A desert defense

The Emirate of Abu Dhabi is best known as home to the same-named capital city of the United Arab Emirates. But its territory stretches deep into the desert as well, making for 87% of the UAE's total area. Al Jahili Fort, built in 1891 to help defend an important date palm-farming oasis, is one of several architectural marvels in Al Ain—the nation's largest inland city. While it's not as bustling as the capital or the bigger-still Dubai, Al Ain's history and beauty draw more and more visitors each year, adding to the UAE's 21st-century tourism boom.