foundation said “Husain’s work connects the Arab world South Asia and the wider Global South.”
Dubai welcomed 19.59 million overnight visitors across 2025 marking a 5 percent increase from the prior year according to Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism figures. The growth reflects the sector’s resilience amid global tourism challenges with steady demand across seasons. Abu Dhabi’s cultural projects including the Zayed National Museum complement such performance by diversifying offerings beyond traditional attractions.
The recognition arrives as investment in UAE travel and tourism is forecast to rise 11 percent annually through 2027 reaching 20.3 billion dollars according to Ministry of Economy and Tourism projections. Such listings help elevate the profile of innovative sites like Surf Abu Dhabi which pushes boundaries in wave technology. Official data from the department places the 2025 visitor total as evidence of sustained interest in the country’s evolving tourism landscape.
