• Abu Dhabi: Bashayer Mohammed, 34, says Abu Dhabi’s diverse activities, like Yas Waterworld make it one of the leading cities for tourism Pawan Singh / The National
    Abu Dhabi: Bashayer Mohammed, 34, says Abu Dhabi’s diverse activities, like Yas Waterworld make it one of the leading cities for tourism Pawan Singh / The National
  • Ras Al Khaimah: Maryam Al Shehhi, 22, says RAK is a place for families, as well as home to mountains, sea and desert. Jeff Topping / The National
    Ras Al Khaimah: Maryam Al Shehhi, 22, says RAK is a place for families, as well as home to mountains, sea and desert. Jeff Topping / The National
  • Dubai: Nasir Ali, 23, recommends sky diving in Dubai Pawan Singh / The National
    Dubai: Nasir Ali, 23, recommends sky diving in Dubai Pawan Singh / The National
  • Umm Al Qaiwain: Sarah Al Shamsi, 24, recommends the UAQ Museum to her fellow Emiratis. Pawan Singh / The National
    Umm Al Qaiwain: Sarah Al Shamsi, 24, recommends the UAQ Museum to her fellow Emiratis. Pawan Singh / The National
  • Sharjah: Sharjah has undergone a dramatic change as a tourist destination in recent years. Noor Al Yafaei, 28, recommends Al Qasba and Al Majaz Waterfront. Antonie Robertson / The National
    Sharjah: Sharjah has undergone a dramatic change as a tourist destination in recent years. Noor Al Yafaei, 28, recommends Al Qasba and Al Majaz Waterfront. Antonie Robertson / The National
  • Fujairah: For those interested in improving their historical knowledge, Fujairah Fort has a story to tell, says Haytham Alyteem, 33. Siddharth Siva / Arabian Eye
    Fujairah: For those interested in improving their historical knowledge, Fujairah Fort has a story to tell, says Haytham Alyteem, 33. Siddharth Siva / Arabian Eye

In pictures: Explore the seven Emirates


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Emiratis should leave their passports at home and become tourists in their own country, the Federal National Council heard recently. By doing so, families would not just have an enjoyable break, but also gain a deeper understanding of their culture and what the country has to offer. Here, seven Emiratis, one from each emirate, offer tips to staycationers and pick some of their favourite places on their doorstep, Asmaa Al Hameli writes.