The United Arab Emirates immediately evokes images of luxury: towering skyscrapers, shiny cars and shopping centers where everything is just a little bigger, more expensive and more spectacular. Dubai has the tallest building in the world, the largest shopping mall and a skyline that continues to change at breakneck speed. But behind that impressive facade is also another world, one that is less visible to the average tourist.

We wanted to get to know that side of the UAE better. In Dubai we stayed with friends of our family, who have lived here as expats for years. Thanks to their stories and tips, we saw the city through a different lens. With a rental car we went out, towards Abu Dhabi and the oasis town of Al Ain, where the ultramodern world turns into tradition, heritage and desert peace.